Green Island, Cairns

Green Island, Queensland 4871

Green Island is set just 45-minutes off the coast of Cairns, and is easily reachable by catamaran or boat.

Green Island

Made up of a 6,000-year-old coral cay, it forms a popular part of the incredible Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, which remains one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the world.

Today, the island is home to more than 120 native plant species and a plethora of bird and animal life, plus there are plenty of things to see and do during your time in the area.

What makes Green Island so Unique?

Out of the hundreds of Islands amongst the Great Barrier Reef, makes it so different from the other is out of all the coral cays dispersed about, Green Island is the only one with a rainforest growing on top of it. The island formed over six thousand years ago, developing over the years to become the home for a diverse range of flora and fauna. Green Island is now one of the most popular destinations in Queensland. Although some say this is due to the island putting Cairns on the map when it first launched the world’s very first underwater observatory. Others say it’s the wildlife that creates its fame.

The History of Green Island

The history of Green Island is a fascinating one, as it was an important part of Tropical North Queensland’s past. On the island, you can visit the Interpretive Boardwalk which displays the rich European and Aboriginal histories of the island as well as the values that have persevered there for centuries.

Things to Do on Green Island

There are plenty of things to do on Green Island, whether you’re looking to discover the incredible marine life that characterises this part of the world or simply want to kick back, relax, and enjoy the stunning scenery on offer.

  • Snorkelling

    Snorkeling

    Snorkelling is one of the most popular activities on the island, giving you the chance to get up close and personal with the vibrant marine life, including colourful fishes, ancient sea turtles, green island and eye-catching corals. Green Island is home to one of the greatest coral cays of the Great Barrier Reef. Overrun with unique wildlife and spellbinding beauty! There are two habitats within the reef, the seagrass beds in the shallow shores, and the reef that spreads from the shallows into the deep seas. The seagrass beds are typically inhabited by small fish that use the grass as shelter, as well as larger animals including turtles and dugongs that feed on the grass. The reef system has hundreds of different corals and fish species depending on the depth of the water.

  • Scuba Diving

    Go a little deeper and do some scuba diving! It is one of the best ways to see the reef, as it lets you roam about the seafloor without having to worry about swimming to the surface for air. Even those aren’t the greatest swimmers a join in on this activity. As the flippers and the ability to breath underwater make it a lot easier to swim. Guests can get up close and personal with some of the reef’s most beloved creatures, seeing unique plants, marine mammals, and countless fish from all directions.

  • Glass Bottom Boat Tour

    If you don’t fancy getting wet, you can discover everything the island has to offer from the comfort of a glass-bottomed boat. This is the popular alternative to snorkelling the sea, as it requires no skill or swimming experience. As you simply sit and wait for the sights, seeing what’s going on underwater without having to immerse yourself in the water. As can properly assume from the name, this activity is held on a boat equipped with an entire glass bottom. Giving you a perfect window into the underwater wonderland. this experience is held on a glass-bottom boat. The boats are usually only capable of fitting a small group of people. Making this tour perfect for families with young children, and those wanting an interactive experience.

  • Relax at the Beach

    The white sands of Green Island are perfect for lazing away the day on. No even needing a towel to lie on, as the soft silky sand provides as much comfort as your mattress! Read your favourite book, take a dip in the warm shallows, or simply enjoy the sea views that seem to sprawl on forever. This is the perfect activity for a couple lazy from love, or those parents that want a quick snooze while the kids are making a sandcastle nearby.

  • Marineland Melanesia

    See the largest croc in captivity at Marineland Melanesia and learn more about the marine life that surrounds Green Island. Home to over 50 different crocs and countless marine animals, the Marineland is one of the best spots to see these impressive creatures up close and personal. The facility has been operating since the early 1960s, so they know all there is to know about the island and its inhabitants. Spot these rescued animals, discovering the unique behaviour, feeding habits, and breeding patterns of some of Australia’s best-loved sea creatures.

  • Go Shopping

    There are numerous resort shops on Green Island, where you can pick up a souvenir or two to remember your time in the area. The shop owners open their doors with welcoming smiles, happy to help you find that perfect gift for that special loved one.

  • Canoeing

    For a more leisurely sea-based activity, hop aboard a canoe and cruise around the coastline, spotting unique wildlife and soaking up the incredible views as you go. Escape the big tour vibes and go out on your own as you discover the countless attraction scattered about.

The beauty of Green Island is second to none, and exploring everything it has to offer gives you the chance to really get to know the Great Barrier Reef.

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