The World's 12 Most Spectacular Coral Reefs: A Journey Through Underwater Paradise

12. Lord Howe Island, Australia

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The southernmost coral reef in the world rests on crescent-shaped volcanic remnant known as Lord Howe Island in the Tasman Sea. Situated off Australia's east coast, this UNESCO World Heritage site presents a special mix of tropical and temperate marine life, hence producing one of the most unusual reef ecosystems on Earth. Strict environmental safeguards and seclusion of the island have helped to maintain its natural beauty both above and below the sea. Because of their mix of tropical and temperate species—many of which are nowhere else in the world—the coral reefs around Lord Howe Island are very unique. While the outer reefs offer more difficult diving locations, the island's lagoon—protected by a fringing reef—offers calm seas for snorkelling and glass-bottom boat trips. Popular diving site Ball's Pyramid, a dramatic rocky spire rising from the ocean floor, is well-known for its unusual structure and opportunity to view rare species including the ballina angelfish. The waters of Lord Howe Island are especially well-known for their clarity; visibility sometimes reaches thirty meters. On the island, conservation initiatives include rigorous visitation caps, thorough waste management systems, and continuous study on how climate change can affect coral reefs. Established in 1999, the Lord Howe Island Marine Park offers further protection for the nearby waters, therefore preserving the fragile equilibrium of this unique environment. Among the few sites worldwide where tropical, subtropical, and temperate marine life coexist, Lord Howe Island's reefs provide a window into the possible future of coral ecosystems in a climate undergoing change.