Discover how to reach Green Island, what to do, what to see, and tips to enjoy your visit to the fullest!
Visiting Green Island is the perfect way to experience a tropical island in Cairns. The green rainforest meets white coral beaches, and the calm, clear turquoise waters seem to go on forever.
Little about Green Island
Green Island, located off the coast of Cairns, Australia, is a beautiful tropical paradise that combines lush rainforests with stunning white coral beaches. This small island offers visitors a chance to relax on sandy shores, explore the vibrant coral reefs, and take in the serene beauty of its turquoise waters.
Whether you’re snorkeling, taking a glass-bottom boat tour, or simply enjoying the island’s natural scenery, Green Island is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.
Here’s how to reach the Green Island
Getting to Green Island is easy because there are several ferry options that leave from Cairns Harbour every day. Each option has different features and prices.
The best value is a fast-catamaran sailing and snorkelling trip. It includes everything you need for a fun day on the island, such as:
- Free access to the glass-bottom boat on Green Island
- Use of the air-conditioned boat and time to explore the island
- Flexible times: The earliest trip starts at 8:30 am, and the latest return is at 4:30 pm.
How Long Does the Ferry Ride to Green Island Take?
The trip from Cairns Reef Terminal to the island takes about 45 minutes on the fast catamaran boat. The distance is around 15 nautical miles (28 kilometers). It’s a quick ride because the catamaran moves really fast!
Staying At The Green Island Resort
Green Island Resort is an eco-friendly place for travelers who enjoy luxury. The resort has beautiful suites surrounded by lush rainforest. The resort also has a day spa where you can relax with spa treatments, massages, and beauty services.
Each suite comes with a private balcony where you can enjoy views of the rainforest or one of the two pools on the island.
Even if luxury travel isn’t your usual style, spending at least two days on Green Island is worth it. Unlike other beaches in Cairns, Green Island offers the unique experience of swimming right from the shore onto the Great Barrier Reef!
Things to enjoy on Green Island
Need some ideas for your trip to tropical Queensland? Green Island offers plenty to do, see, and explore. In this section, I’ll tell you what to expect at Green Island Cairns so you can plan your visit and decide what to do when you get there.
Try snorkeling or diving at the Pinnacle
The best place to snorkel and dive on Green Island is a small coral spot called the Pinnacle. It’s easier to get there by boat, but you can also swim from the shore, which takes about 20 minutes.
When you reach the Pinnacle, there’s a floating PVC structure you can hold onto.
Finding it can be a bit hard, but you can ask the lifeguards on the beach for help, or just look for where the snorkeling boats are parked.
View the Reef Through a Glass Bottom Boat
As I mentioned earlier that if you book the catamaran trip, you’ll also get a glass-bottom boat ride included!
The Green Island Glass Bottom Boat is a great way to see the Great Barrier Reef without getting wet.
The best part is that this boat takes you to see bigger coral groups and lots of fish. So if you want to stay dry, make sure to enjoy this trip!
Discover Green Island’s Rainforest
Green Island has its own rainforest, even though it’s a coral island. This rainforest is home to many bird species and tropical plants.
The paths have boardwalks, making it easy to walk through the rainforest. When you step off the pier, you can walk past the resort and follow paths that go around the island.
Enjoy a Helicopter Ride for a Better View
For an unforgettable experience and amazing photos, consider booking a scenic cruise and helicopter ride over Green Island.
Seeing the Great Barrier Reef from the air is one of the most incredible things you can do in Cairns.
Swim With Turtles Around Green Island
Green Island is well-known, just like Fitzroy Island, for having many turtles living there. If you don’t see them right away while snorkeling, you might need to look a little harder.
The best spot to find turtles is in the seagrass and sand flats to the left of the pier. You’ll likely see them coming up for air or eating at the bottom.
Relax On The Beach
If you’re ready to relax after a day in the water, head to the northern side of the island, just ahead and to the left of the pier. This spot has a long, white sandy beach, and lifeguards are on duty.
How to Enjoy a Day Trip to Green Island From Cairns
Here are some insider tips to help you plan your Green Island activities and things to do.
Arrive at Green Island early
Green Island gets very crowded during busy seasons. It’s a good idea to catch the first ferry to avoid the crowds. To make the most of your day trip, consider staying a bit longer.
Pick the Best Time to Visit Green Island
You can visit Green Island any time of the year, but the best time to go is between June and July. During this period, the weather is usually nice, with daytime temperatures around 24-27 degrees, and it’s outside of the peak stinger season.
Cairns is great because while other parts of Australia get colder in Winter, it’s the perfect beach time here! However, some days in June and July can be quite windy, so it’s good to choose your days carefully.
The calmest time of year is in November, when the sea is flat and there’s little wind. But if you visit then, be prepared for hot and humid weather, and watch out for stingers in the water.
Be Reef Conscious
As you know the Great Barrier Reef is the largest living thing on Earth. Don’t bring reef shoes because they might make you stand on the corals. Also, use sunscreen that’s safe for the reef!
And don’t forget to take all your trash back to the boat. This helps keep the island clean and makes it easier to manage the waste.
Bring your own snorkeling equipment
Of course, you’ll want to bring snorkeling gear. The island has amazing reefs and lots of turtles! If you book a trip from the link above, they’ll provide the gear.
However, it’s always best to have your own gear rather than using shared equipment from other tourists. A set of snorkels is essential for your trip to Cairns and should be on your packing list.
FAQ About Visiting Green Island
When’s the Best Time to Visit Green Island?
The best time to visit Green Island is during the dry season, from May to October. During these months, the seas are calm, which makes snorkeling and scuba diving more enjoyable.
What Should I Pack?
Pack light but practical items. I always bring my underwater camera, reef-safe sunscreen, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are also important for exploring the island, as walking on rocks barefoot can be uncomfortable.
Can I Stay on Green Island?
Yes, you can stay on Green Island. I stayed at the Green Island Resort, which offers eco-friendly accommodation.
