Cairns to Townsville: Exploring the Hinchinbrook Way

A quintessential Tropical Queensland road trip awaits.

Only 350 kilometres of road connect Cairns to Townsville, and you can drive it in just over four hours. But really, it’s best to take four days. Or four weeks. Known as The Hinchinbrook Way , this route is home to ancient rainforests, Australia’s highest single-drop waterfall, rugged tropical islands and the Great Barrier Reef running the whole way along.

It’s a place where breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife, world-class fishing experiences, delicious, locally sourced food, inspirational art and 60,000 years of culture are all woven into one incredible road trip. Eager to explore? Here’s our guide to the best places to stop from Cairns to Townsville.

Mission Beach

white water rafting with Raging Thunder Adventures — Brave the river rapids for a potent hit of adrenaline. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Made up of four beautiful beach villages (Bingil Bay, North Mission, Wongaling Beach and South Mission), Mission Beach is a great place to start your off-the-beaten-path tour.

Aside from uncrowded beach time and local cafe gems, there’s a surprising amount of high-adrenaline activities to get stuck into. From tandem skydiving and white water rafting to exploring the Outer Great Barrier Reef , you’ll leave feeling like you’ve accomplished something unbelievable.

a woman exploring the castle at Paronella Park — Walking around Paronella Park is like falling into a fairytale. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Paronella Park is also nearby if you’re interested in something a little more low-key but no less intriguing. This surreal parcel of land has a stone structure that resembles a small castle hidden among a plethora of verdant foliage.

The park’s ‘refreshment rooms’ were inspired by the late owner’s childhood memories of Catalan castles. Stay a while and stroll around the park, soaking up the abundant flora and fauna and admiring Mena Creek Falls.

Hinchinbrook Island

an aerial view of the sandy beaches at Thorsborne Trail — Tackle the epic 32-kilometre Thorsborne Trail. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Just a boat ride away from Cardwell or Lucinda is Hinchinbrook Island , where sapphire water, sandy beaches and emerald rainforest collide.

With no resorts or vehicles around, the island remains relatively untouched, so you’re free to choose your own adventure by foot; hike, kayak, or cast a line from a secluded beach; marvel at the picturesque landscapes or snorkel the fringing Great Barrier Reef Marine Park waters.

a man standing on a rock admiring the Zoe Falls — Stop to take in the sights at Zoe Falls. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Most bushwalking trails on the island can be done in just a few hours, but if you’ve got time up your sleeve and have a thirst for adventure, you may want to tackle the Thorsborne Trail. This epic 32-kilometre walk is rated as one of the top 10 walks on the planet and should take you around four days to complete while camping along the way.

A permit to hike the Thorsborne Trail can be booked out months in advance, but there are plenty of day trips to enjoy too. Camp overnight at Zoe Bay for a castaway treat.

Ingham

a wild cassowary in the forest, TYTO Wetlands — Spot a wild cassowary at TYTO Wetlands. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Along The Hinchinbrook Way, you’ll find bakeries and cafes, steakhouses, and pubs, as well as Queensland’s Little Italy – Ingham . Renowned for its exceptional diversity and quality of Italian culture, make sure to sample the region’s finest Italian-inspired delicatessens.

Ingham is the main town centre of the Hinchinbrook Region, so it’s absolutely worth carving a dent into your itinerary to spend more time here. There’s a variety of hotels, motels, B&Bs, and a caravan park to choose from, so it couldn’t be easier to base yourself here.

a couple enjoying a picnic at TYTO Wetlands — The wetlands make for a perfect backdrop to a romantic picnic. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

You’ll also find a birdwatcher’s paradise at TYTO Wetlands . With over 240 species of birds to spot, a myriad of photographic opportunities exist along its extensive walking tracks, viewing platforms, and 11-metre-tall observation tower. Time your visit for early morning or late afternoon and look out for the adorable crimson finch, red right down to the end of its beak.

On your way out of Ingham, stop for a taste of the tropics at the iconic Frosty Mango and try unusual tropical fruits (or ice cream flavours) like sapodilla, canistel, soursop and Brazilian cherry. Tip: abiu fruit tastes just like crème caramel.

Paluma Range National Park

an aerial view of Abergowrie State Forest — Abergowrie State Forest is surrounded by exotic pine plantations and eucalypt forests. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Nearby is Paluma Range National Park, famous for its idyllic rainforest setting at Jourama Falls. Its swimming holes and shallow streams are a cooling escape on a hot day. Or a little further out in the scenic Herbert River Valley is Abergowrie State Forest, where you can stroll along the 1.6-kilometre return Rainforest Walk, relax in your very own calm water rocky nooks and stop for a BBQ lunch.

Girringun National Park

a scenic aerial view of Wallaman Falls — Wallaman Falls is the highest single-drop waterfall in Australia. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

This is the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, so you aren’t short of wonderful waterfalls for a freshwater swim . Among them, Wallaman Falls in Girringun National Park is Australia’s highest permanent single-drop waterfall (268 metres) and throws misty beauty across the surrounding rainforest.

But that’s not all that you’ll find here – there’s also Herbert River. Abundant big fish swim in these warm waters, and fishing fans will enjoy many world-class fishing opportunities . Take a charter boat and try your luck at bagging barramundi, coral trout, red emperor, and giant trevally. You can also get out into the rugged landscapes of Herbert River Gorge and try your luck at heli-fishing.

Mungalla Station

Learn more about the history and culture of the Nywaigi Aboriginal people at this award-winning cattle station , where you can tour the property and its old homestead, enrich yourself with cultural experiences, spot birds and crocodiles, find out about the Indigenous relationship with the environment, and try your hand at throwing a boomerang. You’ll also learn about Pacific Islander and European settler influences on the land.

Forrest Beach

While you’re spoilt for beaches on this stretch of coast, Forrest Beach is a particularly special small coastal locality, running right over the horizon, and dragging your gaze out toward several islands. You’ll find patrolled sections, netted areas for swimming, and plenty of empty sand for a romantic sunset stroll or – if you stay overnight – an early morning jog. No complaints about the little town either, which has accommodation options and provides fish and chips or a cold pub beer to round off a lovely day.

Orpheus Island

Surrounded by a national park, decorated with fine beaches and fringed in reefs, the secluded Orpheus Island is not to be missed and has plenty of snorkelling opportunities.

The recently restored Yanks Jetty, used by American ships and submarines during the Second World War, is the perfect spot to bliss out for the day. Duck your head into a big blue world filled with colourful corals, fish, and occasional turtles and reef sharks. You can camp overnight or stay at a luxury resort on the island.

Now you’ve arrived in this tropical city of Townsville, check out our ultimate guide on what to do in Townsville.

This article was originally written by Brian Johnston with updates by Jemma Fletcher.

As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?

Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.

Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.

Noosa Rivermouth And Main Beach — Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.

Where to eat in Noosa

Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.

There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).

There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .

diners at Lucio's Marina in noosa in winter — Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)

Where to stay in Noosa

Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.

There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.

For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.

a beachfront swimming pool at Netanya Noosa — Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)

Things to do on land

There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.

A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.

Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.

woman enjoying the view after hiking through Noosa National Park, noosa in winter — Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)

Things to do in the water

Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.

You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.

Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.

For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.

women kayaking through Noosa everglades noosa in winter — Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)

Book your winter getaway in Noosa at visitnoosa.com.au.

Cairns to Townsville drive: Top places to stop on this epic road trip