Visiting Queensland is right of passage for anyone travelling around Australia. Sun-drenched beaches, picturesque waterfalls and palm-fringed islands beautifully encapsulate the tropical paradise that is Far North Queensland.
Cairns is the perfect tropical paradise which over the years has become the hub for travellers to explore all this region has to offer. Served by Cairns International Airport, this gateway provides easy access to the region and the famous Great Barrier Reef.
Also within easy reach are locations such as Kuranda, the Atherton Tablelands, Port Douglas, and Mossman, as well as the famed wonders of the Daintree rainforests of Cape Tribulation.
Running alongside the waterfront, Cairns Esplanade is the life blood of this city. It boasts a multitude of restaurants and nightlife and at its heart lies the Esplanade Lagoon, a swimming pool which more than makes up for the city’s lack of beach.
If it’s beaches you’re after, then you don’t have to look far. Driving north out of Cairns you’ll find many perfect spots including Trinity Beach, Holloways Beach, Kewarra Beach, Palm Cove, and Ellis Beach. Get an early start if you want to get some great shots, shooting the sunrise at Palm Cove is a must.
Thirty minutes’ drive from Cairns is the picturesque village of Kuranda. This unique and secluded town is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest and is a key destination for many tourists who visit the region for its hidden beauty and its famous markets. Many travellers choose to ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway to the mountaintop village, and many more the Rainforest Cableway. From the cableway, travellers can experience panoramic views over one of the oldest rainforests in the world and catch a glimpse of the spectacular Barron Falls.
A forty-five-minute ferry ride from Cairns will get you to the island paradise of Fitzroy Island. This tropical haven of white sandy beaches, sparkling blue waters and lush forests is a popular tourist attraction and it’s not hard to see why. Enjoy time snorkelling, diving, trail walking and simply relaxing on the beach. Make sure you make the short walk around from the main beach to Nudey beach, you won’t be disappointed!
Inland from Cairns is the fertile plateau of the Atherton Tablelands. This region is dominated by tropical rainforests and rivers which wind their way through the mountaintops. Hidden within the plateau are many waterfalls, including the spectacular torrents of Zillie and Ellinjaa Falls. Perhaps the most well-known is Millaa Millaa Falls, this picture-perfect falls is a great place to picnic and cool off on a hot day.
Drive an hour north of Cairns and you will reach the wonderful town of Port Douglas. Take a stroll down Four Mile Beach or dine at one of the towns many cafes and restaurants.
A little further north you’ll find the natural beauty of tropical Mossman Gorge. Wander through the ancient rainforest and marvel at the amazing array of plants and trees. The walk takes you past beautiful streams, giant fig trees and along the Mossman River where you can take a refreshing dip.
Cape Tribulation is a truly unique place where two UNESCO World Heritage listed sites can be found, the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. This tropical haven spans mountainous rainforests, spectacular gorges, and golden beaches which an abundance of flora and fauna call home.
Home to the Kuku Yalanji People, Cape Tribulation is a place of extensive spiritual significance and natural beauty. For those seeking to witness the true wonders of Far North Queensland Cape Tribulation is the place to be.
Save Travels! Richard