The Great Barrier Reef: Year-Round Magnet for Millions of Tourists

The Great Barrier Reef (off Queensland, Australia) draws millions annually with:

• Scale: 344,400 km² (142,900 sq mi)—largest coral reef system.
• Biodiversity: 3,000+ reefs, 900 islands, 1,500 fish species, 400 corals, 6 turtles, dugongs, sharks.
• Experiences: Snorkeling, diving, glass-bottom boats, scenic flights, island resorts.
• World Heritage: UNESCO site since 1981; global conservation icon.

Climate change (bleaching) threatens it, but tourism remains a major economic driver and conservation funder.