The Best Day Trip from Cairns: Fitzroy Island Guide & Review

If there is one day trip you absolutely must do while visiting Cairns, Fitzroy Island is it. Fitzroy Island was hands down one of the most memorable day trips I experienced in Tropical North Queensland and the perfect introduction to the region’s natural beauty. With crystal clear water, lush rainforest, stunning coral reefs, and some of the best snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, all just 45 minutes from Cairns.

Whether you are visiting Cairns for a few days or planning a longer Queensland itinerary, a Fitzroy Island day trip should be at the very top of your list. It is easy to reach, incredibly scenic, and offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and wildlife encounters that feels truly special.

For the most seamless and stress free experience, I highly recommend booking the Best of Island Package with Sunlover Reef Cruises. It includes ferry transfers, snorkelling gear, a glass bottom boat tour, and lunch, making it one of the best Fitzroy Island tour options available.

About Fitzroy Island and Why It Is So Special

Fitzroy Island is located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage listed site recognised for its outstanding universal value. The Great Barrier Reef was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1981 and is one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet. 

What makes Fitzroy Island unique is that it combines two World Heritage environments in one destination. The island is covered in tropical rainforest, while its surrounding waters are home to fringing coral reefs filled with colourful marine life. Despite being so close to the mainland, Fitzroy Island feels wild, peaceful, and untouched.

Unlike many tropical islands, Fitzroy Island beaches are largely made up of naturally crushed coral rather than sand. These coral fragments formed over thousands of years from ancient reef systems and were shaped by storms and ocean movement. The result is bright white beaches that contrast beautifully with the turquoise water.

Getting There: Cairns to Fitzroy Island Ferry

Start your morning with brekkie at your hotel or at one of the cafes near Cairns Marina. The marina is within easy walking distance of most central Cairns hotels, making it a very convenient departure point This is where you will check in and meet the friendly Sunlover Reef Cruises team.

The ferry ride from Cairns to Fitzroy Island takes approximately 45 minutes. The Sunlover ferry has both indoor air conditioned seating and an outdoor deck. If the weather is good, I highly recommend spending some time outside. The colour of the Coral Sea is unreal and constantly shifting shades of blue.

Once on board, the crew will help you collect your snorkelling gear, which includes a mask, snorkel, fins, buoyancy vest, and a Lycra stinger suit. Stinger season in Tropical North Queensland typically runs from November to May, and wearing a stinger suit during these months is essential. Even outside of stinger season, the suit offers excellent sun protection.

Arriving on Fitzroy Island

Stepping off the ferry at Fitzroy Island instantly feels like entering another world. Clear water laps against the shore, rainforest-covered hills rise behind the beach, and everything moves at a slower, calmer pace.

Fitzroy Island is one of the easiest islands to visit from Cairns, but it never feels crowded or overdeveloped. There are no roads or cars here, just walking tracks, beaches, and nature in every direction.

Walk to Nudey Beach

One of the first things I recommend doing on Fitzroy Island is walking to Nudey Beach. Nudey Beach has been voted Australia’s best beach, and it is easy to see why.

The walk takes around 15 to 20 minutes and winds through rainforest and coastal scenery. The track is well maintained and suitable for most fitness levels, but comfortable shoes and water are essential.

Arriving at Nudey Beach feels like stepping into a postcard. Crystal clear water, smooth coral sand, and large granite boulders frame the shoreline beautifully. This is also one of the best snorkelling spots on Fitzroy Island. The reef is easily accessible from the shore, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkellers. You can spot colourful fish and coral gardens just metres from the beach.

Glass Bottom Boat Tour

After spending time at Nudey Beach, head back to the main beach area for your glass bottom boat tour, which is included in the Best of Island Package.

This is a fantastic option if you want to see the reef without getting wet or if you want a break from snorkelling. The boat glides over coral formations, giant clams, and schools of tropical fish, with clear viewing panels beneath your feet. The guides share interesting facts about the reef ecosystem, adding an educational element to the experience. It is also a great way to appreciate how vibrant and healthy the Great Barrier Reef still is around Fitzroy Island.

Lunch at Foxys Bar

By midday, you will likely be feeling hungry after all your activities! With the Best of Island Package, you can collect your picnic lunch box from Foxys Bar on the island.

The lunch box is generous and ideal for a full day of exploring. Mine included a fresh sandwich, salad, pasta, a muffin, and nuts. You can enjoy your lunch wherever you like, whether that is at a picnic table, on the beach, or under the shade of palm trees.

Foxys Bar itself has a relaxed island vibe and is a great place to grab a cold drink before heading back out for the afternoon.

Afternoon Activities on Fitzroy Island

The afternoon is completely yours to spend at your own pace. You can return to the water for more snorkelling at Welcome Bay, where conditions are often calm and visibility is great.

If you prefer staying on land, Fitzroy Island has several walking tracks through the rainforest, including trails that lead to scenic lookouts and the island summit. These walks offer a different perspective of the island and are a great way to spot native plants and birds.

No matter how you choose to spend your afternoon, Fitzroy Island has a way of making time slow down.

Fitzroy Island Packing List

To make the most of your Fitzroy Island day trip, here is what I recommend bringing:

• Swimmers and a towel

• Reef safe sunscreen

• Hat and sunglasses

• Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers

• Water bottle

• Light backpack

• Phone or camera

• Extra snacks if you tend to get hungry

• A light cover up or shirt for sun protection

Snorkelling gear and stinger suits are provided with the Best of Island Package, so you do not need to bring your own unless you prefer to.

Returning to Cairns

In the mid to late afternoon, you will board the ferry back to Cairns. This is the perfect time to relax, scroll through photos, and reflect on an unforgettable day.

Watching Fitzroy Island fade into the distance is bittersweet, but knowing you are heading back to Cairns for sunset drinks or dinner makes it easier!

Final Thoughts: Is Fitzroy Island Worth It?

Fitzroy Island is absolutely worth it and easily one of the best day trips from Cairns. It offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, with easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, beautiful beaches, and lush rainforest all in one place.

Booking the Best of Island Package with Sunlover Reef Cruises made the day effortless and stress free. From snorkelling and the glass bottom boat tour to lunch and ferry transfers, everything was well organised and enjoyable. If you are visiting Cairns and want to experience the beauty of Tropical North Queensland in just one day, Fitzroy Island should be at the top of your list.

👉 Book your Fitzroy Island day trip with Sunlover Reef Cruises here
👉 Check out my 3 Day Cairns Itinerary here!