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
@cairnsindigenousartfair has begun and we can’t wait to celebrate the incredible First Nations Cultures of the tropics with you all this week ✨👣
See you at the opening night party from 6pm tonight! 👋
#exploretnq #explorecairnsgbr #ciaf
[ID: short clips of Cairns Indigenous Art Fair Fashion Show. Content includes First Nations models showcasing Indigenous designs and prints, inclusive of Indigenous dance, light show and music.]
![@cairnsindigenousartfair has begun and we can’t wait to celebrate the incredible First Nations Cultures of the tropics with you all this week ✨👣
See you at the opening night party from 6pm tonight! 👋
#exploretnq #explorecairnsgbr #ciaf
[ID: short clips of Cairns Indigenous Art Fair Fashion Show. Content includes First Nations models showcasing Indigenous designs and prints, inclusive of Indigenous dance, light show and music.]](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)
A little rain can’t dampen the beauty of the tropics! If anything we think it gets even prettier ✨🌸
📍 @portdouglasdaintree
#exploretnq #explorecairnsgbr #portdouglasdaintree #sunsetlovers #sunset #storm
![A little rain can’t dampen the beauty of the tropics! If anything we think it gets even prettier ✨🌸
📍 @portdouglasdaintree
#exploretnq #explorecairnsgbr #portdouglasdaintree #sunsetlovers #sunset #storm](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)
We thought you might need some tips to help you plan your next holiday, so we’re making today travel hack Tuesday 🌴☀️
While we like to say there’s no best time to travel to Tropical North Queensland, each season is tailored to different types of travellers. Here’s our top tips to find your favourite season:
☀️ Summer is all about exploring the natural attractions of the tropics - the rainforest, the reef, wildlife spotting, fresh produce and more. We like to call this our all-rounder season with something for every traveller to enjoy.
🌿 Autumn is all about waterfalls and swimming, with a side of adventure! The outback reopens and the weather starts to cool down for some epic misty mountaintops.
🚙 Winter is for the outdoors - camping, hiking and road trips (best season for Cape York). For our friends who live in colder climates it’s the perfect time to hang out at the beaches or islands…the locals might be a little chilly 🥶
🌺 Spring is when the traditional summer feeling starts to kick in. Fishing, wildlife, blooming plats, coral spawning and more. You can still comfortably camp, hike and road trip in this weather.
When will you be travelling to the tropics? Share in the comments👇
![We thought you might need some tips to help you plan your next holiday, so we’re making today travel hack Tuesday 🌴☀️
While we like to say there’s no best time to travel to Tropical North Queensland, each season is tailored to different types of travellers. Here’s our top tips to find your favourite season:
☀️ Summer is all about exploring the natural attractions of the tropics - the rainforest, the reef, wildlife spotting, fresh produce and more. We like to call this our all-rounder season with something for every traveller to enjoy.
🌿 Autumn is all about waterfalls and swimming, with a side of adventure! The outback reopens and the weather starts to cool down for some epic misty mountaintops.
🚙 Winter is for the outdoors - camping, hiking and road trips (best season for Cape York). For our friends who live in colder climates it’s the perfect time to hang out at the beaches or islands…the locals might be a little chilly 🥶
🌺 Spring is when the traditional summer feeling starts to kick in. Fishing, wildlife, blooming plats, coral spawning and more. You can still comfortably camp, hike and road trip in this weather.
When will you be travelling to the tropics? Share in the comments👇](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)
Ever wanted to swim with the crocs? 🐊😳
Yeah neither have we, that’s why @wildlifehabitat built the croc tank where you can safely swim next to some magnificent saltwater crocodiles and see them in action right up close
Did you know that saltwater crocodiles don’t always live in salt water? Also known as the estuarine crocodile, these guys are more likely to be spotted in freshwater creeks and mangroves but are sometimes found travelling from one place to another through the ocean 🌊
🎥 @amys.camera.lens #tropicalnorthqueensland #wildlife #crocodile #exploretnq #explorecairnsgbr
![Ever wanted to swim with the crocs? 🐊😳
Yeah neither have we, that’s why @wildlifehabitat built the croc tank where you can safely swim next to some magnificent saltwater crocodiles and see them in action right up close
Did you know that saltwater crocodiles don’t always live in salt water? Also known as the estuarine crocodile, these guys are more likely to be spotted in freshwater creeks and mangroves but are sometimes found travelling from one place to another through the ocean 🌊
🎥 @amys.camera.lens #tropicalnorthqueensland #wildlife #crocodile #exploretnq #explorecairnsgbr](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)
Yee-haw partners 🤠🤠
📍 Send this to someone you want to take to @kurcowbarnwellfarm
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #kurand
![Yee-haw partners 🤠🤠
📍 Send this to someone you want to take to @kurcowbarnwellfarm
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #kurand](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)
We hear that the Cardwell Spa Pool in @cassowarycoastaustralia has been looking particularly blue this week 🩵🌴
Have you been out to visit? Don’t forget to tag us in your photos so we can follow along on the adventure 💫🚙
📸 @ranijayzee #exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia #cassowarycoast
[ID: Two people swimming in the bright blue water of the Cardwell Spa Pool, surrounded by green trees. The ground and trees are damp from recent rainfall.]
![We hear that the Cardwell Spa Pool in @cassowarycoastaustralia has been looking particularly blue this week 🩵🌴
Have you been out to visit? Don’t forget to tag us in your photos so we can follow along on the adventure 💫🚙
📸 @ranijayzee #exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia #cassowarycoast
[ID: Two people swimming in the bright blue water of the Cardwell Spa Pool, surrounded by green trees. The ground and trees are damp from recent rainfall.]](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)
It’s that time of year again - family fun at the Cairns Show! 💫🎪
Are you ready to enjoy the fun, food and adrenaline of the Cairns Show. Don’t forget to stop by the @cairns_showgrounds from Wednesday - Friday this week to check out the action 🌸🎡
📸 @megannamourr #exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
[ID: family exploring the Cairns Show 2023 - teacup ride, balloon games and eating fairy floss in front of ferris wheel]
![It’s that time of year again - family fun at the Cairns Show! 💫🎪
Are you ready to enjoy the fun, food and adrenaline of the Cairns Show. Don’t forget to stop by the @cairns_showgrounds from Wednesday - Friday this week to check out the action 🌸🎡
📸 @megannamourr #exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
[ID: family exploring the Cairns Show 2023 - teacup ride, balloon games and eating fairy floss in front of ferris wheel]](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)
If only every day could finish on a high like this 💫
@yagurlitours and @balloonaloft have teamed up to give you the chance to experience a breathtaking hot air balloon float over spectacular Gulf country 🌅✨
Australia’s largest salt pans can be found in Burketown in the Gulf of Carpentaria, country of the Gangalidda & Garawa peoples. This incredible tour teaches guests about connection to the land & how the intricate weave of patterns & textures below closely resemble the beautiful art they create 👣🌺
Tours are currently scheduled through July and August, so don’t miss your chance to experience the beauty of the outback from a balloon basket ☀️
🎥 @bronni #exploretnq #explorecairnsgbr #gulfsavannah #outback
![If only every day could finish on a high like this 💫
@yagurlitours and @balloonaloft have teamed up to give you the chance to experience a breathtaking hot air balloon float over spectacular Gulf country 🌅✨
Australia’s largest salt pans can be found in Burketown in the Gulf of Carpentaria, country of the Gangalidda & Garawa peoples. This incredible tour teaches guests about connection to the land & how the intricate weave of patterns & textures below closely resemble the beautiful art they create 👣🌺
Tours are currently scheduled through July and August, so don’t miss your chance to experience the beauty of the outback from a balloon basket ☀️
🎥 @bronni #exploretnq #explorecairnsgbr #gulfsavannah #outback](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)
Winter in the tropics ain’t so bad 😉🌴
📍 Palm Cove, Ellis Beach, Rex Lookout, Thala Beach Nature Reserve
📸 @roadyaus #exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #palmcove #portdouglasdaintree
![Winter in the tropics ain’t so bad 😉🌴
📍 Palm Cove, Ellis Beach, Rex Lookout, Thala Beach Nature Reserve
📸 @roadyaus #exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #palmcove #portdouglasdaintree](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)
As much as we love chatting to you all online, don’t forget to look up from your screen sometimes…we’ve got some pretty great stuff to see out there! 🌴✨
📍@skyrailcairns
📸 @_sarahlatham #exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR
![As much as we love chatting to you all online, don’t forget to look up from your screen sometimes…we’ve got some pretty great stuff to see out there! 🌴✨
📍@skyrailcairns
📸 @_sarahlatham #exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR](https://tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)