Double Island is a small tropical island surrounded by vibrant fringing reefs just 1.5 km off Palm Cove in Far North Queensland. As one of the closest inshore snorkelling sites to the Great Barrier Reef, it offers easy access to thriving coral gardens teeming with colourful fish. The serene, shallow lagoons around the island are a prime spot for spotting Hawksbill and Green sea turtles. Reached by kayak or boat tour, this is a calm-weather destination that rewards visitors with a peaceful, uncrowded reef experience.
Double Island (snorkeling/dive site)
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.1 mSwell Period 5.5 sWind Speed 2.1 knPrecipitation 6.6 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Low risk: Sudden wind chop
Wind conditions can pick up suddenly, reducing visibility and making snorkelling conditions poor. Best in calm weather.
Low risk: Estuarine crocodile presence
Although rare at Palm Cove, crocodiles inhabit nearby rivers and may occasionally travel through ocean waters. Avoid swimming at night.
Low risk: Tidal currents
Outgoing tide currents can develop around the island's fringing reefs, potentially drifting snorkelers away from their entry point.
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Getting in
Snorkel tour
Entry
Double Island lies approximately 1.5 km northeast of Palm Cove and 30 km north of Cairns. Tours depart daily from the beach at 41 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove. Kayak and boat tours are the primary means of reaching the island's fringing reefs.
Parking & facilities
Street parking available along Williams Esplanade in Palm Cove, plus paid parking lots nearby.
parking
Access is via guided tour only — kayak snorkel tours or boat tours. Prices vary by operator.
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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