Thursday, 26 November 2015

Things to do on Fitzroy Island, Queensland




 

Things to do in Hobar


Fitzroy Island is a beautiful tropical island getaway close to Cairns in North Queensland. With picturesque beaches, great water sports and a spacious resort, it is a favourite getaway with both locals and tourists.
We’ve spent many weekends on Fitzroy Island and can’t rave about it highly enough. Only a short 30 kilometre ferry ride from Cairns it’s a beautiful island with a very relaxed fun atmosphere.
And there’s also plenty to do when you’re there. Here’s our rundown of things to do on Fitzroy Island.

1. meet the local sea creatures

Turtle Rehabilitation Centre
fitzroy island turtle rehabilitation centre
Doug Gamble, the owner of Fitzroy Island Resort, generously donated the land for this centre to be built and visitors can book a tour to visit the patients and learn more about the plight of sea turtles on the Great Barrier Reef.
We love visiting this centre and were lucky enough to help feed the turtles the last time we visited, but this isn’t always available to the public. Tours cost $7.70 for adults and $4.40 for kids and the money goes towards helping the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre.
Fish Feeding
picture fish feeding fitzroy island queensland
Twice a day tourists can head down to the jetty (pier) and watch the fish swim to the surface as staff from the resort feed the fish at a designated area on the jetty.
If you have young kids this is always a fun activity for families. Fish feeding is at 11.30am and 4.00pm.

2. walking tracks

Since Fitzroy is an island rather than a coral cay, it has hills to climb with great views of the surrounding area. So if you’ve got the time, exploring some of the island’s walking trails should definitely be on your list of things to do on Fitzroy Island.
These are the trails we would recommend:
Walk to the Lighthouse
walk to fitzroy island lighthouse

This is a 3.6 kilometre return walk that requires a degree of fitness, some sturdy shoes and plenty of water.
It is a very steep path and winds through rainforest and around the island giving breathtaking views of the ocean.
It is worth the steep climb once you reach the lighthouse at the top and feel the sense of achievement.
The lighthouse is no longer active and the channel uses an automated light on Little Fitzroy Island. However, you can have a look inside as the ground floor is open to the public.
The Summit Track
This track leads further on from the lighthouse road and is yet another winding track that takes you to the summit of the island. The views are spectacular but this walk is only advised for fit walkers.
Nudey Beach
nudey beach fitzroy island

Nudey Beach is about a 20-minute walk from the resort and it involves a bit of rock hopping so don’t attempt it with a pram or wheelchair.
It is one of the most photographed beaches in Queensland and, unlike the beach in front of the Fitzroy Island Resort which is all washed up coral, Nudey Beach is made up of pure white sand and crystal clear water.
This is a great place to swim and snorkel but hire stinger suits from the resort during stinger season (October-May).
Don’t let the name Nudey Beach fool you, swimsuits are definitely required!

3. water activities

Snorkelling & Swimming
Fitzroy Island is part of the Great Barrier Reef so swimming and snorkelling should definitely be on your agenda. Snorkelling gear can be hired for $15 per day, which includes mask, snorkel and fins.
Water Sports
sea kayaking fitzroy island

There is a hut on the beach hiring equipment for a range of water sports including kayaking and stand up paddle boarding.
We took out a few double kayaks when the water was still fairly calm and paddled under the pier and around the beach area.
It was great fun and the perfect way to spend a few hours.
There is also an ocean trampoline just off the beach in front of the resort.
Scuba Diving
The resort offers introductory diving as well as scuba diving tours for accredited divers. You can hire all the equipment on the island. For more information about diving tours contact the resort directly.

4. day tours

If you still run out of things to do on Fitzroy Island, there are many day tours available too. These include:
  • Glass Bottom Boat Tours depart daily at 10am, 1.30pm and 3pm (if 1.30pm tour is booked out), and are a great way for those tourists who want to see the reef without getting wet.
  • Photography Tours are a fantastic way to see the island and the perfect backdrop for keen photographers. Calypso Productions run a Reef & Rainforest Photography Tour at Fitzroy Island costing $265 for the day and includes transfers to and from Fitzroy Island, lunch and use of an underwater camera.
  • Guided Eco Walks run on Tuesdays and Sundays, otherwise visitors to Fitzroy Island can go on their own self-guided walks. Maps are available from the resort reception.
  • Night Coral Viewing Tours give tourists a chance to see life on the reef after the sun goes down and can be booked at the Resort Dive Centre.

Tuesday, 3 November 2015

Jet Boating on the Gold Coast



As the name implies, Broadbeach is a good holiday destination if you’re thinking about water activities. One of the best things you can try while in Broadbeach is the series of jet boating rides. You can experience 360 jet spins and even go through powerful slides. If you feel the need for speed, some jet boating rides allow you to speed across the Broadbeach water using twin jet power. The turbo jets used for this rides are some of the best in the world.
There are several things you can expect from the jet boating ride experience in Broadbeach. Some of the highlights include an adventure trip riding the most powerful and largest boat in the Gold Coast. You are also well assured that all jet boat rides are safe and secure. There are individual bucket seats that safely hold the passengers allowing them to enjoy the whole ride without the fear of falling off the boat. You also get the chance to view some of the most scenic sports on Surfers Paradise.
Most jet rides last for 55 minutes and costs around $35 up to $100 depending on the package you will choose. Jet boats are mostly 5-star luxury boats so you are guaranteed that you are getting your money’s worth. Our Broadbeach holiday apartments are just right around the corner providing a convenient access to really good jet boat rides. Likewise, our Gold Coast family apartments offer the necessary assistance to get your good jet board ride schedules. After a day of ride, you can return back to the apartment and relax by the scenic view beside. There are also nearby dining attractions allowing you to choose a varied range of cuisines to try. From restaurants to cafes and bars, you will surely find the right spot for your preferences. 

Information credit - Administrator