

Best for beginner divers, 1-5m, shore entry, mild current.
Nudey Beach on Fitzroy Island provides a shallow, accessible reef environment suitable for beginners. Divers and snorkellers can enter directly from the shore to explore depths between 1 and 5 metres, with an average depth of 2 metres. The site features a variety of marine life, including wrasses, which are very common, alongside uncommon sightings of Green Sea Turtles, Hawksbill Sea Turtles, Bluespotted Fantail Rays, and Titan Triggerfish. Visibility ranges from 1 to 8 metres and can be affected by currents. Hazards include sharp coral and jellyfish, particularly during stinger season from October to May. Protective suits are recommended during these months. Be mindful of boat traffic near the entry point.
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May through October brings calmer seas and generally better visibility, making it the most reliable window for a comfortable snorkel. Arrive early in the morning before day-trippers arrive to give yourself a quieter experience on the reef.
Access to Fitzroy Island is via a 45-minute ferry ride from the Reef Fleet Terminal or Marlin Marina in Cairns. Once on the island, Nudey Beach is a 15-minute walk along a well-signposted track from the main jetty area at Welcome Bay. Entry to the water is from the coral sand beach.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 5m
Visibility
1-8m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
24-30°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
You can encounter very common wrasses, as well as uncommon species such as Green Sea Turtles, Hawksbill Sea Turtles, Bluespotted Fantail Rays, Titan Triggerfish, Speckled Butterflyfish, and Sixbanded Angelfish.
Yes, the shallow depths and shore access make Nudey Beach well suited for beginners and those new to snorkelling.
The depth ranges from 1 to 5 metres, with an average depth of 2 metres.
Yes, Nudey Beach is a popular location for both diving and snorkelling, with shore access available.
The best months for visiting are May, June, July, August, September, October, and November, which generally offer calmer seas and better visibility.
Be cautious of sharp coral and jellyfish. Stinger season runs from October to May, and protective stinger suits are highly recommended during this time.
Nudey Beach in Cairns is a shore dive. Access to Fitzroy Island is via a 45-minute ferry ride from the Reef Fleet Terminal or Marlin Marina in Cairns. Once on the island, Nudey Beach is a 15-minute walk along a well-signposted track from the main jetty area at Welcome Bay. Entry to the water is from the coral sand beach.
Diving at Nudey Beach in Cairns requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Nudey Beach in Cairns. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Nudey Beach in Cairns. Water temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C.
Nudey Beach in Cairns typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Nudey Beach in Cairns typically ranges from 1 metres to 8 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.