The Barnard Island Group is a cluster of picturesque continental islands within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, featuring fringing coral reefs that drop into clear, nutrient-rich waters. Snorkelers can explore reef flats alive with staghorn and plate corals, swim through sandy channels between islands, and encounter a dazzling array of reef fish, sea turtles, and occasional rays. The islands' remote, pristine setting — accessible only by boat — offers a wild, uncrowded snorkeling experience where the Inner Reef meets the Queensland coast.
Barnard Island Group - Snorkeling & Diving Sites
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Wave Height 0.3 mSwell Period 5.2 sWind Speed 9.4 knPrecipitation 11 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Tidal currents between islands
Strong tidal currents can sweep through the channels between islands, particularly on outgoing tides. Snorkelers should be confident swimmers and check tide times before entering the water.
Moderate risk: Marine stingers (box jellyfish)
Marine stingers (box jellyfish) are present in these waters during the warmer months, roughly November through May.
Low risk: Sharp coral and rocky outcrops
Sharp coral and rocky reef edges are common around the fringing reefs. Contact can cause cuts or abrasions.
Low risk: Boat traffic in anchorage channels
Boat traffic in the channels between islands requires vigilance, especially near mooring points and popular anchorage areas.
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
The Barnard Island Group is located off the coast near Kurrimine Beach, south of Innisfail, Queensland. Access is by private boat, kayak, or chartered tour from Kurrimine Beach or nearby ports. No public ferry service operates to the islands.
Parking & facilities
Parking is available at Kurrimine Beach boat ramp area and nearby public car parks. A vehicle access permit may be required for national park access points on the mainland.
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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