Most resorts on the reef will offer complimentary water sports with your stay, including kayaking, paddle-boarding, sailing and snorkeling. One of my favorite activities was learning to steer a catamaran. Which, as someone with little experience in sailing, took no more than ten minutes to learn and was very satisfying to sail. 

Or, if you're feeling less active, just relax and enjoy your time on the beach. Unparalleled tranquility at its most picturesque.

Weather on the reef, in line with typical tropical climate, changes on a whim. Expect days that start out gloomy to transform into dazzlingly sunny skies by noon. Torrential downpours usually only last for a short while, before one can return to the beaches and resume tanning once more.

Most resorts on the reef will occupy their own island that's self-sustaining, which means food is usually brought via boat or plane, and your dining options are limited to resort restaurants. 

Unsure what was being filmed here. Excellent sceneary for a commercial, though.

Most hotels will have speedboats, larger yachts, and helicopters to take guests out on snorkeling, diving, or sightseeing excursions. This is en-route to a small sandy island and atoll close close-by. 

Footprints in the sand. That's the title of a song, isn't it?

Excellent location for a picnic. Champagne a must. If ever there was a truly secluded beach, this would be a solemn contender indeed.

An endless beach that seemingly disappears into the ocean. A great location for lounging or walking on the beach, or even a quick snorkel in the surrounding atoll.

The resort pool is always a good lounging destination, especially if you're in the mood for fresh water, the bar, and a bit to eat.

Opt to stay at a beach house or villa that offers direct beach access as well as private residence. Most villas offer butler service that ensures maximum relaxation during your stay, whether its making reservations for dinner or planning a diving trip to another island.

Typically, oceanfront villas will have a small pool in front of the property, before the beach begins. 

One & Only has had a resort on the Great Barrier Reef for a number of years, but it just underwent a rather complete renovation at the time of my visit. Excellent service and atmosphere, definitely a worthy option to consider if visiting the reef.