Fitzroy Island might sit just 45 minutes off Cairns by ferry, but don’t let the short commute fool you — this is a far cry from a manicured mainland resort. If you think tropical island getaways are all cocktails and cruise crowds, Fitzroy Island will change your tune. This stunning island, just a 45-minute ferry ride from Cairns Marlin Marina, offers an adventure that’s as down-to-earth as it is jaw-dropping. We’re talking coral beaches, crystal-clear waters, and walking tracks where you’re more likely to meet a green sea turtle than another tourist
A Hidden Gem Near Cairns
Fitzroy Island is a continental island, meaning it was once connected to the mainland before sea levels rose. Now it sits off Cape Grafton in Tropical North Queensland, wrapped in a coral reef and full of rainforest walking tracks. It’s part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and one of the more unspoiled islands you can actually get to without a helicopter or a five-hour boat ride.
Nearly 97% of the island is designated a National Park, preserving its pristine beauty for generations. The rest? Home to the Fitzroy Island Resort and facilities like the activity centre, Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, and the all-important bar with cold drinks and views over Welcome Bay.
A Little Bit of History
The Gunggandji people have long ties to Gabar (Fitzroy Island), using it for seasonal food gathering and cultural practices. European history kicked in when James Cook spotted it in 1770, naming it after the British Home Secretary at the time. Later, it became a Chinese quarantine station, then a coast watch station during WWII.
Today it’s more likely to see paddle boards than patrol boats — but its layered past still runs deep. The Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, for example, is a direct nod to restoring what human impact has damaged. And it’s doing brilliant work for marine turtles.
What Makes Fitzroy Island So Special?
Plenty of islands around Cairns promise coral and cocktails — but Fitzroy Island delivers the goods without the brochure fluff. It’s the mix of convenience and untouched nature that gets you.
Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Coral beaches, not sand — so pack the reef shoes
- No roads or cars, so it’s bushwalkers and beach bums only
- A genuine eco resort that doesn’t kill the vibe
- Sea turtles, reef sharks, giant clams — all just offshore
- Stargazing without streetlights, if you stay overnight
Your Step-by-Step Travel Route
It’s easier than boiling the billy — just a 45-minute catamaran cruise from Cairns, Queensland. The Fitzroy Flyer and Sunlover Reef Cruises both operate ferry transfers from Marlin Wharf, and you can book round-trip transfers or combine them with other reef adventures like Moore Reef & Fitzroy Island day tours.
Departure times vary slightly, but most boats leave in the morning and return late afternoon. Always check the Fitzroy Island Ferry Time Table or your confirmation SMS message from Fitzroy Island Adventures or the Cairns Book platforms.
When’s the Best Time to Visit?
You’re looking at two main seasons in Tropical North Queensland:
- Dry Season (May–October): Ideal weather, calm waters, and fewer stingers. Best for walking trails, reef snorkels, and breezy island adventures.
- Wet Season (November–April): Hot and humid with cyclone risk, but the rainforest is pristine and green. You’ll want a lycra stinger suit and a good sense of humour if you’re caught in a downpour.
Pro tip: The glass bottom boat tour and inner reef sites are calmer during the dry, but even in the wet, the marine life is abundant.
What to See, Do, and Explore
Snorkelling with Sea Turtles
Bring your own snorkel gear or grab a hire package from the resort reception. The snorkel safari (available as a 2-hour snorkel safari add-on) is a great way to spot green sea turtles, coral gardens, and the odd reef shark.
The reef here is healthy and close — we’re talking access to snorkelling right from Welcome Bay. Expect an abundance of water activities, including snorkel equipment hire, paddle boards, and reef walks.
Walking Trails with Proper Views
There are multiple walking tracks and hiking trails:
- Nudey Beach Track (1.2 km return): Coral beaches and white coral beach vibes.
- Secret Garden Trail (1 km loop): Tropical rainforest and shaded walks — good if it’s hot, as a bush BBQ.
- Lighthouse Summit Trail (3.6 km return): For adventurous hikers, this is a steep and rewarding trail with breathtaking views across to Green Island.
All trails are well signed and part of the National Island Park system. Keep an eye out for goannas and orange-footed scrubfowl.
Visit Nudey Beach
Voted one of Australia’s best, Nudey Beach is all coral, no café. It’s not a nudist beach (name’s just misleading), but it is breathtakingly beautiful. Perfect for a beach towel, reef shoes, and a thermos of tea or a cold picnic lunch.
Kayaking and SUP
Hire a kayak or board and explore the reef edge at your own pace. Best done early before the bumpy ride winds kick up.
Glass Bottom Boat Tours
Where to Stay
Fitzroy Island Resort Accommodation
Fitzroy Island Resort offers a range of accommodation options:
- Studio Rooms: Best for couples
- Welcome Bay Suites: More space and kitchenettes
- Beach Cabins: Closest to the water with gorgeous views
- Bungalows to Family Suites: For the whole crew
Everything’s walking distance — it’s that kind of island. You won’t need a car, but you will need to book ahead during peak times.
What to Bring
Here’s your beach ambassador-approved checklist:
- Snorkelling gear or hire money
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Body lycra suits (if travelling in the wet)
- Hat and sunglasses
- Refillable water bottle
- Insect repellent
- Towel and swimwear
- Quality snorkels or snorkel equipment
- Snacks (yes, even carrot sticks and chicken nibbles)
- Phone and waterproof case
- Light jacket for breezy island nights
Mobile phone reception is solid around the resort and trails.
Can You Visit the Island as a Day Trip?
Yes — and it’s one of the most pleasant trips you can make from Cairns. Whether you’re after hours of island bliss or just a quick glass-bottom boat tour, there’s a Fitzroy Island Day Trip option to suit.
Typical itinerary:
- Depart Cairns around 8:00 am from Cairns Marina
- Spend the day snorkelling, hiking, or lazing
- Return ferry at 4:00 pm or later
- Optional extras like lunch or activity packages
Do Your Bit
Fitzroy Island is beautiful — but it’s fragile.
- Stick to designated walking tracks
- Don’t stand on coral (even dead-looking bits)
- Take all rubbish home (bins are limited)
- Use reef-safe sunscreen
- Respect Aboriginal people’s cultural sites and signs
And throw a coin in the donation box at the Turtle Rehab Centre while you’re at it — they’re doing the kind of work that makes sure this natural beauty sticks around.
