Where Is Green Island?
Green Island is a coral cay located 28km off the shores of Cairns on the Great Barrier Reef. This little slice of paradise is a popular tourist destination in Northern Queensland. The island, a picturesque escape from the busy mainland, is located in the northeastern area of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Here are some more fun facts about Green Island so you can get inspired and plan your trip there while visiting Cairns!
Where Is Green Island Located?
The stunning Green Island is located in the Coral Sea, about 13 miles or 28 kilometres off the coast of Cairns. As part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, the island is protected and therefore absolutely pristine. Travellers can catch a convenient ferry or book a guided day trip to Green Island from Cairns. It's one of the best day trips for families, couples, and all types of travellers.
Check out our top Green Island adventures here!
What is a coral cay?
A coral cay is a sand island located on the surface of a coral reef. Formed from sand sediments and coral deposits over 6,000 years ago, Green Island is surrounded by flourishing, colourful reefs full of marine life. It's a great place to spot sea turtles, rays, reef sharks and giant clams without heading all the way to the Outer Reef. So although Green Island is technically an island, its land mass is composed entirely of sand right on top of the reefs! It's a very unique natural landmark.
How to get to Green Island
Day visitors and long weekend travellers can enjoy a convenient 45-minute boat journey from Cairns to Green Island. Passenger ferry services depart from the Marlin Jetty in Cairns three times daily, with the first-morning ferry departing at 8:30 am. You can also join a spectacular sailing tour or Outer Reef boat tour that includes a trip to Green Island. Or charter a boat and head to Green Island on a private tour. Whether you just want a simple ferry or you choose a guided tour or private charter, Green Island is full of wonders to explore!
How long do you need on Green Island?
Most travellers visit Green Island on a day trip from Cairns, but you can also spend the night at the fabulous resort. It is a small island so you can explore most of it in a day. It just depends how much downtime you want to have and how many activities you want to try! Though Green Island is a convenient day trip from Cairns, those who want an extra dose of luxury can stay overnight at Green Island Resort. It's a beautiful spot for a weekend trip from Cairns if you have time!
What is there to do on Green Island?
There are lots of amazing things to do on Green Island that suit all types of travellers. First of all, it's a stunning location to just relax, walk around, and take photos. You don't even have to do much to have a beautiful tropical getaway! But other fun things to do on Green Island include glass bottom boat tours, snorkelling, bushwalking, swimming, scuba diving, sea-walking, and kayaking.
You can also hang out at the Green Island Resort's pool or visit the restaurant and cafe for some food during your stay! Enquire at the resort about booking any special activities or for maps of the island. Day guests can use the toilets, change rooms, and lockers as well if needed.
