Discover tropical Queensland islands that you can explore

Discover tropical Queensland islands, the ultimate beauty of Far North Queensland’s reef and make it back home just in time for dinner.

tropical Queensland islands
Credit: Tropical North Queensland

Whilst tropical island adventures are cherished by us all, the most enjoyable aspect for some is bidding adieu to sandy beaches and embarking on a journey back home. Thankfully, Far North Queensland flaunts an array of islands perfect for escaping it all without compromising evening plans.

Taking my friends and family who visit from overseas or down south to the islands of the Great Barrier Reef is one of my favorite activities. Among these, Low Isles stands out as our preferred destination.

Ideal for novice snorkelers, particularly children, this day trip from Port Douglas offers a great opportunity to explore the reef. Unlike other areas where tours involve jumping straight off a boat into deep waters, here you can easily enter through shallow water near your sandy base under beach umbrellas. With calm and clear water just meters offshore of the stunning coral reef formation makes it an excellent adventure experience for first-timers!

Located just 15km from Port’s Crystalbrook Marina, the Low Isles comprises of two small coral cays and holds significant cultural value for both the Kuku Yalanji and Yirrganydji communities.

More than 150 species of corals reside in the waters, accompanied by various sea creatures such as sea cucumbers, giant clams, multi-hued parrotfishes, angelfish and clownfish. It is also not unusual to spot some tiny reef sharks along with a plethora of other marine animals. Moreover, there is an abundant population of green turtles that one can’t miss even after just one snorkeling session in the area.

Our favorite activity is taking the Calypso morning tour to Low Isles. The ticket fee covers both guided snorkeling and a glass-bottom boat ride for those who are not confident swimmers. Additionally, there’s an easy walking trail leading up to the active lighthouse on the island. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, lounging around on the pristine sandy beach while admiring stunning views of Coral Sea is also an option!

On your return journey to the mainland, you will arrive in ample time for a delicious feast of king prawns at one of Port Douglas’s numerous dining options. If you opt for a later lunch, there may even be enough time to freshen up with a quick shower beforehand.

This is just an instance; consider adding some more island day trip alternatives from Far North Queensland ports to your itinerary for the next journey.

Double Island

The former hotspot of Hollywood elites, the Double Island Resort has fallen into a state of disrepair and ceased operations ten years ago. However, plans for restoration are currently underway in 2023- stay tuned! Despite its current condition, don’t hesitate to visit this area as there is still plenty to do. You can embark on an unforgettable dawn kayak tour featuring turtles by departing from the jetty located at Palm Cove or opt for a half-day excursion that includes Haycock Island (also known as Scout’s Hat). Along Wangal Djungay’s southern edge lies opportunities to witness shovel-nosed sharks and rays frolicking about followed by beachside breakfast feasts.

Dunk Island

After being destroyed by Cyclone Yasi in 2011, another once-luxurious resort now remains closed despite its purchase last year. However, tourists can still visit the Coonanglebah (Dunk Island) through a catamaran ferry service available at Mission Beach’s Clump Point. Dunk Island is an ideal destination for nature lovers as it offers various walking trails and picturesque palm-fringed beaches within national parks. Visitors may enjoy snorkeling at Muggy Muggy Beach or take on a circuit track leading to Coconut beach while others jump off Brammo Bay pier for an exhilarating plunge into pristine waters before camping out under the stars with hot showers and picnic tables scattered throughout eight sites provided readily nearby.

Island of Fitzroy

Local day-trippers love this tropical getaway of rainforest and coast for its tranquil, sheltered waters and proximity to Cairns (only 29km away). At White Rock beach, grab some snorkelling gear from the sports hub before diving into a kaleidoscope of colourful coral reefs teeming with green sea turtles and scores of exotic fish species. For landlubbers, there’s an intricate network of forest trails that lead up to the island summit where vestiges from World War II military occupation can be found in alongside objects left by former lightkeepers. Another picturesque route runs westwardly along the jetty towards Nudey Beach – which ironically is not a nudist spot! This pristine shoreline boasts ivory white sands made entirely out of natural corals.

Island of green foliage

As one of the most sought-after day trips from Cairns, Green Island caters to all types of visitors. It offers exceptional scuba diving and snorkelling experiences for adventure-seekers while providing semi-submarine and glass-bottom boat tours that are ideal for younger children or those who prefer not getting their hair wet. For thrillseekers, there’s an array of activities such as parasailing, canoeing, sea-walking windsurfing and helicopter rides available on-site. Additionally, guests can indulge in shopping at boutiques selling clothes, jewellery and souvenirs located within a resort situated here. Lastly don’t leave before visiting Marineland Croc Park where you’ll have the chance to encounter Cassius- world’s largest captive crocodile on display!

The Wunyami Cultural Tour offers a glimpse into the sea country of the Guru-Gulu Gungandji people, which encompasses Green Island and its surrounding reef. Accompanied by Indigenous guides, visitors will learn about the fascinating history of how two tribes battled it out to create this unique island locale.

Coral Cay in Mackay

Embark on a fantastical half-day excursion to Mackay Reef, which commences with an invigorating walk along Myall Beach before setting sail across the Coral Sea. En route lies Mackay Coral Cay; one of those ethereal destinations designed for Instagrammers that vanishes during high tide. This curvaceous expanse of immaculate ivory sand boasts some of the finest snorkelling opportunities out there. Within these crystalline and shallow waters are stunning corals, colossal clams, turtles, manta rays and tiny reef sharks as well as a multitude of colourful fishes all within easy reach at arm’s length!

Don’t just use Cape Tribulation as a starting point! When you come back, grab some lunch at Turtle Rock Café and spend the entire day discovering the historic Daintree Rainforest.

Island of Normanby

The Frankland Islands, a stunning location devoid of human inhabitants, are encompassed by reef fringes that harbor several marine creatures such as green and hawksbill turtles, manta rays, octopuses along with anemones and clownfish. Set aside your day for Normanby Island; among the five islands in the group-state which also happens to be its largest – providing you with opportunities like snorkeling or even kayaking whilst basking under the sun on its white sandy beach. Additionally,a hiking track encircling through rainforests is available alongside rock pools located at east rocky outcrop prompting exploration possibilities.The north sand spit caters as nesting sites for many seabirds inclusive of Beach stone-curlew; culminating into delectable buffet cuisines served at tranquil picnic tables amidst all these activities entailed above!

Embarking on a boat journey to the reef involves enjoying a 30-minute ride along Mulgrave River, perfect for observing birds and catching sight of lethargic crocodiles lounging by the shore.

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