Frankland Islands

Things to do

Islands

Idyllic escape from the everyday

There are islands and then there are the islands of Tropical North Queensland, which are among the most beautiful in the world.

Scattered right along the coast, the islands of the Great Barrier Reef offer an idyllic escape from the everyday. Whether you want to camp out and fall asleep beneath a blanket of stars, or prefer to lie back in luxury and enjoy a little five-star pampering, there is an island that’s right for you. And with many of the islands accessible by ferry or even water taxi, getting there is easy.

If untouched nature is your thing, Dunk Island delivers, with its golden reef-fringed beaches, virgin rainforest and well-maintained campground – all just a quick boat trip from Mission Beach. If you’re partial to a hike, don’t miss the 9km trail that takes you through fern forests and eucalypt stands to the island’s highest point, Mount Kootaloo.

For a family-friendly, easily-accessible option, Fitzroy Island is hard to go past. Wander its pretty bush tracks to access beaches such as Welcome Bay and Nudey (definitely not nudist), the latter strewn with dramatic granite boulders. Expect to encounter turtles and clownfish in the shallow reefs that surround the island.

Looking for something more indulgent? Bedarra Resort, beloved by the likes of Elton John and Russell Crowe, is the perfect romantic retreat, with just eight luxurious villas. Or try Lizard Island, where the reef begins just metres from the beach and where world-famous dive sites such as Cod Hole are within easy reach. Lizard’s other great attraction is its beautiful beaches. With 24 to choose from, you can count on finding a deserted stretch of sand whenever you need one.

Hang out in paradise at Fitzroy Island, just 45 mins from Cairns

Catch the Dunk Island Water Taxi from Wongaling Beach

Hike to the summit at Fitzroy Island for spectacular views of the Great Barrier Reef

This island life

Discover the perfect patches of paradise that are the islands of Tropical North Queensland.

Vlasoff Cay Nautilus Aviation
Great Barrier Reef
Vlasoff Cay: the most incredible place to picnic

Feel grounded the moment you arrive at a private sand cay on the Great Barrier Reef.

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Lizard Island aerial
Great Barrier Reef
Lizard Island – The northern-most resort on the Great Barrier Reef

Surrounded by pristine turquoise waters that will make you question whether you’re in a dream, discover the true meaning of tropical oasis at the exclusive and ultra-luxurious, Lizard Island.

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Fitzroy Island tile
Cairns & Northern Beaches
Everything you need to know about Fitzroy Island

If you want proof not all Great Barrier Reef islands are born equal, pay a visit to the supermodel of the island world, Fitzroy Island.

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Sailaway Mackay Cay
Great Barrier Reef
Dreamy sand cays you must visit on the Great Barrier Reef

We’ve all seen those gorgeous wisps of whiteness poking out from an azure sea on Great Barrier Reef. But what are they? More importantly, where are they? And how can we get a piece of sand cay action? We’re here to reveal all.

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Crystalbrook Riley
Uncategorised
Luxury places to rest your head

Escape to luxe island hideaways, indulgent outback retreats or tranquil ancient rainforests. Kick off your shoes, take some much needed R&R and discover the unique landscape of Tropical North Queensland.

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Cocktail at Foxy's Bar at Fitzroy Island
Uncategorised
Stunning waterfront bars in Tropical North Queensland

Beaches and bars are a match made in heaven – especially in the tropics, where any excuse to down a cool beverage is welcomed. Here are some of the coolest waterfront and beach bars Tropical North Queensland has to offer.

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Garners Beach Mission Beach
Mission Beach & Cassowary Coast
Secret Beaches & Coves of Mission Beach

Mission Beach would be better referred to as Mission Beaches with its 14km stretch of sand interlinking three beaches and four villages. Lesser known are the smaller beaches and coves that make up a huge part of its charming appeal.

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scuba diver nautilus shell
Great Barrier Reef
25 Fun facts about the Great Barrier Reef

As you’d expect from one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Great Barrier Reef is home to some weird, wonderful and just plain loveable creatures. Here’s 25 fun Great Barrier Reef facts about a marine world larger than Italy.

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Edge pool at Lizard island resort
Great Barrier Reef
Sleep tight in paradise

Rest your head easy on a visit to Tropical North Queensland. From sleeping on a luxury island to pitching a tent on the beach, here’s your guide to an unforgettable stay in the tropics.

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Great Barrier Reef aerial
Great Barrier Reef
8 Island Campsites on the Great Barrier Reef

Unleash your inner Robinson Crusoe by camping on the Great Barrier Reef! Have you ever dreamed of escaping from the hustle and bustle of our busy lives? Where life is simple, revolving around the rising sun and falling tide? Yep, so have we! Here’s Eight island campsites where you can unleash your inner Robinson Crusoe.

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