39. Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, Australia What's special: 24 beaches and a lagoon making up the northernmost resort along the Great Barrier Reef. The entire island is a National Park accessed only by private plane (no day trippers allowed). Glass bottom paddle skis, night diving, and 24-hour tennis. NB: Reopening March 1, 2015 following renovations post-Cyclone Ita in early 2014