The area offshore from Cairns, Port Douglas and Cooktown is renowned for its beautiful coral cays and islands, and for the relatively close proximity of spectacular outer edge reefs. The reefs and islands support a range of wildlife including dugong, dwarf minke whales, seabirds and green turtles. The Cairns Area is one of the most highly visited regions of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.

The Cairns Planning Area extends from the Ribbon Reefs in the north to the Frankland Islands in the south. It includes all offshore reefs and islands in the Cairns and Port Douglas area. Lizard Island is also part of the planning area.

Zoning applies to this area to help protect the animals, plants and habitats of the Cairns Area. In addition, the Cairns Area Plan of Management is in place to help manage human activities and minimise disturbance to the many unique plants and animals that live here.

Click on the headings below to explore the guide. 

Maps and zoning information in the Cairns Area

Zoning is a way of ensuring that many different activities are able to co-exist in the Marine Park without conflict. This section answers your questions about zoning in the Cairns Area and provides useful zoning maps and activity guides for download.

Enjoying the Cairns Area

Find out more about the variety of exciting recreational opportunities available in the Cairns Area, including boating, wildlife viewing, day tripping, fishing, spearfishing and camping on local islands. Further information on islands managed by both the Queensland and Australian Governments is available here. Tips on how to look after our beautiful marine environment are also provided.

What you need to know about the Cairns Area Plan of Management

A range of management tools are used in the Cairns Area to ensure that visitors can enjoy their favourite marine activities while ensuring that our precious natural environment is protected. Find out more about tourism in the area, special management arrangements that apply in certain locations and motorised water sports. Details of designated No Anchoring Areas and public moorings are also provided.

Updated December 2008