Fitzroy Island
Tucked away off the Jurassic park-esque coast south of Cairns is the unpretentious but special Fitzroy Island. Both the island and its surrounding waters are part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. The island is predominately National Park with rainforest all the way down to the white coral beach. The fringing coral reef means so you can step into the water and snorkel straight off the coral beach.
Accommodation
Fitzroy Island Resort is the only accommodation on the Island and offer a range of options from bungalows to beach view suites. They also manage the small campground on behalf of the council which is a budget way to experience an island holiday.
A four star resort, not an uber luxury retreat, Fitzroy Island Resorts is an affordable island alternative for people who love the outdoors.
Thinking about making a last minute booking? Check the Fitzroy Island website as they often have cheap last minute standby rates that include the ferry transfers for free!
Getting to Fitzroy Island
There is a resort ferry to Fitzroy Island or you can also book transfers through Fitzroy Island Adventures or Sunlover Reef Cruises. If you are staying at the resort Sunlover is a good option for a combined transfer and reef trip the day of arrival or departure for your stay (as they go via Fitzroy Island from Cairns in each direction). Then just book a direct one way transfer with the resort for your other trip.
Water Sports on Fitzroy Island
To snorkel a different area of the island join the snorkel safari guided tour to visit bays around fitzroy island and snorkel with a guide in a small group.
The island hires out kayaks and stand up paddle to use in the bay.
Fitzroy Island Bushwalks
Fitzroy Island Summit Walk
For beautiful views and a challenge, the summit walk is your best choice, a 3.6km circuit that takes you through rain forest before you emerge on top of the world.
Nudey Beach Walk
The popular Nudey Beach walk takes you to a little coral beach with views out of the Qld Coastline. On a calm day, it is a tranquil little beach with picture perfect aqua water. It’s just 1.2km return with lots of small hills to get there.
Secret Garden Walk
The quieter 1.2km secret garden track meanders through the rainforest past huge vines and trees. Don’t forget to look up as you pass through the forest. The walk ends at a platform to sit and enjoy the rainforest before returning back to the resort.