Fitzroy Island is a local favourite amongst Cairns residents, and for good reason. A short 45 minute ferry from Cairns City and you arrive at what can only be described as pure paradise.
Fitzroy Island is home to Nudey Beach, which was named as Australia's best beach in 2018. It is also home to one of the best work/reward ration hikes in the region.
We both love Fitzroy Island and will hop across every opportunity that we get.
Nudey Beach
If you are heading on over to Fitzroy Island you have to check out Nudey Beach. We wouldn't describe this as a hike, but it is a must do. It is roughly 600 metres each way along a sealed pathway to the beach. The entrance is located behind Foxy's Bar & Cafe which has you covered for cold beer, cocktails and food.
The walk should not take you longer than 20-30 minutes each way. The beach itself is a site to see, consisting of white coral. It is also home to a insta-famous swing. There are plenty of spots to stop along the way to the beach to take in the sights. '
The Summit Hike
The Summit hike offers 360 degree views of Fitzroy Island National Park. The hike can be undertake as an up and back track of around 2.55 km return, or a circuit which encompasses the Lighthouse which is roughly 3.6 km return.
When we last did the summit up and back (without the light house detour) it took us around 45 minutes at a very good pace. I would recommend allowing 1.5 hours to really enjoy this hike and stop a long the way to take in the views.
If you haven't down the circuit before, I would recommend that you detour back via the lighthouse. The last time we did the full circuit it took us under two hours, however I would allow 3 hours to complete.
The hike starts from behind the camp grounds. When you first arrive on the island from the Ferry take your first left. Then keep walking until you get to the camp grounds, the start of the hike is then signed.
You used to be able to access the track from the resort as a guest, however this access point when we last visited was closed.
This would have to be one of the easiest trail heads to find as it is well marked. It is also then basically impossible to get lost when you are on the track. Whilst it is not marked, it is very well worn so you shouldn't have any trouble.
You will know you have reached the summit when you get to the viewing platform. This platform will offer the best views of the entire island. There are also great spots to take in the island on the entire track.
The circuit track back to the lighthouse starts from the top at the viewing platform. There is a sign and it will take you right, this track is also very well worn and easy to follow.
From the lighthouse, you can follow a very rough service track back to where you started from.
Whilst we haven't done it ourselves, you could start from the camp grounds, walk to the lighthouse, then from the lighthouse summit and circle back to the camp grounds, however this would give you more opportunity to get lost.
Happy hiking and exploring!
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