Experience Summer in the Tropics
Find the most picturesque waterfalls, taste the sweetest fruit, or jump into the underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef
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
Meet the Boyd’s Forest Dragon 🦎🌿 one of Australia’s coolest rainforest locals!
Perched on tree trunks, blending in like a true camouflage master, these dragons are full of personality and a reminder of how magical the Wet Tropics can be.
When life gives you trees, become a forest dragon 😎
📸 @josephine.wrt
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia@queensland @australia
ID Close-up image of a Boyd’s Forest Dragon camouflaged on a tree in the rainforest.
From coral gardens to turquoise dreams 💫🐚
Visiting the Great Barrier Reef means more than just a bucket-list moment, it’s a step toward preserving it for generations to come.
Did you know that every time you visit, a portion of your tour price goes directly toward reef conservation? Link in bio on how you can help protect the Great Barrier Reef.
🎥 @ellieryannnn
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia
Time to grab my snorkel and fins 👀🤿 I`m ready to explore @franklandislands
📸 @_markfitz
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia
ID Image of colourful coral beneath crystal-clear waters and vivid blue skies at the Great Barrier Reef.
Views, vibes, and vino 🌞🍷 Savouring the marina breeze and a glass of wine in the perfect spot.
🎥 @shangrilacairns
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland Australia.com
ID Footage of a couple enjoying food and wine with stunning marina views at the Shangri-La Cairns.
Wander through the ancient rainforest and cool off in the refreshing waters of Nandroya Falls 🌿💦✨
🎥 @moniquewebbphotography
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia
ID Footage of a flowing waterfall surrounded by ancient rainforest.
Maybe the most beautiful scenery for Barron River rafting 🌿✨ have you dared the adventure?
📸 @cairnsadventuregroup
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia
ID Aerial image of people rafting down the Barron River, surrounded by tropical rainforest.
Travel trends you need to hop on for 2026 🌴
Aussies are choosing smaller towns, fewer crowds, and more connection and Trinity Beach is the perfect `slow down town’ to make it happen.
Think palm trees, barefoot strolls, and sunset cheers with your favourite people.
✨ It’s time to trade the hustle for harmony and start planning your trip.
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #QueenslandHolidayFeeling #seeaustralia @trinitybeachcairns @queensland @australia
Perfect from every angle 💚✨ Babinda Boulders is the ideal spot to pause, breathe, and take it all in.
🎥 @fredyx.official
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia
ID Aerial footage gliding over Babinda Boulders with crystal-clear waters surrounded by greenery
Looking to treat yourself? ✨
Take your lunch plans to new heights with an exclusive scenic flight over the breathtaking Atherton Tablelands from Cairns, followed by a multi-course lunch and drinks at Mount Mulligan Lodge.
🎥 Escape to @mountmulliganlodge with @nautilusaviation
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia
ID Footage of scenic helicopter flight from Cairns to Mount Mulligan Lodge, followed by a gourmet dining experience.
🦇 This Halloween, swap fake bats for the real thing! From fruit-loving flying-foxes to tiny insect-hunting microbats, the skies are alive with nocturnal wonders.
📍 Wildlife at sunset tour at Undara Lava Tubes @discoveryresortsundara
or visit the @tolgabathospital to meet and learn more about these spooky-sweet locals.
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #QueenslandHolidayFeeling #seeaustralia @queensland @australia
