Why you need to visit Fitzroy Island

Looking for an island escape that’s equal parts natural paradise and outdoor adventure, with a little luxury thrown in? Welcome to Fitzroy Island.

More than just a pretty face, Fitzroy Island really has got it all: rainforest, coral beaches, calm sheltered waters perfect for play, and one relaxing resort. Just a 45-minute cruise from Cairns, it’s easy to see why this little spot on the Great Barrier Reef is beloved for family holidays, resort getaways – and even destination weddings.

Intrigued? Here’s 8 reasons why you should visit Fitzroy Island. 

1. It's a playground of national park - and World Heritage status - beauty

A continental island just 4 square kilometres in size, Fitzroy Island is small but mighty. Not only is it part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, 97% of the island is designated national park, due to its impressive rainforest, mangroves, beaches and marine life diversity.

And while you might think most of the action happens water-side, this island is a hiker’s dream thanks to a network of walking tracks and gentle, hilly terrain. Wander to the Secret Garden, discover secluded swimming spots at Welcome Bay or Nudey Beach, take the trail to the lighthouse, or climb to the highest vantage point on the island. 

2. The Great Barrier Reef is your backyard

The reef begins straight off the beach, which is why this island is a popular spot for day trippers as well as those who choose to stay awhile at Fitzroy Island Resort.

Explore the fringing reef at your own pace: you can swim, snorkel and dive in safety off the island’s coral beaches, sharing the water with clown fish, turtles and even whales (between July & September).

Prefer to be shown the best sights? Spot sea life from the comfort of a glass bottom boat tour, sign up for a guided snorkel safari, or take advantage of the resort’s PADI dive centre to get some scuba under your belt. The crew here also runs discover scuba, PADI open water and rescue dive courses – as well as night dives for more experienced divers looking to explore the reef after dark. 

3. It's home to one of Australia's best beaches

Escape and unwind on some of the best beaches in the region, including Nudey Beach (by name only – pack your swimwear), which regularly tops Australia’s best beaches. Stretch out on the white sand and coral beach between dips in the sparkling blue water. Life is easy.

4. Rescuing and caring for turtles is one of the island’s main purposes 

Meet the team at Fitzroy Island Resort and you just know you’re among good people. Especially if you get the chance to take a tour of the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre. Daily talks allow guests to learn about the work to rescue injured and sick turtles, and their journey to recovery and release back into the ocean.

The Great Barrier Reef is home to six of the world’s seven species of marine turtles – a visit to the centre just makes you appreciate spotting them in the wild so much more.

5. You can kick back in comfort – or go back to basics

When it comes to accommodation, Fitzroy Island Resort nails it – offering affordable 4.5 star luxury across suites, studios, cabins and self-contained bungalows. Whether you’re on a romantic escape or bringing the whole crew, you’ll find everything you need and more.

On a budget or prefer the simple life? There’s even a handful of beachside campsites so you can BYO tent and pitch it in paradise. 

6. You'll never be bored

Nature might be centre stage, but there’s a cast of activities to keep you active and inspired from daylight to dark – for all ages. Spend your days sea kayaking, snorkelling the fringing coral reefs, exploring walking trails, paddle boarding, fish feeding, scuba diving, or sign up for a fishing charter.

Need a rest break? Take it on the giant ocean trampoline.

7. There’ll be plenty to feed your appetite

Big adventures need their fuel, and Fitzroy Island’s swim up pool bar is just the beginning. By day, pull into Foxy’s Bar on the beachfront which serves up casual café fare and drinks. By night, Zephyr’s outdoor terrace comes alive with alfresco dining and a Modern Australian a la carte menu – the perfect spot to feast on locally sourced ingredients.

8. Reef conservation is at the heart of Fitzroy Island

Fitzroy Island is surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef, but the team takes big strides in helping conserve its beauty and abundant ecosystem for future generations. The resident marine biologist is here to educate and inspire visitors – and has been building a coral nursery as part of the Reef Restoration Project, which has seen over 300 coral trees planted back into the reef since 2017.

Want to get involved? Turn your snorkel or dive into research and be part of the Eye on the Reef and Reef Check programmes, or ‘adopt a coral’ in support of the Reef Restoration Foundation. There’s even a Junior Marine Biologist program for kids, where they spend the day taking part in experiments, fish feeding, reef observations and more – possibly the only time they’ll be disappointed to hear when class is dismissed.

Ready to go? Here’s a 48 hour guide to help plan your trip.