north queensland tourist attractions

North Queensland Road Trip Itinerary (One for Your Bucket List)

Buckle up your seatbelts as this guide shares all the must-see places, the best activities and practical advice for a North Queensland road trip.

The towns and cities in Tropical North Queensland are bucket list destinations for many, with the opportunity to witness lush rainforests, spectacular waterfalls, sublime beaches, and remarkable natural beauty in not one, but two World Heritage-listed sites.

As the second-largest state in Australia, there is a lot to discover in Queensland. Often the hardest decision when planning your North Queensland road trip itinerary is choosing the places to visit as many interlacing roads connect you with dreamy locations. 

Within this guide, you will find places to stop from Townsville to Cooktown, practical information you will need on a road trip, sights to see and activities you won’t want to miss. I have also included a FREE map to help plan your trip.

Continue reading to find out all this and more.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read the disclaimer for more information.

Featured Image: Great Barrier Reef Drive © Tourism and Events Queensland

Table of Contents

Far North Queensland Itinerary

Townsville to Cooktown Distance: 649 km (one way)

How: Car or Van (4WD required in some areas)

Where: Townsville to Cooktown

Date: All year round

What to Expect

Driving from Townsville to Cooktown can be broken up into three road trips. The Great Green Way is between Townsville and Cairns and where you’ll discover many national parks, stunning beaches, incredible waterfalls (including the tallest in Queensland), natural rock pools, and fascinating tourist attractions, including a castle!

The next part of your journey is The Great Barrier Reef Drive , which covers 140 kilometres (one way) between Cairns and Cape Tribulation. One of the prettiest drives in Queensland, and where you will find popular beachside towns, including Palm Cove and Port Douglas. Explore the coastline, take a day trip to the outer reef, visit the Whitsundays Islands, or detour inland to explore the unspoilt countryside, and mountainous rainforests.          

The final leg of the road trip is from Cape Tribulation to Cooktown on the Bloomfield Track . This scenic drive is nestled between ancient rainforest and a pristine coastline. It is also a stretch of road that won’t be for everyone as it requires a 4WD. I have been told the breathtaking scenery is worth the drive, but always check the road conditions before venturing out as it is subject to fallen trees, flooding, and potholes.

Note: The cities and towns along both these stretches of road are big on traveller experiences. To save you money and time I have included in this guide links to all the top-rated tours.

How Long Do I need for a Queensland Self-Drive Trip?

When looking at a map, the distance from Townsville to Cooktown can be quite deceiving, and this drive is not something you would want to accomplish in a few days. Savour the journey and soak up the very best of the region’s highlights.

The below North Queensland itinerary was created to offer insights into destinations that are situated along this part of the Queensland coast. A recommendation if you are returning on the same route is to stop at the places you missed when travelling north. Alternatively, take some of the detours I mention below or take another popular road trip through the Queensland Outback .

Far North Queensland Road Trip – Campervan or Car

If you don’t have a form of transportation for this trip, or if you want to experience a taste of the vanning life, hire a car or campervan. For car hire, Inspire Family Travel recommends Bargain Car Rentals . They are an Australian-owned and operated company with 14 locations and a wide range of vehicles.

Their focus is on exceeding customer expectations, value for money, and exceptional service.

Pro Tip: Always book your car in advance as this is the best way to avoid disappointment, and it will save you time and money. Bargain Car Rentals has kindly offered you a discount code. Simply use the code FAMTRAVEL when you make a booking and this will save you 5% on their best rates.

If you are hiring a campervan, download the Wikicamps Australia app to find caravan parks and camping locations along the route.

Northern Queensland Road Trip Times

To appreciate the length of these road trips, the distance from Townsville to Cairns (alone) is 347 km’s and takes approximately 4.5 hours.

Those figures do not take into account activities, overnight stops, or sightseeing along the way. As I mentioned above I suggest breaking up the drive by exploring different destinations.

As a practical guide, I have mapped out the times and distances between each of the recommended places as a guide.

• Townsville to Ingham: 111 km | 1 hr 24 min
• Ingham to Mission Beach: 123 km | 1 hr 26 min
• Mission Beach to Innisfail: 52 km | 40 min
• Innisfail to Babinda: 30 km | 23 min
• Babinda to Cairns: 60 km | 50 min
• Cairns to Port Douglas: 67 km | 1 hr
• Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation: 84 km | 1 hr 46 min
• Cape Tribulation to Cooktown: 102 km | 2 hr

Tropical North Queensland Map

Map out your adventure along the three road journeys using the below resource that has been created if you are taking a QLD road trip.  

Click this link to download a quick road trip guide and interactive map . Included in the Google map are highlights of what not to miss at the destinations, along with optional detours and day trips along the way. 

When starting to plan things to do in far North Queensland, you will notice there are many places to visit, activities to enjoy and sights to see. If you have the flexibility to travel at a slower pace, you may choose to stop at many of the locations on this list. If you are short on time, use the information provided to assist in selecting the destinations that stand out the most, and add the others to your bucket list for a future far north Queensland holiday.   

Tip: Always check the road conditions before embarking on your journey.

Stop 1: Townsville

The Great Green Way road trip starts in Townsville.

A place where the sun is shining most of the year Townsville is at the centre of North Queensland’s spectacular natural attractions – waterfalls, rainforests, islands and the Great Barrier Reef.

The 2.5-kilometre beachfront promenade known as The Strand was purpose-built with enjoyment in mind. Take advantage of the playgrounds, walking and bike paths, picnic areas and free water park. Enjoy a meal at a local café and finish off with gelato while sitting under the shady palm trees.

Depending on how adventurous you feel drive or hike up to Castle Hill lookout for a 360-degree view over Townsville and across to Magnetic Island. For a closer look at the beautiful Magnetic Island jump on a ferry and in just 20 minutes you can be exploring sublime beaches and eucalypt forests.

Stay: Click here to find all the accommodation options and best rates in Townsville

Related: Read more about Townsville & Magnetic Island here

Stop 2: Ingham

If you are searching for some European culture on your road trip, then stop off in Ingham. Affectionately referred to as “Little Italy” due to more than half the population being of Italian descent. As the heart of the sugar cane industry, many Italian migrants came to work in Ingham, which now has one of the largest sugar mills in Australia.

Whilst in Ingham visit the unique 90-hectare natural TYTO Wetlands . Home to over 245 different bird species, native Australian wildlife and an abundance of tropical plants. The area is easy to explore on foot with four kilometres of walkways with lookouts to stop at along the way. Visit the wetlands at dusk to spot the endangered eastern grass owl, which the TYTO wetlands were named after.

An event that supports the economic diversity within the community which has been celebrated for over 25 years is the annual Australian Italian Festival . Italian food, world-class entertainment, market stalls, and free amusement rides are some of what you may discover at this authentic cultural event.

Just a short 52 kilometres drive southwest of Ingham inGirringun National Park is where you can find Australia’s highest permanent single drop waterfall at an extraordinary 268 metres – Wallaman Falls . The landscape changes from open farmland to tropical rainforest as you travel up the windy mountain road to the falls. Keep an eye out for the endangered southern cassowaries that wander the sides of the road. There are two vantage points to admire the falls from when you arrive. The main lookout is a hop skip and jump from Wallaman Falls car park and where you can gain that birds-eye perspective of this awe-inspiring spectacle. For a closer look hike through the open forest on the 3.2-kilometre track down to the base of the falls.

Tip: The hike down to the base of the falls is a steep 228-metre descent, and what goes down must come up!

A trip to Wallaman falls can easily be turned into a day outing by packing a picnic to have in the day-use area near the main lookout and there are also shorter walking tracks in the area to enjoy. 

Where to Stay at Ingham

Motel Ingham and Tropixx Motel and Restaurant both rate highly for somewhere to stay in Ingham.

While 30 km’s up the road along the Cassowary Coast is Hinchinbrook Marine Cove Resort . The four-star motel offers waterfront accommodation and is highly popular with families.

Travelling north towards Cardwell you may want to consider visiting these wonders of nature:

Hinchinbrook Island

If you love the outdoors and adventure, but not crowds then the pristine Hinchinbrook Island is the ideal place to visit with only 40 people permitted to stay at any one time to prevent damage to the island’s biodiversity. The island has four walking tracks from easy to the more adventurous, including the famous 32-kilometre Thorsborne Trail. Hinchinbrook Island is a nature lovers paradise with a plethora of plant and tree species, a variety of mangroves, and many bird and butterfly species, such as the brilliant blue Ulysses butterfly.

Practical Information: There is a ferry company in Cardwell that conducts day trips to Hinchinbrook Island.

The Cardwell Spa Pool

Social media can be thanked for this relatively unknown swimming location becoming one of the must-visit destinations in Tropical North Queensland . Another natural delight and a geological wonder around these parts. The pools are located in the town of Cardwell and are a magnificent blue colour due to the water running underground picking up minerals from the sedimentary rocks along the way before flowing into the creek.

Tip: As the pools depth changes depending on the season, it is best to check with the Cardwell Visitor and Heritage Centre to check the water levels. It is also important to note there are no toilet facilities or bins in the area. Enjoy the area, but only leave footprints.

Murray Falls

Another top natural attraction (in fact the top thing to do in Cardwell per TripAdvisor) and sublime swimming area great for families is found 41 kilometres north-west of Cardwell. Murray Falls is located in the picturesque foothills of the Kirrama Range, where lush mountain ranges meet tropical lowlands. It is here where the waters of the Murray River flow over boulders into the pools below. There are two marked swimming zones, or just take in the beauty of the permanent waterfall via the viewing platforms.

Adjacent to the falls is a grassed camping area , public toilets and picnic tables.

Stop 3: Mission Beach

Travelling north of Townsville you will pass fruit plantations, sugar cane farms & coastal towns. Mission Beach is one of those coastal gems people visit to enjoy either some R&R or adventure activities surrounded by a pristine tropical paradise.

The jewel on the crown would be the golden beach that stretches for more than 14 kilometres linking the sleepy coastal villages in the area.

With Mission Beach being located between the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics there is natural beauty around every corner.

Treck the 4 kilometre round trip to Bicton Hill in Clump Mountain National Park and be rewarded with incredible views at the summit lookout. If this is more energy than you want to exert take a stroll along Kennedy Walking Track. A 4 kilometre (one way) path where lush green rainforests meet beaches and rocky headlands. Take in the vistas of the Family Group of Islands and keep an eye out for cassowaries and wallabies on land and turtles, dolphins and dugongs swimming in the turquoise seas.

To see the sights on two wheels hire a bike from Mission Beach bike hire and opt for either a rainforest trail through licuala palm forests or venture down to South Mission Beach by either hitting the pavement or soft sand at low tide.

If you are ticking quintessential Queensland Islands off your bucket list then Mission Beach is the best hub for a day trip to Dunk Island. Catch the Mission Beach water taxi and enjoy the walking trails and impressive scenery.

Stay: There are many options for accommodation at Mission Beach. Click here to find the best deals and check reviews.

Stop 4: Innisfail

70 kilometres south of Cairns, sitting at the junction of the Johnstone and South Johnstone Rivers is the rural town of Innisfail. The agricultural township of Innisfail is the Cassowary Coast’s biggest town and the banana and sugar plantations are the major economic driver. Tourism is a growth industry due to the town’s proximity to the World Heritage Area’s and beautiful natural attractions.

Within Innisfail, it is worth taking a self-walking tour of the town. Full of history, Innisfail has one of the best collections of art deco buildings in Australia which were built after the devasting cyclone in 1918 destroyed most of the town.

For a wildlife experience along with an opportunity to learn more about the history and biodiversity of the Innisfail area, board a custom-built Catamaran and cruise along the Johnstone River with Snapping Tours . Enjoy beautiful scenery and spot crocodiles on the sandbanks or underneath the water.

Practical Information: Wildlife Tours operate on Thursday, Friday and Saturday only at 10:30 am from April to October

Only 20-minutes outside of Innisfail is the unique and breathtaking heritage-listed tourist attraction, Paronella Park . A Spanish immigrant from Catalonia named Jose Paronella was inspired by childhood memories and dreamt of building an impressive fantasy castle including a movie theatre and ballroom for the enjoyment of the public. Opening in 1935 this incredible structure has seen many natural disasters in its time, including floods, fires and cyclones. The new owners see the historic importance of the building and are preserving and maintaining the building and property which boasts over 7,000 plants. Spend the day wandering the grounds, learning about the fascinating history and pack a picnic or stop in at the on-site café for lunch, morning or afternoon tea.

Don’t miss out on visiting this enchanting place. Click here to buy your entry tickets

Another local attraction 30 minutes out of town isthe Mamu Rainforest Canopy Walkway in Wooroonooran National Park. This is a fabulous place to explore the wet tropics. There is just over one kilometre of walking tracks, a 350 metre long elevated walkway that hovers 15 metres above the ground, and a 37-metre observation tower that offers sweeping views over the homeland of the Mamu Aboriginal people.

Practical Information: Admission fees apply. Click here to purchase your tickets

Swapping green scenery for blue venture 12 minutes outside of Innisfail to the spectacular Etty Bay . Known as one of Tropical North Queensland’s most scenic and unspoilt beaches it is a stunning place where you can walk along a glorious stretch of golden beach with the rainforest on one side and the ocean on the other. Keep your eyes open for the southern cassowary who are well-known in this area.

Stay: There are several motels in Innisfail if you are searching for accommodation . Click here to find the best rates.  

Don’t miss out on grabbing the free interactive map – the best North Queensland road trip planner

Optional Detours

Before continuing onto Babinda, there are more magnificent attractions you may want to experience not far from Innisfail.

Milla Milla Falls

One of the most photographed waterfalls in all of Australia located 60 kilometres west of Innisfail

Josephine Falls

A spectacular waterfall in Tropical North Queensland and another place where you can enjoy a swim in the refreshing cool waters. Located 28 kilometres north-west of Innisfail.

Lake Eacham

Located 90 kilometres north-west of Innisfail in Crater Lakes National Park. Lake Eacham is a 65-metre deep lake that was once a volcanic crater that is now filled with water. The serene blue waters are now a popular swimming area. Other activities at Lake Eacham include bird watching, walking around the lake, kayaking and canoeing.

Stop 5: Babinda

Nestled about 65km south of Cairns is the little town of Babinda. You can’t pass on by Babinda without visiting the beautiful Babinda Boulders.

The cool, crystal clear waters flow down from Mt Bartle Frere, being Queensland’s tallest mountain. You’ll find different waterholes along the creek, which are spotted with huge boulders that have been shaped by the flowing waters. The main waterhole adjacent to the carpark is the best for kids as the water there is shallow and safe. Take an easy stroll along the boardwalk from the carpark to explore Devil’s Pools and the Aboriginal legend that goes along with it, further downstream.

Just 100 metres from the swimming hole is The Boulders Campground . There are fairly limited spots in this free camping area, with toilets and showers onsite. If you miss out on a campground there, just 10 minutes away on the other side of town is the Babinda Rotary Rest Area, where you can camp for up to three days for a donation. You’ll find lovely trees, a park, plus showers and toilets alongside a gorgeous running creek.

Tip: Beware that you’re in crocodile country, so swimming in the creek, although tempting, is not recommended! You are safe to swim further upstream at the Babinda Boulders though as there are no crocs up there.

Although Babinda is not huge, you could easily spend a few days in town relaxing and enjoying the natural surroundings and exploring the local gallery, eateries and other businesses. If you only have one day in Babinda, head straight to The Boulders, as that’s the main attraction not worth missing.

Contributed by Emma from MY RIG Adventures

Stop 6: Cairns

Cairns is the ultimate tropical holiday destination in North Queensland. It has an abundance of attractions and sights nearby making it perfect for a combined city and ocean break.

With everything from beaches to wildlife encounters, you will find plenty of things to do with kids in Cairns. From the world-class Cairns Aquarium , and Zoom Wildlife Dome , where you can soar over an indoor wildlife park on a zip line, to the free public swimming pool – Cairns Lagoon. 

The Cairns Esplanade is always a hub of activity, with restaurants serving up the freshest seafood and tastiest cuisine from around the world. 

Cairns is perfect for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors, with many options for day trips within an hour or two of the city. Having your own transport is the best way to experience this region and you’ll need at least four days!

A day trip to Green Island is a popular option to include in your  Cairns itinerary , just 45 minutes by catamaran from Cairns Marina. It’s a great spot for taking kids snorkelling as the reef is right off the beach, with a lifeguard to supervise.

Click here to book a half or full-day trip to Green Island.

Catching the Kuranda Scenic Rail up the mountain is another experience you won’t want to miss when in Cairns. Take the cable car back down or in reverse so you can enjoy both on your visit to the rainforest village. 

The Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail is one of the most popular things to do in this area. Click here to book tickets as you will want to experience it for yourself!

Stay: The Shangri-La at the Marina is the perfect location, close to restaurants, The Esplanade, Lagoon, and of course, the Marina. 

Contributed by Holly from Four Around The World

Stop 7: Port Douglas

Port Douglas sits in Northern Queensland beside the coral sea. Four Mile Beach is the most popular in the area and is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast of Australia . There are nets available in stinger season and the lifeguard patrolled area is towards the northern end of the beach.

For a fun way to spend an afternoon head to the Flagstaff Hill Trail. This quick 1.5-kilometre walk has stunning views of the Coral Sea and Low Isles . It also leads to Four Mile Beach so the two activities can be easily combined.

On Sunday mornings you should make a note to visit the Port Douglas Markets. Shop for local produce, souvenirs, and artisanal products. Kids will love exploring the different stalls and picking out things to buy.

Practical Information: The Port Douglas markets are open every Sunday from 8.00 am to 2.00 pm

Another fantastic activity to try in Port Douglas is river drift snorkelling on the Mossman River. Suitable for kids from 4 years this tour is a great family experience. See dozens of different species of fish, turtles and maybe a platypus if you’re lucky. 

Purchase your tickets for this family-friendly activity here.

For an idyllic day trip head to Thala Beach Nature Reserve. They offer activities such as nature walks, star gazing tours, or experiences with local Aboriginal communities. You could even stay overnight at one of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the world that are scattered throughout the rainforest canopies. They offer guests a magical opportunity to become well acquainted with the natural world of northern Queensland.

Contributed by Victoria from Guide Your Travel Blog

Stay: Alternative accommodation in Port Douglas can be found here

Have More Time?

While visiting Port Douglas add a trip to Daintree National Park and Mossman Gorge to your itinerary. With spell-binding natural beauty around every corner, you will leave with a new appreciation of mother nature. If you are searching for a tour to experience the Daintree, Mossman Gorge and Cape Tribulation check out this one here!

Stop 8: Cape Tribulation

Known for its remote beaches, unique landscapes and the stunning rainforest in Daintree National Park, Cape Tribulation is an amazing place to spend a couple of days. This is quite a remote part of the North Queensland coast and it is just under a 2-hour drive from Port Douglas, which includes crossing on the Daintree River Ferry . The road is sealed to Cape Tribulation but there is a 4-wheel drive track that continues to Cooktown. Exploring the rainforests and beaches on one of the many short trails, like the Dubuji Boardwalk and Madja Botanical Walk, is one of the highlights of a trip here and can easily be done with kids. You can explore yourself or take a guided tour to learn about the diverse flora and fauna that exist in the area.

Several great swimming holes are safe to swim in, including Emmagen Creek and Mason’s Swimming Hole. You can also enjoy horseback rides , tours to the Great Barrier Reef , taste exotic tropical fruit on a farm tour at Cape Trib Farm . 

Stay: An excellent place to stay is Cape Trib Beach House , surrounded by lush rainforest, which has large, air-conditioned rooms and a swimming pool to enjoy after a day out exploring with the family. Cape Tribulation feels like a different world compared to many other places in Queensland, and the tropical rainforest is a fantastic place to explore for a couple of days.

Contributed by Luke from Wild About BC

Stop 9: Cooktown

Cooktown sits at the mouth of the beautiful Endeavour River. Both town and river are named for the historic moment when Captain James Cook beached his ship (the Endeavour) onto the beach for repairs in 1770.

With that being said, one of the very best things you can do in Cooktown is to visit the James Cook Museum . This wonderful old building is chock full of interesting facts and memorabilia from the past few hundred years, including a very fun treasure hunt for children – including a small prize at the end! $40 for a family ticket is money well spent.

The Botanical Gardens are well worth a visit – it’s a pretty walk through the gardens, with a nice café for an iced coffee at the end.

From here you can also access a short hike to stunning Finch Bay, or a slightly longer, harder hike to Cherry Tree Bay.

Finish your day with an epic sunset at Grassy Hill Lookout. This lookout offers you 360-degree views of Cooktown, the harbour, the rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef out at sea. It truly is spectacular.

If you are feeling adventurous, you can day trip to Elim Beach , stopping in for a refreshing (and safe) swim at Isabella Falls on the way. Elim Beach is owned by a local Aboriginal man (entry fees apply) and boasts many fun 4WD tracks, coloured sand cliffs, turquoise waters. It is also home to a world-renowned kite surfing spot.

Contributed by Joanna Rogers from Dont Wanna Go Home

Stay: Click here to find the accommodation options in Cooktown

Stay Safe When Travelling in North Queensland

Marine stingers are prevalent in tropical waters of North Queensland generally from November to May. The tropical north is also crocodile country and they can live in the oceans, streams, rivers and lagoons.

Some safety tips:

• Always follow the warning signs and only swim where you know it is safe.
• Listen to the lifeguards and swim in the net enclosures during stinger season.
• There is magnificent wildlife in Queensland including everything from feathered to furry and scaled. Some wildlife can be aggressive, so remember this before getting too close.

I hope you enjoyed the above guide! If you need further assistance with planning your Queensland holiday, make sure to check out our other articles as well. Below are some of our travel guides for North Queensland.

• 9 Top Cairns Family Accommodation Options to Suit All Budgets
• The Perfect Cairns Itinerary (Ultimate Guide for 5 – 7 Days in Cairns)

The Ultimate List of Things to do in Palm Cove with Kids

• The Top Planning Tips for a Kuranda Day Trip
• The Most Amazing Stops on a Brisbane to Townsville Road Trip
• 16 Absolute Best Things to do in Port Douglas

Do you have a question about Far North Queensland? Have I missed any places that should be added to this list? Let me know in the comments below!

Did you find this post helpful? Why not share it with your friends.

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links, which may reward us with a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase through them.Thanks for supporting the blog in this way as it allows me to continue sharing helpful content with you.

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10 best places to visit in North Queensland

Posted by Dean Heckscher 11/03/2020

If you’re dreaming of a holiday where sun-bleached sands meet lush rainforests, with a dash of cave-walking and gemstones for good measure, then it might be time to take a trip up to North Queensland. Whether you fancy a scenic jaunt along the Coral Coast, or a deeper look at the region’s fascinating natural and cultural history, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to visit when you’re exploring up north.

Best places to visit in North QLD

If you’re planning a trip to north Queensland, here are some of our top locations you should see:

Great Barrier Reef, Port Douglas

Cardwell spa pool, cardwell, boodjamulla (lawn hill) national park, lawn hill, mossman gorge centre, mossman, magnetic island, townsville, undara volcano lava tubes, mount surprise, outback at isa, mt isa, ted elliott mineral collection, georgetown, limestone caves, chillagoe, paronella park, mena creek.

The Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven natural wonders of the world (and deservedly so), is a hallmark of North Queensland, and what better way to see it than from the tropical haven of Port Douglas. Whether you prefer the luxury of beach resorts, or the local backpackers are more your style, Port Douglas is bursting with coastal charm. In saying this, there is a plethora of seaside towns to explore along the Coral Coast with their own reef tours and activities, meaning the world (or coast) is your oyster!

The Cardwell Forest Drive, which features a number of scenic loops through the Girringun National Park, boasts swimming holes, waterfalls and picturesque picnic spots. The pièce de résistance, however, is the naturally fed Cardwell Spa Pool. The seasonal spa pool is known for its unnatural shades of blue, ranging from bright azure to milky-blue, and is believed to be the result of high levels of magnesium and calcium from the sedimentary rocks. Another bonus is that all of the swimming holes along the drive are crocodile, shark and stinger-free!

Boodjamulla National Park has something for everyone: soaring sandstone cliffs, walking tracks and canoeing through the gorges will entice adventure lovers, while a diverse display of fauna and fossils and prehistoric relics which date as far back as 25 million years will tempt the rest. The national park has camping and accommodation facilities, and is an ideal stop if you’re travelling along the Savannah Highway.

The Mossman Gorge Centre is an indigenous ecotourism centre which provides a connection to the culture and beliefs of the local Kuku Yalanji people and a gateway to the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest. The wonders of Mossman Gorge can be explored on one of the self-guided walks through the Daintree National Park or with a guided Dreamtime Walk tour to learn the ancient secrets of the land.

Just a quick 20-minute ferry ride from Townsville, Magnetic Island is a must-see if you want to immerse yourself in the tropics. Whether you’re snorkeling with reef sharks, checking out the wreckage of the S.S. Adelaide or discovering the island’s many hidden waterfalls, Magnetic Island is often considered the gem of Northern Queensland.

The lava tubes, formed by the eruption of the Undara Volcano approximately 190,000 years ago, are the product of molten lava flowing for 160km, making it the world’s longest lava flow from a single volcano. The resulting caves which have formed along the tube are breathtaking – some are over 21 meters wide and up to 10 meters high – and can be explored as part of a guided tour.

Whether you’re interested in the town’s rich mining history, the cultural diversity of the area, or perhaps the discoveries of the nearby fossil fields, the Outback at Isa precinct is your one-stop-shop for all things Mt Isa. Outback at Isa is the area’s premier tourism facility, and home to a number of attractions, including the underground Hard Times Mine tour, the Outback Park and Riversleigh Fossil Centre.

The Ted Elliott Mineral Collection proudly displays more than 4,500 specimens – including fossils, jewelry, local and international minerals, local history and mining memorabilia – across nine themed rooms. The impressive privately-owned assortment, which particularly favours locally sourced agate and crystals, is the most comprehensive collection of its kind in Australia.

The town of Chillagoe is no longer the booming mining metropolis that it once was, however don’t let that deter you from a quick visit. The surrounding limestone caves – between 600 and 1,000 of them – have been described as being home to some of the most diverse geology in our big, wide world. If that’s not enough, the caves also hold a wide array of aboriginal artworks and fossilized animals, including now extinct giant kangaroos and wombats.

Beginning in 1929 after returning to Australia for his honeymoon, Spaniard José Paronella built a castle on five acres of land next to Mena Creek Falls, including tennis courts, bridges and a tunnel. The spectacular structure was finished with an enveloping pleasure garden, consisting of more than 7,500 tropical plants. Now his lush paradise is open to the public, has won numerous tourism awards, and is both State and National Heritage-listed. He also managed to harness the power of the waterfall to create a natural source of electricity, making Paronella Park Queensland’s first privately owned hydroelectric plant.

Is it worth travelling North Queensland?

Whether you’d prefer to stick to the lush tropics and pristine reefs of the coral coast, or are looking to venture west towards the Gulf, North Queensland has plenty of attractions, natural wonders and historical sites to keep you busy. In saying this, North Queensland is a very seasonal destination and the tropics are especially prone to cyclones and extreme weather events during the summer months, so you may have to plan ahead to make the most of your travels.

Photo credits: Natalie Maro/shutterstock.com, EQRoy/shutterstock.com, Brent Randall Photography/shutterstock.com, Lella B/shutterstock.com, FiledIMAGE/shutterstock.com, CoolR/shutterstock.com, tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au, outbackatisa.com.au, Nathan Kelly/shutterstock.com, Elmo Lee/shutterstock.com

Original Author: Eliza Parry Okeden

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Plan The Perfect Trip To North Queensland: A How-To Guide

Want to plan the perfect trip to North Queensland? We’ve got you covered! We have seven tips to ensure you have the best trip ever.

Planning The Perfect Trip To North Queensland

North Queensland, a majestic region located in the northeastern part of Australia, is a dream destination for many travelers worldwide. It is renowned for its expansive, biodiverse rainforests, dramatic coastlines, and the legendary Great Barrier Reef.

The region welcomes over 2.6 million domestic and international visitors annually, contributing significantly to Australia’s tourism industry. North Queensland’s climate is mostly tropical with two distinct seasons: a winter period of warm temperatures and low rainfall, and a summer period of balmy temperatures and higher rainfall.

With its rich cultural heritage, abundant wildlife, and thriving local cuisine scene, North Queensland offers a unique blend of experiences that captivate the heart of every traveler.

Identify Your Travel Timeframe

Understanding the climate of North Queensland is crucial in deciding your travel dates. Time your visit according to the seasonal climate that suits your preferences. The winter period, from May to October, is the peak tourist season in North Queensland. The temperatures are mild and comfortable for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and snorkeling. However, this also means that it can get crowded and prices may be higher during this time.

On the other hand, the summer period, from November to April, offers a different experience with lush green landscapes and the opportunity to witness tropical storms and cyclones. The temperatures can be high and humid, but this is also the best time for bird watching, river cruises, and waterfall tours. Some timeframes, like the school holidays and Christmas, can be busier than others, so plan to avoid disappointment.

Set a Budget

North Queensland offers a range of experiences that cater to both luxury and budget travelers. Identify your budget early, considering travel, accommodation, meals, and activity costs. It doesn’t matter if you go for the cheapest car hire at the Townsville Airport to arrange your transportation for the visit or if you opt for a luxury resort at Port Douglas, as long as it fits your budget.

Now, budgeting a trip such as this can be a bit tricky because it’s easy to overlook the smaller expenses that add up quickly. To avoid overspending, make a list of all your expected costs and round up any unexpected expenses that may arise during your trip. Moreover, be sure to research deals, discounts, and packages offered by different tour operators and accommodation options. This can help you save money while still experiencing the best of North Queensland.

Choose Your Destinations

Depending on your budget and timeframe, you can decide how many destinations you can visit during your trip. Keep in mind that traveling between different destinations in North Queensland may require some planning, as the region is vast and distances between attractions can be considerable. It’s important to also consider the time of year when choosing your destinations, as weather conditions may affect accessibility or activities available. Additionally, research the best time to visit each destination for optimal experiences.

For example, the Great Barrier Reef is best visited during the winter months for ideal diving and snorkeling conditions. For those interested in the Outback, it may be best to avoid the summer months when temperatures can reach extreme highs. Knowing what each destination has to offer and planning accordingly can help make your trip to North Queensland a memorable one.

Plan Your Accommodation

Choose accommodations that cater to your budget and proximity to the attractions you wish to visit. Options range from luxury resorts to budget hostels. For a more immersive experience, consider staying at a local bed and breakfast or eco-lodge.

Many accommodations in North Queensland offer unique experiences such as guided tours, wildlife encounters, and cultural activities. It’s important to also research the amenities offered by your chosen accommodation, such as wifi access or complimentary breakfasts.

Additionally, be sure to book in advance for peak seasons to secure your preferred accommodation and potentially save money on early bird deals. North Queensland is known for its stunning and diverse landscapes, so make sure to choose accommodations that allow you to fully appreciate the beauty of the region.

Plan Your Activities

Snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, hiking in the rainforests, exploring the local cuisine, or immersing in the local culture are some options. North Queensland offers a plethora of activities that cater to different interests and budgets. Research and plan your activities to avoid missing out on any must-do experiences.

Additionally, consider booking tours or activities with reputable tour operators for added convenience and safety. Keep in mind that some activities may require advanced bookings during peak seasons, so plan accordingly. Even if you prefer a more spontaneous approach to travel, having a rough idea of the activities and attractions available can help make your trip to North Queensland smoother and more enjoyable.

Pack Accordingly

Packing essentials include sun protection, swimsuits, lightweight clothing for the humid climate, and good walking shoes for hiking. The weather in North Queensland can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack layers and rain gear. Additionally, don’t forget any necessary medication and insect repellent for outdoor activities.

If you plan on visiting the more remote areas of North Queensland, make sure to pack camping gear or other necessities that may not be readily available. It’s also a good idea to check your chosen accommodations for any amenities they may provide, such as beach towels or snorkeling gear. Packing efficiently and effectively can help reduce unnecessary stress during your trip to North Queensland.

Consider Local Transportation

We did touch a little bit on this subject, but it does require more detailed planning. Namely, North Queensland is vast and has many different attractions scattered around the region. This means that getting around may require some planning. Renting a car is a popular option, as it provides flexibility and convenience for exploring at your own pace.

However, if you don’t feel comfortable driving in an unfamiliar place or have a more budget-friendly mindset, there are other options available such as public transportation, tours, or hiring a private driver. Whichever mode of transportation you choose, make sure to plan accordingly and consider the time it takes to travel between destinations in North Queensland.

Final Thoughts On Planning The Perfect Trip To North Queensland

In the end, planning the perfect trip to North Queensland may seem daunting, but with proper research and preparation, it can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience. Keep these tips in mind and let your wanderlust lead you to explore the wonders of this beautiful region.

From stunning natural landscapes to vibrant local culture, North Queensland has something for every type of traveler. Go ahead and start planning your dream trip to North Queensland today! Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, North Queensland is the perfect destination to satisfy your travel cravings.

So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through this paradise in the land down under!

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200 things to do in Tropical North Queensland with kids

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Explore stunning beaches

If it’s beautiful beaches you’re after for the perfect family holiday, head north of Cairns and you’ll find 26 kilometres of golden beaches sheltered by the Great Barrier Reef.

See the ancient Daintree Rainforest

The Daintree Rainforest is a truly incredible World Heritage listed area. The Daintree is the oldest continuously surviving rainforest on earth and home to the largest range of plants and animals anywhere in the world.

Guided tours, hiking trails and campsites offer visitors the chance to experience this wild, untouched tropical rainforest and bordering golden-sand beaches. Wildlife-spotting tours will help you identify some of the 430 species of birds and tropical animals like the goanna, scrub python, giant tree frog, flying fox, spotted cuscus and the rare striped possum.

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Skyrail takes you on an unforgettable journey over and through Australia’s World Heritage listed tropical rainforests in the Barron Gorge National Park. 

Enjoy a truly unique perspective of Australia’s World Heritage listed tropical rainforest as you glide just metres above the pristine rainforest canopy before descending to explore the forest floor at Red Peak and Barron Falls Station.

Cairns Aquarium

Marvel at over 16,000 animals living at Cairns Aquarium. It’s exclusively  dedicated to the habitats and species of Tropical North Queensland. You’ll be able to see some of the world’s most fascinating, elusive and deadly creatures. The   aquarium is open from 10am – 3pm. 

Marine Life Encounter tour follows a drop of rain as it descends to join creeks, streams and rivers before travelling through the rainforest, across the mangrove flats and coral reef systems before entering the Coral Sea. 10 ecosystems and 71 habitats have been recreated.

Sunlover Reef Cruises

Located just off the coast of Cairns, the Great Barrier Reef is an awe-inspiring underwater spectacle of brilliantly coloured corals and more than 10,000 diverse and unique marine species. The experienced, passionate team at Sunlover Reef Cruises operate fun, safe, value-packed cruises from sunny Cairns (they’ve had over 1.3 million guests so far!)

Fitzroy Island

Just 23 kilometres southeast of Cairns is dazzling Fitzroy Island, a stunning natural beauty that boasts shimmering beaches, lush national parkland and loads of activities to keep the family busy.

Read: Fitzroy Island Resort is perfect for water babies and intrepid explorers alike

Cairns Wake Park

Cairns Wake Park is Tropical North Queensland’s one and only Cable Water Ski park. They offer a unique and safe watersport experience to all ages and all ability levels.

All beginner equipment is provided, from kneeboards and wakeboards to life jackets and helmets. The Wake Park is suitable for ages 10 and above, with Kids Club sessions running during Queensland school holidays.

Explore Barron Gorge National Park with Kuranda Scenic Railway

Hop aboard one of Australia’s most scenic rail journeys, Kuranda Scenic Railway . Travel through spectacular World Heritage-listed rainforest of the Barron Gorge National Park, to the mountain village of Kuranda.

Divers Den, Great Barrier Reef

Diving or snorkelling with Divers Den is the right choice when visiting the Great Barrier Reef. They’ve been proudly operating for over 40 years, meaning they’re not only one of the largest but also the longest established operator in the area. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver or snorkeler, your safety and enjoyment is their top priority.

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is simply the best place to see crocodiles in Australia. Situated just 40 minutes north of Cairns and 25 minutes south of Port Douglas in Tropical North Queensland, Hartley’s is fun and educational for the whole family.

The attraction is set on 10 hectares with a wide array of native wildlife from the region, including crocodiles, lizards, snakes, cassowaries, birds, koalas and more.

Great Barrier Reef Helicopters, Cairns

Tropical North Queensland – where the rainforest meets the reef… and the most fun way to see it is from above, on board a Jet helicopter ! For a family holiday you won’t forget, enjoy breathtaking flights over this beautiful region.

Undara Lava Tubes

The Undara Volcanic National Park is one of Australia’s greatest geological wonders. It boasts the best-preserved and largest lava tube system on earth, offering an unforgettable experience that will satisfy the appetites of both adventurer and eco-traveller.

Guided tours at Undara include include full day, half day and introductory Lava Tube tours, Wildlife at Sunset tours and free campfire entertainment nightly.

See animals close up

Meet the cuddly cuties at the Kuranda Koala Garden s or flock to see the feathered residents of Birdworld at Kuranda.

Low Isles reef cruise

Set sail for Low Isles, 15 kilometres off the coast of Port Douglas. This light-housed coral cay island is a great spot to immerse yourself in a world of clams, turtles, barracudas and batfish. One of the most accessible options is the half-day Low Isles cruise out of Port Douglas with Calypso Reef Cruises . Take a 30-minute boat ride to the low-lying islands ringed by white sands and coral reef. Once you arrive you can choose from activities like a guided snorkel tour, lighthouse walk, glass-bottom boat tour, or swim in the warm waters.

Herberton Historical Village

Far North Queensland isn’t all coral reefs and rainforest. It also has its fair share of history and the best trip back in time is the Herberton Historical Village. The sheer number of exhibits in this recreated tin mining town is mindboggling. Kids can see toys their grandparents played with and classes they attended school in. There are classic car and tractor collections, dozers, steam engines and an early 20th-century fire truck. And they’ll love the interactive blacksmith demonstration.

Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel

Join Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sea rangers on a day tour with Reef Magic Cruises to two spectacular outer Great Barrier Reef sites. Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel is a unique educational Great Barrier Reef experience incorporating the world’s oldest living culture.

Snorkel among the Great Barrier Reef’s kaleidoscopic marine life with an Indigenous ranger to uncover the culture of the area’s traditional owners.

Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary, Port Douglas

Enjoy breakfast with the birds at the Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary at Port Douglas before exploring the sanctuary to spot endangered species including the adorable Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroo and the awe-inspiring southern cassowary.

Daintree Discovery Centre

Spend a day exploring the awesome Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation, home to the largest variety of plants and animals of any rainforest on the planet. The Daintree Discovery Centre offers easy access to the rainforest from floor to treetop on their 23m high canopy tower and 125m long skywalk.

Take a trip down the Savannah Way

Road trip down this route of highways to see the spectacular gorges, ancient lava tubes and fossicking fields of the Etheridge Shire.

Charley’s Chocolate Tours

Mmm… chocolate! Who doesn’t love it? Well, you can taste all kinds of life’s favourite sweet here, at Charley’s Chocolate Factory a working cocoa farm 10 minutes inland from Mission Beach. More than that though is the chance to learn how cocoa is grown and then made into chocolate. There are only a handful of farms like this in Australia, all in this same region. From seed to mouth… talk about fresh!

Get unlimited park entry at attractions

No holiday to Tropical North Queensland would be complete without visiting four of the region’s best and most unique attractions: Rainforestation Nature Park and the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary in Kuranda, Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas and Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome in the heart of the city. These diverse attractions are part of the CaPTA Group Annual Pass .

Cairns ZOOM & Wildlife Dome is the world’s first challenge ropes course in a wildlife park. You can cuddle a koala, enjoy interactive Australian wildlife presentations and experience adventure on the Mid-ZOOM and Hi-ZOOM courses with three zip lines – one of which takes you directly over Goliath, the 4-metre saltwater crocodile!

Ellinjaa Falls

These cascades are located in Atherton Tablelands. Water flows over a series of lava columns. There’s a walkway to the base of the falls where you can catch a glimpse of the resident turtles and platypus, and it’s a pristine swimming location as well.

Visit a turtle rehabilitation centre

Dedicated to the habitats and species of Tropical North Queensland, Cairns Aquarium offers behind-the-scenes tours to its Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre.

Day trip to the Frankland Islands

Departing from Mulgrave River just south of Cairns, at 30 minutes this is the shortest trip out to the Great Barrier Reef and the island is less crowded than others with only one company licensed to operate tours here. An onboard marine biologist can take the kids on a guided snorkel, littlies can enjoy a semi-submersible tour and big kids can try scuba diving.

ReefTeach Cairns

Spend an evening at   Reef Teach   in Cairns before venturing out to the reef.

Reef Teach is an entertaining evening aimed at equipping you and your kids with the knowledge to really appreciate your time on the reef. Kids will learn how coral reefs are formed, their inhabitants, the threats to the reef and what you can do to help. The kids are likely to leave the presentation as newly minted Reef Warriors.

This article is a Holidays with Kids digital exclusive. Be the first to see more exclusive online content by subscribing to the enewsletter here .

Main image © Tourism & Events Queensland

Keep reading:

• Where to eat, stay and play in Tropical North Queensland
• Secret spots in Queensland that are perfect for Instagram

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Why North Queensland is the ultimate Australian family adventure

Northern Queensland’s rainforest and reef offer an Australian family adventure like no other.

Once described by Sir David Attenborough as “the most extraordinary place on Earth”, the north-east corner of Queensland, Australia is home to the oldest rainforest in the world, incredible biodiversity and, of course, the Great Barrier Reef. Whether it’s exploration at sea or adrenalin-fuelled activities on land, it’s a spectacular destination for a family adventure.  

Getting to the arts and crafts hub of Kuranda, a mountain town surrounded by rainforest, is half the fun for families. Departing from Cairns, the 4.7-mile Skyrail cable car skims over the tropical canopy of the oldest rainforest on the planet, with opportunities to spy tree kangaroos, and spectacular views of the mountains and ocean. Kuranda itself has heritage markets, walking trails and a butterfly sanctuary to explore. For the return journey to Cairns, board the Kuranda Scenic Railway . Built in the late 19th century, the train winds its way back down to sea level through the forest, passing waterfalls and gorges.

2. Great Barrier Reef

The laid-back town of Port Douglas — an hour’s drive north of Cairns along the coastal highway — is a good jumping-off point for family tours of the reef. The Low Isles coral cays are an easier outing for smaller children, but older kids should head to the outer reef for snorkelling with clearer waters, more varied sea life and rich coral gardens. Beyond the shoals of multicoloured fish, families might spy sea turtles, giant clams and reef sharks. Try Sailaway , which runs boat tours accompanied by marine biologists. All ages are catered for, as long as children can swim.

3.   Mossman Gorge

For a deeper understanding of the region, visit this spectacular and accessible pocket of the Daintree National Park, owned and managed by the Kuku Yalanji community. The Cultural Centre offers self-guided walks, but for a more intimate connection with the land and Indigenous culture, take a guided Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk through the rainforest to hear the stories of the Aboriginal people who have lived here for thousands of years. Kids will also learn about the area’s cassowaries — the third-largest bird in the world — and the useful properties of rainforest plants.  

4. Cape Tribulation

This coastal strip 60 miles north of Cairns is where northern Queensland starts to get really wild. Take a zero-emission boat cruise on the Daintree River with small operator Solar Whisper in search of ‘salties’ — Australia’s giant saltwater crocodiles. Boats keep a safe distance and local guides will also scan the rainforest waterways for birds, bats, snakes and frogs. Other highlights include the Daintree Discovery Centre’s 36ft-high walkway, and the Treetops Adventure at Cape Tribulation — about as far north as you can drive without a 4WD — which offers a two-hour ziplining tour 50 feet above ground through the forest. It’s suitable for kids as young as three.  

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Far North Queensland

• 2 Other destinations
• 3 Understand
• 6 Get around
• 8.1 The Savannah Way
• 8.2 Snorkelling and boat tours
• 8.3 Kuranda Scenic Railway
• 11 Stay safe

Far North Queensland , commonly abbreviated as FNQ , is a coastal region in the north of Queensland . Sometimes colloquially called Tropical North Queensland (though parts of Central Queensland are also within the tropics), you'll find nice warm 25-30°C sunny days year round, warm coastal waters, some of the world's oldest rainforests (including the oldest) and a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef .

Far North Queensland is huge . It may look small on a map, but in reality, it's about 1,200 km (750 mi) from one end to another, excluding the Torres Strait Islands, and is an extra 170 km (110 mi) including the Torres Strait Islands, meaning it's almost 1,400 km (870 mi) from end to end.

Cities [ edit ]

• -16.93 145.77 1 Cairns – visitor gateway to the north of Townsville
• -18.26 146.03 2 Cardwell – known for its waters and landscape
• -15.46 145.25 3 Cooktown – the oldest place settled by Europeans in Australia, though not continuously
• -17.48 140.83 4 Karumba – the only Qld town to have a North Coast
• -16.828 145.626 5 Kuranda – famed for its market and alternative lifestyles, near Cairns
• -17.523611 146.029167 6 Innisfail – known for its sugar and banana industries
• -17.67341 141.07497 7 Normanton – once thrived as a port town during the gold rush
• -16.744 145.67 8 Palm Cove – known for its beaches
• -16.481 145.463 9 Port Douglas – an hour north of Cairns are the beachfront resorts missing in Cairns
• -19.307 146.731 10 Thuringowa – an area close to Townsville, Qld's second capital
• -17.9333 145.9333 11 Tully – boasts one of the largest number of UFO sightings in Queensland.

Other destinations [ edit ]

• -17.3179 145.5894 1 Atherton Tablelands
• -15.959 145.401 2 Daintree National Park - to the north of Port Douglas, and home to the world's oldest living rainforest
• -16.15 146.14 3 Great Barrier Reef - a natural wonder of the world, easily accessible from Cairns and Port Douglas, and stretching far down the length of Central Queensland as well
• -18.35 146.2333 4 Hinchinbrook Island National Park
• -10.726667 142.396944 5 Possession Island National Park - at this island, Captain Cook claimed possession of the entire Australian coast for the British Empire , on 22 August 1770. Today, it's the centre of the eponymous National Park, an area of 5.10 km 2 (1.97 sq mi), established as a Protected Area in 1977, and managed by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.
• -9.88 142.59 6 Torres Strait Islands
• -18.2 144.59 7 Undara Volcanic National Park - a unique geological formation

Understand [ edit ]

Far North Queensland is the northernmost coastal region of Queensland. It is full of tropical rain forests, extremely remote communities and for the most part very hard to get into. The northern city of Cairns is a good base with a lot of tourist infrastructure to begin to explore.

Talk [ edit ]

Although you should be fine with English, this part of Australia does in fact speak many different tongues. Many remote communities will speak native Aboriginal languages. The Torres Strait Islanders can speak Kalaw Lagaw Ya, which belongs to the Pama–Nyungan languages found in mainland Australia, or Meriam Mir, which belongs to Trans-Fly languages also found in Papua New Guinea , as well as Torres Strait Creole .

Get in [ edit ]

For the Eastern part, the international airport in Cairns is probably your best bet to get in. For the Western part, Darwin may provide the quickest access.

Get around [ edit ]

Travelling around the North Queensland region is best accomplished by car. From Townsville heading North there are many picnic areas, swimming facilities, and national parks only accessible by car. An example of such places include Crystal Creek, Paluma, Mission Beach, as well as the northern beaches of Cairns. The Atherton Tablelands also becomes available for you to explore at your own pace.

Hire cars are readily available in both Townsville and Cairns, with one way hires available (sometimes with a substantial fee, so remember to make sure).

Roads are generally of good condition, with the Bruce Highway providing the primary link to North Queensland with access to the coastal towns. Some dirt roads do exist near particular attractions so checking your hire car insurance policy would be worth while.

Fuel is generally easy to come by along the highways. If driving between Townsville and Cairns and the many attractions in between, fuel is available at towns such as Ingham and Tully. Cash, credit card and bank cards are generally all accepted, and many of the fuel stations are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

See [ edit ]

The most important thing to see in Far North Queensland are the Wet Tropics of Queensland , which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A trip to Far North Queensland is never complete without seeing one of the world heritage listed national parks. Of all the national parks part of the world heritage region, the Daintree Rainforest is the most visited one, with the Daintree National Park being the most visited of them all. Other popular national parks in this region include the Barron Gorge National Park and the Kuranda National Park although there are several other national parks too.

For those willing to do the rough and harsh drive up to the Cape York Peninsula , it is well worth the views. It is the northernmost point of the Australian mainland, and where vibrant Torres Strait culture can be seen. The landscape there is often more known to be that of Asia's rather than of Australia's. Just like the Wet Tropics of Queensland, there are many national parks in the peninsula, often covered with thick forests. Getting here is usually not possible for around four or five months of the year, as the roads close due to monsoon/wet season.

For something much closer to the cities, the Crystal Cascades is a cascade waterfall on the Freshwater Creek just to the west of Cairns. It includes numerous waterfalls and swimming waterholes with the largest waterhole is sited alongside a sheer cliff which locals and tourists climb to jump into the adjoining deep waterhole.

For a more inland experience, the Gulf Country is a region of woodland and savanna grassland and is one of the few "wet outback" experiences that one can get. It is also home to World Heritage Fossil finds at Riversleigh .

The Tablelands Region is just one of the regions large vast natural wonders. It's mostly taken up by Atherton Tablelands and is home to several gorges and trails.

Do [ edit ]

Trekking or hiking in the tropics and the Far North of the state is very different to the rest of the country. Unlike the Outback, trekking during winter will not be cold but still be too hot and humid for trekking as the temperatures commonly reach the low 30s during the day, and the high 20s during the night and the climate for trekking is much similar to that of Borneo given the area is only 10 degrees from the equator.

Other things to do in Far North Queensland to do include catching the Savannahlander from Cairns to Forsayth - this unique four-day train trip is a great way to see the wet northern parts of the Australian outback and the wet tropics of Queensland.

The Savannah Way [ edit ]

Whether you call it starting in Far North Queensland or ending in Far North Queensland, the route goes from Broome in Western Australia to Cairns in Queensland, the 3500-km adventure through the heart of Australia’s northern tropics snakes through some of the region's best tourist attractions.

Although a four-wheel drive is recommended on this drive, you can get thru the Savannah Way without a 4WD as all the roads are paved, except once you head into the Outback. Allow at least a week for the Far North Queensland section or 30 days for the entire journey.

Snorkelling and boat tours [ edit ]

See the Great Barrier Reef page for that.

Kuranda Scenic Railway [ edit ]

Although rated as one of the world's 10 most dangerous railway lines in the world, this tourist train is one of the best rainforest views in the Tropical North. Trains leave from either Cairns or Kuranda and pass through several national parks.

Eat [ edit ]

When it comes to eating, apart from Cairns , there is little variety of food found in Far North Queensland, merely due to the lack of demand. But nevertheless, the non-ethnic aspects of Australian cuisine can be found in most places here.

Drink [ edit ]

Along with the rest of the state, the local mass produced Queensland beer is "XXXX", which is also known locally as "fourex". Almost all pubs will have "XXXX" in it and you may come across it in football (rugby) games. While large cities will have places to drink almost everywhere, most smaller towns have at least two places to get a drink, a pub and a club although many towns have more than one pub.

Unlike the south, Far North Queensland is not known for wineries.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Saltwater Crocodiles are very common in certain portions of northern Queensland; the species general range extends from Rockhampton to the Torres Strait, along with the rest of northern Australia. Population sizes vary depending on the area, but it is wise to avoid swimming in any rivers or lagoons unless they are known to be safe (signposted for swimming). Read warning signs carefully.

In summer months (Oct-May) don't swim in the ocean or estuaries without a stinger suit due to the risk of fatal jellyfish stings . They especially inhabit in shallow water near beaches.

Go next [ edit ]

• Your only choices are to head down to Central Queensland

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10 things to do in Far North Queensland

Far North Queensland is as diverse as it is spectacular and combines natural wonders with some of Australia’s friendliest tourist towns.

Far North Queensland covers more than 380,700 square kilometres and includes the popular tourist towns of Cairns and Port Douglas as well as the Great Barrier Reef, Torres Strait Islands and Cape York, lush Daintree rainforest, and laid-back Cooktown. From thundering waterfalls to saltwater crocodiles, ancient fossils and lush landscapes that stretch on forever, there are unique Australian travel experiences that await you in Far North Queensland .

1. Explore Dunk Island

Catch a water taxi to nearby Dunk Island, part of the Family Islands group, on a Queensland Coast and Islands Adventure and spend the day exploring the island’s trails and beaches. Join your leader for a three-hour circuit walk, passing Palm Valley and shady rainforest filled with birdlife before you arrive at pristine Coconut Beach. If you go for a swim, keep an eye out for dugong, tropical fish and sea turtles. Dunk Island is one of the best spots to see bright blue Ulysses butterflies.

2. Get a taste of Far North Queensland

Take your tastebuds on a delicious self-guided adventure and discover fresh local produce and authentic food experiences. Highlights include grabbing some fresh bananas from a roadside stall, sample ice cream made with local fruits or visit a Far North Queensland cocoa plantation at Charley’s Chocolate Factory where you can surround yourself with the scent of delicious chocolate and taste what’s on offer. If you want to learn more about how chocolate is made, don’t miss the guided tour of the farm and the factory.

3. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef

You can’t come to Far North Queensland and not dip your toes into its sparkling waters, especially when the Great Barrier Reef is right on its doorstep. Brimming with brightly coloured coral and fascinating and beautiful fish, the Great Barrier Reef is not only quintessentially Australian but also the world’s largest coral reef system. Giving you the chance to swim with sea turtles and spot a reef shark (or two), snorkeling parts of this marine wonderland will have you feeling closer to nature than ever before.

4. Get active in Cairns

Once considered little more than a convenient jumping off point for the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns has become a bucket list destination in its own right. Take a boat tour to the outer reef or Fitzroy Island, go on a day trip from Cairns to the tropical rainforest at Cape Tribulation, take a full day tour to see native wildlife, visit Mossman Gorge, marvel at mighty Barron Falls, or ride the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway then jump onboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway for the return trip to Cairns. 

FIND OUT MORE: THE PERFECT FAMILY HOLIDAY IN FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND

5. Go on a rafting adventure

Prefer not to go hiking in the Far North’s tropical heat? White water rafting on the Tully River near Mission Beach is a much more comfortable way to experience the lush landscape and natural beauty of Far North Queensland. The Tully River has more than 40 rapids and winds its way through stunning Tully Gorge National Park which is filled pristine rainforest, fluttering butterflies, and the singing of the birds which call this region home.

6. Chill out at Mission Beach

Mission Beach is the perfect spot to disconnect with the pressures of modern life and reconnect with nature. This sleepy beach destination encompasses the village of Mission Beach plus three other nearby towns – South Mission Beach, Bingil Beach, and Wongaling Beach. It’s an adventurer’s paradise with pristine wilderness areas to explore and activities such as white water rafting, swimming in the sparkling ocean, strolling along 14 kilometres of unspoiled coastline, hiking along the coast and taking a day trip to nearby Dunk Island. 

7. Discover the Daintree

With lush, tropical rainforests and stunning coral reefs to explore plus the opportunity to engage with the rich culture of the Kuku Yalanji people, the Daintree is a must-visit on any Far North Queensland holiday. Swim around world’s largest coral reef system, cool down in a freshwater swimming hole, hike through National Parks, spot cassowaries in the wild or take a trip to Cape Tribulation where two UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites meet, the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. 

EXPLORING THE DAINTREE: FIND OUT MORE

8. Explore the Atherton Tablelands

Walk the Atherton Tablelands on a unique Intrepid tour with a specialist guide and a team of pampered pack donkeys which are experts when it comes to transporting bags across all kinds of terrain. With your trusty four-legged mate leading the way, you’ll be able to venture beyond the usual vehicle routes and explore more of this special part of Far North Queensland near Cairns which includes the chance to spot rare Lumholtz tree-kangaroos, swim in ancient crater lakes, and visit coffee and tea plantations. 

9. See historic Cooktown

Cooktown offers excellent fishing, friendly locals, a sense of history and beautiful tropical scenery. It also gets hot, hot, hot – especially in summer. Named after Captain James Cook, this sleepy town has a museum honouring its most famous visitor and quintessential Aussie pubs with wide verandas, hearty meals, and ice cold beer. You’ll probably need one after hiking to Grassy Hill Lookout which offers 360 degree views of Cooktown and the surrounding ocean. Croc spotting tours are also popular.  

10. Port Douglas

Four Mile Beach, with its rainforest-fringed sand lined with swaying palm trees, has played a starring role in so many tourism commercials that it’s immediately recognisable. Go hiking through the rainforest, cruise the Daintree River, see crocs up close, or swim with jewel bright tropical fish on a snorkelling trip. Port Douglas offers an impressive choice of tours, easy access to the Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef and enough world-class restaurants for every night of the week.

Feeling inspired?

Tiana Templeman

All I wanted to do when I left school was get a job so I could start travelling. Not much has changed in the past 30+ years except instead of sorting the mail and ‘making hot beverages’ for my boss, I now work in the industry as a freelance travel journalist and travel industry copywriter at Intrepid.

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Queensland

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Sep 13, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Queensland, "the Sunshine State," is Australia's most popular vacation destination. Golden beaches, idyllic tropical islands, fantastic surf breaks, World Heritage-listed rainforests, rivers, reefs, and waterfalls are just some of the state's natural jewels.

All Queensland's sun-soaked settings offer exhilarating outdoor adventures. The dazzling Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef offer superb diving and snorkeling. K'Gari ( Fraser Island) is a favorite four-wheel-driving adventure, and the wilderness areas along the Queensland coast are excellent for hiking, biking, boating, and fishing.

For a change of pace, Queensland's capital, Brisbane , delivers big-city attractions with a small-town feel. South of Brisbane lies the glitzy Gold Coast with its hedonism and high rises. Traveling north along the coast from the capital, you can explore a string of holiday resorts, from sleepy beach towns and rainforest villages, to picturesque Port Douglas, and the tropical tourist-magnet of Cairns. Learn more about the best places to visit in this sunny state with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Queensland.

1. Dive or Snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef

2. take a safari through daintree national park and cape tribulation, 3. go four-wheel-driving on k'gari (fraser island), 4. island hop at the whitsundays, 5. stroll along four mile beach in port douglas, 6. visit cairns, 7. bask on the beaches of noosa heads and the sunshine coast, 8. soar over the rainforest to kuranda, 9. live it up on the gold coast, 10. get a culture fix in brisbane, 11. hop aboard a whale watching cruise in hervey bay, 12. enjoy the views in maleny & montville, 13. bird-watch at lamington national park, 14. tour townsville and magnetic island, 15. feed a kangaroo at australia zoo, 16. explore the cape york peninsula & the torres strait islands, map of tourist attractions & things to do in queensland.

It's difficult to overstate the beauty and ecological importance of this World Heritage-listed natural wonder. This is the planet's largest living structure , and it's so vast, you can see it from space.

Much of the reef lies within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park , which extends off the northern coast of Queensland, from Mackay to the northeastern corner of Australia. The park itself is about half the size of Texas and protects more than 3,000 coral reefs, 600 continental islands, 300 coral cays, and a patchwork of mangrove islands.

Diving or snorkeling the reef is one of Australia's must-do outdoor adventures . The astounding diversity of marine life lures visitors from around the world. More than 1,600 species of tropical fish inhabit the reef, as well as sharks, dugongs, dolphins, turtles, giant clams, and kaleidoscopic soft and hard corals. Underwater viewing stations and glass-bottom boats also offer a window into this underwater wonderland.

Other popular things to do during a visit to the Great Barrier Reef include scenic flights, island-hopping cruises, and sailing trips.

On the mainland, Cairns, Port Douglas, and Airlie Beach are the top gateway towns for tours. Alternatively, you can stay at one of the resort islands within the marine park. The Whitsunday Islands offer popular attractions and accommodation options and make a great base to explore the reef.

Remote Lizard Island , the park's most northerly island, is famous for its exclusive resort , and Lady Elliot Island , the reef's southernmost coral cay, is home to a popular eco-resort .

A Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, Daintree National Park is the planet's oldest surviving rainforest . That alone should be reason enough to visit, but it also harbors one of the world's highest concentrations of threatened and endangered species.

Located in Far North Queensland, the two main sections of the park include the crystal-clear waters and lush forests of Mossman Gorge , as well as Cape Tribulation , where tropical rainforest fringes the reef-splotched shores of the Coral Sea.

The ecosystems here are incredibly diverse. More than 18,000 plant species, as well as a fascinating array of animals live within the park, including the flightless southern cassowaries (ostrich-sized birds), crocodiles, Boyd's rainforest dragons, brightly hued azure kingfishers, spotted cuscuses, and musky rat-kangaroos.

The best way to explore this area is on a guided safari. Many companies offer tours on amphibious vehicles and include rainforest hikes and tropical fruit tastings. However, you can also take a self-drive tour.

Other popular things to do include ziplining through the rainforest, horseback riding, swimming at Mossman Gorge, looking for cassowaries along the Jindalba Boardwalk , and hiking the many other rainforest trails.

Just south of the park, the resort town of Port Douglas is a popular base for arranging rainforest wilderness safaris. This area is one of the best places to visit in Queensland in winter, during the dry season.

On the beautiful Fraser Coast, about a 3.5-hour drive from Brisbane, World Heritage-listed K'Gari (Fraser Island) is the largest sand island in the world . Four-wheel drive adventures here explore wide windswept beaches, crystal-clear lakes and streams, dingoes, dense forests, sacred Aboriginal sites, and multi-hued rock formations.

Seventy-Five Mile Beach is the island's main thoroughfare and provides access to some of K'Gari's top attractions . These include the rusted hull of the Maheno shipwreck , the bubbling rock pools of Champagne Pools , Eli Creek , and the colored sandstone cliffs of The Pinnacles .

Tiger sharks, dolphins, and whales swim in the wind-whipped waters, and the island's fauna includes Australia's purest strain of dingo and more than 300 species of birds.

Top things to do inland include swimming in the aquamarine Lake McKenzie ; exploring the rainforest trails of Central Station; and visiting Lake Wabby , backed by a towering sandblow.

The most popular access point for tours to Fraser Island is Hervey Bay, the whale watching capital of Australia. From here, you can hop aboard a car or passenger ferry to K'Gari or book a Fraser Island Day Tour .

Off the coast of central Queensland, the Whitsunday group encompasses 74 stunning islands strung along the Great Barrier Reef . The Whitsundays are continental islands, the summits of a coastal range emerging from the sea. All but five of them have been declared national parks, and about eight are home to popular resorts.

Popular things to do in the Whitsundays include diving and snorkeling tours, sailing trips, basking on the dazzling tropical beaches, and relaxing at the island resorts.

The most famous resorts include luxurious Hayman Island ; tiny Daydream Island Resort ; well-developed Hamilton Island , the largest of the island resorts; and Palm Bay Resort on beautiful Long Island, with access to 13 kilometers of walking tracks.

On uninhabited Whitsunday Island, Whitehaven Beach, with its powdery white sands and turquoise water, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia .

Airlie Beach is the main launching points for island excursions.

Dotted with palms and mango trees, the once-sleepy village of Port Douglas is now a charming holiday resort. It's the closest mainland town to the Great Barrier Reef , making it a popular base for reef trips, as well as wilderness safaris in Daintree National Park . This picturesque town lies about an hour's drive north of Cairns, along a scenic coastal road, which winds between beaches and rainforest-cloaked hills.

Skirting the beautiful blond sweep of Four Mile Beach , Port Douglas has a relaxed tropical vibe, with cute cafés, shops, and art galleries. From the Flagstaff Hill Lookout enjoy breathtaking views of the palm-fringed beach merging with the turquoise Coral Sea.

Top things to do in Port Douglas include getting up close to Aussie animals at the Wildlife Habitat , shopping at the farmers markets, and soaking up the downtown scene on Macrossan Street. Other adventures on offer include safaris in all-terrain vehicles to Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation , fishing trips, northbound expeditions through the rugged landscape of the Cape York Peninsula , and boat trips to Cooktown and the Great Barrier Reef.

Thanks to the year-round toasty weather in the tropics, Port Douglas is one of the best places to visit in Queensland in winter. This is the prime tourist season, when the weather is typically sunny and dry.

In a superb location, between the Great Barrier Reef and the dark hills of the Atherton Tableland, Cairns is one of the most popular tourist towns in Far North Queensland. It makes a great base to explore the best of Queensland.

Cairns is a friendly, laid-back town, with palm-fringed streets, large parks, and colorful gardens. Beautiful beaches radiate out along the coast from Trinity Bay and Palm Cove to Port Douglas. Feel like a stroll? The five-kilometer-long Cairns Esplanade runs along the bay, with a saltwater swimming lagoon and free water-themed playground for young children.

Cairns is an excellent base for day trips. It's one of the most popular launching points for excursions to the Great Barrier Reef , as well as tropical islands such as Green Island and Fitzroy Island .

The Atherton Tableland to the southwest is another popular day trip destination, where you can explore rainforest reserves, waterfalls, and the charming attractions in the mountain village of Kuranda. The Kuranda Scenic Railway or the Skyrail cableway offers spectacular views over the surrounding countryside and the World Heritage-listed rainforests of Barron Gorge National Park .

Other top things to do in Cairns include visiting the Flecker Botanic Gardens, with more than 100 species of palms, and learning about the region's history at Cairns Museum. Cairns is also one of Australia's best fishing destinations .

Wondering where to stay in Cairns? You'll find accommodation to suit all budgets, from buzzy backpacker digs to flashy resorts.

Stretching from Caloundra to Noosa Heads, the Sunshine Coast is one of the most popular places to visit in South East Queensland. Known for its beautiful beaches, it's also a popular holiday spot for Aussies, only about two hours north of the Gold Coast high-rises but seemingly a world away. Beaches are among the top attractions on the Sunshine Coast , from peaceful, cliff-fringed bays to famous surf breaks.

Noosa Heads is one of the most popular resort areas. Its postcard-perfect slice of sand and sea, Main Beach, is one of Noosa's top attractions , and it's also home to a famous surf break.

For more beautiful beaches and fantastic surfing, Coolum is another great place to visit on the Sunshine Coast. The Point Arkwright Trail here connects a series of secluded cliff-fringed bays, where you can escape the crowds and take a cool dip on a hot summer's day.

And more beaches await at Caloundra , from popular Kings Beach, with its oceanfront pool, to Moffat's point break and the perfect paddling waters of Paradise Beach.

Maroochydore is the region's bustling commercial center and the location of the Sunshine Coast airport.

A trip to Kuranda, a charming rainforest village on the Atherton Tableland, is as much about the journey as the destination. From just outside of Cairns, you can take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and fly over World Heritage-listed rainforests and the beautiful Barron River and Gorge .

Alternatively, the Kuranda Scenic Railway chugs through the rainforest, past rugged peaks and waterfalls. The journey ends in the little station at Kuranda, about 25 kilometers northwest of Cairns, which is almost hidden by tropical plants and palms.

Exploring Kuranda's highlights starts with a stroll around the village. Artsy shops, galleries, and the colorful Kuranda markets sell souvenirs and local crafts, and you can soak up a slice of nature at several animal sanctuaries. The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Birdworld, Kuranda Koala Gardens, and Rainforestation Nature Park are favorite things to do in Queensland for families.

Walks can be arranged on request from Kuranda to the wildly romantic Barron Gorge National Park . At Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park by the Caravonic Lakes, you can learn about Aboriginal culture and enjoy frequent native dance performances.

Travelers wishing to take the scenic self-drive route to Kuranda will also enjoy the journey.

The Gold Coast is one of Australia's best-known holiday regions. During the last few decades, a building boom transformed the coast into a kind of tropical Las Vegas, with skyscrapers and shopping malls stretching from Southport in the north to Coolangatta in the south.

Packed with tourist attractions and high-rise hotels, Surfers Paradise - "Surfers" for short - is a tourist magnet, legendary for its alliterative assets: sun, surf, and sand. But it's easy to escape the crowds in the surrounding wilderness areas or on the outlying beaches.

Despite Surfers Paradise's reputation for hedonism, you'll find plenty of Queensland attractions for families in the region. South of Surfers Paradise, kids love Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary , and Movie World , where old film sets have been recreated by Warner Bros. To the north, in Southport, you can see your favorite marine creatures at Sea World .

Not surprisingly, swimming, sunbathing, and surfing are popular things to do on Queensland's Gold Coast , and nature lovers will find plenty of attractions to explore. Excellent networks of roads lead to scenic lookouts in the hinterland, where many wilderness areas are within easy reach, including popular Lamington National Park .

To visit the Gold Coast, you can fly into Coolangatta airport, near the Queensland-New South Wales border.

Brisbane, Australia's third largest city and the capital of Queensland, offers a more relaxed pace than the larger capitals in the country's southeast. It makes a great base to explore Queensland. The city straddles the Brisbane River and is bounded on the east by the sea and on the west by the Great Dividing Range.

Visitors love the city's sunny climate and its luxuriant parks and gardens. Top things to do in Brisbane include strolling around the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha, with more than 2,000 species of plants, and visiting Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary , one of the few places where you can touch and feed koalas.

Family-friendly South Bank Parklands features riverside walking and biking trails, lush gardens, shops, and restaurants.

River cruises are also popular. One of Brisbane's best known tourist attractions is the Kookaburra Queen , an old paddle steamer, which cruises down the Brisbane River, and the River Life Adventure Centre offers adrenalin-fueled water sports on the river.

Other things to see and do include shopping at the Queen Street Mall , climbing the Story Bridge , exploring the exhibits at the kid-friendly Queensland Museum , browsing the inspirational art exhibits at QAGOMA , and enjoying beautiful city views from Mt Coot-tha Lookout .

Brisbane is also a great jumping-off point for a range of rewarding day trips that showcase the best of Queensland, from island getaways and wildlife-rich national parks to the famous Australia Zoo and family-friendly theme parks.

Ever wanted to swim with a humpback whale or come eye-to-eye with one of these gentle giants? This bucket-list adventure is one of the top things to do in Hervey Bay , the whale watching capital of Australia .

In 2019, Hervey Bay became the first place in the world to earn a World Cetacean Alliance designation as a Whale Heritage Site .

What makes it so special? K'Gari (Fraser Island) shelters the shallow waters off Hervey Bay, providing a sanctuary for these magnificent marine mammals. Here, they take a break from their long migration to rest, socialize, and teach their calves, and lucky visitors can enjoy up-close exhilarating encounters with them. Some cruises even offer you the chance to swim with the whales , one of the unique things to do in Queensland.

Wondering about the best time to visit Hervey Bay for whale watching? Late July through early November are the prime months. And if you're not visiting during whale season, you'll find plenty of other nature experiences in Hervey Bay, from eco-cruises , sunset cruises, and fishing charters to Indigenous cultural tours and spending time on the peaceful beaches.

Craving some tranquility in the country? Head to the Sunshine Coast hinterland villages of Maleny & Montville. Both these charming villages sit high in the Blackall Ranges with breathtaking views of the Glasshouse Mountains, a cluster of volcanic plugs rising out of the coastal plain.

Maleny is dairy country. That means rolling green hills, cows, and, best of all, cheese! You can sample some while you're here, as well as other artisan products, like the sweet cocoa treats at Maleny Chocolate Factory.

Montville also offers inspirational views of the lush valleys and the Glasshouse Mountains. Art galleries, craft cottages, boutiques, and gift shops peek out from veils of blossoms on the main street. Along with Maleny, it's one of the best country towns to visit in Queensland, and it's the perfect place to linger and enjoy Devonshire tea.

Nature is also never far away. Look for pademelons on the rainforest trails at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve , enjoy a picnic at Barron Pocket Dam , spot platypus on the Obi Obi Boardwalk right near downtown Maleny, or hike to Kondalilla Falls .

About a two-hour drive south of Brisbane, Lamington National Park is a World Heritage Area and one of the state's most popular national parks. Located on the Lamington Plateau of the McPherson Range , amid the remnants of an ancient volcano, the park contains spectacular scenery, with steep gorges, more than 500 waterfalls, tropical and subtropical rainforests, and beech forests in the higher elevations.

Nature buffs will be in heaven here. More than 190 species of birds live in the park, including bowerbirds and colorful flocks of parrots. Red-necked pademelons, a small kangaroo-like marsupial, frolic at the rainforest fringes, and the shy platypus swims in the park's river rock pools.

Lamington National Park is also a haven for hikers with more than 150 kilometers of walking trails.

Official site: http://www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/lamington/

Townsville is the largest tropical town in Australia. It's an excellent base for excursions and tours, particularly to beautiful Magnetic Island and the Great Barrier Reef, but it also offers plenty of tourist attractions of its own.

The town lies on Cleveland Bay at the foot of Castle Hill , a 300-meter-high granite crag. Walking tracks lead to its peak, with panoramic views over the town and sea. But perhaps the best place to start exploring the city is the Strand . Strolling along this scenic waterfront promenade, you can take a dip at one of the swimming areas, soak up some of the region's history at Jezzine Barracks , enjoy a picnic in a park, or dine at a nearby café.

Apart from the picturesque waterfront, Townsville owes much of its charm to its many parks and private gardens filled with luxuriant tropical flowers. While you're here, be sure to take a stroll through the Queen's Gardens, Townsville's oldest botanical garden, and Townsville Palmetum, with the world's largest collection of palms.

Families will find plenty of kid-friendly attractions. Pack a picnic and head to Riverway , with its pretty riverfront parkland, walking and biking trails, art exhibits, and free swimming pools, and if you're interested in the local aquatic life, Reef HQ Great Barrier Reef Aquarium features an underwater tunnel where you can view the coral reef and marine life up close.

Other popular things to do in Townsville include visiting the Museum of Tropical Queensland and diving the SS Yongala wreck.

Made famous by the late Steve Irwin, the charismatic croc-loving Aussie conservationist, Australia Zoo is one of Queensland's best loved family attractions. An easy day trip from Brisbane , the zoo has a strong focus on education and conservation. As well as Aussie favorites like kangaroos, koalas, emus, dingoes, - and crocs - you can also see exotic animal species, including Sumatran tigers, rhinos, meerkats, zebras, giraffes, cheetahs, and elephants.

Crocoseum performances are a great way to learn more about some of the fascinating creatures that call the zoo home, including birds of prey, snakes, and the venue's namesake crocodiles. You can also ride a camel, feed a kangaroo or red panda, and cuddle a koala. The zoo is spread out over 110 acres, so make sure you wear your walking shoes.

Official site: http://www.australiazoo.com.au/

Remote, rugged, and rich in Aboriginal history, the Cape York Peninsula & Torres Strait Islands are some of the most the unique places to visit in Queensland.

Looking for adventure? You'll find it on the legendary "trip to the tip" of Cape York Peninsula, one of Australia's epic road-trips. You can also reach some of the top Cape York destinations on a day trip from Cairns, including the historic settlement of Cooktown and the wildlife-rich wetlands of Lakefield National Park .

But to hit the northernmost tip of Australia, excellent planning and an off-road vehicle are essential. River crossings are part of the adventure, and in the far north, wet season deluges wash out the rudimentary roads, so travel must be tackled during the dry season, from May to October.

Along the way, you'll see jungly rain forests, wild mangrove-fringed beaches, sprawling savannah, croc-filled rivers, ancient rock art, and fascinating Aboriginal communities. North of Weipa, it's usually necessary to camp, and satellite phones are highly recommended.

If you're not up for the planning and logistics of a self-drive tour of this wild, relatively unspoiled region, you can always take an organized tour or fly directly into one of the 274 Torres Strait Islands north of Cape York's tip. Thursday Island is the main administrative center and a great place to learn about the culture of the Torres Strait islanders. Horn Island reveals a fascinating military history. Private Roko Island offers a unique glamping experience, and you can tour a pearl farm here and on Friday Island .

Fishing charters off Weipa are another popular way to explore this untamed coast.

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THE 10 BEST Family & Kid Activities in North Queensland

Things to do in north queensland with kids.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Esplanade Boardwalk

2. Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

3. Four Mile Beach

4. Billy Tea Safaris

5. Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas

6. Cairns Aquarium

7. Cairns Botanic Gardens

8. Palm Cove Beach

9. The Australian Armour & Artillery Museum

10. Daintree Rainforest - Cooper Creek Wilderness

11. Muddy's Playground

12. Josephine Falls

13. Daintree National Park

14. Australian Butterfly Sanctuary

15. Kuranda Koala Gardens

16. Atherton Tablelands

17. Barron Falls

18. Agincourt Reef

19. Rusty's Market

20. Birdworld Kuranda

21. Sunday Market Port Douglas

22. The Bat Hospital Visitor Centre

23. Green Island

24. Michaelmas Cay

25. Cairns Museum

26. The Crystal Caves

27. St Mary’s by The Sea chapel

28. Samurai Gallery Australia

29. Cape Trib Exotic Fruit Farm

30. Great Barrier Reef

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