Alex's 30th in the Great Barrier Reef

Hurray we finally arrived to the GBR for Alex's 30th.  We have been talking about this day forever!  Pic taken at Whitehaven beach, quoted "the 2nd most beautiful beach in the world".  The sand is 90% silica making it the softest and coolest sand we ever put our toes on. Also great for jewelry buffing.

Ok lets back up.  The Great barrier reef is the longest stretch of reef in the world. It is comprised of 2900 reefs that stretch over 133,000 miles.  We chose to visit Hamilton Island, which is a part of the WhitSunday Islands.  It is  a 30 minute boat ride from Hamilton Island to the inner reefs and a 2 hour ride to the outer reefs. 

                Hamilton Island is a quick 2 hour  flight from Sydney.  Here is the view  from our resort, tide moving out due to the full moon.

There were a ton of fun activities on the island, to help us celebrate Alex's big 30.   This was our first time on paddle boards, what a great work out.

Beware there are sting rays here and turtles.  I was scared but Alex managed to swim with the turtle.  

More fun to be had on this tiny island, there are no cars, just golf carts to drive around.  Seat belts included.

And since this is Queenslands territory, we were allowed to cuddle with Koalas!  The nails did hurt my arm!



Ok on to more of Alex's week of birthday activities...

 We made 2 dives on the outer reef.  It was breath taking and the most beautiful reef I have ever seen.

 Matching stinger suits to prevent jelly fish from attacking us.

and we are off!

Misson accomplished!

Day of Birthday Skype....hello Whitey, Ro, Rob and Sara! 

Opening cards  on the balcony from family- thank you mom/dad, grandma, aunt barbara/uncle bill!

Thanks for the letter Gram!

Birthday rainbows...

Birthday Beaches

Birthday Sunsets...

Goodbye 20's its been fun! 

On to more adventures in my 30s!