The Family Islands National Park is a cluster of nine lush, rainforest-covered continental islands scattered off the coast of Mission Beach in Tropical North Queensland. Protected within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, these islands are fringed by coral reefs that drop into gin-clear turquoise waters. Snorkelers can explore shallow coral gardens teeming with reef fish, sea turtles, and rays just metres from sandy beaches. Each island has its own character, from the popular Dunk Island with its resort ruins and walking trails to the more remote, untouched Bedarra, Timana, and Kumboola islands. The calm, sheltered bays offer excellent conditions for snorkelling, especially during the dry season when visibility is at its peak.
Family Islands National Park
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Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 6.3 sWind Speed 12 knPrecipitation 9.2 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Low risk: Marine stingers (jellyfish)
Marine stingers (including box jellyfish and Irukandji) are present in the coastal waters of Tropical North Queensland during the warmer months. A stinger suit is strongly recommended.
Low risk: Tidal currents
Strong tidal currents can develop around the islands, particularly between smaller islands and in narrow passages. Snorkel with caution and check local tide charts.
Low risk: Intense sun exposure
The sun in tropical Queensland is intense year-round. Sunburn occurs quickly on the water.
Low risk: Estuarine crocodiles
Crocodiles have been sighted in the waters around the Family Islands, particularly near mangroves and river mouths. Be vigilant and avoid murky or estuarine areas.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
2 photos from the community
Getting in
Boat
Entry
The Family Islands lie off the coast near Mission Beach, about 2 hours south of Cairns. Access is by private boat or commercial water taxi/ferry from Mission Beach. No bridge or causeway connects the islands to the mainland.
Parking & facilities
Parking available at the Mission Beach boat ramps and public car parks along the esplanade. No parking on the islands themselves.
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Gallery ┬╖ 2 photos
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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