Is Michaelmas and Upolu Cays (Australia) Worth Visiting?
Michaelmas and Upolu Cays, nestled in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, are definitely worth visiting for anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. These stunning sand cays are all about pristine white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
Known for their exceptional birdlife and incredible snorkelling and diving opportunities, Michaelmas and Upolu Cays offer a slice of paradise that appeals to nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Their popularity stems from the chance to witness the Great Barrier Reef's beauty up close, making them a top tourist draw.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit Michaelmas and Upolu Cays (Australia)
Planning your trip to Michaelmas and Upolu Cays? Knowing the best time to visit will ensure you make the most of your experience. Here's a quick guide to help you plan your trip.
- Opening Hours: Michaelmas and Upolu Cays are generally accessible throughout the day, but most tours operate during daylight hours. Specific tour times vary, so it's best to check with individual tour operators.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is generally during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This period offers the most pleasant weather conditions, with lower humidity and less rainfall. The best time to see the birdlife is during the nesting season, which typically occurs from November to February.
- Best Days/Times to Go: Weekdays tend to be less busy than weekends. Arriving early in the morning can also help you avoid crowds and make the most of your time on the cays.
- Estimated Visit Duration: Most tours to Michaelmas and Upolu Cays last between 4 to 8 hours, including travel time to and from the mainland.
Location Details about Michaelmas and Upolu Cays (Australia)
Want to know where Michaelmas and Upolu Cays are located? These beautiful cays are part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Here's a bit more about their location.
- Where is: Michaelmas Cay is located approximately 40 kilometres northeast of Cairns, Queensland, Australia. Upolu Cay is situated slightly further north, also within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
- Location: The GPS coordinates for Michaelmas Cay are approximately 16°36′S 145°58′E. Upolu Cay's coordinates are around 16°34′S 145°56′E.
- Address: As natural formations, the cays don't have a street address. Access is primarily via boat tours departing from Cairns and Port Douglas.
- Parking Availability: Parking is available at the marinas in Cairns and Port Douglas where tour boats depart.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Access to the cays themselves may be challenging for wheelchair users due to the sandy terrain and boat transfers. It's best to check with individual tour operators regarding accessibility options.
How Much to Enter / Visit Michaelmas and Upolu Cays (Australia)
Planning a trip to Michaelmas and Upolu Cays and wondering about the costs? Here's what you need to know about tickets, tours, and prices.
- Tickets: There is no direct entry fee to visit Michaelmas and Upolu Cays. Access is typically gained through booking a tour with a licensed operator.
- Tour Price: Tour prices vary depending on the operator and the inclusions of the tour (e.g., snorkelling gear, lunch, glass-bottom boat). Prices generally range from AUD $150 to AUD $300 per person.
- Where to Buy: Tours can be booked online through Traveloka or directly with tour operators based in Cairns and Port Douglas.
- Pricing Variations: Prices are generally consistent throughout the week, but some operators may offer discounts for children or families.
How To Go to Michaelmas and Upolu Cays (Australia)
Figuring out how to get to Michaelmas and Upolu Cays? Since they are located offshore, the primary mode of transport is by boat. Here's a breakdown of how to get there.
- How to go to: The most common way to reach Michaelmas and Upolu Cays is by booking a tour from Cairns or Port Douglas. Several tour operators offer daily trips to the cays.
- Airport Routes: If you're flying into Cairns Airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or Ride Hailing to the Cairns Marlin Marina, where most tour boats depart.
- Public Transport Tips: Public transport options in Cairns include buses, but it's generally more convenient to use a taxi or Ride Hailing to reach the marina.
Things To Do in or near the Michaelmas and Upolu Cays
Looking for things to do around Michaelmas and Upolu Cays? These stunning locations offer a range of activities both on and off the islands. Here's a list of nearby attractions and activities to make your trip unforgettable.
- Activities in Michaelmas and Upolu Cays:
- Snorkelling and diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs.
- Bird watching, especially during the nesting season.
- Sunbathing on the pristine white sand beaches.
- Glass-bottom boat tours for those who prefer to stay dry.
- Photography to capture the stunning natural beauty.
- Nearby Activities:
- Visiting the Cairns Esplanade for swimming and recreation.
- Exploring the Daintree Rainforest, a World Heritage site.
- Taking a scenic railway journey to Kuranda.
- Visiting the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park to learn about indigenous culture.
- Enjoying a day trip to Fitzroy Island for hiking and snorkelling.
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Nearby MRT Station & Bus Stops near the Michaelmas and Upolu Cays Australia
Since Michaelmas and Upolu Cays are offshore, there are no MRT stations or bus stops directly on the islands. However, transport options are available to get you to the departure points for tours to the cays. Here's some information about nearby transport hubs.
- Nearby Bus Station: The Cairns City Bus Station is located in the city centre and is a hub for local bus services. From there, you can take a taxi or Ride Hailing to the Cairns Marlin Marina.
- Bus Stops Nearby: Several bus stops are located along the Cairns Esplanade and in the city centre, providing access to various parts of Cairns.
Tips To Go to Michaelmas and Upolu Cays (Australia) and Safety Tips
Planning a safe and enjoyable trip to Michaelmas and Upolu Cays? Here are some essential tips to keep in mind.
- What to Bring:
- Sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from the strong sun.
- A hat and sunglasses for added sun protection.
- Swimwear and a towel for swimming and snorkelling.
- A waterproof camera to capture underwater memories.
- Reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral reefs.
- Motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness.
- Tourist Safety Tips:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Be aware of the marine environment and avoid touching or disturbing coral or marine life.
- Follow the instructions of your tour guide and stay within designated areas.
- Wear appropriate footwear, especially when walking on the beach or rocks.
- Be mindful of the weather conditions and any potential hazards.
Best Hotel Area in Australia
Choosing the best area to stay in Australia can greatly enhance your travel experience. Each city and region offers unique attractions and vibes. Here are some of the best areas to consider for your stay.
- Sydney CBD: Ideal for first-time visitors, offering easy access to iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
- Melbourne CBD: Perfect for foodies and culture enthusiasts, with laneway cafes, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife.
- Gold Coast: Great for families and beach lovers, featuring theme parks, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Perth CBD: Suitable for business travellers and those seeking a mix of city life and outdoor activities, with parks, restaurants, and shopping.
- Adelaide CBD: A good choice for those interested in wine and history, with easy access to the Barossa Valley and historic buildings.
Where to Eat Inside or near Michaelmas and Upolu Cays (Australia)
While Michaelmas and Upolu Cays themselves don't have restaurants, you'll find plenty of great places to eat in nearby Cairns and Port Douglas. Here are some options to satisfy your appetite.
- Cafes/Restaurants:
- Ochre Restaurant (Cairns): Known for its modern Australian cuisine with an emphasis on native ingredients.
- Nu Nu Restaurant (Palm Cove): Offers beachfront dining with a focus on fresh seafood and local produce.
- Hemingway's Brewery (Cairns): A popular spot for craft beer and pub-style food with waterfront views.
- Local Street Food:
- Meat Pies: A classic Australian savoury pastry filled with meat and gravy.
- Sausage Sizzle: A simple yet satisfying BBQ sausage served on a slice of bread with onions and sauce.
- Fish and Chips: Freshly caught fish battered and fried, served with chips (fries).
Shopping Places near Michaelmas and Upolu Cays (Australia)
While Michaelmas and Upolu Cays are all about natural beauty, you can find excellent shopping options in the nearby cities. Here are some shopping places to explore.
- Cairns Central Shopping Centre: A large shopping mall in the heart of Cairns, offering a wide range of retail stores, department stores, and a food court.
- DFS Galleria Cairns: A luxury shopping destination featuring international brands and duty-free shopping.
- Rusty's Markets (Cairns): A vibrant weekend market offering fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs.
Best Hotels to Stay near Michaelmas and Upolu Cays (Australia)
Finding the perfect place to stay near Michaelmas and Upolu Cays is essential for a relaxing holiday. While there are no hotels directly on the cays, Cairns and Port Douglas offer a range of excellent accommodation options. Here are a few to consider.
- Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns: Offers luxurious waterfront accommodation with stunning views.
- Hilton Cairns: Located in the heart of Cairns, providing easy access to the city's attractions.
- Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa: A luxurious resort with spacious villas and a tranquil spa.
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Hotels with Swimming Pools near Michaelmas and Upolu Cays
Relaxing by the pool after a day of exploring Michaelmas and Upolu Cays sounds like a dream? Here are some hotels in the area with fantastic swimming pools.
- Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns: Features a stunning outdoor pool with views of the marina.
- Hilton Cairns: Offers a large outdoor pool surrounded by lush tropical gardens.
- Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa: Boasts a lagoon-style pool that winds through the resort.
Hotels with Parking near Michaelmas and Upolu Cays
Driving to your hotel near Michaelmas and Upolu Cays? Here are some hotels that offer convenient parking facilities.
- Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns: Provides secure parking for guests.
- Hilton Cairns: Offers both self-parking and valet parking options.
- Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa: Features ample parking for guests.
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Best Accommodations near Australia Airport
Need a convenient place to stay near an airport in Australia? Here are some top-rated hotels close to major airports, making your travel smoother.
- For those flying into Sydney Airport, the Mercure Sydney offers comfortable accommodation and easy access to the terminals.
- Another excellent option near Sydney Airport is Meriton Suites Coward Street Mascot, providing spacious suites and convenient amenities.
- If you're arriving at Melbourne Airport, consider the Ibis Styles Melbourne Airport for a budget-friendly and convenient stay.
- Alternatively, the Holiday Inn Melbourne Airport offers comfortable rooms and excellent facilities for travellers.
- For those travelling through Perth Airport, The Westin Perth provides luxurious accommodation and a relaxing atmosphere.
- Another great choice in Perth is Pan Pacific Perth, offering stylish rooms and convenient access to the city centre.
Average Room Rate hotels near Michaelmas and Upolu Cays
Planning your budget for hotels near Michaelmas and Upolu Cays? Average room rates can vary depending on the season and hotel type. It's always a good idea to check Traveloka for the latest prices and deals.
Generally, you can expect to find a range of options from budget-friendly accommodations to luxury resorts. Don't forget to use the promo code BOOKTRAVELOKA to get up to 8% OFF on your booking!
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Conclusion
When planning your trip to the stunning Michaelmas and Upolu Cays, booking through Traveloka offers a seamless and stress-free experience. With a wide range of options for accommodation and flights, Traveloka ensures you find the best deals to suit your budget and preferences. From luxurious hotels to affordable stays, Traveloka has something for everyone.
Traveloka's user-friendly platform allows you to easily compare prices, read reviews, and book your entire trip in one place. Plus, with exclusive deals and promotions, you can save even more on your travel expenses. Whether you're looking for cheap hotels nearby or the best flight options, Traveloka is your go-to travel companion.
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