Can I do a Fitzroy Island Day Trip from Cairns?

A day trip to Fitzroy Island from Cairns is very doable!

Located just 30 kilometres off the coast of Queensland, Fitzroy Island sits close to Cairns. The large island is not visited as often as other nearby destinations, making for a more intimate tropical escape. Don’t let the lack of visitors fool you, there is so much to explore on this tropical oasis!

How to get there

There is a ferry that travels between Cairns and Fitzroy every few hours. There are different pricing options for adults, children, and families. Be sure to book your tickets ahead of time to ensure round-trip transfer.

If you would like to travel in your own boat, you are free to travel between the two locations as you wish. Just keep in mind that you need to book ahead of time to ensure there is space for your boat.

What to see and do

Now that you know how to get to the island, it’s time to decide how to explore the stunning tropical getaway.

If you’re planning to spend time on the water, you should check out Fitzroy Island Sports Hub or visit the island’s Activities Centre. Both locations provide equipment hires for activities such as snorkelling, paddleboarding, and kayaking. There are also scuba instructors on the island who are happy to teach you about diving. They will then take you to explore the Great Barrier Reef and colourful marine life.

On land, there are lots of fantastic hiking trails for a wide range of skill levels. The pristine beaches provide a great spot to relax and take in the scenery or dive into a good book. There is also a rehabilitation centre for injured turtles. The Turtle Rehabilitation Centre offers tours to teach travellers about the process of rescuing and caring for sick or injured turtles.

In addition to heaps of fun activities, there are delicious restaurants serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Resort Pool Bar offers casual drinks and pizza, while Zephyr Restaurant serves Australian cuisine. Alternatively, you can pack your own lunch and enjoy a sunny oceanside picnic.

Our Fitzroy Island Tour

If you prefer to take away the hassle of planning a trip, check out our One Day Fitzroy Island Tour from Cairns. On this day tour, we’ll take you to the island on a fast catamaran. Once there, you’ll be able to explore however you may choose. From snorkelling to swimming and kayaking, there are heaps of fun activities to enjoy on the island!