Nudey Beach

Nudey beach is the archetypal tropical beach; pristine powder white sand, crystal clear azure water and coral reefs teaming with marine life. Behind is a verdant backdrop of rainforest containing Nutmeg, Tamarinds, Turpentine, Sheoak and Indian Beech whilst dotted along the beach are time-worn granite boulders which create the feeling of an ancient paradise.
It isn’t hard to see why Nudey beach has made it to the top spot on several surveys of Australia’s best beaches.

The beach is set on Fitzroy Island, around 30km off the coast of Cairns in northern Queensland. Designated a National Park this paridisical island lies just within the Great Barrier Reef. From here you can take trips on glass bottom boats out to the main reef or around the island. Of course you don’t need a boat at all and the snorkelling off Nudey beach is fantastic with shallow coral reefs fringing the beach.

It isn’t just the sea which is teaming with life - there is wildlife a-plenty onshore too. Lizards such as goannas and monitors are common, and the birdlife is fantastic with sea eagles, ospreys, cockatoos and the aptly named paradise kingfisher all native to the area.

Despite there only being a relatively small stretch of sand to put your towel down Nudey beach never feels crowded. And if you are wondering about where the name “Nudey” came from it is pretty much as you would expect. Quite a few years back this secluded spot did draw the clothes-optional crew and hence the name. However, this is Queensland where public nudity is frowned upon and these days getting naked on this family-friendly beach is a bit of a no-no.