On the Trail of Inspiration
Where to experience the best Tropical North Queensland has to offer… from wandering to waterfalls to taking the plunge on the Great Barrier Reef.
![cairns esplanade](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/cairns-esplanade-1024x585.jpg)
16 things to do on your first trip to Cairns
If ever the statement “so much to do, so little time” rang true of a destination, Cairns would be it. With the Great Barrier Reef in its front yard and the Wet Tropics rainforest out the back, aside from your bathers, time is the best thing you can pack for a visit to Tropical North Queensland. If it’s your first time in the North Queensland capital, start with these 16 things to do in Cairns.
![Mossman Gorge Centre Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/mossman-gorge-centre-Ngadiku-Dreamtime-Walk-1024x683.jpg)
How to explore iconic landscapes with Traditional Custodians
Delve deeper into the iconic landscapes of Tropical North Queensland by visiting with Traditional Custodians.
![private helicopter flight over daintree waterfall](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/private-helicopter-flight-over-daintree-waterfall-1024x585.jpg)
Live the luxe life with these luxury & wellness experiences
From soaring above the Great Barrier Reef in a private helicopter to sundowners on a secluded sand cay, indulge in the lap of luxury in Tropical North Queensland with these luxury and wellness experiences.
![](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Mossman-Gorge-2-1024x683.jpg)
50 must-do day trips from Cairns
While Cairns itself is known for its laid back city vibes and stunning esplanade, the Great Barrier Reef, rainforest, waterfalls and quirky townships are just a stone’s throw away. Grab a pen and paper and add these day trips from Cairns to your holiday bucket list.
![ccs crystalbrook](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/ccs-crystalbrook-1024x683.jpg)
A Guide to Sustainable Dining in Tropical North Queensland
From utilising organic and locally sourced produce to reducing food waste with Green Food Australia, these sustainable restaurants in Tropical North Queensland are not only delicious, but kind to people and the planet too.
![Great Barrier Reef Drive](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Daryl-Cawthorne_GBR-Drive_4x5.jpg)
Mini road trips in Tropical North Queensland
Discover local specialties and hidden gems on a mini road trip through Tropical North Queensland with these one day wonders. Here are eight itineraries to get you out and about.
![aerial of sheraton grand mirage port douglas](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/aerial-of-sheraton-grand-mirage-port-douglas-1024x585.jpg)
The ultimate Port Douglas accommodation guide
Whether you’re heading for a romantic getaway or a budget family holiday, this Port Douglas accommodation guide will help you find your perfect home away from home.
![Emerald Creek Falls](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Emerald-Creek-Falls_tile.jpg)
20 waterfalls near Cairns
Mighty mountain ranges and Wet Tropics Rainforest create the optimum environment for a myriad of extraordinary waterfalls. Fall in love with these 20 waterfall wonderlands only a short drive from Cairns.
![undara train carriage accommodation](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/undara-train-carriage-accommodation-1024x731.jpg)
Quirky & unique accommodation you won’t believe is in the tropics
From the utterly adorable (staying with tree kangaroos anyone?) to the beautifully bizarre, accommodation options in the tropics are anything but your boring bread-and-butter hotel. Pack your bags and check into one of these quirky accommodation spots in Tropical North Queensland.
![Lukure Caff Paninis](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Lukure-Caff_135.jpg)
Your guide to vegetarian & vegan friendly restaurants in Cairns
You’ll find most cafes and restaurants around Cairns include quality meat-free dishes. The following eateries however, hero plant-based food. Here’s where to eat vegan and vegetarian food in Cairns.
![daintree rainforest boardwalk](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/daintree-rainforest-boardwalk-1024x585.jpg)
Walk on the wild side with these rainforest boardwalks
From wandering through the top of the rainforest canopy, to venturing to thundering waterfalls, these rainforest boardwalks are short on distance but big on experience.
![nandroya falls atherton tablelands](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/nandroya-falls-atherton-tablelands-1024x683.jpg)
Mission Beach & Cassowary Coast Waterfalls & Swimming Spots To Cool Off In
Mother Nature sees your backyard swimming pool and raised you her take on it with these waterfalls and swimming spots– each perfectly moulded and best explored with a sense of adventure.
![private helicopter flight over daintree waterfall](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/private-helicopter-flight-over-daintree-waterfall-1024x585.jpg)
Live the luxe life with these luxury & wellness experiences
From soaring above the Great Barrier Reef in a private helicopter to sundowners on a secluded sand cay, indulge in the lap of luxury in Tropical North Queensland with these luxury and wellness experiences.
![bathtubs in tropical north queensland](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/bathtubs-in-tropical-north-queensland.jpg)
Boujee Bathtubs: Bathe with a view in the tropics
These boujee bathtubs with incredible views are all wham, bam, put it on the ‘gram! From rustic tubs in the outback, to the actual epitome of forest bathing, here’s the bathtubs with a view you need to add to your bucket list.
Explore Tropical North Queensland
Eleven distinct destinations, hundreds of places to see, endless experiences to relish. Where to begin your tropical journey of discovery.
![Undara](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/undarra-lava-tubes-1.jpg)
Gulf Savannah & Outback
The outback meets the sea in this remote region stretching across the Gulf of Carpentaria. Marvel at ancient geological wonders, try your luck fossicking for gold, buy fresh prawns straight from the trawler and swap stories with local characters.
![](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/tor-thumb.jpg)
Torres Strait Islands
Off Australia’s northern tip, the islands of the Torres Strait are a world unto themselves. Few travellers experience the unique melting pot of Aboriginal and Melanesian cultures, waters teeming with dugongs and dolphins, and hidden relics of Australia’s military past.
![Cape York](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/cap-thumb.jpg)
Cooktown and Cape York
Getting to the edge of Australia is an adventure you will never forget. Tackle rugged dirt roads and raging rivers, explore 27 national parks, meet the locals in historic Cooktown and immerse yourself in Australia’s most fascinating Indigenous dance festival.
![Atherton](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/ath-thumb.jpg)
Atherton Tablelands
Tropical North Queensland’s not all about the coast. Head inland to the Atherton Tablelands and discover a lush green world dotted with waterfalls, swimming holes, farm gates, food and wine trails, and some of the best coffee in the country.
![Kuranda](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/kur-thumb.jpg)
Kuranda
Tourists have been flocking to the quirky village of Kuranda for more than 100 years. Wind through the mountains in a historic train, fall in love with the vibrant arts community and feel the spray of Queensland’s most famous waterfall.
![Port Douglas](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/por-thumb.jpg)
Port Douglas
Barefoot luxury is the order of the day in this charming holiday town set between rainforest and reef. Iconic beach resorts and award-winning golf courses rub shoulders with stylish boutiques, alfresco restaurants, trendy craft breweries and bustling markets.
![Daintree](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/dai-thumb.jpg)
Daintree and Cape Tribulation
Discover a place where two UNESCO World Heritage Sites meet. The 180-million-year-old Wet Tropics Rainforest tumbles down to the coast at Cape Tribulation, right on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef. Head into the jungle for the digital detox of a lifetime.
![Palm Cove](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/pal-thumb.jpg)
Palm Cove
Luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, breezy beach bars and indulgent spas await in Tropical North Queensland’s most glamorous enclave. Kayak off the beach, fish from the jetty or kick back with a cocktail by the pool. Even your dog is welcome.
![Cairns](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/cai-thumb.jpg)
Cairns and Northern Beaches
The perfect jumping-off point for your Tropical North Queensland adventure. Cairns is a vibrant city with a laid-back, outdoor lifestyle and is set right in between two natural wonders – the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest.
![Cassowary Coast](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/uploads/mis-thumb.jpg)
Mission Beach and The Cassowary Coast
An undiscovered gem of Tropical North Queensland and the closest point to the Great Barrier Reef. This sleepy stretch of coast has it all – verdant rainforest, deserted beaches, uninhabited islands, bubbling waterholes and welcoming locals – including fascinating cassowaries.
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR
Don’t forget to catch the epic magic shows at @wildlifehabitat 🌴😌
[ID: Two wildlife keepers lift a blue sheet for a few seconds, then drop it to reveal an emu.]
![Don’t forget to catch the epic magic shows at @wildlifehabitat 🌴😌
[ID: Two wildlife keepers lift a blue sheet for a few seconds, then drop it to reveal an emu.]](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)
We interrupt your scrolling to show you @visitpalmcove, nothing further, as you were 🌴🦋
📸 @tessa_jayne_ #exploretnq #explorecairnsgbr #palmcove #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
[ID:Palm trees line a sandy beach pathway at sunset, with a lone person walking and the ocean visible in the background.]
![We interrupt your scrolling to show you @visitpalmcove, nothing further, as you were 🌴🦋
📸 @tessa_jayne_ #exploretnq #explorecairnsgbr #palmcove #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
[ID:Palm trees line a sandy beach pathway at sunset, with a lone person walking and the ocean visible in the background.]](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)
There’s so much to love about @lizardisland but the world famous “Cod Hole” is one of our favourites! Why? Because of these curious potato cods of course🐠
🎥 @tabithalipkin #exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
[ID: Woman diving on the Great Barrier Reef while a curious potato cod (large fish) is investigating her. Text on screen reads “POV: You make friends with a potato cod named Tater Tot at the Great Barrier Reef and she loves the camera. LOVES IT. She especially wanted to show you her spots…”See!? This is why they call me a potato cod! My spots look like potatoes!” “What’s personal space?!” “Hi again” “Can we take a picture before you leave?” Absolutely]
![There’s so much to love about @lizardisland but the world famous “Cod Hole” is one of our favourites! Why? Because of these curious potato cods of course🐠
🎥 @tabithalipkin #exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
[ID: Woman diving on the Great Barrier Reef while a curious potato cod (large fish) is investigating her. Text on screen reads “POV: You make friends with a potato cod named Tater Tot at the Great Barrier Reef and she loves the camera. LOVES IT. She especially wanted to show you her spots…”See!? This is why they call me a potato cod! My spots look like potatoes!” “What’s personal space?!” “Hi again” “Can we take a picture before you leave?” Absolutely]](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)
Nothing screams tropical like an island getaway & @bedarraisland should definitely be at the top of your list! 🏝🍹 Oh, did we mention all inclusive? 🍾 From private candlelit dinners on the beach, to fishing gear & kayaks, to meals & cocktails, the staff at Bedarra Island go above & beyond to make sure your luxury escape is unforgettable 🌴🌸 Not to mention the view is pretty great 😉 So, when will we see you here? 👋
🎥 @_markfitz #exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia #cassowarycoast
[ID: Aerial video panning over the beach on Bedarra Island. There are bright green palm trees and blue ocean waves lapping a white sandy shore. Text on screen reads: Amazing tropical beaches in Australia: Bedarra Island, Qld]
![Nothing screams tropical like an island getaway & @bedarraisland should definitely be at the top of your list! 🏝🍹 Oh, did we mention all inclusive? 🍾 From private candlelit dinners on the beach, to fishing gear & kayaks, to meals & cocktails, the staff at Bedarra Island go above & beyond to make sure your luxury escape is unforgettable 🌴🌸 Not to mention the view is pretty great 😉 So, when will we see you here? 👋
🎥 @_markfitz #exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia #cassowarycoast
[ID: Aerial video panning over the beach on Bedarra Island. There are bright green palm trees and blue ocean waves lapping a white sandy shore. Text on screen reads: Amazing tropical beaches in Australia: Bedarra Island, Qld]](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)
Don’t have time to visit the Great Barrier Reef while you’re in #Cairns? Or if you just want to learn a little more about the reef, there’s nowhere better to explore than the @cairns_aquarium 🩵🐠
🎥 @tabithalipkin #exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
[ID: Clips of the Cairns Aquarium and marine life that is housed inside it. Text on screen reads: An aquarium that brings the Great Barrier Reef to you”
![Don’t have time to visit the Great Barrier Reef while you’re in #Cairns? Or if you just want to learn a little more about the reef, there’s nowhere better to explore than the @cairns_aquarium 🩵🐠
🎥 @tabithalipkin #exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
[ID: Clips of the Cairns Aquarium and marine life that is housed inside it. Text on screen reads: An aquarium that brings the Great Barrier Reef to you”](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)
Today we take time to commemorate the brave men & women who have served our nation in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.
Soldiers from Tropical North Queensland joined the defence force to help protect Australia, including many Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people. Thanks to these people, we now live in an incredible location that we’re very proud of 💙🌴
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the region, visit the Cairns Museum or check out some of the many historical sites around the region including the ANZAC trail ✨
Lest We Forget ❤️
![Today we take time to commemorate the brave men & women who have served our nation in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.
Soldiers from Tropical North Queensland joined the defence force to help protect Australia, including many Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people. Thanks to these people, we now live in an incredible location that we’re very proud of 💙🌴
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the region, visit the Cairns Museum or check out some of the many historical sites around the region including the ANZAC trail ✨
Lest We Forget ❤️](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)
If bright blue milky waters and a jacuzzi-like spa spells bliss for you then we’ve got you covered 🙌🌴 Cardwell Spa Pool, located along the Cardwell Forest Drive, is just one of few colourful swimming spots in the area! 🦋 If you enjoy waterhole hopping, head further along the track to Attie Creek Falls & Dead Horse Creek 🚙🌿
🎥 @jessadventuresaus #exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia #cassowarycoast
[ID: Video clips of the Cardwell Spa Pool, which has bright blue water and is surrounded by lush green rainforest. Text on screen reads: Is this the bluest swimming hole in all of Australia?]
![If bright blue milky waters and a jacuzzi-like spa spells bliss for you then we’ve got you covered 🙌🌴 Cardwell Spa Pool, located along the Cardwell Forest Drive, is just one of few colourful swimming spots in the area! 🦋 If you enjoy waterhole hopping, head further along the track to Attie Creek Falls & Dead Horse Creek 🚙🌿
🎥 @jessadventuresaus #exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia #cassowarycoast
[ID: Video clips of the Cardwell Spa Pool, which has bright blue water and is surrounded by lush green rainforest. Text on screen reads: Is this the bluest swimming hole in all of Australia?]](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)
Happy Earth Day! 🌏🌱
This year for Earth Day, we’re working to reduce plastic use in Tropical North Queensland, here’s how you can help on your next holiday!
☕️ Reusable water bottles, coffee cups, straws and more!
🏝️ Support local conservation efforts like beach clean ups
🦋 Choose eco-friendly accommodation, restaurants and tours who are also working to reduce plastic use
🗑️ Reduce and recycle your rubbish (make sure it goes in the right bin and doesn’t end up on the ground!)
Hit the bio link to learn more ☝️
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsgbr #earthday2024
![Happy Earth Day! 🌏🌱
This year for Earth Day, we’re working to reduce plastic use in Tropical North Queensland, here’s how you can help on your next holiday!
☕️ Reusable water bottles, coffee cups, straws and more!
🏝️ Support local conservation efforts like beach clean ups
🦋 Choose eco-friendly accommodation, restaurants and tours who are also working to reduce plastic use
🗑️ Reduce and recycle your rubbish (make sure it goes in the right bin and doesn’t end up on the ground!)
Hit the bio link to learn more ☝️
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsgbr #earthday2024](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)
There’s more than one way to see the Great Barrier Reef, but a Seawalker Helmet Dive has got to be one of the best! Discover this underwater world without even getting your hair wet!
#exploreTNQ #exploreGBR
[ID: Collection of clips from an underwater helmet dive in the Great Barrier Reef. Featuring yellow tailed fusilers and other fish]
![There’s more than one way to see the Great Barrier Reef, but a Seawalker Helmet Dive has got to be one of the best! Discover this underwater world without even getting your hair wet!
#exploreTNQ #exploreGBR
[ID: Collection of clips from an underwater helmet dive in the Great Barrier Reef. Featuring yellow tailed fusilers and other fish]](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)
Want an escape from reality? Try @fitzroyisland 🏝️☀️
📸 @jesswardphoto #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia #exploretnq #explorecairnsgbr #greatbarrierreef #island
[ID: A breathtaking pink and orange sunset over the ocean, with a pier and a boat gently floating on the calm waters. Rainforest covered mountains visible in the distance.]
![Want an escape from reality? Try @fitzroyisland 🏝️☀️
📸 @jesswardphoto #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia #exploretnq #explorecairnsgbr #greatbarrierreef #island
[ID: A breathtaking pink and orange sunset over the ocean, with a pier and a boat gently floating on the calm waters. Rainforest covered mountains visible in the distance.]](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)