6Great Barrier Reef – Australia
Perhaps the most famous coral reef system in the world, the Great Barrier Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest coral reef system on Earth. Located off the coast of Queensland, Australia, it spans over 2,300 kilometers (1,430 miles) and is composed of more than 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands. This vast ecosystem is home to an astonishing variety of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 400 species of coral, and countless other sea creatures like rays, sea turtles, and sharks.
The reef’s vibrant corals come in a variety of shapes and colors, from the delicate branching coral to massive brain corals. Snorkeling and diving here offer unparalleled experiences, as you can explore an underwater world teeming with life, from the technicolor hues of fish to the intricate coral structures that look like something out of a dream. However, the Great Barrier Reef is under threat from climate change, particularly coral bleaching caused by rising ocean temperatures, making conservation efforts critical to preserving its beauty.
