Fitzroy Island sits roughly 29 kilometres south-east of Cairns and is a very different place from the sand cays. It is a national park island of steep forested hills, with a hiking trail to a summit lookout and an old lighthouse, quiet bays and a coral-and-shell beach that crunches underfoot. Fast catamarans make the crossing in about 45 minutes from Marlin Wharf, and a full day leaves several hours on the island. The classic beach is Nudey Beach, a short walk from the resort jetty, with clear shallow water and good snorkelling over fringing coral. Sea kayaking, a glass-bottom boat and hire of snorkel gear and stinger suits are all offered. Fitzroy is also known for its turtle rehabilitation work, so you can often see recovering sea turtles at the island's centre. Because the shore is more rock and coral rubble than sand, it suits people who like to walk and swim rather than lie on a white beach.
The walking is the island's strength. The summit track climbs through rainforest and rocky outcrops to views over the reef and the Queensland coast, and it takes a couple of hours return at a steady pace. Wear proper shoes and carry water, because the humid climb is harder than it looks and the heat builds from late morning. Shorter loops reach the beaches and the old lighthouse if you want something easier.
For water time, snorkel off Nudey Beach in the morning when the light is best and the wind is lower. The island is not netted, so in stinger season from roughly November to May you should wear a stinger suit; most day-trip options include one with the snorkel package. A guided snorkel safari adds equipment and a guide to the ferry transfer. Remember that the fringing reef here is shallow in places, so check the tide and stay clear of the coral.
Booking tips: the Viator Fitzroy Island day trip offers full-day and half-day departures from Marlin Wharf, with a fast catamaran return, and add-on options for snorkel hire, snorkel safaris and a glass-bottom boat; it has hundreds of reviews and free cancellation until 24 hours before. A Tiqets venue page for the island also exists, though its cruise product was temporarily unavailable at the time of research. A day is enough, but an overnight stay lets you walk the trail at sunrise and have the beach almost to yourself.
What to expect
The experience
A fast ferry of about 45 minutes from Marlin Wharf to a rainforest island, then a free day for beaches, snorkelling, kayaking and hikes.
Best time
Go in the dry months for easier walking, or take the first boat in the wet season and finish the summit walk before the afternoon heat and storms.
How long
Full day of around seven hours on the island, or a shorter half-day departure.
Tips
Choose the snorkel option with a stinger suit in season, wear walking shoes for the summit track, carry plenty of water and check in at Marlin Wharf in good time.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active travellers who want a walk, a swim and a quieter island than Green Island.
- Families
- Older children enjoy the kayaks and the trail, while younger ones will prefer the shallow water at the jetty beach.
- Couples
- Walk to Nudey Beach early, snorkel the fringing reef and plan a late lunch before the ferry back.
- Pair with
- An outer reef cruise for the big coral, or the Esplanade lagoon when you are back in Cairns.
- Time needed
- A full day, or an overnight stay if you want the island to yourself at dawn and dusk.
Good questions
How long is the ferry to Fitzroy Island?+
The fast catamaran takes about 45 minutes from Marlin Wharf in Cairns. Full-day departures leave in the early morning and half-day departures leave mid-morning.
What is Nudey Beach like?+
It is a short walk from the jetty, with clear shallow water and coral just offshore, which makes it a favourite snorkelling spot. The beach is mostly coral rubble and shell rather than soft white sand, so water shoes help.
Is the summit walk hard?+
It is a steady, humid climb through rainforest and over rocks, taking a couple of hours return. Wear sturdy shoes, start early and carry water.
Do I need a stinger suit?+
The island is not netted, so wear one when swimming in stinger season from roughly November to May. The snorkel packages on most day trips include a suit.
Can I stay overnight?+
Yes, the island has accommodation, which gives you the beaches and trails at dawn and dusk. Check availability and ferry timetables before you book.
