Ultimate 3-Day Great Barrier Reef Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

Begin your adventure at Cairns Marlin Marina, the vibrant hub for reef departures where you’ll board your catamaran for a day trip to the Outer Reef.

Cairns Marlin Marina

Experience snorkeling or diving at Saxon Reef, a pristine Outer Reef site known for its colorful coral bommies, turtles, and vibrant tropical fish.

Saxon Reef

Refuel with a buffet lunch on the water courtesy of Reef Magic Cruises, offering fresh seafood and local flavors with panoramic views.

Reef Magic Cruises

Return to Cairns and unwind with a sunset cocktail at Salt House, a stylish waterfront restaurant and bar with stunning marina views and local seafood specialties.

Salt House

Catch the morning ferry to Fitzroy Island, a lush tropical paradise where you can snorkel right off the beach among coral gardens and sea turtles.

Fitzroy Island

Hike the rainforest trail to the summit of Fitzroy Island Summit for panoramic views over the Coral Sea and fringing reef below.

Fitzroy Island Summit

After your hike, enjoy a relaxed lunch at Foxy's Bar, a laid-back beachside spot serving Aussie classics and fresh seafood.

Foxy's Bar

Return to Cairns and enjoy dinner at Ochre Restaurant, renowned for innovative Australian cuisine and native ingredients in a stylish riverside setting.

Ochre Restaurant

Hop on a glass-bottom boat tour at Green Island, a coral cay with emerald rainforest surrounded by dazzling reefs teeming with marine life.

Green Island

Visit the Marineland Melanesia, a quirky aquarium and crocodile habitat that also houses an impressive collection of Melanesian artifacts.

Marineland Melanesia

Enjoy a tropical lunch at Emeralds Restaurant, known for its fresh island fare and relaxed setting overlooking the turquoise lagoon.

Emeralds Restaurant

Head back to Cairns and toast your reef adventure with a craft beer at Hemingway's Brewery, a lively waterfront spot popular with locals.

Hemingway's Brewery