Rainforests, railways, reefs. Balmy nights and beautiful days. Tropical North Queensland encompasses all of this and much, much more. Discover our list of the top things to do in Cairns, Port Douglas, Palm Cove, Airlie Beach, the Whitsundays and Magnetic Island…
Port Douglas
Can’t decide between the rainforest and the reef? Don’t fret! Port Douglas has you covered for both. Take a guided tour of the Daintree Rainforest where you’ll spot cassowaries and crocodiles, uncover secret swimming holes and hide behind waterfalls…there are endless adventures to be had!
Whether it’s by glass-bottomed boat, scuba suit or scenic flight, the Great Barrier Reef is on most people’s bucket lists and is definitely worth ticking off as soon as you can. From private picnics on sandy cays to snorkelling with turtles, you can choose a reef adventure to suit your tastes.
Port Douglas accommodation:
Mantra PortSea
Peppers Beach Club
Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland
Palm Cove
Named after its row of palm trees that line the beach, Palm Cove is a laid-back tropical village just 30 minutes from Cairns. Browse the goodies on offer at the Palm Cove Markets, held on the first Sunday of each month from April to December, stroll along the esplanade, or head into Cairns for some sightseeing.
Palm Cove accommodation:
Peppers Beach Club & Spa
Cairns
Head deep into the tropical rainforest through Barron Gorge National Park on board the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, approximately 20 minutes from Cairns city centre. Voted one of the best things to do in Cairns, the Skyrail offers a unique experience gliding through the spectacular rainforest canopy and descending to the forest floor for even more exploration by foot.
Cairns is also one of the main departure points for the Great Barrier Reef and its picturesque islands such as Fitzroy Island and Green Island. Book a day cruise and go island hopping, snorkelling or swimming in crystal clear waters.
Don’t forget to check out the Cairns Esplanade Swimming Lagoon, Cairns’ award-winning restaurants and bars and the plethora of night entertainment on offer.
Cairns accommodation:
Mantra Trilogy
Airlie Beach
Gateway to the Whitsundays, Airlie Beach is the perfect place to stay whilst exploring this beautiful region. Aside from plenty of shopping and dining in Airlie Beach itself, the world-famous Whitsunday Islands are located just offshore, home to the white silica sands of Whitehaven Beach, the Instagram-worthy Heart Reef and the rest of the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.
Airlie Beach accommodation:
Mantra Club Croc
Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland
Magnetic Island
Take the short 25 minute ride from Townsville aboard the Sealink Ferry and you’ll find yourself on Magnetic Island, or “Maggie”, as it’s called by locals. This quiet island is the perfect escape for those in need of some rest and relaxation, away from the daily grind.
Mount Cook is a focal point on Magnetic Island, and its World War II ruins can be accessed by one of the island’s many walking tracks. What else is there to do on the island? Embark on a bus or Jet Ski tour, go diving, enjoy a leisurely swim at Horseshoe Bay and finish the day with a spectacular sunset at West Point.
Magnetic Island accommodation:
Peppers Blue on Blue Resort
Click here to book your tropical escape.