Queensland Holidays - Snorkel & Non-Diver Experiences - Land Based Reef Attractions

Whether you are short of time or have a preference for terra firma, you don't have to leave land to enjoy the natural wonders of Queensland's underwater world.

Fancy feeding a shark, swimming with dolphins or even shaking hands with a seal? Aquariums and marine theme parks in Townsville and on the Gold and Sunshine Coasts offer the chance to interact with marine life in an environment that is safe for us and for our salty friends.

You might have cuddled a koala but have you kissed a seal? On the Gold and Sunshine Coasts marine theme parks and aquariums conduct vital research on marine creatures and offer visitor education programs and rare opportunities to interact with marine animals.

The world's largest coral reef aquarium in Townsville is an aquatic zoo providing an experience that's as close as you can get to the real thing. Exposed to the same diurnal and seasonal climatic changes as the Great Barrier Reef, this built habitat is home to more than 130 species of corals, 120 kinds of tropical fish, sea stars, urchins, cucumbers, snails, worms, sponges and more.

Many island resorts run interpretive marine education programs and also offer visits to research stations where guests learn about the reef first-hand from marine biologists.

Interpretive signage on display in coastal regions provides a great snapshot of the marine life than can be found locally as well as giving useful pointers on what visitors should do so that these plants and animals remain undisturbed for others to enjoy.