Heart Reef, part of the Great Barrier Reef off Queensland, Australia

© Peter Adams/Offset by Shutterstoc

Spotlighting an icon for Australia’s big day

As much of the country fires up the barbie and celebrates the land down under, we’re using Australia Day to spotlight Heart Reef - a true Aussie natural wonder that’s a stone’s throw from the Whitsunday Islands. Measuring about 17 metres in diameter, the heart shape itself is courtesy of mother nature, and was discovered back in 1975 by a local pilot. It’s not a hidden secret anymore though, quickly becoming one of the most popular areas of the Great Barrier Reef and one of the most photographed attractions in the world.

Due to its protected status, no snorkelers or divers are permitted to explore Heart Reef from below, meaning the best way to take in the sights is from high above via a helicopter or sea plane tour. Once you’re done there’s still plenty of surf, sand, and sun to enjoy nearby!