Fitzroy Island National Park

Introducing Fitzroy Island National Park

A steep mountain-top peeping from the sea, Fitzroy Island has coral-littered beaches and great walking opportunities. In winter (June to August), you can spot humpback whales from the lighthouse. While there is no longer resort accommodation, day-trippers can still use its facilities including a swimming pool, bar and kiosk, and hire water-sports equipment and fishing rods. The most popular snorkelling spot is around the rocks at Nudey Beach (1.2km from these facilities).

There are a number of walks, which vary in difficulty. The 20-minute Secret Garden Walk, with major skinks basking on rocks, is a leisurely stroll, whereas the Lighthouse & Summit Trail is a steep, two-hour climb.

Fitzroy Island Ferries (07-4030 7907; Reef Fleet terminal, Cairns; adult/child/family return $42/21/$105) departs Cairns at 8.30am, 10.30am and 4pm, returning at 9.30am, 3pm and 5pm. Full- and half-day tours, including lunch and transfers, are also available.

Raging Thunder (07-4030 7907; www.fitzroyisland.com.au; Reef Fleet terminal, Cairns; adult/child/family ferry return $42/21/105, half-day trip $65/32/183, full-day trip $71/37/198) operates ferry transfers to Fitzroy Island at 8.30am and 12.30pm (and 10.30am during the high season), returning at 3pm and 5pm, as well as a half-day trip that departs Cairns at 10.30am and returns at 3pm or 5pm, and a full-day trip that departs Cairns at 8.30am, returning at 5pm. Transfers from Cairns’ northern beaches can be arranged for the latter for an additional fee.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009