Upolu Cay and Upolu Reef - Cairns, Queensland

Upolu Cay and Reef

Secluded Sand Cay: Upolu Cay is a beautiful, naturally formed white sand island surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef.
Fantastic Snorkelling: The calm, shallow waters offer vibrant coral gardens and marine life perfect for snorkellers of all skill levels.
Marine Life Galore: Spot colourful fish, sea turtles, giant clams, and even friendly reef sharks in the surrounding reef waters.
Family-Friendly Location: Gentle lagoons and sheltered areas make it ideal for children and first-time snorkellers to safely enjoy the reef.
Unspoiled Natural Beauty: No buildings or infrastructure—just pure sand, sea, and sky for a peaceful tropical escape.
Eco-Conscious Tours: Many operators practice sustainable tourism, helping to protect the fragile reef ecosystem while educating visitors.
Quick Access from Cairns: Located just a short boat ride from Cairns, making it a convenient and memorable day trip to the reef.

Upolu Cay Location -Latitude 16.67209 Longitude 145.93348
Access: by boat and helicopter
Depth Range: 1-10 metres
Visibility: 8-20 metres
Size: 115.3 metres

Discover Upolu Cay

Upolu Cay and Reef are located 30 kilometres northeast of Cairns. This sand cay and reef are within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

This site is considered an inner reef location.

This site is famous for coral viewing. This 1,200-ha middle-shelf Reef, about 30 km out of Cairns, offers a range of highlights on the western side’s sandy clay. These improve toward the northeastern section, and overall, there is moderate coral cover.

This site is genuinely picturesque for Boaties looking for a picnic location for a snorkel. Families with young children love this playing on the beach and in the crystal clear waters surrounding this sand cay.

This area allows fishing and is popular on the weekends.

While in North Queensland, consider a helicopter flight with a picnic lunch on a sand cay.

Marine life

Several small coral bommies are located in this sand cay’s shallow waters. Along the coral reef, visitors to Upolu Cay can see giant clams, clownfish, and even whitetip reef sharks.

There are no rubbish bins on this cay, so please be sure to take all your rubbish with you when you leave.

Map

FAQs

What is Upolu Cay?

A small, sandy coral cay located in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, off the coast of Queensland, Australia. It is renowned for its stunning beauty, vibrant marine life, and popularity among snorkelers and divers.

What activities can I enjoy at Upolu Cay?

Fantastic opportunities for snorkelling, scuba diving, and swimming. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the cay are home to diverse marine species and colourful coral formations. It’s an ideal spot for observing marine life up close.

Do I need to be an experienced swimmer to visit Upolu Cay?

While some water-related activities like snorkelling and swimming are popular, you don’t necessarily need to be an experienced swimmer. Life jackets and snorkelling equipment are often provided during guided tours, making them accessible for individuals with varying levels of swimming proficiency.

Is Upolu Cay suitable for families with children?

Yes, it is suitable for families with children. Many tour operators offer family-friendly options, and the shallow, clear waters around the cay provide a safe environment for kids to enjoy snorkelling and swimming under proper supervision.

Are there facilities on Upolu Cay?

Upolu Cay itself is a small sand cay with no facilities. However, guided tours typically provide amenities such as snorkelling gear, refreshments, and guides who offer information about the marine ecosystem.

Conclusion

Upolu Cay is truly a tropical treasure waiting to be explored. Its clear waters, vibrant marine life, and serene sandy shores create the perfect setting for adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or simply looking to unwind on a secluded island, a visit to Upolu Cay promises lasting memories and a genuine connection with the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef.