Far North Queensland
The northernmost part of the state, Far North Queensland is a tropical region stretching from Cairns to the Torres Strait. With the magnificent coral of the Great Barrier Reef off the coast and World Heritage listed tropical rainforests on the land, there are not many locations in the world that can boast such unique natural attractions within easy reach.
There is such a broad range of activities and accommodation throughout the Far North that there is bound to be a holiday to satisfy all travellers.
Read more about some of Far North Queenland's most beautiful areas including the Torres Strait Islands, Daintree Rainforest, Cooktown & Cape York Peninsula and Port Douglas.
Torres Strait Islands
Just north of Cape York are well over 200 small islands between Australia and Papua New Guinea, only 17 of which are inhabited.
The Torres Strait Islands are a hidden wonder of stunning, untouched beaches with crystal clear waters, not to mention culture brought from Melanesia and Polynesia over 2,000 years ago. The reefs surrounding these islands are home to a colourful display of tropical marine life, dugongs and sea turtles.
There are different levels of island accommodation with luxurious holiday resorts, thatch roofed cabins, right down to simple camp sites.
Relax on the beach after floating in the tranquil waters or go diving to experience the magical marine wonderland below the surface.
Daintree Rainforest
Only a two hour scenic drive out of Cairns is the Daintree Rainforest, Australia’s largest area of tropical rainforest.
The World Heritage Site is the ideal nature lover’s getaway with several tours and activities on offer to get the most out of the National Park. There are cruises, sea kayaking, horse rides, camping and hiking trips catering to different levels of outdoor experience.
No matter what experience you go for make sure you bring a camera, Daintree National Park has some of the most spectacular scenery and native wildlife that you may never see anywhere else.
Cooktown and Cape York Peninsula
A tiny little frontier town, Cooktown is the last town in Queensland before you hit the wilderness of the Cape York Peninsula. In spite of being a small community, Cooktown offers a surprising amount of things to see and do.
Visit the James Cook Museum (the town was named after him after all), take a fishing tour on one of the several winding rivers in the area, enjoy a coastal helicopter flight or visit the Botanic Gardens. If the wilderness is more your style though, use Cooktown as a basecamp and head out to explore the Cape York Peninsula, Australia’s most northern point.
Hike through the National Parks, 4WD through the river crossings, take a tour of the ancestral rock art, or simply stand at the very tip of Australia where there is a monument to Cook’s discovery. If you want to celebrate this moment there is also a pub near the beach.
Port Douglas
Port Douglas is a small town that sees its population double during the tourist season.
The town’s location on the Great Barrier Reef attracts thousands of tourists every year who make the most of daily trips out to the reef for diving, snorkelling and simple, romantic cruises.
Kite surfing is a popular sport on the waters off shore due to the good winds and calm seas. Many restaurants serve amazing fresh seafood caught locally.
