Tropical North Queensland is a truely unique destination in Australia and the only place in the world where two natural World Heritage sites collide, but there’s more to this destination than it’s reef and rainforest.
I’ve visited this little slice of paradise a few times now and every time I return, I’m blown away by the beautiful rainforest that cascades down to the crystal-clear oceans, alive with the marine life. On land, the Crocodiles and Cassowaries are about as close to live dinosaurs as you can get. The saltwater crocodile has been around for over 240 million years, making the cassowary who has been around for a mere 65 million years look more like a spring chicken than living dinosaur. While in Tropical North Queensland, we chose to explore Cairns and Port Douglas along with a select few islands off the coast. This trip is a perfect example of the world-class tropical beauty right here in Australia!
Kuranda
While in North Queensland, we based our selves out of Peppers Resort in Port Douglas. Although we were only here for four days, we found this was the perfect time to see everything. On day one we arrived into Cairns airport and headed straight up to Atherton Tableland to visit the township – Kuranda. Only a 35minute drive from Cairns, this beautiful village amongst the rainforest boasts vibrant arts and culture with some unique sites to explore such as the Kuranda markets and Barron Falls. When we visited Kuranda we drove up the mountain however you can ride the skyrail rainforest cableway high above the canopy to reach Kuranda village.
Daintree Rainforest & Mossman Gorge
Day two we ventured out to Daintree National Park, through the worlds oldest rainforest to spend the day swimming in Mossman Gorge and hiking around the Daintree Rainforest. Quick tip: If you’re planning a visit make sure to hike the rainforest first and then cool off with a swim on your way back to the shuttle. Although I have enjoyed a swim in the Mossman Gorge on several occasions, it’s not recommended by the Mossman Gorge Centre. The Mossman River is unpredictable and can be a dangerous waterway so only swim in the Gorge if you are a strong swimmer and at your own risk.
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park
The Great Barrier Reef has to be one of the greatest natural attractions in the world and one of the biggest forces pulling travellers to trek across the world to visit Australia. For anyone wondering if it’s worth the journey? – In my opinion, it definitely is! There’s nothing like the beauty of the most colourful underwater playground that is the Great Barrier Reef.
After having visited the Low Isles on some of our previous visits, we ventured out to the Outer Reef. Although we didn’t see any turtles, there were plenty of fish, reef sharks and beautiful coral. The water clarity was amazing!
If you’re looking to travel to the Outer Reef I would recommend Quick Silver cruises for an enjoyable day out on the water. If you’re keen to visit the Low Isles, the catamaran sail with Sailaway is a really enjoyable option with a few island stop offs along the way!
Fitzroy Island
Just off Cairns you will find the stunning Fitzroy Island. To get to Fitzroy it’s a one-hour ferry ride from Cairns Marina. Although this island is so close to Cairns it’s practically untouched with only one resort, camp grounds and a barefoot beach bar. Then you have Nudey Beach – which is something else. Nudey Beach is one of the countries most awarded beaches. The water is so clear and within minutes of hitting the water, you’ll find yourself amongst beautiful coral reef and marine life. If you’re looking to see turtles, make sure you go swimming at high tide as the water is too shallow for the turtles to come into the reef on low tide.
To get to Nudey Beach, it’s a short walk through the rainforest. If you’re interested in a no-fuss island beach side bar with some amazing cocktails, ditch the last ferry home, stay at the resort and enjoy a few drinks while you watch the sunset and contemplate a great day. This island was absolutely magical to be honest the highlight of my trip to Tropical North Queensland.
Where To Next?
Lizard Island
Heron Island
Lady Elliot Island
Orpheus Island
Whitsundays
Wallaman Falls