Cairns Islands Adventures for Families, Couples & Friends
Cairns sits right on the doorstep of incredible tropical islands. A short boat ride can take you to sandy shores and calm lagoons. Cairns islands are a simple way to add snorkelling, beach time, and rainforest walks to the same holiday.
Why Visit the Islands Off Cairns
These locations sit high on the list of tourist attractions around Cairns for good reason. You get rainforest and beach in one place, with shaded tracks for walking and clear water for swimming. Many islands off Cairns are straightforward to reach, with regular Cairns boat tours departing daily from the Reef Fleet Terminal.
The range of activities suits different comfort levels. You can float in the shallows, join a guided snorkel, or book a scuba trip. Travellers often spot tropical fish and sea turtles, and glass-bottom boat rides are available on some routes for anyone who prefers to stay dry.
Green Island
Green Island is a must-see. It is a coral cay about 45 minutes from the mainland, with frequent ferries running throughout the day. Cairns to Green Island travel is simple, which makes it an easy pick for families and first-time visitors.
This island sits inside a national park. It is unusual because it is a coral cay with a rainforest growing on it. You can walk around the island in under an hour, with boardwalks guiding you through the trees.
The water here is calm and shallow, which suits young children and beginner swimmers. Many snorkelling Cairns day trips include equipment hire, and staff can run through the basics before you head in.
There are solid non-swimming options, too. Glass-bottom boat rides let you view coral gardens without getting wet. Marineland Melanesia is another highlight, with crocodiles and displays of tribal art, which is a handy add-on for kids.
Fitzroy Island
Fitzroy Island is another top choice among the islands near Cairns. The ferry takes roughly 45 minutes from the city. The landscape is different to Green Island, with large granite boulders and steep hills covered in rainforest.
You can hike to the lighthouse for wide views over the Coral Sea. It is a steady climb, and the lookout is the payoff. Nudey Beach is another well-known spot here, often listed among Australia’s best beaches, with white coral sand and clear blue water.
Fitzroy also hosts a Turtle Rehabilitation Centre. Visitors can learn about marine conservation and see turtles recovering from injuries, adding an educational stop to the day.
This island suits active holidays. You can rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards, and the fringing reef sits close to shore. It is a strong pick for Cairns snorkelling trips, with fish sightings possible within minutes of entering the water.
Frankland Islands
The Frankland Islands are a quieter retreat south of the city. You reach them via excursions in Cairns, Australia, which usually include a bus transfer to the Mulgrave River. The journey often starts with a river cruise before heading out to sea.
This group of islands remains less crowded than others, with visitor numbers limited each day. The marine life is diverse, and the water can be very clear, so it suits snorkelling.
Tours typically provide lunch, gear, and guidance from marine biologists. They can point out clownfish, giant clams, and colourful coral formations, which makes the day more engaging for beginners.
You can also join a guided island walk. Guides explain the ecosystem and highlight local rock pools. This destination suits travellers who want a full day in nature without the busier crowds.
More Islands Near Cairns
Green, Fitzroy, and Frankland get the most attention. For anyone searching for islands off Cairns, Queensland, day trippers, add to their list the options below are also worth considering.
Michaelmas Cay
This small sand cay sits on the outer reef and is a sanctuary for seabirds. Large numbers of birds nest here in season, which makes it popular with photographers. The cay is surrounded by coral gardens, and many full-day reef tours stop here for swimming in the protected lagoon.
Low Isles
Low Isles consist of two small islands near Port Douglas. You will need to drive about an hour from Cairns to reach the departure point. The area has a historic lighthouse and a lagoon-style reef. Sea turtles are commonly seen here, and the calm water suits relaxed swimming.
Vlasoff Cay
Vlasoff Cay is a tiny sand cay that is strongly tide-dependent. It is at its best around low tide, when the sandbank is more exposed, and access is often by helicopter. It is a bucket list idea for couples, with private picnic-style landings on the sand.
Dunk Island
Dunk Island lies further south near Mission Beach. It takes about two hours to drive to the departure point from Cairns. The island is large and tropical, with walking trails and lookouts, plus beaches lined with coconut palms. It suits travellers with a rental car who want to add the Cassowary Coast to their plans.
Tips for Visiting the Islands off Cairns
A little preparation makes the day smoother. Pack a hat, sunglasses, and a towel. The tropical sun is strong in Queensland, so reef-friendly sunscreen is essential. Bring water as well, since heat and sea air can catch up quickly.
Motion sickness tablets are worth considering for boat trips that Cairns visitors book, even on calmer days. Stinger season runs from November to May, and you should wear a stinger suit during these months. Most operators visiting islands close to Cairns provide suits as part of the tour.
On non-island days, you can add other things to do that Cairns visitors enjoy. The Esplanade Lagoon is a good post-tour swim, and the Night Markets are an easy stop for food and souvenirs. Waterfalls and rainforest walks also suit days when you want time inland.
Your Base for Exploring the Cairns Islands
A comfortable base keeps island days simple. Coral Towers Holiday Apartments sit on the Esplanade and provide spacious self-contained accommodation, which suits families and longer stays.
Apartments include full kitchens, so you can make breakfast before you go and dinner when you get back. Separate living areas give you space to spread out, which can be more practical than a standard hotel room.
Guests appreciate the location. You are close to the waterfront but set back from the busiest parts of the city centre. A short drive or a scenic walk along the Esplanade gets you to ferry departures and day tour check-in.
Back at the property, there is a resort-style pool and a heated spa for winding down after time on the reef. The tour desk staff can assist with bookings and local advice. Selected apartments enjoy ocean views from private balconies, which adds a great finish to a tropical stay.
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