Can you snorkel at Heart Reef?

It’s truly a natural wonder how this reef turned out to be a heart shape in the Great Barrier Reef.

Heart Reef was formed naturally by the coral and slowly over time formed a heart shape.

Even though without a doubt, Heart Reef is a gorgeous-looking reef, no you aren’t able to snorkel here. Heart Reef is a protected reef, so snorkelling, diving, and other water activities aren’t allowed.

Luckily though, there are other ways you can see Heart Reef and also other locations where you can still snorkel.

How can I see Heart Reef?

Even though we can’t snorkel at Heart Reef, there are ways you can see it! The best way you can see this incredible reef is on a scenic flight. You can go on a seaplane or a helicopter and see the heart-shaped reef yourself from above.

Flying above the water, you’ll notice the different shades of the crystal blue waters of the Great Barrier Reef.

Where to snorkel nearby

We know, we’re gutted too how you can’t snorkel at Heart Reef. But don’t worry, there are other places nearby where you can grab some snorkelling gear and still have that experience.

Whitsundays
The crystal clear waters of the Whitsundays are a perfect location where you can snorkel and also enjoy a relaxing weekend getaway.

You can snorkel right off the beach, and different islands, bays, and reefs within the region. There are all kinds of marine life you can see here while you discover what lies beneath the blue water.

Hardy Reef
Heart Reef is actually inside Hardy Reef, but here you can snorkel. As you’re snorkelling, you may spot the range of beautifully coloured smaller fish swimming around the coral. There are also bigger fish like the giant Queensland groper and the giant Maori wrasse.

If you want to do something extra at Hardy Reef, you can also try out diving! Diving allows you to go deeper in the water and swim along with other sea creatures including turtles, reef sharks and more!

What are you waiting for? Start booking your trip to see Heart Reef on a scenic flight and go snorkelling to explore the Great Barrier Reef.

There are also tours available where you can snorkel to certain reefs within the Great Barrier Reef.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.