Green Island Cairns, a Great Barrier Reef Coral Cay

Green Island Cairns is a 6,000-year-old coral cay located 27 kilometres (17 miles) off the coast of Cairns. This National Park is part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park World Heritage area.

Escape to paradise—a quick 45-minute boat ride to a beautiful tropical Island.

Things to do on Green Island

Explore over 12 hectares of a tropical island during your stay. Then relax on a sandy beach, discover the rainforest via the boardwalk, or discover marine life snorkelling under the jetty – the choice is yours.

While visiting Green Island, explore the coral Reef surrounding the Island on a glass-bottom boat tour.

Ramp up the adventure and take a scenic helicopter flight or explore the waters around Green Island Cairns with a Seawalker helmet or on an introductory scuba dive.

More things to do

  • Take the self-guided interpretive walk through the rainforest
  •  Dip in the pool
  • enjoy a massage

Ideal for families, couples, groups and charters, Green Island has various tours and activities to suit everyone.

Choose a day tour.

Visit Marineland Melanesia

Marineland Melanesia is the home of the largest crocodile in captivity in the world.   Watch a crocodile show, including Cassius. The crocodile is 5.5 metres.   Crocodile shows are held every day at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.   You can also hold a baby crocodile and watch giant crocodiles feed.

  • Melanesian tribal artifacts
  • aquarium with tropical fish and coral

Where to eat on Green Island

  •  Lite Bites
  • Treat yourself to ice creams, shakes and snack foods.
  • Canopy Grill is a casual cafe with hot dogs, hamburgers and chips.
  • Reflections Pool Bar enjoys snacks, drinks, barista coffee and cocktails
  • Emeralds Restaurant and Bar has elegant dining and delicious meals featuring outdoor or air-conditioned dining options.

Green Island map

Green Island Map

What to bring to Green Island

  • Hat;
  • Sunscreen;
  • Beach towel;
  • Swimming costume;
  • Comfortable walking shoes;
  • Lycra suit (available for hire on Green Island); and
  • Bring along extra money for drinks, souvenirs and optional activities.

 

Green Island Resort 

Book to stay at the beautiful Green Island Resort

 Stay the night at Green Island Resort on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, surrounded by rainforest and white sandy beaches.

Fill your days with adventure and relaxation. Dive, snorkel, windsurf, tour the Great Barrier Reef, explore the Island or indulge in the resort’s luxury.

Guests have a wide range of activities to choose from – especially after dusk when the day visitors depart, and the Island is all yours.

Green Island boasts a 46-room resort, so you can explore and enjoy your holiday while relaxing in luxury accommodations. Once the day visitors depart, the Island becomes your private haven.

The vessel transfers you from Cairns to Green Island in just 45 minutes. On arrival, one of the resort team will take you on a quick tour before checking you into your suite.

Now it is time to relax and explore the Island. Enjoy a bite to eat, swim in the Coral Sea, snorkel or catch the sun whilst relaxing on the beach.

Wander to the jetty and see the fish feeding before enjoying complimentary sunset drinks on the beach in the afternoon.

Enjoy a delicious dinner at Emeralds Restaurant, or relax and order room service.

Once the sun goes down, grab your torch from your room and join the stargazing night tour.

After checkout, you can still enjoy all the resort and the Island facilities until your departure.

Inclusions

  • Return catamaran transfers
  • Luxury accommodation
  • 24-hour reception
  • Snorkelling
  • Glass-bottom boat
  • Complimentary sunset drinks
  • Fish feeding
  • Stargazing tour
  • Windsurfing
  • Canoe and kayak hire
  • Sun lounges

Book

What to Bring

A small to medium overnight bag with personal items.

  • Clothes,
  • toiletries,
  • hat,
  • swimming costume,
  • sunscreen,
  • sunglasses,
  • medication if needed.
  • something warm to wear for the evenings,
  • cash or credit card for purchases
  • camera

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Green Island, Cairns

Q: Where is Green Island located?

A: Green Island is located off the coast of Cairns, Queensland, Australia. It is part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Q: How do I get to Green Island from Cairns?

A: Green Island is accessible by boat or ferry from Cairns. Several tour operators offer day trips to the island, providing a convenient and scenic journey.

Q: What can I do on Green Island?

A: Green Island offers a range of activities, including snorkelling, diving, glass-bottom boat tours, nature walks, and relaxation on the pristine beaches.

Q: Is Green Island suitable for families with kids?

A: Yes, Green Island is family-friendly, and there are various activities suitable for children, such as snorkelling in the shallow waters and exploring the island’s walking tracks.

Q: Can I see marine life around Green Island?

A: Yes, Green Island is part of the Great Barrier Reef ecosystem, offering excellent opportunities to see diverse marine life, including colourful fish, corals, and even turtles.

Q: Are there facilities on Green Island, such as restaurants and restrooms?

A: Absolutely; Green Island has facilities that cater to visitors’ needs, including restaurants, cafes, restrooms, and showers.

Q: Do I need to bring my snorkelling gear to Green Island?

A: While you can bring your snorkelling gear, it is also available for rent on the island. Many tour packages include complimentary snorkeling equipment.

Q: Are there accommodations on Green Island?

A: Yes, a resort on Green Island offers accommodation for visitors who wish to extend their stay and immerse themselves in the island’s beauty.

Q: What is the best time to visit Green Island?

A: Green Island can be visited year-round. However, the dry season (from May to October) generally offers better underwater visibility for snorkeling and diving.

Q: Can I visit Green Island if I am not a strong swimmer?

A: Yes, even if you are not a strong swimmer, you can still enjoy the beauty of the reef through glass-bottom boat tours or by participating in guided snorkelling experiences.

Q: Is there an entry fee to visit Green Island?

A: There is an entry fee to visit Green Island, which is usually included in tour packages.

Q: Are there any conservation efforts in place to protect Green Island's ecosystem?

A: As part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, Green Island is subject to conservation efforts and regulations to protect its fragile ecosystem and marine biodiversity.

Q: Is it possible to see the rainforest on Green Island?

A: Green Island has a beautiful rainforest that can be explored through guided nature walks and self-guided trails.

With its stunning natural beauty and abundant marine life, Green Island is a captivating destination for visitors seeking to experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a snorkelling beginner, or a family looking for a memorable getaway, Green Island offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Australia’s tropical paradise.

Discover more Great Barrier Reef Islands.

More fun things to do in Cairns