Introduction
Cairns, located in the tropical north of Australia, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant marine life. It serves as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. While the city itself offers a variety of attractions and activities, many visitors are drawn to the nearby islands that dot the sparkling waters of the Coral Sea.
These islands, each with its unique charm and allure, provide the perfect escape for those seeking an idyllic tropical paradise. From secluded beaches and lush rainforests to vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life, the islands off Cairns offer a myriad of experiences for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and beach lovers alike.
In this article, we will explore eight incredible islands off Cairns that should be on your must-visit list. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a longer island getaway, each island offers its distinct beauty and attractions that will leave you in awe.
So, pack your swimsuit, snorkel gear, and a curious spirit as we embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems of Cairns’s islands.
Green Island
Located only a short boat ride away from Cairns, Green Island is a picturesque tropical paradise that offers a serene escape from the mainland. This coral cay is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and is part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
Green Island is famous for its lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and vibrant coral reefs. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the island’s walking tracks, immersing themselves in the beauty of nature. Keep an eye out for the rare and colorful bird species that call this island home.
For those seeking underwater adventures, Green Island boasts an exceptional coral reef ecosystem teeming with marine life. Snorkeling or taking a glass-bottom boat tour allows you to explore the kaleidoscope of corals, tropical fish, and even sea turtles.
If you’re looking for some adrenaline-pumping activities, try out the underwater scooter tour or go on a scuba diving expedition to discover the vibrant underwater world up close.
After a day of exploration, unwind on the powdery white beaches of Green Island or relax by the resort pool. The island offers a range of facilities, including eateries, a marine interpretation center, and even a spa.
Whether you choose to spend a full day or stay overnight in one of the island’s accommodations, Green Island promises a memorable experience filled with natural wonders and tranquility.
Fitzroy Island
Nestled just off the coast of Cairns, Fitzroy Island is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. With its pristine beaches, lush rainforest, and abundant marine life, this island offers a diverse range of activities and experiences.
One of the highlights of Fitzroy Island is Nudey Beach, voted Australia’s best beach in 2018. This stunning stretch of soft white sand and turquoise waters is located just a short walk from the island’s jetty. Spend your day swimming, snorkeling, or simply basking in the sun on this secluded and picturesque beach.
The island is also home to the Fitzroy Island National Park, where you can explore a network of hiking trails that meander through the rainforest. The Secret Garden Track takes you on a journey through dense foliage, leading to a lookout where you can enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding islands.
For a unique underwater adventure, take a trip on the Glass Bottom Boat or hire a kayak to explore the fringing coral reefs. The clear waters of Fitzroy Island boast a vibrant coral ecosystem, and snorkeling here offers a chance to encounter colorful fish, coral formations, and even sea turtles.
If you’re seeking some adrenaline-pumping fun, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding or rent a paddle ski to explore the island’s coastline. You can also indulge in a spot of fishing or enjoy a leisurely picnic by the water’s edge.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the island’s dining options, where you can savor fresh seafood and enjoy the stunning ocean views. If you want to extend your stay, Fitzroy Island Resort offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from beachfront cabins to luxe suites.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, Fitzroy Island is a must-visit destination for your Cairns island itinerary.
Michaelmas Cay
Located approximately 41 kilometers northeast of Cairns, Michaelmas Cay is a small, sandy island that is part of the Great Barrier Reef. This pristine cay, surrounded by clear turquoise waters, is a haven for birdwatchers and snorkelers alike.
What sets Michaelmas Cay apart is its significance as a breeding ground for a multitude of seabirds. As a World Heritage-listed area, it provides essential nesting and resting sites for tens of thousands of birds, including terns and noddies. Visitors can witness this incredible avian spectacle as they soar above the cay, their calls filling the air.
But it’s not just the birds that make Michaelmas Cay special. The coral gardens surrounding the island are teeming with marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Dive into the underwater world and encounter an array of colorful fish, vibrant corals, and the occasional sea turtle.
Exploring the cay itself is a unique experience. You can walk around the sandy white beaches, admiring the untouched beauty of the island. Take a guided nature walk to learn more about the cay’s ecosystem and the different bird species that call it home.
Michaelmas Cay is a protected area, and to preserve its fragile ecosystem, access is limited. Visitors can reach the cay by taking a tour from Cairns or by hiring a private charter. This ensures a sustainable and respectful approach to experiencing the island’s natural wonders.
Whether you’re an avid birder or a snorkeling enthusiast, a visit to Michaelmas Cay promises a memorable and enriching experience. Immerse yourself in nature, marvel at the birds in flight, and explore the wonders that lie beneath the surface of the sea.
Moore Reef
Located on the Outer Great Barrier Reef, Moore Reef is a paradise for snorkelers and divers seeking an unforgettable underwater adventure. This sprawling reef system, just a short boat trip from Cairns, offers an incredible array of marine life and vibrant coral formations.
Moore Reef is known for its exceptional visibility, allowing visitors to witness the stunning underwater world with clarity. Grab your snorkel gear or dive equipment and prepare to be amazed by the kaleidoscope of colors that await you beneath the surface.
As you explore the reef, you’ll encounter an abundance of marine species, including tropical fish, rays, and even reef sharks. Keep your eyes peeled for the iconic clownfish seeking refuge among the anemones, as made famous by the movie “Finding Nemo.”
One of the unique features of Moore Reef is the opportunity to experience the underwater world from a semi-submersible. Sit back and relax as you glide over the reef, gazing through large viewing windows to observe the diverse marine life and coral formations.
In addition to snorkeling and diving, Moore Reef offers other exciting activities. You can try your hand at helmet diving, where you descend to the ocean floor while wearing a diving helmet that allows you to breathe freely underwater. It’s the perfect option for those who want to experience the wonders of the reef without getting their hair wet!
For those seeking relaxation, there’s the option to unwind on a floating pontoon stationed at Moore Reef. Lounge on sundecks, enjoy a refreshing drink from the bar, or indulge in a delicious buffet lunch while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding reef.
With a variety of tour options available, you can customize your visit to Moore Reef to suit your preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeler, this reef system offers an unforgettable adventure into the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
Low Isles
Located just off the coast of Port Douglas, Low Isles is a picturesque coral cay that offers a tranquil escape into the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. This small, idyllic island is known for its pristine sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life.
Low Isles is made up of two main islands, Woody Island and Low Island, surrounded by a vibrant coral reef ecosystem. The reef is teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures, making it a haven for snorkelers and divers.
One of the unique features of Low Isles is its historic lighthouse, built in 1878. The lighthouse still stands today and adds a touch of charm and nostalgia to the island’s landscape. Explore the island’s lush vegetation, take a walk along the sandy shore, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
For those who want to explore the underwater world, snorkeling around Low Isles is a must. The coral gardens are easily accessible straight from the beach, and you’ll be greeted by an array of colorful corals and a variety of marine species as soon as you dip below the surface.
If you prefer to stay dry, you can take a glass-bottom boat tour to witness the underwater wonders without getting wet. The boat’s large viewing windows allow you to marvel at the vibrant coral formations and marine life as you cruise above the reef.
Low Isles offers a more intimate and serene experience compared to some of the larger reef systems. With limited visitor numbers permitted, you can enjoy a sense of exclusivity and tranquility as you immerse yourself in the natural wonders of this pristine coral cay.
Whether you’re snorkeling, exploring the island’s history, or simply basking on the sandy shores, a visit to Low Isles promises a serene escape into the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef.
Frankland Islands
Tucked away off the coast of Cairns, the Frankland Islands are a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Comprising a cluster of four pristine islands – Normandy, High, Round, and Mabel – these remote and largely untouched islands are a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
What sets the Frankland Islands apart is their unique and protected status as a national park and a marine conservation zone. This means visitors can experience the islands in their natural state, with minimal impact on the surrounding ecosystem.
One of the highlights of the Frankland Islands is the striking coral reef that surrounds them. Snorkel or dive in the warm, clear waters to unearth a world of breathtaking coral formations, an array of tropical fish, and even encounters with curious sea turtles.
The islands themselves are also a delight to explore. Hike through lush rainforests, discovering hidden pockets of tranquility as you encounter native plants and wildlife. Take a guided nature walk to learn about the unique flora and fauna that call these islands home.
For a more leisurely experience, simply relax on the pristine sandy beaches. The soft, white sand invites you to unwind, soak up the sun, and revel in the serenity of these secluded islands.
If you’re seeking a more immersive adventure, take a kayaking tour around the islands to explore their rugged coastline, vibrant mangroves, and hidden coves. Paddle along, taking in the captivating scenery and the tranquility of this untouched paradise.
Visiting the Frankland Islands is a truly off-the-beaten-track experience, as the number of visitors at any given time is limited. This ensures a sense of exclusivity and a connection with nature that is hard to find elsewhere.
Whether you spend a day or choose to camp overnight, the Frankland Islands offer a unique and unforgettable escape into a world of pristine beauty, where breathtaking reefs meet untouched islands.
Lizard Island
Lizard Island, located on the northernmost point of the Great Barrier Reef, is a remote and luxurious destination that promises an unparalleled island experience. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty and pristine white beaches, Lizard Island offers a secluded retreat for those seeking a truly indulgent escape.
The island’s name comes from the numerous monitor lizards that inhabit its shores, adding a touch of unique wildlife to the already captivating landscape. With 24 stunning beaches to choose from, you can find your own piece of paradise as you relax on the soft sand and soak up the sun.
One of the standout features of Lizard Island is its remarkable snorkeling and diving opportunities. The fringing reefs surrounding the island are brimming with colorful coral formations and an abundance of marine life. Dive enthusiasts can explore famous sites like Cod Hole, where you can swim alongside giant potato cod and encounter an impressive variety of marine species.
For a truly extraordinary experience, take a helicopter ride to the nearby Ribbon Reefs. These reefs are known for their exceptional clarity and vibrant marine ecosystems, offering the chance to discover hidden channels, coral walls, and an even greater diversity of marine life.
As one of the most prestigious island destinations in Australia, Lizard Island also offers world-class accommodation and amenities. The luxury resort on the island provides a range of exquisite suites and villas, complete with breathtaking ocean views and private plunge pools. Indulge in gourmet dining experiences, relax at the day spa, or engage in a variety of water sports to enhance your stay.
While Lizard Island may be synonymous with luxury, it also offers opportunities for nature walks, bush treks, and bird watching. Indulge in scenic hikes to marvel at panoramic views of the surrounding reefs and lush landscapes.
With its pristine natural beauty, exclusive accommodations, and unparalleled access to the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, Lizard Island provides a true paradise for discerning travelers seeking a quintessential luxury island experience.
Vlasoff Cay
Vlasoff Cay is a tiny sand island located in the middle of the Coral Sea, just off the coast of Cairns. This secluded and pristine cay is a hidden gem, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable island escape.
What sets Vlasoff Cay apart is its secluded and untouched beauty. This tiny sandbar emerges at low tide, surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters. With no permanent structures or developments, Vlasoff Cay offers a true desert island experience.
The island’s isolated location makes it the perfect spot for a romantic getaway or a private retreat with friends. Lounge on the powdery white sand, enjoy a picnic, or simply bask in the tranquility of this secluded paradise.
Snorkeling around Vlasoff Cay is a must-do activity. Dive into the warm waters and marvel at the vibrant coral gardens and the diverse marine life that inhabits the surrounding reefs. Keep your eyes open for colorful fish, delicate sea fans, and other fascinating marine creatures.
With its shallow lagoon, Vlasoff Cay is also an ideal spot for stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking. Glide over the calm waters and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding coral reefs and the vast expanse of the Coral Sea.
Visiting Vlasoff Cay is typically done as part of a private charter or a tailored tour, ensuring an intimate and exclusive experience. You can enjoy the freedom to explore the island and its surroundings at your leisure, savoring the serenity and natural beauty that surrounds you.
Be sure to check the tides before visiting Vlasoff Cay, as it can only be accessed during low tide when the sandbar is exposed. This ensures the island remains pristine and protected from excessive human impact.
If you’re seeking a secluded and untouched tropical paradise, Vlasoff Cay is the epitome of serenity. Immerse yourself in the solitude, revel in the natural beauty, and create unforgettable memories on this secluded sand island.
Conclusion
The islands off Cairns offer a plethora of natural wonders, from vibrant coral reefs to secluded sandy beaches and lush rainforests. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking relaxation, these islands provide a diverse range of experiences that cater to all interests and preferences.
Green Island, with its stunning rainforests and remarkable underwater world, offers a perfect day trip for those looking to immerse themselves in nature’s beauty. Fitzroy Island, with its pristine beaches and hiking trails, provides a balance of adventure and relaxation.
For birdwatching and snorkeling enthusiasts, Michaelmas Cay is a must-visit destination, offering the chance to witness an array of seabirds and explore vibrant coral reefs. Moore Reef, located on the Outer Great Barrier Reef, promises exceptional snorkeling and diving experiences.
Low Isles, with its intimate and serene atmosphere, provides an opportunity to discover the wonders of the coral reef and explore the island’s historical lighthouse. Frankland Islands, known for its untouched natural beauty, captivates visitors with its pristine beaches and diverse marine life.
Lizard Island, a remote and luxurious paradise, offers exclusive access to the Great Barrier Reef and indulgent accommodations. Lastly, Vlasoff Cay provides a secluded and untouched island experience, perfect for those seeking a private retreat in the middle of the Coral Sea.
With each island offering its unique charm and allure, the islands off Cairns truly showcase the magnificent beauty of Australia’s coastline. Whether you embark on a day trip or plan a longer island getaway, these islands will leave you awe-inspired and rejuvenated by the wonders of nature.
So pack your snorkel gear, lace up your hiking shoes, and prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey to the incredible islands off Cairns. Uncover the hidden gems, immerse yourself in the natural beauty, and create memories that will last a lifetime in this captivating corner of Australia.