Garie Beach

Is there anywhere along the great barrier reef that would be good to stay in early February (or Jan)?

We were thinking of staying in Airlie Beach however we have been reading about cyclones, stingers, and general bad weather. Is there anywhere where we could stay where we could see the Great Barrier Reef and not we affected by these things (since it's so huge)? Also any good budget accomodation? We are travelling with 4 adults and one baby. Thanks Or do you have any ideas of other great places to go (coastal)? We would be flying from Melbourne and budget is a priority.

Public Comments

1. that time of year the chances of good/bad weather anyplace along the reef are about the same
2. There are some lovely 2 bedroom cabins at caravan parks at airlie beach try the Big 4 or top tourist parks. it's pot luck with the weather really at that time of year but if a cyclone happens to be coming you will get plenty of warning to evacuate http://www.big4.com.au/ Airlie beach is better for visiting the islands and Cairns is better for trips to the reef. I wouldn't be swimming in the sea that time of year. The accomodation places should have nice swimming pools. Also you can check out www.wotif.com.au for accomodation but that you would only book a week or two in advance. Early February would be better for cheaper accomodation as that's out of school holiday time