Fitzroy Island National Park, Cairns Travel Guide

4.5 (426)

Discover Fitzroy Island National Park: Hike rainforest trails, snorkel vibrant reefs, and unwind on pristine beaches near Cairns.

Home
Travel Guides
Australia
Cairns
Fitzroy Island National Park

Fitzroy Island National Park, a short ferry ride from Cairns, offers a diverse landscape of rainforest, beaches, and coral reefs. Explore walking trails, snorkel in pristine waters, and relax on the shores of Nudey Beach, once voted Australia's best beach.

A brief summary to Fitzroy Island National Park

Fitzroy Island, Queensland, 4871, AU
Click to display
Click to display

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Fitzroy Island National Park.

Wear sturdy shoes for hiking, as the trails can be rocky and uneven.
Bring your own snorkeling gear or rent it from the Fitzroy Island Sports Hub to explore the vibrant coral reefs.
Pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay protected from the sun.
Visit during the stinger season (November to May) with caution and wear a stinger suit for swimming.
Check the ferry schedule in advance and book tickets online, especially during peak season.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Jacob's Tree

Finger A, # 8 Reef Experience

Cairns beach lookout

Cairns Waterfalls

Cairns Self-Guided Heritage Walk

Explore Fitzroy Island National Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Fitzroy Island National Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Ferry

The primary access to Fitzroy Island National Park is via ferry from Cairns Marlin Marina. Several companies operate daily services, including Fitzroy Flyer, Sunlover, and Fitzroy Island Adventures. A one-way trip takes approximately 45 minutes. From Cairns Marlin Marina (1 Spence Street, Cairns 4870), board the ferry at the designated berth. Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure for check-in. Ferry costs vary depending on the operator and time of year. Expect to pay around $105 for an adult return ticket and $60 for a child. Family rates are also available. Parking is available near the Reef Fleet Terminal at the Pier Shopping Complex/Shangri-La Hotel, with hourly rates from AUD $1.20. All-day parking is available near Trinity Wharf for approximately $3.

Discover more about Fitzroy Island National Park

Fitzroy Island National Park, located just 25 km east of Cairns, is a tropical haven that forms part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. This continental island boasts a diverse landscape, including granite outcrops, open woodlands, lush rainforest, mangroves, and coral beaches. Originally part of the mainland, rising sea levels separated Fitzroy Island approximately 6,000 years ago, creating a unique environment for a variety of flora and fauna.Visitors can explore the island's natural beauty through a network of walking trails. The Secret Garden track offers a gentle rainforest immersion, while the Nudey Beach track leads to a picturesque beach perfect for swimming and snorkeling. For a more challenging hike, the Lighthouse Road and Summit tracks reward adventurers with panoramic ocean views and the chance to spot migrating humpback whales in winter.Fitzroy Island's history is as rich as its natural environment. Lieutenant James Cook named the island in 1770. In the late 1800s, it served as a quarantine station for Chinese migrants and later became part of an Aboriginal mission. The island also played a role in World War II, with a radar station established to protect Grafton Passage.Today, Fitzroy Island National Park offers a variety of activities, including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and glass-bottom boat tours. The island is home to a Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, where visitors can learn about the care and rehabilitation of sick and injured turtles. With its stunning scenery and tranquil atmosphere, Fitzroy Island is the perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure.