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Green Island Snorkeling: A Great Barrier Reef Experience

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Discover the Great Barrier Reef's underwater wonders with easy access snorkeling on Green Island, a tropical paradise just off the coast of Cairns.

Snorkel in the clear, shallow waters off Green Island, a coral cay in the Great Barrier Reef, and discover vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life just steps from the shore. Perfect for beginners and families, it's an accessible way to experience the wonders of the reef.

A brief summary to Snorkeling

  • 6XR9+RW, Green Island, Queensland, 4871, AU

Local tips

  • Snorkel at high tide for easier access to the coral and a safer experience exploring the reef flats.
  • Consider booking a guided snorkeling tour for a more immersive experience and access to outer reef locations.
  • Wear a lycra suit for sun protection and to protect against marine stingers, especially during warmer months.
  • Check with your tour operator for snorkel gear included in your package; prescription masks are usually available upon request.
  • Explore beyond the beach by taking a walk along the boardwalks through the rainforest.
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Getting There

  • Ferry

    The primary way to reach Green Island is by ferry from Cairns. Several operators offer daily departures from the Reef Fleet Terminal. A round-trip ferry transfer typically costs between $102 and $109 for adults, and $54 for children. Family fares are also available. The ferry ride takes approximately 45 minutes. To get to the Reef Fleet Terminal, you can take a taxi or ride-share from Cairns City Centre, which costs approximately $10-$20. Alternatively, parking is available at the Pier Shopping Complex/Shangri-La hotel opposite the terminal, with hourly rates from $1.60. All-day parking is also available near Trinity Wharf for approximately $3 per day. Some tours offer coach transfers from Cairns hotels for an additional fee.

Discover more about Snorkeling

Green Island offers an unparalleled snorkeling experience right off its sandy shores, making it ideal for families and first-time snorkelers. Located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, just 27km offshore from Cairns, this 6000-year-old coral cay boasts calm, shallow waters teeming with marine life. The island's fringing reef is easily accessible, with the best spots often found on the western and northern beaches. Keep an eye out for green sea turtles gliding through the seagrass beds, as well as parrotfish, clownfish, sea cucumbers, and giant clams. Snorkeling around the jetty is also a popular option, offering a chance to see colorful clams, parrotfish, and an array of hard and soft corals. Beyond snorkeling, Green Island itself is a tropical paradise with a lush rainforest to explore. Enjoy a variety of activities, from parasailing and scenic helicopter flights to scuba diving and kayaking. The island also features boardwalks that wind through the rainforest, offering glimpses of diverse plant and bird species.

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