Minilya Camp 23 October 2006

Parked Jimmy in the all-day car park at Coral Bay and wandered down to the beach for a snorkel. Although not as prolific as further north, we did see some reef fish and coral, especially in an area called the Lavender Patch. However the highlight of the snorkel occurred when Peter spotted a Loggerhead Turtle swimming lazily along. We followed it for about 10 minutes. Really comfortable with the snorkel and flippers and able to go a bit further and stay out longer now.
After lunch we swam in the bay which was a bit too milky, however it was still fantastic. We saw large clams, heard the parrot fish crunching the coral and swam over a huge vibrant purple coral that was like velvet - all extras we had not seen. Every time there is a different highlight. This is a very easy way to get to see a coral reef as it is so close to the shore. It is easy to see the popularity of this attraction but it so much less developed than the Barrier Reef.
Camped at a stop after a road house that wanted $21 a night to park in their back yard. We don’t need anything from them so we would rather stay away. We think in the old days (not long ago) they let people park out the front but they are becoming a bit greedy for the tourist dollar. Shame because that is not what most people want.