Great Barrier Reef Islands: Your Gateway to Tropical Paradise from Cairns

Great Barrier Reef Islands at a Glance

  • 🟢 Green Island – Snorkel right off the beach, explore the boardwalks, or relax in a day-use area or at the island resort. Ideal for families and first-time reef visitors.

  • 🌴 Fitzroy Island – Just 45 minutes from Cairns with rainforest hikes, Nudey Beach, and fringing reef snorkelling. Great for nature lovers and adventurers.

  • 🐚 Frankland Islands – A pristine island group perfect for day trips and snorkelling in shallow coral gardens. Small group tours make it ideal for those who love quiet, unspoiled nature.

  • 🌊 Dunk Island – A peaceful island rich in history and perfect for beachcombing, walking tracks, and scenic views. Accessed from Mission Beach.

  • 💕 Bedarra Island – Exclusive and adults-only with private villas and personalised service. A romantic escape for those seeking luxury and seclusion.

  • 🐟 Haggerstone Island – A private lodge offering remote reef fishing, diving, and personalised eco-adventures. Perfect for off-grid luxury seekers.

  • 🐢 Orpheus Island – Secluded and luxurious with gourmet meals, paddleboarding over reef, and tailored reef experiences. Accessible by helicopter.

  • 🏝️ Lizard Island – A five-star experience on a national park island with direct access to the Cod Hole and some of the most spectacular snorkelling on the reef.

  • 🥾 Hinchinbrook Island – A wilderness escape with epic hikes, untouched landscapes, and the famous Thorsborne Trail. Ideal for experienced walkers and nature lovers.

Discover our Great Barrier Reef Islands

🏝️ Great Barrier Reef Islands from Cairns

Tropical escapes, coral reef adventures, and island dreams await.
The Great Barrier Reef is home to some of the most beautiful islands in the world—and many of them are just a short trip from Cairns. Whether you’re looking for luxury, nature, family fun, or a romantic hideaway, there’s an island waiting for you. From lush rainforest-covered hills to soft coral cays and white sandy beaches, each island offers a unique experience surrounded by the beauty of the reef.

From day trips to overnight stays, island hopping to private retreats, you’ll find the perfect island escape to suit your style. Explore colourful coral gardens, hike to hidden lookouts, paddle in crystal-clear lagoons, or simply relax under a palm tree with your toes in the sand. Every island has its own story—and every visit is unforgettable.

Below, you’ll find a handpicked collection of islands accessible from Cairns, with links to dedicated pages full of helpful information, tours, and travel tips.

🌴 Featured Great Barrier Reef Islands

🌺 Green Island

A family favourite just 45 minutes from Cairns. Snorkel straight off the beach, walk through lush rainforest, or stay overnight at Green Island Resort.

🥾 Fitzroy Island

Adventure meets nature with rainforest hikes, turtle encounters, and fringing reef snorkelling—all just a short ferry ride away.https://cairnsaustralia.com/cairns-region/great-barrier-reef-islands/

🐚 Frankland Islands

A hidden gem and snorkeller’s paradise, perfect for day trips with small groups and unspoilt reef.

🐨 Dunk Island

A tropical island rich in history, nature walks, and beach vibes. Accessible via water taxi from Mission Beach.

🐠 Bedarra Island

An exclusive adults-only escape offering barefoot luxury, seclusion, and reef experiences in a truly romantic setting.

🌿 Haggerstone Island

Remote and remarkable—this private eco-lodge offers tailored adventure, reef fishing, and off-grid indulgence.

🐢 Orpheus Island

Accessible by helicopter, this luxury island offers gourmet dining, paddleboarding over coral, and sunset serenity.

🏝️ Lizard Island

A national park island with five-star luxury and direct access to some of the best snorkelling and diving on the reef.

🌄 Hinchinbrook Island

A hiker’s dream, home to the Thorsborne Trail and untouched wilderness. For those who love nature and solitude.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Great Barrier Reef Islands

What is the best Great Barrier Reef island to visit from Cairns?
It depends on what you’re looking for! Green Island and Fitzroy Island are the most popular for day trips, with easy access and great snorkelling. For luxury stays, consider Orpheus, Lizard, or Bedarra Island.

Can I snorkel or dive directly from the beach?
Yes! Islands like Green Island, Fitzroy Island, and the Frankland Islands all offer fringing reef close to shore, making them ideal for snorkelling right off the beach.

Are there island tours suitable for families?
Absolutely. Green Island, Fitzroy Island, and Frankland Islands are all family-friendly with calm beaches, safe snorkelling, and activities for kids of all ages.

How do I get to the islands from Cairns?
Daily ferries depart from the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal for Green and Fitzroy Island. Other islands like Lizard, Orpheus, and Haggerstone are reached via charter flights, helicopters, or boat transfers depending on the location.

Can I stay overnight on the islands?
Yes! Several islands offer accommodation ranging from eco-lodges to luxury resorts. Fitzroy Island Resort and Green Island Resort are popular choices near Cairns, while Bedarra, Orpheus, and Lizard Island offer exclusive stays.

🧭 Planning Your Island Escape

Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying overnight, the islands of the Great Barrier Reef offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Day tours, ferry transfers, resort stays and private charters are all available. Let us help you choose the perfect island for your next adventure.

👉 Browse the islands above or start planning with our full Island Guide.

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