Destination matchmaking: Tropical North Queensland edition
Discover our 12 unique regions and find the perfect destination for your next adventure
Explore NowSee Great. Leave Greater.
Connect with nature in a place unlike anywhere else. Up here, you’ll experience the astoundingly diverse and connect to something greater. It’s not just about relaxing on the beach (although we do that well too), it’s about making a connection to our special part of the world.
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.
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.
How to explore iconic landscapes with Traditional Custodians
Delve deeper into the iconic landscapes of Tropical North Queensland by visiting with Traditional Custodians.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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
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
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 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
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 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.
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.
What are you looking for?
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR
Sunrise magic at Ellis Beach. 🌅🌴 There’s no better way to start the day than with swaying palms and a sky painted in shades of pink and gold. Who’s watching the sunrise from here next? 👇✨
📸 @stl_caption
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia
ID Sunrise at Ellis Beach, with shades of pink, purple and orange painting the sky. Silhouetted palm trees lean toward the shore, framing the view, while a hammock hangs between them. The ocean stretches toward the horizon, reflecting the morning light.
Just taking it all in at #LakeEacham on the @athertontablelands. 🌿💙 This stunning volcanic crater lake is located in #craterlakesnationalpark and offers day-trippers the perfect place to picnic, swim, or explore the surrounding rainforest walking tracks.
📸 @rachelsholliday
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia #athertontablelands
ID An aerial view of Lake Eacham, a deep blue volcanic crater lake surrounded by dense tropical rainforest. A woman stands on a wooden viewing platform gazing out at the clear water. Submerged logs can be seen beneath the crystal-clear surface, adding to the lake’s beauty.
Lil dude’s caught in a riptide of determination... 🤙🐢🏄♂️ First stop ☝ #FranklandIslands, next stop the EAC 😉 . 🎥 @franklandislands #exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia
ID A Green Sea Turtle hatchling is making its way from the nest to the ocean, a critical part of its life cycle. After hatching from the sand, it instinctively follows the natural light reflecting off the water to find its way to the sea.
Barefoot bliss on Green Island. 🌴👣. This gorgeous #coralcay on the #GreatBarrierReef isn`t just for day-trippers, it’s also home to @greenislandgbr, a luxury eco-resort where you can wake up to the sound of the ocean and explore the reef straight from your doorstep. 🏝️💙 📸 @_letsescapetogether_
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia
ID A woman in a bikini and sun hat walks along the pristine shoreline of Green Island, leaving footprints in the soft golden sand. The turquoise water gently laps at the shore, while lush green foliage lines the beach under a clear blue sky.
Forget roses and chocolates 💘 Nothing says romance like a Victoria’s Riflebird pulling out all the moves. ✨ This dazzling display is the ultimate Valentine’s flex, as he fans out his glossy wings and shimmies his way into her heart. Who else is bringing this energy 😉 to their Valentine’s plans? 📍 Lake Eacham @athertontablelands
🎥 @naidu_kumpatla
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia
ID A male Victoria’s Riflebird performs an elaborate courtship display on a tree stump in the rainforest. He fans out his glossy black wings, revealing iridescent blue and purple hues, and moves rhythmically in a dance-like motion.
Looking for the perfect match? 💘 Swipe left on @tropicalnorthqueensland Whether you are into heart-racing adventures or rainforest retreats, #exploreTNQ is ready to sweep you off your feet. Which one are you saying YES to? Drop your match below! 👇
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia_com @cooktowntnq @cassowarycoastaustralia @athertontablelands @rokopearls @paronellapark @skyparkcairns @talaroohotsprings #riverbendsunsettour @silkyoakslodge @badfishyjetboating
ID A collection of Tropical North Queensland experiences, from heart-pounding adventures like white-water rafting, bungee jumping and jet boating to quieter moments including rainforest escapes, romantic sunset cruises and beachfront dining.
🍦 ‘Eat more ice cream’ - well, if you insist! 🤤 Come grab your happiness in a cone at @numi.icecreamery. Which flavour are you scooping up today?
📸 @food_vixen
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia @visitpalmcove
ID This image features a scoop of ice cream with vanilla on top and a berry mix on the bottom, served in a classic cone. The backdrop highlights a neon sign that reads “EAT MORE ICE CREAM” in pink.
✨🌅🧡 Dreaming of a unique Valentine’s getaway? Why settle for ordinary when you can experience extraordinary? From treetop houses to reef sleepovers, Tropical North Queensland offers some of the quirkiest accommodations that promise an unforgettable retreat. Perfect for adventure-loving couples or those seeking a one-of-a-kind escape. 🔗 in bio 👆
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia
ID This photo carousel features a compilation of photos of unique accommodation in Tropical North Queensland, from treehouse stays perched among the rainforest to luxurious outback glamping spots, each offering a distinct and immersive experience in the natural beauty of the region.
*Some accommodations may be seasonally closed.
Have you even visited #Port Douglas if you don’t have this view in your camera roll of #FourMileBeach?
📸 @allaussiefolettas
ID This image showcases the view from the top of Flagstaff Hill, overlooking a long stretch of beach. The foreground features tropical foliage, framing the expansive seascape below.
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia @portdouglasdaintree #portdouglasdaintree
Not all diggers love the dirt. 🐜 In @tropicalnorthqueensland, our echidnas prefer cosying up in tree hollows instead of digging burrows, making the most of the rainforest’s complex root structures. 🥹
📸 @wolfekind
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia @athertontablelands @portdouglasdaintree @cassowarycoastaustralia
ID This image captures a close-up of an echidna in its natural habitat within the dense rainforests of Tropical North Queensland. The echidna is nestled among leaf litter and forest debris, showcasing its distinctive spiky coat as it navigates through the complex root structures typical of this lush ecosystem.
