The largest coral reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef covers almost 20 % of the reef area of Earth. Washed by the South-West Pacific Ocean, it is located parallel to the coast of Queensland and it has still retained its pristine condition. It comprises of 2 900 individual reefs, 71
coral islands, 10 000 species of sponge, 350 different species of coral, 4 000 species of mollusks, 350 species of echinoderms and over 1 500 species of fish. Infact the reef is also home to some of the endangered animal species like Green Sea Turtle and Dugong and it is also the breeding site for humpback whales. The reef was recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, in the year 1981.
Because of these features the reef has become a major tourist destination and the pleasant and sunny weather of the place further enhances its status as a major tourist destination. The Great Barrier Reef is the ultimate paradise for adventure sports lovers; here you can participate in adventure sports activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, jet skiing, parasailing, sail boarding, kayaking and surfing. Other activities in the place include coral viewing, reef walking and sailing. It is also home to some of the long sandy beaches that are well known for their spectacular natural beauty and sceneries.
The most famous reefs are the Inter-Reef Gardens featuring a wide variety of shallow water fish, soft corals, giant clams and turtles. Other renowned reefs include the Outer Reefs and the Far Northern Reefs.
For more information on Tourist Attractions in Australia visit Travel.mapsofworld.com.
| 
