Fitzroy Island: A Tropical Paradise on the Great Barrier Reef
Discover Fitzroy Island: A tropical paradise with rainforest trails, coral beaches, and vibrant marine life on the Great Barrier Reef.
Fitzroy Island, located 29 kilometers southeast of Cairns, is a tropical escape offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Once connected to the mainland, the island is part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and is covered in lush rainforest, fringed by coral beaches, and surrounded by pristine waters. Originally named Koba (meaning 'the fist') by the Gunggandji people, the island served as a hunting and fishing ground for the local Aboriginal population. Captain James Cook renamed it Fitzroy Island in 1770. In the late 19th century, it functioned as a quarantine station for Chinese laborers en route to the Palmer River Goldfields. The island also played a role in World War II as a radar station. Today, Fitzroy Island is a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and exploring the Great Barrier Reef. Visitors can relax on Nudey Beach, hike through the rainforest, visit the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, or take a glass-bottom boat tour. The island features several walking trails, including the Secret Garden Track, the Summit Track, and the Lighthouse Walk, each offering unique perspectives of the island's diverse ecosystem. The island is home to a resort with a restaurant, pool, and swim-up bar, as well as Foxy's Bar and Cafe. Fitzroy Island provides a perfect getaway for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in a stunning natural setting.
Local tips
- Book your ferry and activities in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay protected from the sun.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the island's trails, which can be rocky in places.
- Consider bringing seasickness medication if you are prone to motion sickness, as the ferry ride can be bumpy in rough weather.
- Don't miss the opportunity to snorkel or dive in the clear waters surrounding the island to experience the Great Barrier Reef's marine life.
A brief summary to Fitzroy Island
- Fitzroy Island, Queensland, AU
Getting There
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Ferry
The primary access to Fitzroy Island is via ferry from Cairns Marlin Marina. Several companies operate daily services, with journey times around 45 minutes. A round-trip ferry ticket typically costs between $99 and $105 for adults and around $55-$59 for children. Family rates are also available. To reach the Cairns Marlin Marina, you can take a taxi or ride-share from Cairns City Centre, which costs approximately $10-$20. Parking is available near the Trinity Wharf for around $1.20 per hour, with all-day parking costing approximately $3. Check-in is usually 30 minutes prior to departure at Marlin Marina. Pre-booking your ferry is essential.
