The crystal clear waters of Fitzroy Island will knock your socks off just in time for you to dive headfirst into the ocean. Hike, swim, sail and then chill out all in a day trip to this island paradise.

A short 45 minute ferry ride from the hustle and bustle of the Cairns Marina lies Fitzroy Island – the undisputed hot spot for locals and visitors to Far North Queensland. The world famous Nudey Beach (not a nudist beach – keep your speedos on) entices those seeking out a sun-drenched holiday or day trip.

For the more adventurous, the island also offers a half day hike to the Fitzroy Island summit. Days on Fitzroy Island are laid back. It’s a playground filled with a mix of adventure and relaxation, offering up a great selection of snorkelling, hiking, stand up paddleboarding, sailing and sunset drinks.

Nudey Beach

First port of call on the itinerary is Nudey Beach. It’s been voted Australia’s best beach by Beach Expert Brad Farmer, and for good reason, just look at it!

The beach is predominantly made up of coral, so be sure to bring shoes, but you’ll find a few sandy patches here and there to throw down your bags and take a dip. The southern end of the beach has some of the most incredible boulders, making it an ideal place to set up and snorkel.

 

Find Your Paradise On Fitzroy Island (QLD), Scott Pass, Nudey Beach, sand, sea, water, swimming, man

 

To reach Nudey Beach, take a right turn after disembarking from the ferry and follow the rainforest track for 10 minutes. It’s a super easy walk, filled with incredible glimpses of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Fitzroy Island Summit

If you’re looking to get the heart racing the hike to the Fitzroy Island summit might be more your style. Allow three hours return to complete the track comfortably. The hike begins and ends at the reception area at the resort.

The trail is steep and gradual – you’ll want to take water, sunscreen and some food supplies for this one. Alternatively, you can continue onward towards the lighthouse hike at the summit junction. Views at the summit are breathtaking – you’ll enjoy 360 degree views out of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and the island. 

Cruise On A Sailboat

The team at Eye Spy Luxury Sailing offer guests and day-trippers the option to jump aboard one of their luxury vessels for an hour and a half to experience life on the open ocean. Choose from a scenic sail during the day on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Alternatively, jump aboard a sunset sail on Thursday, Friday or Saturday afternoons. Prices start from $65.

 

Find Your Paradise On Fitzroy Island (QLD), Scott Pass, Nudey Beach, sand, sea, water, blue

Why Not Stay The Night?

Camping’s also available on the island, so luckily you don’t need a big budget to spend a few nights. The 20 campsites on the island are all managed by the Fitzroy Island Resort – nice one guys.

For those searching for the best of both worlds, a trip to Fitzroy Island has got you covered. Stay a few nights at the Fitzroy Island Resort to really sink your teeth into what’s on offer in the area. It’s an ideal paradise for adventurers, solo travellers and families alike.

Essential Gear

  • Underwater camera
  • Sunscreen
  • Snorkel and mask
  • Camping equipment if staying overnight

How To Get There

Getting to Fitzroy Island is super simple. The ‘Fitzroy Island Flyer’ is your best bet. This 45 minute fast cat ferry will get you to and from the island as early as possible. First ferry departs at 8am returning at either 9:30am, 12:15pm or 5pm. Alternatively, services also depart Cairns Marina at 11am and 1:30pm. Make it an early start and late finish – you’ll be surprised just how quickly the day can slip away from you whilst you’re there.