Fitzroy Island is a rugged granite island 45 minutes from Cairns, wrapped in national park and surrounded by fringing coral reef. Unlike Green Island, Fitzroy has a wilder feel — granite boulders, dense rainforest, and reef that extends directly from the beach.
The island has some of the best shore snorkelling in Queensland. Nudie Beach and Welcome Bay both have excellent fringing reef accessible by simply wading in from the sand — no boat required. Turtles, reef sharks, leopard sharks, and colourful reef fish are common sightings just metres from the shore.
Beyond snorkelling, Fitzroy offers sea kayaking around the island's coastline, a lighthouse walk with sweeping views, resort facilities including a beach bar, and several marked walking trails through the national park.
"The snorkelling at Fitzroy is genuinely world-class and it's all accessible right off the beach — no boat needed. Saw three turtles, two leopard sharks and more fish than I could count."
"Fitzroy feels completely different to Green Island — more wild and adventurous. The lighthouse walk is stunning and the beach bar is a nice bonus. Perfect full day out."
"Took the sea kayaks around the headland and found a completely deserted section of beach. With the reef right there it felt like we had our own private island."
Departure Point: Cairns Marina, Wharf 3, Pier Point Rd, Cairns City QLD 4870.
Check in at least 15 minutes before departure. Parking available at Reef Fleet Terminal carpark (paid). The marina is a 10-minute walk from Cairns CBD along the Esplanade.