Quick Answers
Where is Welcome Bay?
Welcome Bay is where you arrive on Fitzroy Island. The ferry jetty is in the bay, and Fitzroy Island Resort sits right on it.
Can you snorkel at Welcome Bay?
Yes. You can snorkel straight from the main beach in the bay. Snorkel with a buddy and stay within your ability.
Can I hire kayaks or paddleboards?
Yes. Kayaks and paddleboards can be hired from the resort beach shed. Check your return ferry time before you head out.
“Step off the ferry at Fitzroy Island and you are already in Welcome Bay. The beach, the reef and the resort are all right here.”
Welcome Bay: Where Your Fitzroy Island Day Begins
Welcome Bay is the heart of Fitzroy Island for most visitors. The ferry from Cairns arrives at the jetty in the bay, and Fitzroy Island Resort sits right on the waterfront, so this is where most day trips start and finish.
The main beach in Welcome Bay is the easiest place to get in the water. You can snorkel straight from the beach, and kayaks and paddleboards can be hired from the resort beach shed. Our snorkelling guide explains where the reef is more complex.
If you would like somewhere quieter, the island’s walking tracks lead away from the bay, including to Nudey Beach. Allow plenty of time to get back to the jetty for your ferry.
Bring sun protection, a hat and water for the walking tracks, and keep an eye on the time so you are back at the jetty before your return ferry.
A Hot Getaways destination. Where Care is Our Compass.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Welcome Bay on Fitzroy Island?
Welcome Bay is where the ferry arrives on Fitzroy Island. The jetty is in the bay, and Fitzroy Island Resort sits right on it.
How do you get to Welcome Bay?
You arrive there. The ferry from Cairns docks at the jetty in Welcome Bay, so there is no walk needed to reach it.
Is Welcome Bay good for snorkelling?
Yes. You can snorkel straight from the main beach in the bay. Snorkel with a buddy, stay within your ability, and read our snorkelling guide for where the reef is more complex.
What is there to do at Welcome Bay?
Welcome Bay has the main beach, the jetty and Fitzroy Island Resort. Zephyr’s Restaurant, Foxy’s Bar and General Store and toilets are close by, and kayaks and paddleboards can be hired from the resort beach shed. Walking tracks lead from the bay to other parts of the island, including Nudey Beach.
Is Welcome Bay suitable for a day trip?
Yes. It is where day trips arrive and depart, so you can spend as much of your island time there as you like. Check your return ferry time before you set out on any walks.
Travel Kindly
At Hot Getaways, care is our compass — and a little kindness makes every journey better. When you visit Fitzroy Island, we gently ask you to:
- Protect the reef — wear reef-safe sunscreen and never touch or stand on the coral.
- Respect the wildlife — admire turtles, birds and marine life from a distance, and take your rubbish home with you.
- Support local — choosing local operators and guides helps this beautiful place thrive.
- Honour Country — we visit on the traditional lands and sea Country of the Gunggandji people, and travel with gratitude and respect.
- Be kind to each other — a smile, a little patience and a helping hand make the island lovelier for everyone.
Small acts of care add up to something wonderful. Thank you for travelling kindly.
