Cairns Islands on the Great Barrier Reef

Cairns Islands

  • Island Adventures Close to Cairns – Discover tropical islands just a short ferry ride or scenic flight from Cairns, perfect for day trips or overnight stays.

  • Snorkelling & Diving Hotspots – Explore vibrant coral reefs, swim with tropical fish, and spot sea turtles straight from the shore on islands like Green and Fitzroy.

  • Rainforest Meets Reef – Islands such as Dunk and Fitzroy combine lush rainforest trails with coral coastlines, offering the best of land and sea.

  • Family-Friendly Activities – Enjoy glass-bottom boat rides, beach picnics, paddleboarding, and safe swimming areas on calm island beaches.

  • Incredible Views & Walking Trails – Hike to scenic lookouts on Fitzroy and Dunk Island for panoramic views over the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea.

  • Wildlife & Nature Encounters – Spot colourful butterflies, native birds, and unique marine life in these protected island ecosystems.

  • Easy Access from Cairns – Reach most islands by ferry, water taxi, or boat tour, with frequent departures and guided options available year-round.

 

Discover the magic of the Great Barrier Reef from the tropical islands just off the coast of Cairns.

Whether you’re snorkelling with colourful marine life, hiking through ancient rainforest, or relaxing on a white-sand beach, the Cairns Islands offer unforgettable experiences for every traveller.

Key Island Highlights

  • Green Island – A lush coral cay just 45 minutes from Cairns, perfect for day trips and family-friendly reef adventures.
  • Fitzroy Island – A scenic, mountainous island with walking trails, snorkelling beaches, and a laid-back tropical vibe.
  • Frankland Islands – A group of five untouched islands with incredible reef and rainforest, accessible on an exclusive day tour.
  • Dunk Island – A rainforest retreat with hiking tracks, beaches, and rich birdlife, near Mission Beach.
  • Lizard Island – A remote, luxury island getaway famous for private beaches and world-class diving on the Ribbon Reefs.

Explore the Islands

Green Island – Snorkel from the Beach

Green Island is one of the most accessible Great Barrier Reef islands, located just 27 km from Cairns. This coral cay is home to a beautiful national park, a luxury eco resort, and a vibrant fringing reef system. It’s perfect for day trips, glass-bottom boat rides, semi-submarine tours, and easy snorkelling directly from the beach.  Learn More

Fitzroy Island – Where Rainforest Meets Reef

Fitzroy Island is a favourite for locals and visitors alike. Just a 45-minute ferry ride from Cairns, it offers walking trails through coastal rainforest, snorkelling in sheltered bays, and scenic views from the island summit. Don’t miss Nudey Beach – often voted one of Australia’s best!  Find out more.

Frankland Islands – A Hidden Gem

Located south of Cairns, the Frankland Islands are a protected group of five continental islands known for their pristine natural environment. Accessed via a scenic river cruise and small-group reef tour, this is the only Cairns day trip that visits a true island reef site with minimal crowds and rich biodiversity.  Discover more about Frankland Islands.

Dunk Island – The Rainforest Island

Dunk Island lies near Mission Beach and offers a mix of tropical rainforest walks, stunning beaches, and opportunities to spot Ulysses butterflies and rare birdlife. It’s a nature lover’s paradise, with kayaking, fishing, and secluded beach picnics among the highlights.

Lizard Island – The Ultimate Island Escape

For those seeking luxury and seclusion, Lizard Island is the crown jewel of the northern Great Barrier Reef. Home to a world-renowned resort, private white-sand beaches, and extraordinary dive sites like the Cod Hole, it’s a dream destination for honeymooners and reef enthusiasts.  Find out more.

Why Visit the Cairns Islands?

  • Easy access from Cairns
  • Incredible snorkelling and diving
  • Rainforest and reef in one destination
  • Island day trips and overnight stays
  • Family-friendly wildlife encounters
  • Great for nature, relaxation, or adventure
  • Picture-perfect tropical scenery

FAQs – Cairns Great Barrier Reef Islands

What’s the best island to visit from Cairns for a day trip?
Green Island and Fitzroy Island are both excellent choices for day trips. Green Island is ideal for beginners and families, while Fitzroy offers more adventurous activities like hiking and summit views.

Can you stay overnight on the Cairns Islands?
Yes, Green Island and Fitzroy Island both offer resort and camping options. Lizard Island offers luxury accommodation, while Dunk Island and other nearby islands are best for day visits or boating stops.

Are the islands part of the Great Barrier Reef?
Yes, all the islands listed are within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and offer direct access to fringing coral reefs teeming with marine life.

What marine life can I see?
Expect to see colourful coral, tropical fish, sea turtles, giant clams, reef sharks, and sometimes manta rays or dugongs depending on the season.

. How do I get to the islands?
Daily ferry services run from Cairns to Green Island and Fitzroy Island. Frankland Islands are accessed via a guided tour, and Lizard Island is reached by scenic flight.

Plan Your Island Escape

Whether you’re after a quick island hop, a romantic getaway, or a full tropical adventure, the Cairns Islands are your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Browse our Great Barrier Reef tours to find the perfect island day trip or extended escape.

Experience the magic where the rainforest meets the reef.
Book your island tour today and make unforgettable memories.