Curacoa Island (Noogoo) is a pristine continental island inside the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, part of the Palm Island group. Fringing coral reefs drop gently into clear turquoise waters, offering sheltered snorkeling along the leeward side. The island's remote location means minimal boat traffic and undisturbed coral gardens, where snorkelers drift over bommies of staghorn and plate coral. Surrounded by rich marine biodiversity, this spot provides a true wild-reef experience away from the crowded outer reef pontoons.
Curacoa Island (snorkeling/diving)
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 2.9 sWind Speed 1.4 knPrecipitation 3.0 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Marine stingers (Nov-May)
The island is remote with no medical facilities. Marine stingers (box jellyfish) may be present in the warmer months.
Low risk: Tidal currents
Strong tidal flows can develop around the island's fringing reef, especially on the eastern side. Snorkel with caution during outgoing tides.
Low risk: Sharp coral
Sharp coral formations are present in shallow reef areas. Avoid touching coral and wear protective footwear.
Wildlife Guide
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Gallery
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
Curacoa Island is part of the Palm Island group, located approximately 60 km north of Townsville, Queensland. Access is by private boat, charter, or tour boat from Townsville or Palm Island. No public ferry service operates to the island.
Parking & facilities
Parking available at Townsville marinas for private vehicles. No parking on the island itself.
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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