One of North Queensland’s best holiday destinations would have to be none other than the tropical island of Fitzroy Island.
Anyone visiting Cairns and the Tropical North seems to have no excuse for missing this tropical paradise, which is by the way only a short ferry trip away.
You won’t be let down whether you’re looking for an exciting day trip from Cairns or if you want to spend several days exploring and relaxing on Fitzroy Island.
Fitzroy Island offers a wide variety of sights, activities, and things to do, such as hiking, snorkelling among the spectacular coral reef, and swimming in the turquoise waters of the Coral Sea.
If you’re planning a holiday to this part of the world, then this guide is for you. We’ve put together all of the must-knows about travelling to Fitzroy Island. So, whether you’re visiting for a day or staying on the island for a while, read on to find out the do’s and don’t’s of a trip to Fitzroy Island in Tropical North Queensland!
First up, how do you get there?
The ferry terminal in Cairns is about a 45-minute ferry ride away from the lovely island of Fitzroy (Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal). Due to its proximity to Cairns, it is the Great Barrier Reef Island that is most easily reached.
The Fitzroy Flyer is the most commonly used ferry to get to the island – and you can get tickets to go there and back in a day or stay awhile.
You’ve also got the option to take your own boat out on the water to reach the island. Whether you’re a local or you’re on a roadtrip with your boat in tow, you can moor your boat at Fitzroy Island.
Secondly, let’s learn a little bit about the island
Fitzroy Island is a true natural beauty. Covered almost entirely by a national park – it’s 97% covered by the park – the island is small enough to explore a lot of it but big enough that there is something different to do, with something for everyone.
The island is 339 hectares in size and has the pleasure of year round warmth – averaging between 24 to 31 degrees Celsius all year long.
On the island you’ll find a resort, two restaurants, a turtle rehabilitation centre, and the beach that was named the world’s most beautiful in 2018.
With an abundance of water activities, picturesque sights, and feeling like you’re a million miles away from the real world, the island truly is the perfect holiday destination for anyone and everyone.
Do’s and Don’ts During your trip in Fitzroy Island
Here’s what you should and shouldn’t do during your time on the island.
Do: Explore the seas!
Fitzroy is known for their magnificent crystal-clear seas, hence it is crime if you miss out exploring it! Below is a list of fun activities that allows you to explore the seas:
- Surfing with a stand-up paddle – Stand up paddle boarding is a different water sport that is becoming more and more popular in Australia (SUP). Although it is a little bit of a workout, you can perform this in almost any body of water. You may discover this wonder quite close to Fitzroy Island due to the reef’s close proximity—it is only a few metres from the island’s shore.
- Glass Bottom Boat – From the safety of a glass bottom boat tour, admire the splendour of the nearby reefs and the crystal-clear waters. This is perfect for those who prefer to stay dry or for families with young children who want to learn more about the marine species that call this coastal paradise home while also getting a view of the spectacular undersea environment.
- Snorkelling – if you want to discover the world underneath the water’s surface but you’re a little trepidatious, then a great activity for you may be snorkelling. You can explore the water but not be too far from the surface, and as long as you can swim, once you get the hang on breathing with a snorkel, you’ll be having a great time. There are snorkelling tours available and you can hire all the equipment you need from the Fitzroy Island Sports Hub.
Don’t: Throw your trash on the seas or the mountains
Although it’s basic human decency, make sure to dispose of your garbage at the right places or keep them with you for the meantime. Fitzroy Island is home to hidden gems and a lot of creatures who need the world around them to survive. The island is a very environmentally and conservationist minded destination – and while you shouldn’t litter anywhere, you most certainly shouldn’t here on the island. Fitzroy Island has taken great strides in having a huge impact on the survival of the natural world, including the Great Barrier Reef and its inhabitants. You can learn about some of the environmental efforts of Fitzroy here.
Do: Visit the Turtle and Rehabilitation Centre
A top-notch rehabilitation facility, the Fitzroy Island Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, is devoted to saving, maintaining, and feeding ill and injured turtles.
The centre is open for visitors, where you can learn about sea turtles, the work that the centre does, and how you could even have an impact on the lives of these magnificent creatures.
The Turtle Rehab Centre is a must-visit when you’re on the island. Learn more about it here and make sure to book ahead.
Don’t: Interfere with Wildlife
As the island is home to many animals, it’s important to ensure you leave them to their own devices. Try not to disturb them or interfere with them as you run the risk of not only scaring them but also being harmed by them.
The wildlife on the island is largely gentle and docile, so you don’t need to be too scared, just be respectful of the animal’s home.
Do: Make sure to go Hiking!
What makes Fitzroy Island so special is that both their body of water and land is spectacular! Fitzroy Island has a variety of beautiful National Park hiking paths for hikers of all ages and fitness levels. The 339 hectare island is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, many of which are tucked away in the island’s varied landscapes.
Some of the popular hiking destinations are:
- Secret Garden Track
- Nudey Beach Track
- Boulder Lookout
- Lighthouse Road
- Summit Track
Each track has amazing things to see along the way, and for all of your hard work, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most stunning vistas upon reaching your chosen walking trails main destination.
Don’t: Miss Your Chance to Visit Such a Unique Holiday Destination
Fitzroy Island is a truly special place in Australia and one that if you have the chance to visit, you should not miss.
Everyone will be entertained and enamoured by this tropical island and with a large variety of accommodation options, it is a super budget friendly and versatile holiday destination. Whether you’re after a beach camping adventure, a luxurious tropical escape or an easy to get to holiday, Fitzroy Island is the perfect place for you.
Book your island escape in Tropical North Queensland today!
