Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
1 000 m
Tips
What to bring, best time, local rules
What to Bring
SPF50+ cream
Water
Towel
Swimsuit
Flip-flops
Cash
First aid kit
Best Time to Swim
Swimming is possible year-round, but during stinger season (November–May) only within the protective net. In the morning the water is calmer and there are fewer people.
Local Rules
During stinger season, swimming is allowed only within the protective net. Swimming in river mouths is prohibited due to crocodiles.
Frequently asked questions
Ellis Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, average temperature +26.0°C, warms up to +29.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Ellis Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.2 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Ellis Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Ellis Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 1 000 metres.
Ellis Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June, July, August, September, October. It ends in May. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Ellis Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — high. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Ellis Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: jellyfish, crocodiles. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Ellis Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Ellis Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Ellis Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Ellis Beach Bar & Grill. Cuisines available: Australian. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Ellis Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, First aid kit.
Ellis Beach: when is the best time to swim?
Swimming is possible year-round, but during stinger season (November–May) only within the protective net. In the morning the water is calmer and there are fewer people.
Ellis Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
During stinger season, swimming is allowed only within the protective net. Swimming in river mouths is prohibited due to crocodiles.
Ellis Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children and lovers of quiet nature holidays. Not suitable for lovers of active nightlife and surfing.
Ellis Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Ellis Beach is the last of the northern beaches of Cairns before Port Douglas, with a palm-lined esplanade and a campsite right by the ocean.
Ellis Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Quiet place, Wide sandy strip, Palm-lined esplanade, Stinger net, Campsite nearby, Few people. Cons: Jellyfish in season, Crocodiles in river mouths, Little infrastructure, Remote location.
Ellis Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Palm-lined Esplanade, Ellis Beach Campground. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Ellis Beach: how do I get to the city of Cairns?
The beach is located near the city of Cairns. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Cairns.