If you don’t have time to visit both islands, here’s a comprehensive comparison of Fitzroy Island and Green Island to help you decide which one to visit from Cairns.
Fitzroy Island and Green Island are two famous islands near the Great Barrier Reef, close to Cairns in Far North Queensland.
You can reach both islands with a 45-minute boat ride from Cairns. Day trips from the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal are available at similar prices. On these islands, you can snorkel, swim, and explore tropical rainforests by the Great Barrier Reef.
Fitzroy Island Vs Green Island
People often choose Fitzroy Island for its rugged scenery, the stunning Nudey Beach, and the exciting hike to the summit.
Both Fitzroy Island and Green Island are great for snorkeling, swimming, and exploring the rainforest. You can easily reach both islands by a fast boat or through private snorkeling and island-hopping tours. The choice depends on what you like.
Fitzroy Island is perfect for hikers and those who enjoy wild landscapes and vibrant wildlife, like turtles, along with beautiful hikes to the summit.
Green Island is great for snorkelers and divers who want to see healthy corals and a variety of marine life. It also offers unique rainforest walks and private beach experiences.
If you want to stay longer than a day, consider staying at Fitzroy Island Resort or Green Island Resort.
Fitzroy Island Overview
Fitzroy Island is one of the top tropical spots in Far North Queensland. You can enjoy activities like hiking, snorkelling, and swimming with turtles.
Fitzroy Island is just south of Cairns Harbour, beyond False Cape. You can visit it any time of the year, even on windy days, because Welcome Bay is sheltered from strong southern winds.
To reach Fitzroy Island, you can take a 45-minute fast ferry from the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal near the Marlin Marina. A return ferry ticket costs around $89 for the cheapest day trip, which you can book online.
Green Island Overview
Green Island is about 45 minutes away from Cairns Harbour by boat. It’s a small, flat island with sandy shores and thick rainforest. The island is surrounded by a large reef, making it perfect for snorkelling.
Top activities include snorkelling around the coral and bommies, taking short walks through the rainforest, and finding your own private beach spots.
One of the best and most affordable ways to visit Green Island is by booking a catamaran sailing and snorkelling trip from Cairns, which costs around $110. This is the cheapest day trip available and a great way to experience Green Island.
Top Island for Nature and Wildlife: Fitzroy Island
Fitzroy Island is a special place in Far North Queensland, known for its natural beauty and wildlife. Most of the island is a National Park, with 339 hectares of protected land, and about 97% of it is covered in thick rainforest.
You’ll find plenty of birds, turtles, and lizards on the island. On my first visit, I saw up to 13 turtles while snorkeling in a short time! You’re almost sure to see at least one.
Top Island for Snorkeling & Diving: Green Island
Green Island is a better spot for snorkeling and diving compared to Fitzroy Island. It’s closer to the outer reef, and the coral reef here is more spread out, making the underwater life healthier and more varied The water at Green Island is usually clearer than at Fitzroy Island.
Island for Fun Things to Do: Green Island
Both islands have lots to do, but Green Island has more tours and special experiences you can book.
For a stunning view of the Great Barrier Reef from above, you can take a helicopter tour. It’s an amazing way to see the reef from a unique angle. Green Island also has more walking tours available from the resort.
On both islands, you can go on glass-bottom boat trips. These tours let you see the underwater world without getting wet, making them great for anyone who wants to admire the reef.
Cheapest Island To Visit: Fitzroy Island
Fitzroy Island is a bit cheaper to get to compared to Green Island. A round-trip to Fitzroy Island can cost around $89, while a boat trip to Green Island starts at $110.
Both islands are wonderful places to visit, but if you’re looking for the best snorkeling and beautiful, healthy corals, the Frankland Islands are the top choice. They’re not as crowded as the others, but you can still visit them on a day trip from Cairns!
Why You Should Choose Fitzroy Island Instead of Green Island
Here are a few reasons to visit Fitzroy Island to help you decide between Fitzroy Island and Green Island.
Fitzroy has Better Trails and Hikes
Fitzroy Island is much bigger than Green Island and has some tall peaks. Because of this, there are a few great walks to enjoy. My favorite is the Fitzroy Island summit track, which takes a little over 2 hours to hike round trip from the beach.
Amazing Nudey Beach
Nudey Beach is one of the most stunning beaches in the world. A few years ago, it was named Australia’s most beautiful beach, and I think it deserves the title.
This small beach has soft, white sand and clear, turquoise water. At the southwestern end, there are big rocks and a reef that’s perfect for snorkelling.
If you go to the northern end, you’ll see colorful parrotfish, schools of small fish, healthy coral reefs, and maybe even a green or hawksbill turtle.
Why You Should Choose Green Island Instead of Fitzroy Island
Here are some reasons to visit Green Island that can help you decide for yourself.
Explore the one-of-a-kind rainforest on Green Island
Green Island started as a small sandy spot in the ocean. Over time, birds and the wind carried seeds from the mainland, allowing plants to grow. Now, the island is covered with its own special rainforest.
Compared to Fitzroy Island, Green Island’s plants are more tropical. It’s the only island near Cairns where a rainforest meets a reef. Fitzroy Island also has lots of plants, but it’s a bit drier than Green Island’s lush rainforest.
Discover Secluded Peaceful Beaches
Green Island is smaller than Fitzroy Island, but it’s easier to reach the flat, sandy beaches around the island. Both Green Island and Fitzroy Island have beautiful beaches.
If you’re looking for more variety or a quiet spot to enjoy by yourself, Green Island is a good choice.
On the north side of the island, there are peaceful beaches where you can swim and enjoy the tropical atmosphere.
Final Verdict
Choosing between Fitzroy Island and Green Island comes down to what you like more. Either choice will be a great experience.
If you love snorkelling, Green Island is the best option. But if you prefer relaxing on beaches or going on hikes, Fitzroy Island might suit you better.
