Things To Do Fitzroy Island

Just a short 45 minute ferry ride from Cairns, Fitzroy Island offers visitors a stunning escape to a tropical island on the Great Barrier Reef. This idyllic island ticks all the boxes – it’s got pristine coral and sand beaches, fringing reefs, clear blue waters, lush rainforest and towering mountains which you can climb on island hikes for insta worthy views. Did we mention the resort, the restaurants and the beachfront bar – or the turtle hospital, which you can visit on tour? This island is truly a dream destination for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in nature. Whether you’re interested in snorkeling with sea turtles, hiking up to panoramic viewpoints, or simply relaxing on the famous Nudey Beach, Fitzroy Island has something for everyone.

This guide provides everything you need to make the most of your visit, from choosing the right tour package to discovering the best spots for snorkeling and enjoying island cuisine. With options for both half- and full-day adventures, as well as overnight stays, Fitzroy Island is the perfect getaway for families, solo travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Dive into our tips and recommendations to plan your ideal island experience!

Getting to Fitzroy Island

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Let's Go - a full day tour to fabulous Fitzroy Island. Choose between an 8.30am or 10.45am departure from Cairns, gets you back at 4.45pm. In between - swim, snorkel, explore, enjoy.

Fitzroy Island Adventures Full Day Tour

Fitzroy Island Adventures’ Full Day Tour offers flexible departure times from Cairns at either 8:30 am or 10:45 am, with a return at 4 pm, giving you up to six hours to enjoy Fitzroy Island. This budget-friendly tour starts at $99 per adult for the return transfer, with a variety of optional add-ons, including snorkel gear, a glass-bottom boat ride, guided snorkel safaris, and picnic lunches. Enjoy self-guided walks, beachside relaxation, and snorkeling directly from the shore, with ample time to explore Fitzroy Island’s trails and the beautiful Nudey Beach.

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Short On Time? - The half day tour gives you 2 hours on Fitzroy Island. Soak in the views at Welcome Bay, add in snorkel gear to explore the fringing reef and get some happy snaps.

Fitzroy Island Adventures Half Day

Fitzroy Island Adventures’ Half Day Tour offers a compact island experience, ideal for a few hours of snorkeling, beach relaxation, and scenic photos. Departing from Cairns at 10:45 am and returning by 2:45 pm, the tour includes a 45-minute catamaran transfer each way, leaving you with around two hours on Fitzroy Island. Base rates start at $99 per adult, with options to add snorkel gear, a glass-bottom boat tour, or a picnic lunch. Maximize your half-day island escape by booking with Fitzroy Island Adventures.

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Choose Your Own Adventure with Sunlover's full day Fitzroy Island tour. Opt in for snorkelling or glass bottom boat - or do both - you can BYO lunch or book theirs. You decide. A great day in paradise.

Sunlover Full Day Tour

Sunlover’s Cairns Fitzroy Island Day Tour provides a flexible day on one of the Great Barrier Reef’s most scenic islands, just a 45-minute ferry ride from Cairns. Departing at 8:45 am and returning at 4:45 pm, this tour gives you up to 6.5 hours to explore Fitzroy Island’s walking trails, coral beaches, and clear waters. Prices start at $99 for an adult return transfer, with options to add snorkel gear, a glass-bottom boat tour, or a buffet lunch for a complete island experience. Book your day on Fitzroy Island with Sunlover.

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Explore the Great Barrier Reef in the morning, spend the afternoon on Fitzroy Island. Massive 8 hour tour, making some unforgettable memories in paradise.

Sunlover Reef + Island

The Sunlover Cruises Reef & Fitzroy Island Day Tour combines the best of both worlds with two hours each at the Great Barrier Reef and Fitzroy Island. Departing from Cairns at 8:00 am and returning by 4:15 pm, this eight-hour experience includes snorkeling at the Moore Reef pontoon, access to the underwater observatory and waterslide, plus a hot and cold buffet lunch at Fitzroy Island’s Zephyrs Restaurant. Enjoy guided glass-bottom boat and semi-submersible tours at the reef, along with optional extras like Seawalker helmet diving and scenic helicopter flights. Book your Sunlover Reef + Island Adventure.

Things to Do In and Around the Ocean

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Snorkelling is a great way to explore fringing reefs and under the jetty, for Great Barrier Reef fish. If you can swim you can snorkel. Adults and kids equipment available.

Snorkeling Equipment Hire

Snorkeling gear at Fitzroy Island is easy to arrange, with rental options available both through tour providers and directly on the island. Pre-booking with your tour allows you to pick up gear on the boat, enabling you to snorkel as soon as you arrive. Here’s a breakdown of costs and inclusions:

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Shark Fin Bay has arguably the best coral cover of all the Fitzroy Island fringing reefs. Only accessible on tour. Add it into your Fitzroy Island adventure - we did and we saw a turtle!

Snorkeling Shark Fin Bay with a Guided Snorkel Safari

Shark Fin Bay, located outside Fitzroy Island’s main snorkeling areas, is accessible only through a guided snorkel safari, offering richer coral cover and more vibrant marine life than Welcome Bay. This tour includes expert guidance on marine species and reef ecology, with sightings of turtles, giant clams, and even Great Barrier Reef clownfish. Check out our snorkeling at Fitzroy Island review for more information and images.

Guided Snorkel Safari Options:

Note: Sunlover Cairns does not offer a snorkel safari option.

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There are usually schools of fish underneath the Fitzroy Island jetty. Look at the sandy sea floor for stingrays and there's a coral bommie between the jetty and pylons.

Snorkeling Welcome Bay and under The Jetty

Welcome Bay, located right in front of Fitzroy Island Resort, is one of the island’s top spots for snorkeling and the best place to start is right under the jetty. Here we saw schools of scissor tail sergeant fish and yellow tailed fusiliers, we also saw a green sea turtle, two stingrays and lionfish. Water access is easy from the beach, with great snorkeling just a few meters from shore. Early morning snorkeling is only available to those staying on the island, providing a unique opportunity to catch schools of trevally. Please note that during the day the jetty is very busy, with tour boats and private boats coming and going. To stay safe, avoid the boating zone and keep clear of incoming and outgoing vessels.

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Turtle Rock is named for its appearance, but we've seen turtles here every time we have snorkelled. Explore around the rocks, looking for parrotfish and trevally with hard and soft corals.

Snorkeling Turtle Rock, eastern end of Welcome Bay

Turtle Rock is located to the east of Welcome Bay, right on the edge of the designated snorkeling area. Easily visible from the jetty, it’s a group of rocks with the largest one shaped like a turtle, naturally “painted” white by seabirds. This spot is known for frequent sightings of green sea turtles, and the fish life here is often even more abundant than near the jetty. On visits, you might spot a large school of scissortail sergeant fish around the main rock. Turtle Rock requires a longer swim from the beach, so it’s best suited for confident snorkelers. Walk up the beach before swimming out, and always check with the staff on the island and/or your tour for advice on current weather and tide conditions.

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Nudey Beach has been named Australia's best beach, for scenery and pristine waters. It's beautiful for sure, but the snorkelling is better at Welcome Bay.

Snorkeling Nudey Beach

Nudey Beach is a must-visit spot on Fitzroy Island, known for its beautiful scenery and clear waters. Contrary to its name, Nudey Beach is not a place to get nude, but it is the perfect place to soak up the views, go for a swim and relax in idyllic island surroundings. You can snorkel here, but you will see more coral and marine life under the jetty in Welcome Bay, at Turtle Rock or on the guided snorkel safari tour in Shark Fin Bay.

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Make the time for a glass bottom boat tour at Fitzroy Island - you'll learn more about the reef and the guide will point out corals and fish during the tour. Perfect for families and anyone wanting to learn about the reef.

Glass Bottom Boat Tours

Glass-bottom boat tours at Fitzroy Island offer a unique way to explore the reef and its marine life without getting wet. These tours are ideal for families, non-swimmers, and anyone who prefers a more relaxed way to view the underwater world. Each 30-minute tour is led by experienced guides who provide insights into the Great Barrier Reef’s ecosystem, pointing out species such as colorful fish, turtles, and even reef sharks.

Booking Options:

These tours are suitable for all ages and provide a relaxed way to appreciate the reef’s biodiversity while staying dry.

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Fitzroy Island does not have a dedicated dive centre. Octopus Dive offer the chance to do dive courses at Fitzroy Island. Advance bookings are essential.

Fitzroy Island Scuba Diving

There is no guided or recreational dive tours at Fitzroy Island anymore. The island used to have a dedicated dive centre, but this closed years ago. That being said if you are doing a dive course with Octopus Dive, a local company based in Cairns, and it can be for Open Water, Advanced, and other dive courses – then you can choose for the dive component to be at Fitzroy Island. These would need to be booked and arranged well in advance, as they are not running all of the time. Please note: While Fitzroy Island delivers a stunning tropical island experience, it is not the top choice for serious divers, compared to the outer reefs accessible from Cairns. The outer reefs have greater visibility and richer marine life.

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There are no regular SUP tours or SUP hire at Fitzroy Island. There used to be, but not anymore. Group SUP tours can be accommodated with advance bookings through Whatsup Cairns.

Fitzroy Island Stand Up Paddleboarding

There are no regular standup paddleboarding tours or hire equipment on Fitzroy Island anymore. There used to be and you might see photos on social media, but there is not anymore. If you have a group of friends / family / tour / school group, then you can contact Whatsup Cairns – who used to operate on Fitzroy Island – and pre-book a guided Fitzroy Island SUP tour. A highlight of these tours is paddling out to Little Fitzroy Island. Advance bookings are essential. Please note: It is possible to bring your own SUP board to Fitzroy Island, but please be aware of the risks associated with offshore winds and shallow reefs, which can make paddleboarding here challenging.

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Imagine quietly gliding over clear blue waters, with coral gardens and the sandy sea floor below you. You can do this on a Fitzroy Island guided kayak tour or kayak hire. Keep watch for turtles and stingrays.

Kayaking on Fitzroy Island

The waters surrounding Fitzroy Island are usually beautiful and clear, which makes kayaking a great way to explore more of the island’s offshore reefs and scenery. There are guided kayak tours held at 10.30am daily, or you can hire a kayak – single and doubles available – for a 45-minute self guided paddle. The tours and hire can be arranged through the island’s Sports Hub, which is located adjacent to the resort swimming pool. Choose between a guided tour or self-guided rental options:

  • Guided Kayak Tour (includes lesson):
    • Single Kayak: $69
    • Double Kayak: $119
  • Self-Guided Kayak Rental: Single kayaks $25 per 45 minutes, double kayaks $40 per 45 minutes
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The Turtle Rehabilitation Centre on Fitzroy Island provides you with the unique opportunity to get close to sea turtles, learn more about them and support this valuable, non-profit organisation which rehabilitates sick and injured turtles.

Fitzroy Island Turtle Rehabilitation Centre

The Turtle Rehabilitation Centre on Fitzroy Island is a non-profit facility dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sick or injured sea turtles back into the wild. Located near the Fitzroy Island Resort, the center offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the threats facing turtle populations, such as pollution and climate change, and to observe the rehabilitation process firsthand. Guided tours provide insights into each turtle’s journey from rescue to recovery and the crucial efforts involved in protecting these endangered animals. Funds from tours directly support the center’s work, making it both an educational and impactful experience for visitors. Tours must be pre-booked with limited availability each day.

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Can you go fishing on Fitzroy Island? Yes you can, BUT please note the waters surrounding Fitzroy are Conservation Park (Yellow) Zone. So limitations apply. Check zoning information before fishing.

Fishing on Fitzroy Island

Fishing is sometimes seen on Fitzroy Island, but it’s essential to check the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park zoning rules and consult with the resort reception beforehand. With many people snorkeling, kayaking, and enjoying the beachfront, it may not be the ideal fishing spot due to the risk of disrupting others. Exploring other locations or booking a dedicated fishing charter in the area may be a better option for a safer fishing experience.

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Fitzroy Island is an awesome tropical island, but if you want to maximise your reef experience, then jump onboard a Sunlover Reef Tour. Pre-booking essential.

Outer Reef Tours

While Fitzroy Island is a beautiful destination, for a complete reef experience, consider combining your visit with an Outer Reef Tour. Sunlover Reef Cruises offers Reef and Island Tours, allowing you to explore both Fitzroy Island and the Outer Reef in one day. Booking tickets in advance is important, as reef trips cannot be arranged once you’re on Fitzroy Island.

Walks on Fitzroy Island

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The Lighthouse Road Track on Fitzroy Island is a 3.6km return 'hike' with a maximum elevation of 130m. It's tough and steep, but with rewarding views at the end.

Fitzroy Island Lighthouse Walk

The Lighthouse Walk on Fitzroy Island is a 3.6 km return trip along a steep concrete road that begins at the northeastern point of Welcome Bay. This track is not for the faint-hearted, with several sections that are notably steep, providing a true calf-burner experience. Most of the track is shaded, but once you reach the ‘top of the hill’, there’s a scenic stop with great views over to Green Island and the mountainous mainland. Continuing on across the plateau, you’ll reach the lighthouse, which offers more great views. This is a challenging but rewarding hike, with a 133-meter elevation gain, offering dramatic scenery and the perfect backdrops for photos.

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The Summit Walk joins up with the Lighthouse Road Track and offers spectacular views over Welcome Bay and the Coral Sea.

Fitzroy Island Summit Walk

The Summit Walk on Fitzroy Island is a challenging 4 km return circuit that rewards hikers with panoramic views over the Coral Sea, the rainforest hinterland, and even Mount Bartle Frere in the distance. Starting from the island’s camping area, this track climbs to an elevation of 269 meters, with rugged terrain, steps, and large granite boulders along the way. For the best experience, start with the Lighthouse Road Track, which joins the Summit Track near the top, allowing you to enjoy views at the lighthouse before completing the climb. The summit features a timber lookout platform, offering incredible scenery for those who tackle the steep climb. Remember to wear sturdy shoes, sun protection, and bring plenty of water.

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This is one of the easiest walks on Fitzroy Island and is very worthwhile! It starts 'behind' Foxys Bar and takes you to Nudey Beach, one of Australia's best beaches.

Nudey Beach Walk

As we’ve mentioned already, Nudey Beach on Fitzroy Island has been named Australia’s best beach – so this is another walk worth taking! The Nudey Beach Walk is a 1.3 km out-and-back trail which starts ‘behind’ Foxys Bar on Fitzroy Island. This is a relatively easy walk with a 12-meter elevation gain and should take about 16 minutes to complete each way (on average). The trail offers beautiful scenery in any season, with some lovely views and make sure you take your towel, for swimming at Nudey Beach. Along the trail, keep an eye out for the fascinating golden orb spider (Nephila pilipes), whose impressive webs span up to a meter and are often strategically placed between trees to catch passing insects.

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The Secret Garden Walk is a 'detour' on the Nudey Beach Walk, because every island needs a secret spot right?! Lovely and shaded, make the time to do it.

The Secret Garden Walk

The Secret Garden Track on Fitzroy Island is a 0.6 km out-and-back trail winding through lush rainforest, offering a peaceful escape into nature. This moderately challenging walk takes about 16 minutes each way, but allowing around 45 minutes ensures time to fully appreciate the scenery. The trail ends at a spacious platform where you can rest and take in the unique rainforest surroundings. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water for a comfortable experience.

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Interpretive signage is strategically located on Fitzroy Island's walking tracks and trails, providing interesting information to enhance your exploration.

Fitzroy Island Interpretive Signage

While hiking on Fitzroy Island, keep an eye out for interpretive signs along the trails. These informative displays provide insights into the island’s unique ecosystem, geological history, and diverse plant and animal life. As you explore paths like the Lighthouse, Summit, and Secret Garden tracks, the signage enhances your experience, offering a deeper understanding of the natural processes that shape the island and surrounding reef. Reading these signs along the way adds meaning to your hike, helping you appreciate the ecological significance and beauty of Fitzroy Island’s landscapes.

Fitzroy Island Food and Drink

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Get in my belly! Foxys Bar is open for lunch and dinner, for day tour visitors and resort guests. We had the salt and pepper calamari and beef burger - both were delicious!

Foxy’s Bar, for Lunch, Dinner, Snacks and Refreshments

Foxy’s Bar offers a variety of light bites and larger meals to satisfy hungry guests. If you’re hungry, check out the fully stacked Foxy Burger, Steak Sandwich, Fish and Chips or Seafood Plate, or for something lighter there’s a range of salads and snacks, including the always popular salt and pepper calamari and bowl of fries. Foxy’s Bar is open for lunch and dinner and serves up its food with a side serve of the best view in town. You can download the Foxy’s Bar menu here.

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Zephyr Restaurant is open for breakfast and dinner for resort guests, and buffet lunch for some tour guests. Great location, providing Welcome Bay views.

Zephyr Restaurant, for Breakfast and Dinner (and Buffet Lunch for some tours)

Zephyr Restaurant, located within the Fitzroy Island Resort, offers a refined dining experience with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and views over the beautiful Welcome Bay. Open daily, Zephyr serves a delicious buffet breakfast with all the essentials, including cappuccinos to kick-start your morning. In the evening, the outdoor terraces come alive with diners enjoying the alfresco setting and ocean views, perfect for an elegant yet relaxed meal. The à la carte dinner menu features modern Australian cuisine with nightly specials and the option for two- or three-course meals. Zephyr is fully licensed, offering a wide selection of wines and beverages, and can cater to special dietary needs or celebrations with advance notice.

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Fitzroy Island has a small Convenience Store, located adjacent to Foxy's Bar. It's got drinks, ice-creams and souvenirs, with a limited range of basic pantry items and first aid items.

Fitzroy Island Resort Shop

The resort shop offers snacks, drinks and some basic pantry items and first aid materials, such as band-aids. It also has souvenirs, beach essentials – including sunscreen – and is conveniently located adjacent to Foxy’s Bar. Please note I would not rely on the shop for groceries and meal items, these should be brought with you if you plan to self-cater during your visit or stay.

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Cheers to this! Are you even having an island experience, if you don't consider a tropical beverage?! At Foxy's Bar, they come with a view too!

Cocktails, Mocktails, Beers, Soft Drinks, Sparkling and Wine

You can grab a refreshing beverage at Foxy’s Bar, Zephyr and the Fitzroy Island Resort pool bar (for guests only), they all serve up a selection of tropical cocktails, perfect for sipping as you take in the island’s stunning scenery. The cocktail menu includes favorites like the Tropical Mojito with coconut rum, pineapple liqueur and ginger beer, as well as the ever-popular Piña Colada made with coconut rum, lime, coconut cream, and pineapple juice. With options like the Fitzroy Long Island Iced Tea, Passionfruit Sunset, and Nudey Beach Spritz, there’s a drink to match every island mood. For non-drinkers, mocktail versions such as the Virgin Mojito and Virgin Piña Colada are also available, offering a tasty alternative with a view. Please note, the pool bar is exclusively for resort guests staying on the island.

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You can bring your own food to self-cater your day and/or stay at Fitzroy Island. We whipped up this grazing platter during our stay, for a treat before dinner.

Bring Your Own Food, Making The Most Of Your Budget

Due to licensing regulations, you cannot bring your own alcohol to Fitzroy Island, but you are welcome to bring your own food. With several scenic picnic spots around the island, packing meals can be a cost-effective option—especially as lunch for a family of four (two adults and two kids) can cost around $120, including drinks. For those staying at the resort, booking a Butterfly Bungalow gives you the added perk of hiring a BBQ to cook your own meals, perfect for both dinner and breakfast. It’s a great way to save on dining costs and leaves a bit more room in the budget for beverages, tours, activities and souvenirs.

Stay Overnight on Fitzroy Island

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The Butterfly Bungalows suited our family for a recent stay on Fitzroy Island. Queen bed and bunk beds in a separate room, kitchenette and you can hire an electric BBQ. Easy beach access too!

Fitzroy Island Resort Accommodation

Fitzroy Island Resort offers a range of accommodation to suit various needs, from studio rooms, to 2 bedroom apartments, the penthouse, beachfront cabins and beachside bungalows. Check-in is at 3 pm and check-out is at 10 am. For those arriving early or departing late, the resort provides bag storage, changing rooms, and showers for your convenience and use, during your time on the island. We stayed in the Butterfly Bungalows, which offered a peaceful rainforest retreat close to the beach. There’s something for all budgets and needs.

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Swimming pool, swim-up pool bar and even a spa section, the perfect way to refresh after spending some time in the sea. Resort guest use only.

Swim in the Pool, exclusive use for Resort Guests

The large resort swimming pool at Fitzroy Island Resort can be used by resort guests (not day tour visitors). It’s got a spa section, shallow splash area for little kids, swim-up pool bar and large pool area, with lots of sun lounges for relaxation. The pool is the perfect spot to cool off after a day of exploring, and those seeking a break from the saltwater.

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Fitzroy Island even has a campground which is managed and maintained by the resort. This is a budget-friendly option and puts you right by the beach. Camping must be booked in advance.

Fitzroy Island Camping is another option, BYO tents and equipment

For a more adventurous experience, consider camping on Fitzroy Island. The campground is equipped with essential facilities, including a communal kitchen, BBQ areas, and toilets, though there is no hot water. Just a short walk from the beach, it’s the perfect spot to sleep under the stars and immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty. Camping here offers a unique and memorable way to experience Fitzroy Island, but be sure to book in advance, as spots are limited.

Capture the Moments Our Photography Top Tips and Locations

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Avid photographers bring your phones, your drones, your GoPros and cameras. Fitzroy Island is just stunning from all angles.

Photography on Fitzroy Island

Pack your camera and all your photography gear, as Fitzroy Island is a paradise for avid photographers. From capturing the iconic view of Nudey Beach (hint: the best shot is on the path to the beach) to catching the final rays of a stunning island sunset, the colors and landscapes here provide endless opportunities for epic photos. Whether you’re snapping the lush rainforest, the vibrant reef waters, or the golden tones of dusk, Fitzroy Island delivers breathtaking scenes at every turn.

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GoPro for the win when snorkelling and getting underwater photos. We snapped this one on a snorkel safari tour in Shark Fin Bay, at Fitzroy Island.

Fitzroy Island Underwater Photography

For underwater photography on Fitzroy Island, don’t forget to pack your GoPro or action camera. These compact, easy-to-use cameras are ideal for snorkeling; they’re much more manageable than larger underwater rigs and perfect for snapping shots of turtles or capturing friends in action. Here’s a pro tip for getting a water-drop-free shot from above the water—lick the lens! It helps prevent those pesky droplets. While many recommend shooting upwards underwater, top-down shots can look stunning as well. Remember, never harass the turtles. Approach slowly and stay to the side; if they’re deep, wait patiently—they’ll come up for air, giving you the perfect chance to capture the shot. Always respect their space.

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This is not edited and was taken with a phone, on the beach! Enjoy jaw droppingly beautiful sunsets like this, when staying at Fitzroy Island.

The Best Sunsets, Waves of Light, Cascading over the Mountains

To capture the magic of sunset on Fitzroy Island, staying overnight is essential. We took this one when we stayed in October and love it! Apart from getting great photos, put yourself in this position – sitting on the coral beach, listening to the waves slide in with some snacks and your friends / family – it’s magic moments like this, that makes us love where we live!

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Well nothing says tropical, resort holiday more than a postcard snap of a timber jetty, leading you to a resort.

The Jetty Photo, It's An Easy Must Do

The jetty is another iconic photography spot on Fitzroy Island, offering a stunning view back toward the resort. For the best shot, wait for a quieter moment when you can capture the jetty’s clean, straight lines leading past palm trees and toward the resort entrance. This composition, with the tropical landscape framing the pathway, is bound to make your friends jealous and will make a perfect screensaver to remind you of island life when you’re back in the concrete jungle.

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Looks relaxing doesn't it - and it was too! Warm waters, sunshine on my face, kids splashing in the shallows. Island bliss, captured with a drone.

Flying Your Drone, Yes You Can At Fitzroy Island

Most of Fitzroy Island is a national park, and as of now, flying drones in Queensland’s national parks is permitted. However, it’s essential to be respectful—keep a distance from the resort and respect others’ privacy. Nudey Beach is a highlight for drone shots, offering breathtaking views, but be cautious of the common offshore winds. Know your drone’s limits and fly safely. The island can get busy, so for the best shots, aim to fly early in the morning or later in the day after most visitors have left. If possible, catch the earliest boat to reach Nudey Beach before the crowds. Always check the weather and wind forecast to ensure a safe and smooth flight.

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You don't need to climb a mountain to get a great photo, but this instance we did. Views from the Lighthouse on Fitzroy Island, in winter you sometimes see whales!

Social Media, Eat Your Heart Out

Fitzroy Island is filled with stunning spots that are perfect for capturing memorable photos, for your social media ‘spam’. Make everyone jealous with snaps of big blue sky and sea days, coral beaches, snorkeling with turtles, tropical cocktails, coconut trees and more. Whether you’re photographing a breathtaking sunrise, the lush tropical landscape, or your snorkeling gear, embrace the atmosphere and create captivating shots that your followers will appreciate – Fitzroy Island has to be a must do destination for current and future influences.

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Golden Orb Spiders are easy to take photos of, try to get the right light to make their webs glow gold. If spiders aren't your thing, there's birds, butterflies, fish and turtles.

Wildlife Photography, from intsy wintsy spiders to birds of prey and marine life

Fitzroy Island National Park and its marine area host diverse wildlife, including vulnerable and endangered species key to the Wet Tropical Coast Marine Bioregion. Notable birds like the grey goshawk, eastern curlew, beach stone-curlew, and red-tailed tropicbird add to its biodiversity. The island also shelters unique mammals such as the coastal sheathtail bat, golden-tipped bat, and the vulnerable spectacled flying-fox. Marine life thrives with humpback whales, dugongs, and green turtles in surrounding waters. Colorful butterflies like the Cairns birdwing and Ulysses enhance its natural beauty, all carefully managed to preserve this sanctuary for cultural and conservation efforts.

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Julie's been taking flower photos for as long as she can remember. There were lots of these hibiscus blooms on the beach when we visited.

Nature Photography, from coral beaches to hibiscus blooms

Fitzroy Island offers no end of nature photography opportunities and subjects. From panoramic landscape shots, of the sea and mountains, beaches and ocean, to more detailed, close-up photos of individual plants, flowers, corals and creatures. In our opinion, it’s always nice to get some nature photographs of your holiday and/or weekend activities, they help ‘build the picture’ of what you saw and did and in time, will evoke memories of your experiences and time on Fitzroy Island.

Map

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Fitzroy Island Adventures Full Day Tour

Fitzroy Island Adventures’ Full Day Tour offers flexible departure times from Cairns at either 8:30 am or 10:45 am, with a return at 4 pm, giving you up to six hours to enjoy Fitzroy Island. This budget-friendly tour starts at

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Fitzroy Island Adventures Half Day

Fitzroy Island Adventures’ Half Day Tour offers a compact island experience, ideal for a few hours of snorkeling, beach relaxation, and scenic photos. Departing from Cairns at 10:45 am and returning by 2:45 pm, the tour includes a 45-minute catamaran

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Sunlover Full Day Tour

Sunlover’s Cairns Fitzroy Island Day Tour provides a flexible day on one of the Great Barrier Reef’s most scenic islands, just a 45-minute ferry ride from Cairns. Departing at 8:45 am and returning at 4:45 pm, this tour gives you

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Sunlover Reef + Island

The Sunlover Cruises Reef & Fitzroy Island Day Tour combines the best of both worlds with two hours each at the Great Barrier Reef and Fitzroy Island. Departing from Cairns at 8:00 am and returning by 4:15 pm, this eight-hour

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Snorkeling Equipment Hire

Snorkeling gear at Fitzroy Island is easy to arrange, with rental options available both through tour providers and directly on the island. Pre-booking with your tour allows you to pick up gear on the boat, enabling you to snorkel as

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Snorkeling Shark Fin Bay with a Guided Snorkel Safari

Shark Fin Bay, located outside Fitzroy Island’s main snorkeling areas, is accessible only through a guided snorkel safari, offering richer coral cover and more vibrant marine life than Welcome Bay. This tour includes expert guidance on marine species and reef

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Snorkeling Welcome Bay and under The Jetty

Welcome Bay, located right in front of Fitzroy Island Resort, is one of the island’s top spots for snorkeling and the best place to start is right under the jetty. Here we saw schools of scissor tail sergeant fish and

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Snorkeling Turtle Rock, eastern end of Welcome Bay

Turtle Rock is located to the east of Welcome Bay, right on the edge of the designated snorkeling area. Easily visible from the jetty, it’s a group of rocks with the largest one shaped like a turtle, naturally “painted” white

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Snorkeling Nudey Beach

Nudey Beach is a must-visit spot on Fitzroy Island, known for its beautiful scenery and clear waters. Contrary to its name, Nudey Beach is not a place to get nude, but it is the perfect place to soak up the

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Glass Bottom Boat Tours

Glass-bottom boat tours at Fitzroy Island offer a unique way to explore the reef and its marine life without getting wet. These tours are ideal for families, non-swimmers, and anyone who prefers a more relaxed way to view the underwater

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Fitzroy Island Scuba Diving

There is no guided or recreational dive tours at Fitzroy Island anymore. The island used to have a dedicated dive centre, but this closed years ago. That being said if you are doing a dive course with Octopus Dive, a

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Fitzroy Island Turtle Rehabilitation Centre

The Turtle Rehabilitation Centre on Fitzroy Island is a non-profit facility dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sick or injured sea turtles back into the wild. Located near the Fitzroy Island Resort, the center offers visitors a unique opportunity to

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Fitzroy Island Lighthouse Walk

The Lighthouse Walk on Fitzroy Island is a 3.6 km return trip along a steep concrete road that begins at the northeastern point of Welcome Bay. This track is not for the faint-hearted, with several sections that are notably steep,

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Fitzroy Island Summit Walk

The Summit Walk on Fitzroy Island is a challenging 4 km return circuit that rewards hikers with panoramic views over the Coral Sea, the rainforest hinterland, and even Mount Bartle Frere in the distance. Starting from the island’s camping area,

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Nudey Beach Walk

As we’ve mentioned already, Nudey Beach on Fitzroy Island has been named Australia’s best beach – so this is another walk worth taking! The Nudey Beach Walk is a 1.3 km out-and-back trail which starts ‘behind’ Foxys Bar on Fitzroy

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The Secret Garden Walk

The Secret Garden Track on Fitzroy Island is a 0.6 km out-and-back trail winding through lush rainforest, offering a peaceful escape into nature. This moderately challenging walk takes about 16 minutes each way, but allowing around 45 minutes ensures time

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Foxy’s Bar, for Lunch, Dinner, Snacks and Refreshments

Foxy’s Bar offers a variety of light bites and larger meals to satisfy hungry guests. If you’re hungry, check out the fully stacked Foxy Burger, Steak Sandwich, Fish and Chips or Seafood Plate, or for something lighter there’s a range

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Zephyr Restaurant, for Breakfast and Dinner (and Buffet Lunch for some tours)

Zephyr Restaurant, located within the Fitzroy Island Resort, offers a refined dining experience with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and views over the beautiful Welcome Bay. Open daily, Zephyr serves a delicious buffet breakfast with all the essentials,

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Fitzroy Island Resort Shop

The resort shop offers snacks, drinks and some basic pantry items and first aid materials, such as band-aids. It also has souvenirs, beach essentials – including sunscreen – and is conveniently located adjacent to Foxy’s Bar. Please note I would

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Cocktails, Mocktails, Beers, Soft Drinks, Sparkling and Wine

You can grab a refreshing beverage at Foxy’s Bar, Zephyr and the Fitzroy Island Resort pool bar (for guests only), they all serve up a selection of tropical cocktails, perfect for sipping as you take in the island’s stunning scenery.

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Fitzroy Island Resort Accommodation

Fitzroy Island Resort offers a range of accommodation to suit various needs, from studio rooms, to 2 bedroom apartments, the penthouse, beachfront cabins and beachside bungalows. Check-in is at 3 pm and check-out is at 10 am. For those arriving

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Fitzroy Island Camping is another option, BYO tents and equipment

For a more adventurous experience, consider camping on Fitzroy Island. The campground is equipped with essential facilities, including a communal kitchen, BBQ areas, and toilets, though there is no hot water. Just a short walk from the beach, it’s the

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The Jetty Photo, It's An Easy Must Do

The jetty is another iconic photography spot on Fitzroy Island, offering a stunning view back toward the resort. For the best shot, wait for a quieter moment when you can capture the jetty’s clean, straight lines leading past palm trees

Fitzroy Island What You Need To Know

First thing you need to know about Fitzroy Island, is that you absolutely should go there! It’s just a 45-minute boat ride and what awaits, is a true tropical island paradise. That blue water. The rainforest mountains and coconut trees. Sandy, coral beaches, fringing reefs, a resort, 2 restaurants and a bar. You can hike, snorkel, kayak, swim, explore, relax. Go for the day, stay for the night or longer. The second thing you need to know, it’s best to book your accommodation and any tours and activities in advance, as Fitzroy Island is popular and you don’t want to miss out. We’ve been to Fitzroy Island many times, over many years, as a couple and as a family, with friends and visiting family. This list has been prepared based on our experiences. If you think we’ve missed something, let us know – otherwise, don’t wait – book your Fitzroy Island adventure today.

About the Author

Richard's early years were spent in Southern Africa, where he grew up. During his childhood, he frequently explored game parks and enjoyed caravan adventures. Now residing in Australia, Richard replicates these family experiences with Julie and Ethan. Passionate about outdoor adventures, he eagerly abandons his desk job to either hook up the caravan for a journey or strap on a scuba tank. His explorations are primarily focused on the diverse wonders of North Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef.

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