The calm tropical waters that surround Fitzroy Island are just perfect for snorkelling. There are a number of beaches you can snorkel from including Welcome Bay and Nudey Beach (both are just minutes from the main arrival area), with hard and soft corals only meters from the shore.Green Island is generally better for swimming and snorkelling, whereas Fitzroy Island is better for hiking and adventure. However, both tropical islands off the coast of Cairns are absolutely stunning and have plenty to offer travellers!Due to its position in Tropical Far North Queensland, visitors to Fitzroy Island are able to enjoy warm water for swimming and water activities all year round.
Is there coral at Fitzroy Island : The Island is surrounded by fringing reef, which is the home to a variety of tropical fish and coral life. Fringing reef is a type of coral reef located only in the tropics, which is found directly off the shoreline growing in a thin strip.
Is Fitzroy Island worth a trip
As you can see, Fitzroy Island is a magical wonderland with so much to do and see for all types of travellers. Whether you're after excitement and adventure or just wanting to relax and soak up the sun on a tropical beach, Fitzroy Island is definitely worth a visit.
Where is the best snorkelling in Cairns : A guide to the best snorkelling and diving spots in Cairns
- Flynn Reef. What it offers: Fantastic coral gardens.
- Milln Reef. What it offers: Beautiful clear waters.
- Pellowe Reef. What it offers: Epic wall dives and swim-throughs.
- Moore Reef.
- Thetford Reef.
- Norman Reef.
- Upolu Reef.
- Saxon Reef.
Fitzroy Island, an exquisitely beautiful tropical island located just 45 minutes from Cairns via Fast Cat, is one of the most amazing places in Tropical Far North Queensland from which you can explore the Great Barrier Reef.
“When you travel from Cairns to Fitzroy Island, do the sea get too rough and toss the ferry, making you fall over and break your bones” The sea does not get too rough, and if you stay seated as they request you can't fall over. Regulations would dictate that they would not go if the weather was unsuitable.
Is Fitzroy Island worth visiting
Its incredible positioning right amongst the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef is not the only feature that makes a visit to Fitzroy Island a must; Fitzroy Island is also a fabulous place to go walking and hiking and is home to a giant ocean trampoline, the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, delicious dining options …Saltwater crocodiles won't come this far out to the reef so you don't need to worry about those! Plus, the water around Fitzroy Island is warm and clear year-round, making it excellent for swimming. If you don't want to swim, you can opt for the iconic glass-bottom boat tour.Saltwater crocodiles won't come this far out to the reef so you don't need to worry about those! Plus, the water around Fitzroy Island is warm and clear year-round, making it excellent for swimming. If you don't want to swim, you can opt for the iconic glass-bottom boat tour.
Tips for Visiting Fitzroy Island
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to October, when temperatures are mild and rainfall is low. Take care when swimming and snorkelling, and always follow the instructions of tour operators and lifeguards.
Is snorkeling better in Cairns or Port Douglas : In terms of proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is closer to the outer reef and has more tour options available. Port Douglas is about an hour's drive north of Cairns and is closer to the inner reef, which is better for snorkeling and beginner divers.
Where is the prettiest place to snorkel : 9 Best Places to Snorkel in the World
- Baa Atoll, Maldives. Why it's special: Swim with manta rays, whale sharks and sea turtles in a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
- Maui, Hawaii.
- Koh Tao, Thailand.
- Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt.
- Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
- Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia.
- Bora Bora, French Polynesia.
- Punta Mita, Mexico.
Are there saltwater crocodiles at Fitzroy Island
Saltwater crocodiles won't come this far out to the reef so you don't need to worry about those! Plus, the water around Fitzroy Island is warm and clear year-round, making it excellent for swimming. If you don't want to swim, you can opt for the iconic glass-bottom boat tour.
There are two types of 'stingers' in the area: the Irukandji Jellyfish and the Box Jellyfish. They might be present year-round, but there is a higher risk between October and May where jellyfish can be found around the mainland, islands and occasionally the reef.It will be stinger season in December and stingers, including the nasty little Irukandji, could possibly be in the waters around the islands. To be on the safe side do wear a stinger suit which I'm sure would be available at the island resorts.
Can you swim in Cairns crocodiles : Always obey crocodile warning signs. Never swim where crocodiles may be present, even if you don't see any signs. Look out for crocodile slide marks on the bank and stay well away from them. When fishing, always stand a few metres back from the water's edge and never clean fish or discard scraps near the water's edge.