Coconuts by the pool

Explore Tropical North Queensland

Welcome to the tropics

Here you can learn all about Tropical North Queensland, including where to go, things to do and what’s on while you’re visiting. Plus find out how you can work with us to promote the region.
We can’t wait to have you here, but until then, start exploring below 👇

While you’re here

There’s a few things you might want to know about Tropical North Queensland

Tropical Lifestyle & Culture
Uncovering Cairns’ Colourful LGBTQIA+ Scene

A warm welcome is Tropical North Queensland’s trademark, and not just because of the year-round sunshine. This Pride Month (1 June – 30 June), come for pristine beaches and tropical rainforests and stay for the laidback lifestyle and inclusive communities.

Read more
cairns esplanade
Cairns & Northern Beaches
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.

Read more
accessible travel cairns palm cove
Cairns & Northern Beaches
Accessible Travel in Cairns & Palm Cove

As a region, Tropical North Queensland offers an array of experiences that will engage your senses and immerse you in its natural wonders. From the rainforest to the reef, you’re sure to find an abundance of accessible adventures for all tastes.

Read more
aerial of Crocodile Bloomfield River
Unique Nature
Everything you need to know about crocodiles in Tropical North Queensland

They say to never smile at a crocodile, but there’s plenty more to know about this ancient reptile species before you set foot in Tropical North Queensland.

Read more
Cairns & Northern Beaches
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.

Read more
kid picking a mango
Seasons
Why you should visit the tropics in summer

From cosy rainforest retreats to once-in-a-lifetime Great Barrier Reef reef events, epic waterfalls to spectacular outback scenery, this is why you should put the green light on your summer holiday.

Read more
Emerald Creek Falls
Explore Iconic Landscapes
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.

Read more
Cardwell Spa Pool
Mission Beach & Cassowary Coast
Everything you need to know about the Cardwell Spa Pool

Cardwell Spa Pool is a naturally-fed, seasonal creek that shot to stardom on social media in 2016. Ever since, people have been adding it to their holiday itinerary but there are a few things you might not know about this idyllic swimming spot.

Read more
Minke whale article tile
Great Barrier Reef
Swim with dwarf minke whales on the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is the only place in the world that you can swim with dwarf minke whales: an experience so exclusive it only happens for two months of the year and only in Tropical North Queensland.

Read more
Rex Smeal Park
Port Douglas
Things to do in Port Douglas

Don’t let its flop and drop reputation fool you, there are many things to do in Port Douglas. From hunting with Traditional Owners & exploring the Great Barrier Reef, to river floats & wildlife parks. Here’s how to spend your time in Port Douglas.

Read more
nandroya falls atherton tablelands
Mission Beach & Cassowary Coast
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.

Read more
Nu Nu Palm Cove
Palm Cove
Eat your way through these Palm Cove Restaurants

Taste the flavours of the north in the seaside village of Palm Cove, where restaurants take pride in local produce, fresh flavours and providing a warm tropical welcome served with an icy-cold drink.

Read more
Great Barrier Reef Drive
Itineraries
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.

Read more
Unique Nature
Everything you need to know about cassowaries

There’s plenty of reasons to visit Cairns & Great Barrier Reef in summer – balmy weather, crystal clear reef visibility and pumping waterfalls – but what you might not know is it’s also the best time of year to spot Australia’s living dinosaurs and their chicks, cassowaries.

Read more
zillie falls atherton tablelands
Atherton Tablelands
9 waterfalls to chase on the Atherton Tablelands

Hit the famous waterfall circuit, uncover those lesser known or stretch a little further and take a dip in Australia’s widest, single-drop waterfall on the Atherton Tablelands.

Read more

Recent posts

Fashion. Culture. Story. ✨

CIAF 2026 Fashion came alive at The Mill, Yirrganydji Country, showcasing powerful collections inspired by Reclamation and Regeneration. A celebration of Indigenous fashion, creativity, culture and community that won't be forgotten! 

@cairnsindigenousartfair 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia 
@queensland @australia
Chasing waterfalls and hidden gems in the Atherton Tablelands 🌿 

From swimming in volcanic crater lakes to exploring ancient rainforests and charming country towns, this is where Tropical North Queensland slows down and surprises you at every turn. ✨

📍@athertontablelands 

🎥 @rosegumswildernessretreat 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@queensland @australia
Paradise found 🏝️ Crystal-clear water, rainforest walks, and snorkelling straight off the beach. Just a short ferry from Cairns and feels like another world ✨🐢

📍 @fitzroyisland 

🎥 @jesswardphoto 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@queensland @australia
Skipping the supermarket for roadside fruit stalls. Doesn't get fresher than this 🥥

📍 @fromdaintreewithlove, @portdouglasdaintree 

🎥 @on_repart_quand 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@queensland @australia
A little island calm goes a long way 🌊✨ Blue ocean, gentle waves and beautiful mornings on Russell Island.

🎥 @phlipvids 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@queensland @australia
Need a reset? Nature has you covered 🌿🧡

📍 Emerald Creek Falls, @visitmareebashire 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@queensland @australia
No winter blues here, just sunshine, saltwater and a school of Blue-green Chromis 🐠🩵

📍Great Barrier Reef, @downundercruiseanddive 

🎥 @dive_down_under 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@queensland @australia
Float through the ancient tropical rainforest and discover the magic of nature with Back Country Bliss where adventure meets tranquillity 🌿✨

🎥 @amys.camera.lens  @backcountryblissadventures 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@queensland @australia
The only question... how will you take the leap?! 👀🔥
Titanic? Deadman? Sparta kick? Pendulum? Skypark Cairns turns every jump into an adrenaline-filled adventure. 

🎥 @skyparkcairns 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@queensland @australia

Pop up image for Holiday Packages

Book now and save big!

Book your holiday to Tropical North Queensland and save up to 20% off on hotels, tours and more!