Experiences You Can Only Have In Tropical North Queensland

Boasting spectacular reefs, rainforest, rivers and rare wildlife, Tropical North Queensland is as tough as it is awe-inspiring. Even tropical cyclones can’t keep it down.

The tropical north of Australia was hit hard in December 2023 by Tropical Cyclone Jasper which brought with it much damage and extraordinary heartache. While the community rallied immediately to support those who needed it most, widespread visitor cancellations only added to the economic strife. Some areas bounced back quickly in true Queensland style, while others in the north have only recently reopened after a lonely and costly few months. Now all are throwing open their hospitable arms with gusto.

Here we’ve rounded up seven excellent reasons to head north to experience its delights, escape the winter chills and support Aussie-owned businesses. That’s a win win win.

A bucket-list stay in Cairns

The international entrance to Tropical North Queensland, Cairns is the gateway to the reef. From backpackers to five-star stays, like the spacious Pullman near the waterfront or spirited Crystalbrook Riley where it’s all about fun, accommodation choices abound.

an aerial view of a woman relaxing by the pool at Crystalbrook Riley, Cairns — Soak up the tropical heat by the pool at Crystalbrook Riley.

Foodies can toss back oysters and nibble ceviche and rainbow trout tostadas in the vibing Calypso Club rum and seafood bar or share Middle Eastern bites from on high at rooftop bar Rocco. Drop into The Chambers Café to discover why the locals keep coming back for the Bubble & Squeak Croquettes, head to waterfront Salt House for seafood and cocktails or Miss Chief Bar & Eatery for modern Asian fare with flair.

plated meals at Rocco by Crystalbrook — Devour Mediterranean dishes at Rocco by Crystalbrook. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Fancy a drink? Tucked down an alley, Three Wolves serves up whiskey and bourbon-inspired drinks and delectable bites, while straight across the lane light-hearted Wolf Lane Distillery is the place for handcrafted tropical gins and liqueurs and more excellent cocktails.

Kuranda scenic railway — The Kuranda Scenic Railway delivers views of tropical rainforest and waterfalls. (Image: Queensland Rail Travel)

Add some art and culture at the expansive Cairns Art Gallery with an impressive calendar of exhibitions and Indigenous art, and don’t miss the Kuranda Scenic Rail trip, wending through forest and past waterfalls to Kuranda, 40 minutes out of town.

friends walking through the Original Rainforest Markets in Kuranda — Find everything from local arts to delicious eats at Kuranda Original Rainforest Markets. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland/James Vodicka)

Foodie trails in the Atherton Tablelands

The food bowl of the region, the Atherton Tablelands is a living mosaic of fertile fields laced with creeks and bushlands, bursting with fruits and nuts. There’s no better way to take in its spectacle than by drifting over the plains with a Hot Air Balloon as the sun rises, followed by bubbles and brekkie to start the day.

Hot Air Balloons in flight in Atherton Tablelands — Welcome a new day while drifting over the plains of the Atherton Tablelands. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Back on the ground, why not sample the foodie delights borne of the rich, volcanic soils, like freshly roasted coffee and chocolate treats at Coffee Works , the flavours of agave and rum at innovative boutique distillery Mt Uncle Distillery or wines made from red mangoes at Golden Drop Winery , the world’s first commercial mango winery. Beyond bevvies, snack with water views at historic Lake Barrine Teahouse , check out the cheeses at Gallo Dairyland and finish with tropical fruit treats at Emerald Creek Ice-Creamery .

Mt Uncle Distillery Atherton Tablelands — Stop by Mt Uncle Distillery for a tasting. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Don’t panic if food’s not your thing. Instead, you could take a dip in a volcanic crater at Lake Eacham , wander the quaint village of Yungaburra, delve into the area’s significant military history at Tolga Museum or marvel at the magical Curtain Fig Tree.

Two people swimming in Lake Eacham — Make time for swim in a volcanic crater at Lake Eacham. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Unbeatable entertainment at Savannah in the Round

In an event set to rock the Cairns hinterland, the Mareeba Rodeo Arena will come alive from 11-13th October with Savannah in the Round, an exhilarating three-day and night country music and camping festival.

Revellers gather at Savannah In The Round — Revellers gather at Savannah in the Round. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Featuring soulful Nashville-based Kip Moore as well as Aussie music legends like Lee Kernaghan, Hoodoo Gurus, Living Legends, Jon Stevens and indie pop band Sheppard, the event has dozens of artists lined up to perform on multiple stages over the long weekend.

Got your own van, tent or swag? There are sites for that, or you can Rent a Tent in the pop-up village. If you prefer your music camping festivals with a bit of luxury, pre-set up glamping bell tents with comfy beds, furnishings, linen and lighting supplied may be the go.

Loads of onsite food options will be available so no one goes hungry and bars will keep the revelling going. More information and tickets are available online now.

Reef and rainforest at Cape Tribulation

Land of the Yalanji people, Cape Tribulation is the only place on earth where two world heritage-listed sites directly connect—the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Only here can visitors explore the untouched 135 million-year-old rainforests and the next minute embrace the magic of the fringing reef. Add in isolated beaches, 4WD adventures, wildlife spotting and mountain hikes and it’s truly bucket list material.

Don’t miss the opportunity to ride a horse through forest and along the beach on a guided tour with Cape Trib Horse Rides and cool down in Mason’s (croc-free) swimming hole.

To get the adrenalin rushing, a thrilling speed boat ride with Ocean Safari out to the reef for a half-day eco-tour with snorkelling may be the ticket. Ever eaten a soursop or rollinia? (Hint: they’re tropical fruits). A tour with Cape Trib Farm will introduce you to these and more. Stay longer at Safari Lodge cabins or campsite so you’ve got time to take it all in.

Tropical fruits in Far North Queensland — Find all kinds of tropical fruits on offer. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

After the cape was cut off completely for three months, thankfully the connecting decimated roads have recently re-opened (with some restrictions) and visits are back on. Check with suppliers for updated road and tour information.

The wonders of the Great Barrier Reef

What’s a trip to Tropical North Queensland without taking in the wonders of the reef? Spanning over 2,300 kilometres down the coast, there’s a multitude of locations and ways to see it. Departing from Cairns, Reef Magic operates day trips to the outer reef where guests can snorkel in the sheltered coral lagoon taking in the colours and critters of the reef in the water, in a glass-bottomed boat or at the underwater viewing aquarium. Marine biologists as well as cultural guides are on hand too.

Woman and man snorkel with a turtle on the Great Barrier Reef — Nowhere on earth is quite like the Great Barrier Reef. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Of course, the reef isn’t just about snorkelling and diving. For something special, Nautilus Aviation can deliver guests to the pontoon by helicopter for a dramatic entrance and spectacular views on the way, and they also provide a range of shared scenic flights in the area. You can even ride an underwater scooter , travel in a mini-submarine or sleep under the stars on the reef.

The Milky Way above the Great Barrier Reef as seen from Reef Sleep — Reef Sleep gives guests an unbeatable experience of the Great Barrier Reef. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

One-of-kind wildlife encounters

From crocs to cassowaries, flying foxes to frogs, wild creatures are in abundance in the tropics. In fact, the Daintree is home to more than 3,000 species of plants, nearly half of Australia’s bird species and a third of our mammal species, 13 of which are endemic. Some you might want to get close to, others not so much.

A cassowary in the wild — It’s best to keep your distance if you spot a cassowary in the wild. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

At Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas an eco-certified wildlife sanctuary, you can interact with Aussie animals in five spacious created natural environments, feed wallabies or spot tree kangaroos. In the heart of Kuranda, visitors are guaranteed an experience with the region’s famous Ulysses and Cairns Birdwing butterflies at the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary with over 1500 butterflies in its enclosed dome.

Marvel at over 1500 butterflies inside the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Family-run FNQ Nature Tours offer fabulous opportunities to meet the local wildlife on small-group day and nocturnal tours accompanied by expert guides who know the best places for wildlife spotting, and lots more besides. Never spotted a platypus in the wild? With a 90 per cent success rate at spotting wild platypus, take a tour with these guys and the odds are with you. Bird-watchers and photographers are catered for with part or multi-day tours with like-minded seekers.

Tropical delights in Port Douglas and Mossman Gorge

Relaxed tropical Port Douglas is the perfect launch pad to explore this Queensland region. With an abundance of accommodation options, world-class dining, boutiques, funky bars and hip cafes, there’s a lot to keep you busy and thoroughly sated in town and a world of adventures and natural delights just beyond.

Start the morning with local fave The Little Larder or Whileaway Books & Café if you fancy books with breakfast, lunch on freshly-caught barramundi at Choo Choos at the Marina and sup on seafood, sangria and Spanish-inspired snacks at Seabean Spanish Bar & Tapas , and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Silky Oaks Lodge provides treehouse luxury or chill out in 58 hectares of private forest at Thala Beach Nature Reserve .

Unwind at Silky Oaks Lodge in the Daintree Rainforest.

With millions of years of ancient history to uncover, Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre at the entrance to the Daintree is an excellent place to get your bearings. Your Indigenous guide on a Dreamtime Walk will reveal some of the secrets of the forest and their own relationship with it or you soak up its wonders yourself on a self-guided walk.

a woman sitting on a huge rock at Mossman Gorge — Experience the magic of Mossman Gorge. (Image: Silky Oaks Lodge)

For more inspiration read our guide to visiting Tropical North Queensland.

Explore some of Australia’s most stunning coastlines on this epic route.

This scenic, 1800-kilometre Brisbane to Port Douglas road trip takes in some of Australia’s most beautiful landscapes, from the wildlife on Bribie Island to the rainforests of Far North Queensland. Our advice? Slow it down, take your time and really get to know this part of Australia.

Day 1: Brisbane to Noosa

Wake up in the luxurious Sofitel Brisbane Central , enjoy a hot buffet breakfast and a swim in the outdoor pool before hitting the road to travel north. Take the exit to Bribie Island to view the abundant wildlife.

aerial view of bribie island — Enjoy the beauty and animals of Bribie Island. (Image: TEQ)

In the afternoon, check into Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas hidden near Noosa National Park and spend the afternoon relaxing at the luxury Aqua Day Spa. Daredevils can book a seat on an Ocean View Helicopters tour and experience the adrenaline of exploring the Glasshouse Mountains from the air.

Before dinner, head to the Original Eumundi Markets just 25 minutes away or explore the nearby trails in the national park. For dinner, book a table at Park & Cove located just near your hotel and feast on a locally-sourced menu that changes with the seasons.

table spread at Park & Cove Novotel Sunshine Coast — Refuel at Park & Cove.

Day 2: Noosa to Bundaberg

Wake up to sounds of the rainforest outside your window and take the opportunity for a quick swim before you dive into a freshly cooked buffet breakfast at Park & Cove. After breakfast and an expertly brewed coffee, stroll down the hill and spend the morning shopping along Hastings Street in the various boutiques, or hire a kayak or surfboard and conquer the waves.

After lunch, head north for the three-hour drive to historic Bundaberg . If you feel like feeding a kangaroo or wallaby, visit the Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary . Once in Bundy, head to Spitter’s Farm just outside of town. This 160-acre property offers a unique experience in their deluxe glamping safari tents, where you can listen to the cows mooing as the sun sets.

baby kangaroo at australian wildlife Sanctuary — Say hello to the adorable creatures of Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. (Image: Jewels Lynch)

Day 3: Bundaberg to Rockhampton

Before getting back on the road, take time to visit the many museums, and, of course, the famous Bundaberg Rum Distillery for a tour. Then head to the Beef Capital of Australia, Rockhampton.

Although, ‘Rocky’ is surrounded by beef cattle farms, your first stop should be to the impressive Rockhampton Museum of Art , which features an art collection valued at over $16 million. Rest your head at the centrally-located Mercure Rockhampton overlooking the mighty Fitzroy River. Grab a quick swim in their outdoor pool before enjoying a steak at their in-house restaurant.

Day 4: Rockhampton to Mackay

Grab a strong coffee at your hotel and drive the short distance to the nearby Capricorn Caves for a morning tour of these natural limestone beauties. Then hit the road for the four-hour drive to Mackay.

Reward yourself with a swim in the large, resort-style pool at the Mantra Mackay . Overlooking the marina, it’s the perfect location from which to explore the city, before enjoying a sundowner and dinner at the popular Latitude 21 on the hotel terrace.

woman exploring the Capricorn Caves in queensland — Explore the Capricorn Caves. (Image: TEQ)

Day 6: Mackay to Townsville

Grab your breakfast to go, then head just out of town to Finch Hatton Gorge. Here, spend the morning ziplining 25 metres above the rainforest floor with Forest Flying . Head to Airlie Beach for lunch and a swim in the famous Airlie Beach Lagoon , before heading north to Townsville.

Hop on a 20-minute ferry – they leave regularly – and check into the stunning Peppers Blue on Blue Resort . Spend the evening swimming in their two pools with views across the private marina to Mount Cook National Park, before feasting on fresh seafood at their on-site restaurant, Boardwalk Restaurant and Bar.

aerial view of beach at Airlie Beach queensland — Dive into the crystal clear waters around Airlie Beach. (Image: TEQ)

Day 7: Townsville to Cairns

After a morning swim on one of Magnetic Island’s beautiful beaches, hop back on the ferry and travel north to the sleepy Mission Beach for lunch. You’ll be sandwiched by rainforest on one side, and the beach on the other.

Continue on to Cairns and check in at the centrally-located Novotel Cairns Oasis, where the lagoon-style pool and swim-up bar alone is worth the visit. Or continue north for 25 minutes to the coastal village of Palm Cove.

Once there it’s a tough choice between the luxurious, five-star Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple, or the beautifully designed Peppers Beach Club and Spa Palm Cove , where the pool has its very own beach.

two people in deck chairs by Novotel Cairns Oasis' lagoon-style pool — Relax by Novotel Cairns Oasis’ lagoon-style pool.

Day 8: To Port Douglas

No matter where you spent the night, your journey to Port Douglas will be one of the most scenic road trips you’ll ever experience. Following the coastline, travel past champagne-coloured beaches, offshore islands and submerged reefs, before rolling into town at Port Douglas.

Although you’ll be spoilt for choice with hotels, two of the best are Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas, which is closer to town (think stunning pool and walking distance to Macrossan Street) and the famous, five-star Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa , located a little further down the beach. If the 3000-metre-squared lagoon-style pool isn’t enough at this hotel, you’ll also find the exclusive Vie Spa and popular restaurant, Aluco Restaurant & Bar , widely known as being one of the finest restaurants in Port Douglas.

aerial view of pool at Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple — Revive from road-tripping in one of the best pools in Port Douglas.

Start planning your Queensland adventure at all.com.

These are experiences you can only have in Tropical North Queensland