Green Island | Cairns

Green Island is a beautiful coral cay located approximately 27 kilometers (17 miles) off the coast of Cairns, Queensland, Australia. It lies within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and is a popular day-trip destination for tourists visiting the Cairns region. Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life, Green Island offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, combining both reef exploration and tropical island relaxation.

Key Features and Attractions

1. Green Island Reef

Green Island is part of the Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The surrounding coral reef is home to an abundance of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, ray species, and coral gardens. The reef can be easily accessed by visitors for snorkeling and diving, and it's one of the closest sections of the reef to the mainland, making it a convenient destination for those looking to experience the underwater world without venturing too far from Cairns.

Visitors can explore the reef through activities such as:

Snorkeling: You don’t need to be an expert to snorkel at Green Island. The shallow waters near the shore are teeming with colorful fish and other marine creatures. The area is perfect for beginners and families.

Scuba Diving: For a more in-depth underwater experience, scuba diving is available for both certified divers and those wishing to take a beginner dive course. The reefs around Green Island offer vibrant coral formations and plenty of marine life to discover.

Glass-bottom Boat Tours: For those who prefer to stay dry while observing the underwater world, glass-bottom boat tours are available. These boats allow visitors to view the vibrant coral and marine life below without getting wet.

2. Green Island Resort

The island is home to the Green Island Resort, an eco-friendly luxury resort that offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from rooms with beachfront views to garden rooms. For visitors looking to extend their stay on the island, the resort provides an idyllic setting with luxurious amenities, including a swimming pool, restaurants, and a cocktail bar. The resort is well-integrated into the natural environment and provides a relaxed, tropical atmosphere.

Guests can enjoy various activities organized by the resort, such as:

Guided nature walks: Learn about the island’s unique flora, fauna, and history.

Marine education programs: Educate yourself about the reef’s ecosystems, conservation efforts, and marine species.

Beachside dining: Enjoy meals with views of the beach and reef, offering fresh, local seafood and other regional delicacies.

3. Beaches and Lagoon

Green Island is surrounded by pristine, white sand beaches and a protected lagoon. The beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or relaxing by the water. The lagoon is particularly ideal for families, offering calm, shallow waters for children to enjoy. The beaches and clear, turquoise waters also make it an excellent location for leisurely walks, where you can enjoy the tropical atmosphere and spot marine life in the shallows.

4. Island Walks and Nature Trails

Green Island is home to lush tropical rainforest and offers several nature walks where visitors can explore the island’s diverse ecosystems. The rainforest is home to various plant species, including tropical trees, ferns, and bushes that have adapted to the island’s coastal conditions. Walks typically lead visitors through birdwatching areas, where you can spot various native birds such as black butcherbirds, whistling kites, and terns.

Island Circuit Walk: This is a short, easy walk that takes around 30-45 minutes to complete. The trail passes through the rainforest and around the island’s coastline, providing scenic views of the reef and beaches.

The Green Island Interpretive Trail: This educational walk gives visitors insights into the natural history and cultural significance of Green Island, explaining its geology, ecology, and Aboriginal history.

5. Aboriginal and Cultural History

Green Island holds cultural significance to the Kuku Yalanji people, the Indigenous people of the region. The island was historically used as a fishing ground, and the surrounding waters provided important resources for the Kuku Yalanji. There are few documented cultural sites on the island itself, but it’s possible to learn about the island’s cultural significance through the interpretive signage on the walking trails, as well as through programs and talks offered by the resort.

6. Marine Life and Conservation

As part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, Green Island plays a significant role in conservation efforts. The surrounding marine environment is carefully managed to protect its fragile ecosystems. The island and surrounding reefs are home to many protected species, including coral, fish, and marine turtles.

Green Island also participates in reef conservation programs, such as coral restoration projects and marine research. Visitors can learn more about these efforts and how they can contribute to the preservation of the reef and its ecosystems.

7. Island Transfers and Accessibility

Green Island is easily accessible from Cairns, with regular transfers by ferry and catamaran. The journey takes around 45 minutes and offers scenic views of the coast and the surrounding waters. Several tour operators run services to the island, with options for both day trips and extended stays. The ferries usually depart from the Cairns Marina, and some tour packages may also include additional activities, such as snorkeling or reef tours.

8. Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Green Island is during the dry season (from May to October), when the weather is typically sunny, warm, and dry. The wet season (from November to April) brings higher rainfall and the chance of storms, though the reef is still accessible year-round.

Visitor Information

Location: Green Island is located about 27 km (17 miles) off the coast of Cairns, Queensland.

Accommodation: The island offers luxury resort-style accommodation for overnight stays, or you can enjoy a day trip to the island.

Activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, glass-bottom boat tours, nature walks, and beach activities are some of the main attractions.

Access: Visitors can access Green Island via ferry, catamaran, or helicopter from Cairns.

Conclusion

Green Island is a tropical paradise that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural exploration. Whether you're interested in exploring the Great Barrier Reef, lounging on white-sand beaches, or learning about the island’s history, Green Island provides a memorable experience for nature lovers, families, and those seeking a tropical getaway. Its proximity to Cairns makes it an easily accessible destination, while the diversity of activities ensures there is something for everyone.