Six Tropical
Islands
near Cairns

Island 01

Fitzroy
Island

The ultimate all-round island escape, just 45 minutes from Cairns by boat. Fitzroy Island holds a special place in locals' hearts — generations of Cairns families have camped here under the stars. Today it offers everything from full resort accommodation and beachside bungalows to simple campgrounds, with activities to fill every hour.

Kayak the calm bays, dive certified scuba sites, snorkel straight off the beach, take a glass-bottom boat tour, bounce on the ocean trampoline, or walk to the historic lighthouse. Don't miss the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre — one of the island's most touching experiences. The island bar is the perfect place to end the day watching the sun drop over the Coral Sea.

Island 03

Frankland
Islands

Five pristine islands 45 minutes south of Cairns, scattered off the mouth of the Russell River. Normanby, High, Russell, Round, and Mabel Islands make up one of the reef's most unspoiled island groups. Frankland Island Cruises runs the only regular day tour to Normanby Island — which means the experience feels genuinely exclusive.

A recent day trip revealed four turtles, beautiful coral bommies visible at low tide, and a fascinating naturalist-guided walk around the island's perimeter. The reef here is more intact and less visited than at Fitzroy or Green — this is the island for those who want something untouched.

For the adventurous, self-sufficient camping is permitted on Russell and High Islands — contact the Queensland Parks & Wildlife Service for permits and information.

Island 06

Low
Isles

Made up of two islands — Woody Island (mangroves and birds) and Low Isle (coral, beach and history) — this gorgeous pair sit 15km off Port Douglas. Low Isle's working lighthouse has been operating since 1878, making it one of the oldest active lighthouses on the reef.

The fringing reef here is so close to the beach that you can snorkel directly from the shore. Thatched beach umbrellas, guided snorkelling tours, glass-bottom boat cruises and calm, clear water make Low Isles the ideal reef day for families and those who prefer relaxed discovery over high-adrenaline diving. Daily cruises depart from Marina Mirage in Port Douglas.