Low Isles

Low Isles - A Comprehensive Travel Guide for Visitors to Port Douglas 

The Low Isles, a serene group of islands located in the Great Barrier Reef of Queensland, Australia, offer a spectacular blend of natural beauty, marine diversity, and tranquil beach settings. This guide provides detailed information on things you need to know before going snorkelling at low Isles and what to expect, activities to enjoy, and tips for visiting the Low Isles.

How To Get to the Low Isles

The Low Isles are situated approximately 15 kilometers northeast of Port Douglas. The journey typically takes around 30 minutes to an hour by boat, with various tour operators offering half-day and full-day trips.

Things to Do on Low Isles

1. Snorkelling: Explore the vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life.
2. Glass Bottom Boat Tours: Enjoy the reef's beauty without getting wet on a glass bottom boat. 
3. Guided Island Walks: Learn about the island's history and ecosystem.
4. Bird Watching: Spot various bird species that inhabit the island.
5. Beach Relaxation: Spend time on the picturesque beaches.
6. Visit the Lighthouse: Explore the historic lighthouse on the island.
7. Photography: Capture the stunning scenery of the Low Isles.
8. Educational Tours: Participate in tours focusing on reef ecology and conservation.
9. Picnicking: Enjoy a leisurely meal on the beach.
10. Sunset Watching: Experience the breathtaking sunsets.

Read our blog on the things to do and things to see on Low Isles 

The Mesmarizing Marine Life

The Low Isles are renowned for their rich marine life, especially the presence of sea turtles like the Green Sea Turtle and the Hawksbill Turtle. The clear waters provide excellent opportunities for snorkelling and observing these creatures in their natural habitat.

What is the Snorkelling Like At Low Isles?

Snorkelling at Low Isles is exceptional for an island so close the mainland, it has a mixture of soft corals and hard corals and easily accessible for all levels of snorkellers including beginners and small children. The waters are home to a diverse range of marine life, including colorful corals, tropical fish, plenty of sea turtles, and occasionally black tip reef sharks offering a memorable underwater experience. Visitors just wade into the water safely and snorkel over the coral bommies that surround the island eing carefu not to touch, stand or damage them. 

1. Calm Waters: The waters around the Low Isles are generally calm and clear, providing a comfortable environment for snorkelling. This is particularly advantageous for beginners or those who prefer more gentle snorkelling conditions.

2. Coral Gardens: The area is known for its beautiful coral gardens. Snorkellers can expect to see a variety of hard and soft corals in relatively shallow waters, making them easily accessible.

3. Marine Life: The Low Isles are home to a diverse array of marine life. Snorkellers can expect to see tropical fish, sea turtles, small reef sharks, clams, and occasionally sting rays. The variety and abundance of marine life make it a delightful experience for nature lovers.

4. Guided Snorkeling Tours: Many tour operators offer guided snorkelling tours. These guided tours are not only educational, with insights into the ecosystem of the reef and its inhabitants, but also ensure the safety and comfort of all snorkellers.

5. Eco-Friendly Snorkelling: The area is part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, and efforts are made to ensure snorkelling activities are eco-friendly and do not harm the delicate coral ecosystem. Please use marine friendly sunscreen.

6. Visibility: Visibility is generally good, allowing snorkellers to have clear views of the underwater world. However, it can vary depending on weather conditions and time of year.

7. Accessibility: Snorkelling spots are easily accessible from the beach, making it convenient for those who prefer not to swim too far from the shore.

Are there Half Day Tours To Low Isles?

Yes, half-day tours to the Low Isles are available and quite popular, especially for those who have limited time, are on a cruise ship or for those that just prefer shorter excursions. Some half day tours leave Port Douglas in the afternoon for a snorkel tour of Low Isles and then enjoy a stunning sunset cruise on the sail home to the harbour.   

Are There Lot's of  Sea Turtles at Low Isles?

Yes, the Low Isles are known for their population of sea turtles, making it a popular destination for those hoping to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The most commonly sighted turtles around the Low Isles are the Green Sea Turtles and the Hawksbill Turtles. Green Sea Turtles are more frequently seen, known for their large size and distinctive shell pattern. While turtles can be seen year-round, the best time to see them is during the warmer months when they are more active. Additionally, early morning or late afternoon can be good times for sightings as turtles tend to be more active during these cooler parts of the day.

Read our blog on what is there to do on Low Isles.

Conservation and Eco-Friendly Practices

As part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, the Low Isles are protected, and visitors are encouraged to engage in eco-friendly practices. This includes responsible snorkeling, avoiding touching or standing on the corals, and adhering to guidelines for sustainable tourism.

Read our travel tips for Great Barrier Reef tours where you can learn more about glass bottom boat tours, semi-submersible submarine tours, snorkelling tips, scuba diving and helmet diving and jelly fish.