Green Island Snorkeling: A Great Barrier Reef Experience
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.
Getting There
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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
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Visit Cairns
26.1 km
Discover Cairns, the vibrant gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, where adventure, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty await every traveler.
Coral Sea Dreaming Dive and Sail
27.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef with Coral Sea Dreaming's expert diving and sailing tours in Cairns, Australia.
Falla Reef Trips
27.2 km
Uncover the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef with Falla Reef Trips - your expert tour operator in Cairns for snorkeling and diving adventures.
Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel
27.2 km
Explore the stunning Great Barrier Reef with Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel, where adventure meets indigenous culture and marine conservation.
Barefoot Tours
27.2 km
Discover the beauty of Queensland with Barefoot Tours: your expert guide to the Great Barrier Reef and lush rainforests.
The Reef Eye
27.2 km
Discover breathtaking views of Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef from The Reef Eye, an iconic Ferris wheel that enhances your travel experience.
Cairns Cenotaph
27.2 km
Discover the Cairns Cenotaph, a serene memorial honoring Australian armed forces, set against the backdrop of the stunning Cairns Esplanade.
Muddy‘s Playground
27.3 km
Discover Muddy's Playground in Cairns City - a vibrant family-friendly destination with water play zones, lush gardens, and endless fun for all ages.
Great Barrier Reef Tours
27.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Great Barrier Reef with expert-guided tours, snorkeling, and diving adventures in Queensland, Australia.
Things to do in Cairns
27.4 km
Explore Cairns: Dive into the Great Barrier Reef, trek through lush rainforests, and enjoy the vibrant culture of Queensland's tropical paradise.
Cairns on a Budget
27.4 km
Discover affordable adventures and unforgettable experiences in Cairns with Cairns on a Budget, your friendly local tour agency.
Reef Encounter
27.4 km
Experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef with Reef Encounter, your gateway to unforgettable diving adventures in Cairns, Queensland.
Cairns Australia
27.4 km
Experience the beauty of Cairns, Australia - your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and lush rainforests, brimming with adventure and vibrant culture.
visit australia
27.4 km
Explore the wonders of Australia from Cairns City with expert guidance at Visit Australia, your ultimate tourist information center.
Great Barrier Reef Tours Port Douglas
27.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Great Barrier Reef with unforgettable tours from Port Douglas, showcasing vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations.
Unmissable attractions to see
Seawalker Green Island
0.2 km
Experience the magic of the Great Barrier Reef at Seawalker Green Island, where adventure meets relaxation in a tropical paradise.
Fahero beech
0.2 km
Discover Fahero Beach on Green Island: a tropical paradise offering relaxation, adventure, and stunning Great Barrier Reef experiences.
Green Island Resort
0.3 km
Experience luxury and adventure at Green Island Resort, a tropical paradise in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
Green Island
0.3 km
Experience the natural beauty of Green Island, a tropical paradise in Queensland known for its coral reefs, rainforests, and serene beaches.
Marineland Melanesia - Crocodile Habitat & Gift Shop
0.4 km
Explore the captivating world of reptiles at Marineland Melanesia, a unique crocodile habitat and gift shop on Green Island, Queensland.
Green Island National Park and Recreation Area
0.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant marine life of Green Island National Park, a tropical paradise in Queensland, Australia.
Marineland Croc Park
0.5 km
Explore the fascinating world of reptiles and marine life at Marineland Croc Park, a must-visit destination on Green Island, Queensland, Australia.
Kanji beach
0.5 km
Discover Kanji Beach on Green Island: Pristine sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life await in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
Upolu Reef
9.3 km
Explore the beauty of Upolu Reef, an Australian underwater paradise teeming with life and vibrant coral formations, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Upolu Cay
10.3 km
Explore Upolu Cay, a tranquil Australian paradise perfect for relaxation, snorkeling, and stunning sunsets surrounded by crystal-clear waters.
Arlington Reef
10.5 km
Explore the vibrant underwater world of Arlington Reef, a stunning gem of the Great Barrier Reef, perfect for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
Vlasoff Cay
11.4 km
Experience the untouched beauty of Vlasoff Cay, a serene haven in the Great Barrier Reef filled with stunning beaches and vibrant marine life.
Michaelmas Cay
16.9 km
Explore the tranquil paradise of Michaelmas Cay, where vibrant marine life meets breathtaking landscapes in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
Fitzroy Island Lighthouse Walk Lookout
18.8 km
Discover the breathtaking Fitzroy Island Lighthouse Walk Lookout, where stunning coastal views and lush rainforest meet for an unforgettable experience.
Fitzroy Island National Park
18.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Fitzroy Island National Park, where lush rainforests meet pristine beaches and vibrant marine life thrives.
Essential places to dine
Green Island Pool & restaurant
0.3 km
Discover tropical bliss at Green Island Pool & Restaurant - where fast food meets paradise in Queensland's stunning landscapes.
Emerald Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover Emerald Restaurant on Green Island - where exquisite flavors meet breathtaking views in Australia's tropical paradise.
Zephyr Restaurant
19.4 km
Experience tropical dining at its finest at Zephyr Restaurant on Fitzroy Island—where every meal comes with breathtaking views.
Foxy's Bar & Restaurant Fitzroy Island
19.5 km
Discover tropical flavors at Foxy's Bar & Restaurant on Fitzroy Island – where stunning views meet delightful cuisine.
Salt House
26.9 km
Experience modern Australian cuisine with stunning waterfront views at Cairns' iconic Salt House restaurant.
Prawn Star
26.9 km
Experience delectable seafood aboard Prawn Star in Cairns, where fresh flavors meet stunning marina views.
Marinades Indian Restaurant Cairns
27.0 km
Discover authentic Indian cuisine at Marinades Indian Restaurant in Cairns - where flavor meets elegance for all dietary needs.
Vitalia's Italian Restaurant
27.0 km
Experience the true taste of Italy at Vitalia's Italian Restaurant in Cairns City—where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Tha Fish
27.0 km
Discover exquisite seafood at Tha Fish in Cairns – where fresh flavors meet stunning waterfront views.
Piato Cairns Restaurant
27.0 km
Experience exquisite Mediterranean dining with Australian flair at Piato Cairns—where culinary art meets stunning marina views.
Waterbar & Grill Steakhouse
27.0 km
Experience the finest steaks at Waterbar & Grill Steakhouse in Cairns – where flavor meets waterfront views.
The Backyard Cairns
27.0 km
Discover the essence of Modern Australian cuisine at The Backyard Cairns, where delicious food meets a vibrant atmosphere.
Ochre Restaurant
27.1 km
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Ollie's Italian
27.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with stunning waterfront views at Ollie's Italian in Cairns.
Signature Restaurant
27.3 km
Experience culinary excellence at Signature Restaurant in Hilton Cairns with stunning Esplanade views and a menu inspired by local flavors.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fitzroy Island General Store
19.5 km
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The Cairns Store
26.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs, stylish bags, and trendy hats at The Cairns Store, your one-stop shop in Cairns Airport for memorable gifts.
Wild Sugar | Women's Fashion for the Wild and Free | Australian Made
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Explore Wild Sugar in Cairns for unique Australian-made women’s fashion that embodies a wild and free lifestyle.
YMO Yours Mine Ours Boutique
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Explore YMO Yours Mine Ours Boutique in Cairns for unique fashion and artisan treasures that capture the spirit of Australia.
The Pier, Cairns
27.0 km
Discover the perfect blend of shopping, dining, and stunning views at The Pier in Cairns - a vibrant destination for all!
Mainie Australia
27.0 km
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HENLEY COLLECTIONS
27.0 km
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I Love Cairns - Australian Souvenir & Gift Store
27.3 km
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Ancient Journeys
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Australian Leather Company Cairns
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82K Collections
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Rebel Rose Australia
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Liveaboard Diving
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Rainforest Gift
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Giftopia
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Foxy's Bar Fitzroy Island
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The Pier Bar
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Sunset Bar Cairns
27.1 km
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Gin Social
27.3 km
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Rocco by Crystalbrook
27.3 km
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The Vine Room
27.3 km
Explore The Vine Room in Cairns: A cozy bar with a curated wine selection, perfect for unwinding and enjoying good company.
Calypso Club
27.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Calypso Club, a premier bar in Cairns offering exquisite cocktails and stunning coastal views.
Fiestas Cairns
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Experience the lively atmosphere and incredible drink selection at Fiestas Cairns, the perfect bar for tourists seeking a fun night out in Queensland.
Whiskey and Wine by Crystalbrook
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Discover the perfect blend of fine whisky and exquisite wines at Whiskey and Wine by Crystalbrook in Cairns City.
Rattle n Hum Cairns
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Rattle n Hum Cairns, where delicious grill cuisine meets a lively pub ambiance, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Flamingos Tiki Bar
27.3 km
Discover the vibrant tropical escape at Flamingos Tiki Bar, where unique cocktails and a laid-back atmosphere await every visitor.
BAR36
27.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at BAR36 in Cairns with unique cocktails and stunning waterfront views for an unforgettable evening.
Elixir Music House
27.4 km
Experience the vibrant blend of culinary delights and live music at Elixir Music House in Cairns City.
Wolf Lane Distillery
27.4 km
Explore Wolf Lane Distillery in Cairns for locally crafted spirits, expertly mixed cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for relaxation and enjoyment.
Three Wolves
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cairns at Three Wolves, where expertly crafted cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere await.
