The Barnard Island Group (locally known as the 'Barnies') is a cluster of seven rainforest-clad islands fringed with golden sands and coral reefs, located just off the Cassowary Coast south of Cairns. Part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, these islands offer crystal-clear waters teeming with reef fish, coral bommies, and rocky outcrops. The fringing reefs around Kent, Jessie, and Hutchison Islands provide excellent snorkelling with vibrant coral gardens and calm, sheltered waters close to shore. The islands' remote, untouched feel makes for a true Robinson Crusoe-style snorkelling adventure.
Barnard Island Group
IntermediateMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.2 mSwell Period 3.1 sWind Speed 5.4 knPrecipitation 22 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Tidal currents between islands
Strong tidal currents flow through the channels between islands, which can sweep swimmers away from snorkelling areas.
Moderate risk: Marine stingers (box jellyfish)
Marine stingers including box jellyfish are present in these waters during the warmer months (November to May).
Low risk: Southeasterly trade winds and choppy seas
The prevailing trade winds can create choppy conditions and strong currents between islands, particularly during the drier winter months.
Low risk: Sharp coral and rocky reef flats
Coral cuts and scrapes are possible when snorkelling over shallow reef flats, especially at low tide.
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
The Barnard Island Group lies off the Cassowary Coast, south of Cairns. Access is by private boat or sea kayak from Mourilyan Harbour or Kurrimine Beach. To reach Mourilyan Harbour, turn off the Bruce Highway. No public ferry service operates to the islands.
Parking & facilities
Parking available at Mourilyan Harbour boat ramp area and Kurrimine Beach. No vehicle access permit required for day-use parking at boat ramps, but check local signage for restrictions.
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports