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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

10 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.
Explore itineraries
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cairns
Refresh and Recharge: 3-Day Itinerary to Clear Your Mind
Wellness comes naturally to the top end as warm tropical weather, lush rainforests, long stretches of beaches and an abundance of fresh food set the scene for healthy habits.
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cairns northern beaches
A Green Weekend in Cairns
Cairns
Let’s embark on a journey that not only fills our souls with awe-inspiring nature, but also leaves a positive mark on the environment. Get ready to explore Cairns and its surrounding areas with these exciting recommendations for sustainable travel.
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eat drink
10 Day Luxury Escape in Paradise
Cairns to Lizard Island
Use this as a guide for planning your luxury sojourn to Tropical North Queensland. Exploring the premium side of iconic landscapes including reef, rainforest, city and outback, this itinerary is perfect for honeymooners, anniversaries and special occasions, or simply those who like to live in the lap of luxury.
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accessible
Daintree & Cape Tribulation Accessible Itinerary
Cairns – Cape Tribulation
Enjoy an accessible adventure in the Daintree & Cape Tribulation with this two day itinerary.
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Recent posts
Ever peered into the depths of Mt Hypipamee Crater on the @athertontablelands? 🤯 This volcanic pipe is just one of many geological marvels of this region. Who’s visited?
🎥 @jessadventuresaus
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia #athertontablelands
ID A deep, cylindrical crater with sheer rock walls drops dramatically into a still, green pool far below. The surrounding landscape is dense with rainforest, with trees lining the rim of the crater.

Two historical landmarks captured in one beautiful image – can you name them? 🤔 (Answer at the end!)
📸 @amys.camera.lens
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @australia @queensland @portdouglasdaintree
A small white church sits among tall palm trees near a sandy shoreline. Behind it, the ocean stretches to the horizon with a wooden pier on one side and distant mountains in the background.
⚓ Port Douglas Sugar Wharf
⛪ St Mary’s by the Sea

Every day is an adventure in @TropicalNorthQueensland. ☀️ And if you need a little inspo, here are 8 experiences that made 🎥 @kellerdiaries` list.
🚂 Take a scenic ride through the rainforest on the @kurandascenicrailway.
🐎 Gallop along the beach between two World Heritage sites with @capetribhorserides.
🛥️ Cruise to Mackay Coral Cay for pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters.
🍍 Hunt for hidden gems and fresh local produce at the Port Douglas Markets.
🍇 Indulge in a delicious road trip through the @athertontablelands’ foodie trail.
🏝️ Spend a sun-soaked day exploring @fitzroyisland.
🤿 Snorkel the @gbrmarinepark and meet its incredible marine life.
🌴 Chase waterfalls and secret swimming spots in @portdouglasdaintree.
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia
ID Text over video reads “8 must-see places in Tropical North Queensland” followed by a series of videos showing a train travelling through a rainforest, people riding horses along a sandy shoreline, people standing on a white sand cay in the ocean, an outdoor market filled with people and stalls, a person admiring views from a lookout beneath a tree, a white sand beach with bright blue water, colourful coral underwater and a person jumping into a rainforest waterhole.

Heaven IS a place on Earth… and it looks a lot like this 💙. #LizardIsland is serving up some pretty spectacular views so, who’s coming with you? 🏝️
🎥 @lizardisland
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia @cooktowntnq
ID Aerial and close-up shots of the landscapes of Lizard Island, featuring crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life.

OMG, Is that a baby dragon? Meet the newest additions to the @WildlifeHabitat - Wilma and Whiplash’s tiny but mighty Boyd’s Forest Dragons. After months of careful incubation, they have finally hatched. Who else thinks they need names? 👇
🎥 @wildlifehabitat
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia @portdouglasdaintree
ID A Wildlife Habitat keeper introduces newly hatched Boyd’s Forest Dragons, explaining the incubation process. The video shows gloved hands gently handling tiny eggs and placing baby dragons in an incubation container. The scene shifts to their parents, Wilma and Whiplash, perched in their enclosure. The keeper describes the careful temperature and humidity control needed for hatching.

Literally obsessed with these treetop hoppers! Say hello to the Lumholtz’s Tree Kangaroo, the ultimate proof that Australia’s wildlife is next-level adorable. Like seriously… just look at that face. 😍 How would you describe this little guy in one word?
📸: @wolfekind
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia @athertontablelands
ID A tree kangaroo clings to a tree trunk, sticking its tongue out. It is surrounded by green leaves, with sunlight filtering through the canopy.

From the #GreatBarrierReef to ancient rainforest, women are shaping the future of Tropical North Queensland. This #InternationalWomensDay, we celebrate the leaders, innovators and changemakers accelerating action in our region. Tag an inspiring woman in your life 💜 #IWD2025 #accelerateaction
@cairnsturtlerehab @backcountryblissadventures @cairnsadventuregroup @skydiveaustralia @talaroohotsprings @skyparkcairns @skyrailcairns @gbrbiology @reefmagiccairns @daintreediscovery @wildlifehabitat @cairns_aquarium
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia @portdouglasdaintree @cassowarycoastaustralia
ID This video celebrates International Women’s Day 2025 with the theme “Accelerate Action”. It features aerial shots of Tropical North Queensland, followed by women working in tourism and conservation, from guiding tours to protecting saving turtles on the Great Barrier Reef.

Deals too hot to miss. 🌴☀️ Dreaming of your next adventure? @TropicalNorthQueensland has never looked so good.
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia @portdouglasdaintree @athertontablelands @oaks_hotels @daintreetours @windswell_kite_sup_reef @wildlifehabitat @skydiveaustralia @treetopsadventurecapetrib @hartleyscrocodileadventures @cairns_aquarium @historicvillageherberton @salthousecairns @cassowarycoastaustralia
ID A dynamic showcase of Tropical North Queensland’s top experiences, highlighting landscapes, adventure activities and exclusive travel deals. The video opens with the text ‘Deals Too Hot to Miss’ and ends with ‘Your Next Adventure Starts Here’.

Who needs solid ground when you can take adventure to @treetopsadventurecapetrib in the #DaintreeRainforest? 🎥 @amys.camera.lens
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia @portdouglasdaintree #portdouglasdaintree @destinationdaintree
ID The video captures an exciting aerial adventure where participants navigate high ropes courses, suspended bridges and fast zip lines among tall trees.

Are you ready? Let’s go! 🎉 Who’s just a bit excited for @pdcarnivale? The date’s locked in, and with #SavannahSounds added to the mix, the program just got even bigger. Save the date - 23 May to 25 May - book those flights and stay in #portdouglasdaintree for the ultimate Carnivale weekend.
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @queensland @australia #portdouglascarnivale
ID The video shows a lively carnival with crowds, performers and entertainment. It features rides, street acts, giant kites on the beach, a live concert across a series of locations in tropical Port Douglas.
