Board a ferry from Cairns to reach Fitzroy. From a distance, you'll see an island draped in lush forest and framed by lovely bays of sand and coral. This first impression alone beckons escape. But as you explore it in depth—both on land and at sea—you'll discover that this place brims with treasures. Welcome to Australia's Eden!

History

The formation of Fitzroy Island dates back more than 6,000 years, to the end of the Ice Age. James Cook reached the island in 1770 and named it after the Duke of Grafton, who held the position of Prime Minister in England at the time the HMB Endeavour was in service. Long before its discovery by Europeans, the place was already inhabited by the Gunggandji Aboriginal people.

During the first half of the 19th century, pearling and surveying ships occasionally visited Fitzroy. In 1877, Fitzroy was used as a quarantine zone for Chinese immigrants who had contracted smallpox aboard the cargo ship Somerset. Then, toward the end of the 1800s, a sea cucumber industry was established on the island. At that time, sea cucumbers were primarily shipped to Asian food markets. During World War II, Fitzroy served as a military defense station.

Several lighthouses were constructed on the island over the past century, from the carbide lamp of 1923 to the solar-powered lighthouse launched in 1992, including the wartime light of 1943.

Discovering Fitzroy Island

Fitzroy Island is located some 30 kilometers southeast of Cairns, in the Australian region of Queensland. It covers an area of 4 km² with its highest point at 269 m. Nearly the entire island is covered by forest. Because of its rich fauna and flora, the island is a protected reserve, officially named Fitzroy Island National Park. The surrounding reefs are part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Fitzroy Island Resort manages most activities within and around the island.

Lace up your boots—Fitzroy offers exciting hiking trails

Mostly developed during World War II, the trails lead to stunning viewpoints. Running from the shore into the forest, along valleys and ridge lines, the tracks attune you to the tropical wilderness. For those with less energy, lighthouse walks offer equal rewards. Explore also the splendid beaches of sand and coral.

Meet remarkable wildlife

Take advantage of your stay on Fitzroy Island to visit the sea turtle rehabilitation center. This facility welcomes injured or sick turtles for recovery before they return to the ocean. As you venture through the forest, you may encounter Ulysses butterflies, emerald doves, orange-legged scrubfowl, white-bellied sea eagles, yellow-crested cockatoos and countless reptiles. The yellow-spotted monitor, measuring over 1.2 m long, is the island's most feared predator. At night, bats occasionally roam the resort area.

Set sail—the Great Barrier Reef awaits

The island is an excellent base for exploring the great barrier reef of Australia, listed as a World Heritage Site. Ask your guides to arrange a snorkeling session so you can discover the coral reefs. Encounter marine life, colorful fish, sea turtles and more. Between July and September, you may even spot whales. Both above and below the ocean, you have access to countless activities. Try kayaking on the Great Barrier Reef or, if you prefer comfort, board a glass-bottomed boat for the journey. It's even possible to charter a vessel or yacht for greater freedom and peace.

Relax on paradise beaches

White sand, coconut palms, calm clear water, coral… The beaches of Fitzroy are truly beautiful. Take a swim with your loved one at Welcome Bay, the easiest to reach, then enjoy a romantic aperitif at sunset. A bit further away, accessible via a paved path through the forest, Nudey Beach appeals more to those seeking a leisurely pace. One caveat: the beach gets very crowded on weekends.

Practical Information

Ferries to Fitzroy Island depart from Cairns. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes. Boats run daily in both directions, if you're planning just a day excursion. Alternatively, you can hire a vessel or yacht to explore the island and Great Barrier Reef at your own pace.

Climate

Like northern Queensland, Fitzroy Island enjoys a superb tropical climate. Moreover, breezes from the southeast ocean cool the temperatures. Furthermore, the island's peaks shelter Welcome Bay from the winds. In summer, temperatures range from 24 to 31 °C, while in winter they vary from 19 to 25 °C.