In addition to your average beach vacation packing list, there are a few extras that are practically necessities when heading to the reserve:  1) Underwater Camera Housing/Waterproof Disposable: Trust me, you’ll want to document this underwater paradise and all its inhabitants.  2) Reef-safe Sunscreen: Hey, we get it, You’ve got to protect your skin under the beating sun- especially if you’re spending all day in/on the water. But protecting the reef is also of utmost importance, so please choose a sunscreen that won’t damage the ecosystem.  3) CASH: This one is not optional- trust me. There are no ATMs in the town and most businesses operate on a cash-only basis.  4) A Satellite Phone (or other emergency contact device): This isn’t a 100% necessity, but there is almost no mobile signal in town, or on the reserve. This extends to wifi as well. While this can present a wonderful opportunity to disconnect and engage with your surroundings, you may want to have a communication method available for emergency situations.  5) A Short Wetsuit or Rashguard: The water is typically warm enough that you don’t need a wetsuit for comfortability, but it’s a great extra layer of protection against small jellyfish stings, cuts and scrapes, and sunburn.