Concierge.com's insider take:

The northernmost island resort on the Reef, Lizard lies 149 miles off the coastal city of Cairns. It's worth the hour-long flight, though—especially for divers. Some of the best-known dive sites in the world are nearby, including the famous Cod Hole (where visitors can hand-feed enormous, friendly potato cod). For those who'd rather stay semi-dry, snorkeling lessons and equipment, glass-bottom boat trips, and the use of motorized dinghies are all complimentary here. And guests who want to keep soaking in sea minerals even on land can visit the excellent Pavilion Spa, where marine ingredients are used in many of the treatments. The 40 villas are simply furnished, with gleaming wood floors and private verandas with hammocks. (For complete privacy, stay in the Pavilion; it has its own plunge pool.) The meals are stupendous, with plenty of fresh fish and tropical fruit—and they're all included in the rate.