The story of this place
Heart Reef is a naturally formed coral reef in the Hardy Reef system of the Great Barrier Reef, shaped like a perfect heart when viewed from above. It was discovered in 1975 by a snorkelling pilot and has since become one of Australia's most recognisable natural symbols. The reef can only be photographed from the air — scenic helicopter or seaplane flights depart daily from Hamilton Island and Airlie Beach. The surrounding reef system provides extraordinary turquoise water colour contrast. The heart shape is approximately 20 metres in diameter and sits within a vast expanse of reef flats visible from the air.