Our own Double Island - Australia launch transfers guests between Palm Cove and Double Island. Boat transfers are approximately 20 minutes in duration and depart from and return to the main pier at the northern end of Palm Cove.

To get from Palm Cove to Double Island in 2026, the most popular and accessible method is by kayak or Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP). The island is located only about 1.5 kilometers (just under a mile) offshore from the Palm Cove jetty, and the paddle across typically takes between 20 and 40 minutes depending on the wind and tide. Several local operators, such as Pacific Watersports, offer guided sunrise or half-day tours that include snorkeling over the fringing reefs and exploring the island's unique limestone caves. While Double Island was historically home to an exclusive private resort, access for day-trippers is generally restricted to the beaches and surrounding waters. It is a vital safety warning to check the weather forecast before heading out, as the "Coral Sea" currents can become deceptively strong in the channel between the mainland and the island, even on days that look calm from the shore.