Luxurious Reef and Beach Escape

This Luxurious Reef and Beach Escape was designed by a couple celebrating their 25th anniversary. The couple had Australia on their list for a while and wanted to experience a place like Lizard Island for a truly luxurious celebration.

After arriving to Australia off of a Qantas flight, the two boarded their scenic flight to Lizard Island; they stayed here for four nights. Every day they simply enjoyed the resort, the scrumptious meals, Australian wines, a day on private beach and kayaking on the stunning water above the Great Barrier Reef.

The couple knew that they wanted a relatively relaxed trip. While the first three days were spent relaxing and enjoying the resort’s amenities, they decided to experience the Great Barrier Reef up close, so they did their snorkeling excursion from the resort.

The couple said au revoir to Lizard Island Resort and their experiences there but were excited to finish their vacation in Cairns. The pair took a private road transfer from Cairns airport to the hotel in a luxury sedan vehicle. Before they knew it, they arrived at the Riley Hotel in Cairns, where they stayed in a sea room with a plush king-size bed.

The following day, the couple embarked on a half-day Great Barrier Reef “Dreamtime” cruise. It was a day filled with happiness, relaxation, adventure, and time to reflect on the many years they have spent together.

The second night spent at the Riley was filled with relaxation and a gourmet 4-course Australian dining experience. They spent their night dining at the Ochre Restaurant where they celebrated their 25th year together along with premium wine pairings.

On their last day, the couple took a private transfer from the hotel to the Cairns airport in a luxury sedan vehicle. The pair returned home with full hearts and a plethora of memories that will last a lifetime!


Need flights? We can help with that! Ask us about the new direct Qantas routes from Chicago & Los Angeles to Brisbane.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1
Welcome to Australia! Begin your Luxurious Reef and Beach Escape in the Whitsunday Islands, considered one of the best and most exclusive gateways to the Great Barrier Reef.

Arrive in Cairns, enjoy a short VIP transfer, and then a beautiful scenic flight to Lizard Island.
Lizard Island

Day 2
Although you may not want to leave your gorgeous resort, plenty of adventures await around the corner! Lizard Island offers you mouth-watering food, gorgeous Australian wines, breathtaking views, and a long list of activities.

The remainder of the day is yours to spend as you wish. Explore the picture-perfect scenery and white sand beaches of Lizard Island, lounge in the exquisite splendor of your resort, or perhaps grab a Paddle Board for some SUP.
Lizard Island

Day 3
Today, you’ll explore the sparkling waters around the Lizard Island on a fabulous cruise. Sit back onboard the spacious vessel, breathe in the sea air, sip a wine or beer, and marvel at the beautiful views. Stop for a snorkel or two in different spots and take in the beauty of the ONLY Great Barrier Reef in the world.
Lizard Island

Day 4
It’s your last day at Lizard Island, so make sure you take advantage of everything this stunning resort has to offer. Everything about the resort has been designed to instill a sense of peace and tranquility amidst some of the world’s most beautiful scenery.
Lizard Island

Day 5
Board your scenic flight back to Cairns as your beach adventure continues today. Enjoy a private transfer to your spacious, modern hotel, Riley by Crystalbrook. The rest of the day is free to enjoy the hotel’s luxurious amenities and explore some of the fantastic restaurants, bars, and galleries in town. Don’t miss the Cairns night markets in the evening!
Riley by Crystalbrook

Day 6
Today, you will truly dive into the wonderful world that is the Great Barrier Reef with Reef Magic Cruises. Step back into the Great Barrier Reef’s Dreamtime with indigenous sea rangers on a day tour to two spectacular outer reef sites, Moore Reef and Milln or Flynn Reef.

At Moore Reef, you will have the opportunity to explore the underwater world with included snorkeling and glass-bottom boat experiences or choose to splash out with extra activities like a Scenic Helicopter Flight.
Riley by Crystalbrook

Day 7
Your final day in Cairns is yours to enjoy at your leisure. You may wish to simply relax, indulge in your hotel’s luxurious amenities, and enjoy the sunshine in town. Or, if you please, we would be more than happy to plan an adventure-filled day for you. A morning hot air balloon ride, a foodie tour of the Atherton Tablelands, and whitewater rafting are just a few of the activities available.

This evening, enjoy a unique Australian dining experience at the wonderful Ochre Restaurant. The prix fixe, 4-course menu features Ochre’s signature dishes of premium Australian ingredients matched with premium Australian wines. Dishes may include fresh seafood, Australia’s famously delicious beef, and unique fruits, vegetables, and herbs found only down under.
Riley by Crystalbrook

Day 8
It’s time to say goodbye to Australia’s beautiful beaches and sunshine. Enjoy a private transfer to Cairns airport. From here, you’ll connect to an international gateway such as Brisbane or Sydney to begin your journey home.

About this vacation
Cost Per Person

Does not include the cost of airfare


Based on
8 day stay
2 travelers

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