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.

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.

These are experiences you can only have in Tropical North Queensland