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Island · Cairns, Queensland
Green Island
A coral island of about 12 hectares, 27 km from Cairns, a national park and marine park, with beach, forest and reef for snorkeling from the sand, on the Great Barrier Reef.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Green Island
Green Island is a true coral cay, formed over thousands of years by sand and coral fragments accumulated on a reef, 27 km from Cairns. It is about 12 hectares, covered in forest, with a white-sand beach encircling the island.
The island has been a national park since 1937 and the surrounding waters a marine park since 1974, within the Great Barrier Reef area. The reef begins near the beach, which makes it possible to snorkel directly from the sand; there are also glass-bottom boat and semi-submersible tours to see the corals without entering the water.
A trail crosses the island forest, with signs explaining reef formation and the island’s plants and birds. There is a resort, restaurants and shops by the jetty, but most of the island is protected area.
Boats depart daily from Cairns’ downtown pier on half-day or full-day trips.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day or a full day, depending on the tour.
Best time
From May to October the sea tends to be clearer and the weather drier. From November to May, the tropical jellyfish season, use the lycra suits provided by tour operators. Mornings usually have less wind.
How to get there
By boat from the downtown pier in Cairns, with daily departures by several companies. The crossing takes less than an hour.
Tip
Wear swimwear under your clothes and reef-safe sunscreen. If you are not a strong swimmer, the glass-bottom boat shows the corals without needing to enter the water.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Green Island
How long is the boat from Cairns to Green Island?
Less than an hour from the Cairns city wharf. There are departures every day.
Can you snorkel at Green Island without a boat?
Yes. The reef starts close to the beach, and snorkeling can be done from the sand. Tours usually include or rent equipment.
Is Green Island or an outer reef better?
Green Island combines beach, forest and snorkeling with a short crossing. Outer reefs are farther offshore and are chosen by those who want to spend more time in the water or do scuba diving.