HI guys

Wanted some advice on where to stay in the Whitsunday islands. Will be in that area for 6 days and wanted to spend a few days there plus also visit Cairns for barrier reef and Daintree between 19-26 March 2011. It'll be my first time in Oz after a week in Sydney and the lonely planet guide has been good but not exactly packed with details.

Is the snorkelling equally good up at Cairns compared to Whitsundays? In Cairns I have the possibility of using reward nights at the Hilton - is this in a good location for GBR visit and also Daintree or does anyone else have better recommendations?

What is the best way of getting between the two - the only option I have found (I dont want to drive) is flight via Brisbane.

Any recommendations for tours to Daintree and the Great Barrier Reef would be also welcome.
Cheers