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Rainforest Meets Reef on This Epic Four-wheel-drive Road Trip Through Queensland

You're high up and behind the wheel of a four-wheel-drive vehicle, built for adventure . A seemingly endless jungle is to your left, while on your right is a view out to the Coral Sea. Heading toward a forest that's existed for more than 150 million years, the view ahead as you travel the Great Barrier Reef Drive makes this an Aussie road trip of a lifetime — it's where the rainforest meets the reef.

From the Tropical North Queensland city of Cairns to stunning Cape Tribulation, here's where you want to stop along the way.

While you're technically not quite out of Cairns yet, this picturesque beachside 'burb deserves a pitstop. Grab a coffee and a spot of "brekkie" (that's Australian for breakfast) along Williams Esplanade, which boasts a variety of cafes, including Espresso & Co . Walk it off along the palm-lined beach before hitting the Captain Cook Highway.

Port Douglas

Next stop is Port Douglas, a sophisticated beach town, beloved for its stylish restaurants and shops as much as for its idyllic setting. Make your way to Island Point Lookout at the top of Flagstaff Hill — breathtaking views of Four Mile Beach and the Coral Sea await.

Mossman Gorge

Barely 30 minutes along the road, you've reached the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest. Explore the area with Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk , where indigenous guides share forest stories dating back thousands of years and take visitors to culturally significant sites. Self-guided walks are also an option; choose a route that best suits your ability and mood, whether it's to the lookout over the Mossman River or over the Rex Creek suspension bridge. Back at the Mossman Gorge Centre , find art by local Kuku Yalanji artists and refreshments for the journey ahead.

Daintree River

Continuing deeper into the rainforest, it's time to veer slightly inland toward Daintree River Cruise Centre . See the forest from a new perspective, and keep an eye out for crocs. Operated by the Lafferty family since 1987, the company has an advanced ecotourism certification and its guides boast an encyclopedic knowledge of local flora and fauna. In addition to crocodiles, other critters who call this area home include green pythons, platypus, kangaroos, and 430 bird species.

Daintree Discovery

Take the ferry over the Daintree River as you continue toward the Daintree Discovery Centre in Cow Bay. "You feel like you are entering an ancient world, a real living museum," the Discovery Centre's Abi Ralph told Travel + Leisure.

Take in the unspoilt view of the ancient forest at the top of the 75-foot canopy tower and experience the aerial walkway, 36 feet above the rainforest floor. Keep your eyes peeled for the endangered (and potentially dangerous) Cassowary bird, which is sometimes spotted along McLean's Creek. "Cassowaries are territorial and the Discovery Centre is lucky to be part of many cassowaries habitat as they regularly wander through the property," Ralph explained. "The key to spotting a cassowary is to spend some time in the rainforest, slow down and look hard. Cassowaries are extremely well camouflaged even though they are are large bird and do not make much noise."

If you are lucky enough to spot a cassowary in the wild, Ralph advised to give it plenty of space and stay calm. "They will usually just wander through eating fruit as they go," Ralph said.

The Best Times to Visit Australia for Perfect Weather and Cheap Flights

Cape tribulation.

Step into a postcard picture as you arrive at your final destination. For all its popularity, Cape Tribulation still feels secluded, and you may be surprised to be the only person walking its beaches — sometimes it may feel like you're the first. A horseback ride through pristine waters is a perfect way to enjoy the scenery and a perfect conclusion to your tropical adventure. "With no buildings in sight, it truly feels as though you have traveled back in time," Cape Trib Horse Rides ' Morgan Pettersson told T+L. "With the beach stretching out in front of you and the dramatic rainforest mountains as a backdrop, many people say that it feels as though you are on the set of the movie 'Jurassic Park.'"

Things to Know

Cape Tribulation is where the sealed road ends, and what lies beyond (Cooktown, about 65 miles north) is for experienced four-wheel-drivers only.

The 112-mile drive back to Cairns from Cape Tribulation — without stops — takes roughly 2.5 hours.

Getting There

Some international routes fly directly into Cairns, but the nearest capital city on the east coast is Brisbane. It's a two-and-a-half-hour flight from the Queensland capital, three hours from Sydney , and three-and-a-half hours from Melbourne.

The road trip can be done at any time of year, but keep in mind that the region's wet season (December through March) is particularly hot and humid, with potentially frequent torrential downpours. April through November may be a more manageable climate. The road between Cairns and Cape Tribulation can be driven with a regular car, if desired.

Be Crocwise

Particularly in remote areas, but also anywhere near water, be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for crocodile signs . Always check with local authorities before swimming.

Related Articles

Best Cairns to Cape Tribulation Road Trip + Insider Tips (2024)

The Cairns to Cape Tribulation Road Trip also known as the Great Barrier Reef Drive runs along the coast from Cairns to Cape Tribulation on the Captain Cook Highway.

The coastal Drive from Cairns to Cape Tribulation, located in Tropical North Queensland, has often been touted as one of the most beautiful drives in Australia.

Cairns is the capital of Adventure in Far North Queensland and Cape Trib is a unique place where two UNESCO World Heritage sites, the famous Great Barrier Reef and the wild Daintree Rainforest.

This article contains information on how to complete a Cairns to Cape Tribulation self-drive, including what to see along the way, the top highlights that cannot be missed, important information on driving from Cairns to Cape Tribulation as well as some fantastic tours from Cairns to Cape Tribulation incase you would rather someone else do the driving while you sit back and enjoy the stunning views.

If you are looking for a Great Australian Adventure that is still easily accessible by everyone then driving from Cairns to Cape Tribulation is the adventure for you.

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Table of Contents

Cairns to Cape Tribulation Drive: The Essentials

As with all good road trips there are few things you need to know before you hit the road. How long the trip will take, where to hire a car, when to go and which direction offers the best views.

Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered below! If you have any questions that aren’t covered here let me know in the comments below or feel free to send me an email.

The best time to Visit Cape Tribulation

Far North Queensland is located on at the tip of the East Coast of Australia and has a very tropical climate. This means in the summer months, it is very hot, wet and humid …. think getting out of the shower and feeling as though you need another shower straight away.

Summer is Australia is between December and March, and most Aussies head south for this time to avoid the tropic climate. However, in the winter months (June/July/August) Tropical North Queensland is a very popular place as the weather is still warm and the sun is out most days but it is not as humid in the summer.

If you want to avoid the humid weather and the hoards of tourists that flock to Cairns and Cape Trib, I suggest planning a trip in May or September.

Hiring a car in Cairns

One of the best ways to see the Great Barrier Reef Drive is to self-drive and hire your own car. During peak season (May-September) cars are hot property and are hired well in advance. Whilst, you can hire a car on the day they tend to be quite expensive and you might not be able to hire you want.

As with most capital cities there are plenty of options when it comes to hiring a car there are plenty of options.

If you would like the option to compare prices among a different range of companies check out price comparison sites such as Kayak , Europcars and Rentalcars.com . Depending on are already staying in Cairns City Center or you are picking up a car from the airport you will be able to bring up hire options for both.

Keep in mind, the cheaper car hire options are usually a little further out of the city or from the airport so it is worth enquiring if they have a shuttle bus.

We decided to hire our car from Jucy as we were travelling on a budget and it is worth keeping in mind you get what you pay for. We were quite happy with our hire experience but we were required to clean the car before returning it and I suggest you to take a Bluetooth speaker to ensure you have access to music on your road trip.

Cairns to Cape Tribulation Drive Time

The drive from Cairns to Cape Tribulation is relatively easy (until you cross the Daintree River) and is not overly long. Without stopping you will be able to travel from Cairns to Cape Trib in around 2 hours and 40 minutes.

However, like with most road trips the Cairns to Cape Tribulation road trip has many spots to stop along the way. It took us most of the day and we still didn’t see everything we wanted to see on the way and we needed to stop on the way back to make sure we had ticked all of our items off our Tropical North Queensland bucket list.

A day trip or Overnight?

If you are short on time you can easily do the drive in a day. If you limit your stops you can make it to Cape Tribulation and back in day. If you plan on staying in Cape Tribulation, you will comfortably be able to fit most things on this road trip itinerary in one full day assuming you leave from Cairns around 8am.

However, if you would like to take your time at each spot and see everything on the list below, I suggest staying along the away and taking two days to complete the trip.

As you go through the itinerary below you will find some of my top recommendations of places to stay.

Cairns to Cape Tribulation Itinerary

Finally, we have made it to the part you have all come here for, the Cairns to Cape Tribulation Drive Itinerary, or if you’d prefer the highlights of the Great Barrier Reef Drive. You are in for a treat with this drive and I don’t think any Australian Bucket list would complete without this drive.

Let’s jump into it

Palm Cove has a real beach town feel about it but it is actually a suburb of Cairns. There are plenty of things to do in Palm Cove and you could easily spend half a day here but I recommend stopping in for a walk along the beach and breakfast at Espresso & Co . If you get a table at the front you will have a beautiful view of the beach as you eat your breakfast.

If you are planning on swimming at Palm Cove, make sure you do so between the flags as there are nets in the water to keep you safe from Jelly Fish.

Palm Cove also has some amazing Boutique shopping, a gorgeous rainforest walk to Clifton Beach and some amazing restaurants.

If you would like to stay in Palm Cove I recommend the following:

The Reef House is a luxury boutique hotel that looks over the Coral Sea. It is the perfect place to unwind and treat yourself for a night or two. You can relax in the adult’s only pool, participate in yoga and aqua aerobics or join in a cocktail making class. The Reef House also has a day spa where you can really treat yourself. Each guest is invited into the Brigadier’s lounge to enjoy complimentary drinks and canapés.

Compare prices on Booking.com | Agoda

Paradise on the beach is a mid range hotel with sea view rooms. The room was equipped with a microwave, small fridge, crockery and some basic cooking utensils. However, to wash up after preparing food you need to use the sink in the bathroom.

The hotel has a beautiful pool and spa area which features an undercover BBQ area complete with all the utensils you will need to cook on the BBQ. If you are choosing to cook meals, I recommend meals that can be cooked on the BBQ as this is a much easier option than cooking in your room.

Ellis Beach

Not long after leaving Palm Cove you will come across Ellis Beach. The beach consists of 5km of golden sand and is absolutely stunning, it is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Cairns region.

I highly recommend a stop at Ellis Beach, even if its only for 5 minutes to enjoy the views. If you happen to have left Cairns very early in the morning you might even be able to enjoy sunrise, it is truly something to admire.

If you would like to stay the night you can stay at Ellis Beachfront Bungalows, the bungalows are located 1 minute from the beach and include a kitchenette and plenty of space for you to relax. (Compare prices on Booking.com | Agoda )

Ellis beach also has an amazing bar/restaurant, patrolled beaches and stinger nets in the water during the dry season.

The Balancing Rocks

The Balancing Rocks are easy to miss but if you have the time, I suggest a quick pit stop to admire the piles of rocks that have been placed here by many travellers before you.

It is anybody’s guess as to how these rocks came to be here, who started or why it was started. There is no cultural or historical reasoning (that we know of) for the rocks but none-the-less it has made a pretty cool stop.

Jump out of the car and build your own Balancing pile or take some unique photos of other peoples rocks.

Wangetti Beach

Wangetti Beach is more of a local secret and a fairly remote beach. The beach runs four kilometers from Slip Cliff Point to Red Cliff Point. There are no facilities at the beach and the car parks are located at either end of the beach.

Pull off the highway and stop to take in the views of the almost straight coastline. If you have a little more time it is the perfect spot to stretch your legs and take a walk along the sand. The beach is stunning and practically untouched but has been naturally eroded which means you can enjoy the pebble stones that cover a section of the beach. For the best views of the beach stop by the lookout at the Northern end of the beach.

The Thala Resort Palm Tree Road

Whether you choose to stay at the Thala Beach Nature Reserve or not, you must make a stop here. I’m sure you’ve seen the stunning photographs on Instagram of the Palm Tree Road.

The Palm Trees are pretty spectacular as they are very symmetrical, whilst photos from the ground are lovely, if you have a drone you will want to get it out for some amazing shots above the trees.

There are big signs on the highway and the plantation is located just off the highway, so it is hard to miss.

If you have made it this far and you are looking for a place to stay to break up the drive, Thala Beach Nature Reserve is the perfect place. Who doesn’t love accommodation with a private beach?

Rex Lookout

For one of the best views on the Great Barrier Reef Drive you must stop at Rex Lookout. There are plenty of signs that point to parking on both sides of the road, if you park on the opposite side of the road be careful crossing the highway.

Be prepared for one of those draw dropping moments, on a perfectly clear day the view is breathtaking. Looking out over the blue ocean and towards the rainforest. It truly is a moment to appreciate all that nature has to offer.

There is a large grassy area you can sit and enjoy the view and perhaps a picnic if you plan ahead.

We enjoyed the view so much that we stopped again our way back from Cape Tribulation to Cairns.

This spot is not a local secret so expect to find plenty of other people enjoying the views too.

Crocodile Lookout Point at The Mowbray River Footbridge

If you are looking for a reliable place to spot some crocs in the wild then the newly constructed Mowbray River Footbridge is one of your best bets along the Cairns to Cape Tribulation drive.

For your best chance to spot a crocodile resting on the banks of the river, try to time your visit with the low tide. If you’re really lucky, you might even seem them swimming under the bridge.

Stick to the foot bridge for your own safety and do not approach the crocodiles.

Port Douglas

The gorgeous resort town of Port Douglas is the perfect place to stop for lunch (or even a few days) on your Cairns to Cape Tribulation Road Trip, there are plenty of cute places to shop and eat. Port Douglas is famous for it 4-mile beach, so there is plenty of beach to stroll along.

If you are passing through town on a Sunday you must head to the Port Douglas Markets for some local shopping, great coffee and amazing crepes.

For some where nice to stay without breaking the bank, check out the The Newport Resort. You will be located a 5 minute walk from the 4-mile beach and the Marina, as well as many of the shops.

Looking for something a little fancier? You can’t go past the Shantara Resort. The Adults Only retreat is 400 meters from the 4-mile beach and each boutique style room offers private balconies to spend an evening relaxing. Choose a room with pool access to make cooling off at the end of the day so much easier.

Mossman Gorge

Your next stop on the Cairns to Cape Tribulation drive is Mossman Gorge. Mossman Gorge is locate just 20 minutes north of Port Douglas and at the end of the Captain Cook Highway.

Mossman Gorge is a fabulous place to experience the Daintree rainforest. You can park you car at the visitors centre and embark on the 45-minute rainforest circuit. Along the circuit you will find huge rainforest fig trees, birds and animals that are unique to the rainforest and you will be able to swim in the rainforest creeks. These creeks are crocodile free so you can can cool down without worrying about the crocodiles.

It is also the perfect place to learn about the indigenous culture in the area and of course, spend your entire afternoon swimming in the creeks and watering holes.

Daintree Village

To get a real taste of what rural Far North Queensland is like, take a short detour and visit the Daintree Village. The village is very small and only has a couple of cafes/restaurants, a general store and a camp ground. Despite the size of the village it is well worth a quick stop and a great place to grab something to eat.

The Daintree River Crossing

Next along the Cairns to Cape Tribulation drive is the Daintree River. The only way to access Cape Tribulation is to cross the river on the ferry. The ferry only takes about 5-minutes but the wait for the ferry can 30 – 60 minutes.

The Daintree River Ferry costs $23 for a one way ticket per car and can be paid when you arrive at the river crossing. You can also purchase a flexible return ticket for $39 and it can be used for any return trip.

The Cape Tribulation Ferry runs from 5am until midnight every day and departs roughly every hour depending on the season. For a more in-depth information check out the Cape Tribulation Ferry timetable here .

Mount Alexandra Lookout

Once you disembark the ferry the road will continue on for another 50 minutes (approximately) towards Cape Tribulation.

The road becomes quite steep and as you climb up the road you will find the Mount Alexandra Lookout. There is a big sign for the lookout and there is plenty of parking for your quick stop. The lookout provides great views over the Daintree river.

After stopping at Rex Lookout earlier on in the drive we were not as blown away by the Mount Alexandra Lookout but it is still beautiful and well worth a five minute stop.

Daintree Discovery Center

Cape Tribulation is quite remote and does not offer many of the traditional touristy things to do. But, if you want to do something a little touristy then I highly recommend the Daintree Discovery Center.

Once you enter the center you will find boardwalks that wind around the Daintree rainforest. You will be provided with an audio guide and the number along the boardwalk will guide you through the rainforest.

During your walk you will learn about the history of the rainforest, the animals and plants that live in the rainforest as well how the indigenous people used the forest for education, food, medication and protection. As well as the dinosaurs that used to roam the rainforest many moons ago.

Daintree Ice Cream Company

The Daintree Ice Cream Company grow all of their own fruit and make 4 – 5 flavours daily depending on the fruit in season.

You can buy a cup with a single flavour such as mango, coconut, vanilla, soursop and milk chocolate. A cup with a single flavour costs $6. If you feel like being a little adventurous I recommend trying the Signature cup for $7.50.

Cape Tribulation

Cape Tribulation beach, where one world heritage listed site meets another, or in other words, the Daintree rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef.

There is no better place to see the Daintree meet the Great Barrier Reef than Cape Tribulation Beach. As you walk through the rainforest and out onto the pristine beach, be prepared for some incredible beauty.

There are no words to describe the first time you step onto Cape Tribulation Beach. The grand Daintree rainforest stands as a border for the sand, where it has stood for 180 million years. The sand is white and the water is blue, it is almost as though you have entered the set for Castaway or Survivor.

Your foot prints will be the first on the beach and you will have this incredible moment to yourself.

The quiet and calmness of the moment will only be interrupted by the sounds of the trees rustling and the waves lapping the shores.

Enjoy a walk along this remote and deserted beach. Although the temptation to see the moment through your camera will be strong, make sure you take in the atmosphere.

The beach is easy to find and there is plenty of parking. In the carpark you will find a toilet which is very clean and flushes (many toilets in the area are drop toilets).

DO NOT SWIM AT CAPE TRIBULATION BEACH . Although the beach is beautiful and the sparkling water will be calling you in, please follow the signs and do not swim at the beach.

Cape Tribulation to Cairns

The drive from Cape Tribulation to Cairns is more or less the same drive and you are able to stop at the same spots as you did on the way to the Daintree Rainforest. However, we used some of the trip back to stop at a few of the stops we missed on the way up.

However, if you hit all of the stops on the way up you might want consider stopping at the Kuranda Skyrail for a trip in a gondola up into the trees of the rainforest to the rainforest village of Kuranda.

Cairns to Cape Tribulation Tours

If you are unsure about driving, or the river crossing makes your nervous or you would just prefer for someone else to do the driving for you so you can relax and enjoy the stunning views, there are plenty of tours you can do from Cairns to Cape Tribulation. Most of the tours offer pick up and drop off to city center hotels in Cairns.

Here are some of the best tours for days trips from Cairns to Cape Tribulation:

Final thoughts on the Great Barrier Reef Drive

The drive from Cairns to Cape Tribulation is one of the most beautiful drives on the East Coast of Australia. The landscape differs drastically from the stunning blue ocean and white sandy beaches to the UNESCO World Heritage Daintree Rainforest.

It is a drive that must be on your Australian Bucket list at least once. So pack your bags for the beach, turn on the radio and prepare for the most amazing few days of your life.

If you have any questions about the road trip let me know in the comments below!

I'm Fiona, the Australian blogger behind Travelling Thirties. Travel has always been my passion since 2007. I created this site to help inspire you to travel the world. In 2010 I moved from Australia to Scotland with $500 and a one way ticket, no one thought I'd last 5 minutes but I lasted 5 years. I share everything from one day itineraries to travel tips and tricks from Australia to Europe that will inspire you to get out and travel. Some of my favourite countries I have been to are France, Finland, Denmark, and England.

Travel Expertise: Europe Travel, France Travel, Christmas Markets, travel planning, itineraries and travel tips

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• Take a road trip on the Great Barrier Reef Drive

Fiona Harper

The strip of bitumen between Cairns and Cape Tribulation, now known as the Great Barrier Reef Drive, is 140 km of jaw-dropping beauty. The road winds between two world heritage icons that Tropical North Queensland is famous for: the Wet Tropics Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.

How to find the Great Barrier Reef Drive

The Great Barrier Reef Drive between Cairns & Port Douglas

Thala Beach Nature Reserve

Officially, the road between Cairns and Mossman is called the Captain Cook Highway. It starts in the Cairns CBD as Sheridan St, passing through the Cairns northern beaches before reaching  Port Douglas. Pass through Mossman on the Mossman-Daintree Rd before taking the Cape Tribulation Rd. You’ll know you’re on the right track when you come to the Daintree River and the Daintree River Ferry, which is your ticket into the Daintree Rainforest. Switch down a gear or two and enjoy the relaxed pace of life north of the Daintree as the road winds past overhanging forest canopy concealing some of the prettiest pristine beaches on the planet. The bitumen road ends at Cape Tribulation (known simply as Cape Trib by locals), where the Great Barrier Reef Drive officially ends.

How long will it take to do the Great Barrier Reef Drive?

Cross the Daintree River on the Daintree River Ferry

Driving through the Daintree National Park

Don’t be fooled into thinking that ‘it’s only 140km, we only need two days’. There’s so much to see and do on this drive so give yourself plenty of time. Allow approximately one week but if you don’t have that much time, a minimum three days will give you an enticing taste of tropical road tripping.

Highlights of the Great Barrier Reef Drive

Walk along the beautiful Ellis Beach

Enjoy lunch at Osprey's Restaurant at Thala Beach Nature Reserve

Yorkeys Knob , Trinity Beach , Clifton Beach and Palm Cove are Cairns suburban coastal communities with restaurants, cafes and accommodation set alongside sweeping stretches of beachfront parkland. Ellis Beach and beyond is your introduction to long stretches of beach sand untainted by human footprints. This is where forest-clad mountains start tumbling into the sea. Get used to having a beach all to yourself: it only gets better the further north you drive. Pull over alongside the highway, slip your toes into the sand and the world immediately seems a million miles away.

Spend a few hours at  Hartleys Crocodile Adventures   where you can take a boat cruise on a crocodile-inhabited lagoon for an up close & personal look at these apex predators. Call into  Thala Beach Nature Reserve  for lunch in Osprey’s Restaurant amongst the treetops on a beachfront headland overlooking the Coral Sea. Check into an eco-designed bungalow amongst the forest and chill out with nature.

Embrace the relax resort life in Port Douglas

Join an Indigenous Dreamtime walk at Mossman Gorge

Port Douglas is worthy of at least a few days indulgence. A relaxed beachfront village with a modern vibe, there’s restaurants, cafes, hotels, markets, boutiques and a gazillion things to do. It’s also a great spot to board a boat heading out to the  Great Barrier Reef.  Check out some of the area’s wild critters at the  Wildlife Habitat .

Spend a day at  Mossman Gorge for an introduction into Indigenous heritage and the Kuku Yalanji people. Dreamtime Walks, pristine rainforest, waterfalls and the crystal clear Mossman River should keep you entertained. Check into Silky Oaks Lodge on the northern bank of the Mossman River for elegant 5 star digs in the rainforest, or try some sport fishing at  Hook-a-Barra .

On the banks of the Daintree River join a Solar Whisper Daintree River wildlife & crocodile cruise where you’ll likely spot saltwater crocodiles sunning themselves on the riverbank. Drive your car onto the barge to cross the river and you’re on your way to saying hello to the world’s oldest rainforest.

Don’t bother getting out of 2nd gear from here onwards. The locals barely bother and you’ll find yourself slipping into the same relaxed state of semi-consciousness as the serenity of the forest takes over. Turn off the stereo, wind down the windows and allow the sights, smells and sounds of the rainforest to seduce you!

Spot a crocodile at Hartley's Crocodile Adventures

Browse the boutiques on Macrossan Street in Port Douglas

Alexandra Lookout in the Daintree National Park

Drop in to the  Daintree Discovery Centre  to brush up on geographical history. It’s not easy to get your head around a forest said to be more than 150 million years old but even if you don’t care for facts, this is a great place for wildlife spotting from forest trails or aerial canopy walkways. A great spot to get your bearings is the Alexandra Lookout.

Wander along a rainforest boardwalk

Noah Beach in Cape Tribulation

Visit Thornton Beach

Take a detour to Cow Bay for more secluded beaches kissed by rainforest. Take note of signs warning of crocodile hazards and seasonal marine stingers. Check into a chilled out guest house for beachfront bliss.

Thornton Beach, Noah Beach, Coconut Beach are all worth a wander for leisurely, solitary beachcombing. So too the Marrdja, Kulki or Dubuji Boardwalks for easy forest walks. Hikers looking for something a little more energetic might try hiking to Mt Sorrow , 800m above sea level. As the road winds its way to Cape Trib there’s the Daintree Entomological Museum and Daintree Icecream Company.

The bitumen road ends at Cape Trib but the adventure is far from over. In fact, this is where the real fun begins with Cape Trib being the main hub of this very remote area. Check into a guesthouse or lodge like the  Heritage Lodge & Spa ,  Safari Lodge  or  Cape Trib Beach House , or pitch a tent beachside at  Cape Tribulation Camping  and savour some beachfront bliss.

Take a tour with  Ocean Safari to a coral cay on the Great Barrier Reef to swim with turtles. Birdwatchers stand by with your binocular at the ready, Cape Trib is jumping with birds and butterflies, or try a guided 4WD tour along the famous Bloomfield Track with Billy Tea Safaris .

Bloomfield Track between Cape Tribulation and Wujal Wujal

Or you could just do absolutely nothing but relax. Don’t worry about those pesky black spots in mobile phone or wifi services, this is the ultimate digital detox. A few days chilling out at Cape Trib and you’ll likely have forgotten that there is a crazy chaotic world beyond the forest and beach.

The Great Barrier Reef Drive might have ended in Cape Tribulation but if you’re up for a little more adventure, take the Bloomfield Track through to Cooktown.

Learn more about what do see and do as you make your way up the Great Barrier Reef Drive.

Guide to Cairns & Port Douglas

A getaway is looming and you’re longing for a tropical escape – Cairns and Port Douglas are both popular holiday havens boasting a wealth of experiences. Read this guide to help plan your trip to these two seaside locales.

Jewel of the tropics

Tropical North Queensland’s Wet Tropics World Heritage Area is a landscape of astonishing beauty and biodiversity. Immerse yourself in this national treasure, the oldest tropical rainforest on earth.

Follow the palm trees to paradise: Thala Beach Nature Reserve

Discover a tropical paradise along the Great Barrier Reef Drive between Cairns & Port Douglas at the idyllic coastal eco-retreat, Thala Beach Nature Reserve.

Guide to Cairns Beaches

A chain of relaxed seaside villages lay just north of Cairns, each boasting their own unique features. Find out more about each of Cairns’ beaches and which tickle your fancy.

72 hours in Port Douglas

This old favourite has a new sense of cool about it. Here’s how to make the most of your time away.

Palm Cove: a family affair

Make beautiful memories with a stay at this chic, laidback village just north of Cairns. Here’s 10 reasons why kids and grown-ups love Palm Cove.

Local’s guide to Palm Cove – Australia’s most beautiful beach village

Step away from the main strip and discover a few of the local secrets that make Palm Cove so special.

Why Port Douglas is the perfect spot for a family holiday

Port Douglas is the perfect getaway for kids and parents alike, with everything from adrenaline-filled rainforest adventures and awe-inspiring wildlife tours to top-end eateries and bustling local markets.

Dive into this guide of swim-out hotel rooms

Walk in: swim out. For that added splash of luxury to your weekend getaway, family holiday or romantic retreat the following hotels will get you as close as you can to the most convenient and luxurious pools in the region.

Embrace Summer in the Wet Tropics

Summer in the Wet Tropics brings a different beauty to the area. For locals, it offers a sense of nostalgia; for visitors, an understanding of why it’s affectionately named “the big wet”.

Where the rainforest meets the reef

Explore the end of the line of the Great Barrier Reef Drive.

Privacy Overview

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Cairns & Great Barrier Reef Accessibility Statement

Accessibility Statement

• tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au
• September 28, 2024

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This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.

Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML, adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.

If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email

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Disability profiles supported in our website

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Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to

The Ultimate Far North Queensland Road Trip

Trying to work out where to stay at the Great Barrier Reef? Discover a great selection of accommodation, the length and breadth of the Great Barrier Reef and beyond. Search for hotel rooms and book online.

• Great Barrier Reef Hotels
• Airlie Beach Hotels
• Cairns Hotels
• Cape Tribulation Hotels
• Gladstone Hotels
• Mackay Hotels
• Magnetic Island Hotels
• Mission Beach Hotels
• Port Douglas Hotels
• Rockhampton Hotels
• Townsville Hotels
• Whitsundays Hotels
• Yeppoon Hotels
• Luxury Reef Hotels
• The Best 5 Star Reef Hotels
• More Queensland Hotels
• Brisbane Hotels
• Gold Coast Hotels
• Sunshine Coast Hotels
• Maroochydore Hotels
• Noosa Hotels
• Agnes Water Hotels
• Bundaberg Hotels
• Hervey Bay Hotels
• Capital City Hotels
• Sydney Hotels
• Melbourne Hotels
• Adelaide Hotels
• Canberra Hotels
• Hobart Hotels
• Perth Hotels
• Hotels Beyond The Reef
• Alice Springs Hotels
• Broome + Cable Beach Hotels
• Byron Bay Hotels
• Kangaroo Island Hotels
• Port Stephens Hotels

Great Barrier Reef's islands are simply enchanting, with the choice of over 100 islands from unique and exotic islands to the world famous Whitsundays.

• Best Islands Near Cairns
• Bedarra Island
• Brampton Island
• Daydream Island
• Dunk Island
• Fitzroy Island
• Great Keppel Island
• Green Island
• Haggerstone Island
• Hamilton Island
• Hayman Island
• Heron Island
• Hinchinbrook Island
• Langford Island
• Lindeman Island
• Lizard Island
• Long Island
• Orpheus Island
• South Molle Island
• Whitsunday Island

Queensland is unique amongst the Australian states in that it has a number of genuine coastal capitals.

• Airlie Beach
• Charters Towers
• Daintree Rainforest
• Mission Beach
• Port Douglas
• Rockhampton
• Shute Harbour
• Whitehaven Beach

Discover a diverse range of experiences in the Great Barrier Reef.

• Reef Experiences
• Diving the Reef
• The reef from the air
• Sky diving at Airlie Beach
• Sky diving at Cairns
• Sky diving at Mission Beach
• Adventure Activities
• Cairns Reef Tours
• Glass Bottom Boat Tours
• Sail the Reef
• Snorkelling The Reef
• Submarine Reef Tours
• Liveaboard Reef Tours

The Great Barrier Reef is a gathering of brilliant, vivid coral providing divers with the most spectacular underwater experience imaginable.

• About The Reef
• Northern Great Barrier Reef
• Central Great Barrier Reef
• Southern Great Barrier Reef
• Great Barrier Reef Facts
• How big is the reef?
• History of the region
• Reef Insights

If you’re looking for a fun and exciting family road trip, there are a lot of iconic places to discover on this great bucket-list-worthy road trip in tropical Far North Queensland.

Starting at the mid Great Barrier Reef town of Townsville and making your way up the iconic Queensland coast, you’ll discover some of the most beautiful beaches, lush tropical rainforests and remarkable reefs and islands in the world.

You have to check out as many of places to visit in tropical Far North Queensland as you can. Buckle up and enjoy the ride, as this guide prepares you for all the must-see places, the best activities along with useful practical advice for a Far North Queensland family road trip like no other.

What to Expect on a Far North Queensland Road Trip

This road trip starts in Townsville and is really several adventures in one. The journey between Townsville and Cairns is where you’ll discover a lot of great destinations to explore, like beautiful beaches, lush rainforests and remarkable reefs.

You can start the trip in Townsville and make your way up the iconic Queensland coast. There’s something for everyone in this region, so it’s the perfect place for a family adventure.

Further up the coast in the area covering the next 140 kilometres or so, between Cairns and Cape Tribulation, there are many beautiful places to explore. This includes popular beach towns like Palm Cove and Port Douglas. You can take a day trip to the outer reef, visit the Whitsundays Islands, or go explore the unspoiled countryside and mountainous rainforests.

The last part of the trip is on the Bloomfield Track, which goes from Cape Tribulation to Cooktown. This beautiful drive goes through some of the world’s oldest rainforest and along a scenic coastline of turquoise and blue. It is also a piece of road that not everyone can drive on if they don’t have a 4WD.

The beautiful scenery is worth the drive, but you should always check the road conditions before heading out, because trees can fall on the road, it can sometimes flood in some areas during the wet season.

When you look at Far North Queensland on a map, it might look like the distance from Townsville to Cooktown is not that far and a fairly easy drive. However, you really don’t want to try and drive this road trip in a few days, especially if you are travelling with kids. You really should take the time to enjoy the trip and take in the best of what the area has to offer.

The Ultimate 2 Week+ FNQ Itinerary

Your should allow two to three weeks for the itinerary to Far North Queensland below, as this was made to give you an idea of where to go and some of the interesting places to see along this part of the Queensland coast.

So, if you’re looking for a family road trip that is packed with adventure, natural beauty and plenty of fun, then be sure to add these great destinations to your itinerary.

Townsville: 1-3 Days

Townsville is the perfect place to start your family road trip of Far North Queensland. If you’re stopping here from a journey further south, allow a couple of days to explore this tow and it’s surrounds. With its central location, you can easily explore the surrounding areas such as Magnetic Island, Hinchinbrook Island and Palm Islands.

For those who love the outdoors, there are plenty of hiking and camping opportunities in the nearby national parks. And, if you’re looking for some beach time, then head to the 2.5-kilometre beachfront promenade known as The Strand.

The Strand is very family friendly, with playgrounds, walking and bike paths, picnic areas and free water park for you to relax, swim and even try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding. And then drive or hike up to Castle Hill lookout for a 360-degree view over Townsville and across to Magnetic Island.

Side Trip: Magnetic Island

Just a short 20 minute ferry ride from Townsville, Magnetic Island is a must-see destination on your Far North Queensland road trip. This beautiful island is home to stunning beaches, rainforests and plenty of wildlife.

Be sure to visit some of the island’s popular attractions such as Forts Walk, the Magnetic Island Forts and the Koala Conservation Centre. And, if you’re feeling adventurous, get out and explore the island’s many hiking trails.

Ingham: 1 Day

Stop off in Ingham for a few days and explore the nearby rainforests, waterfalls and national parks. This town is known as the gateway to the Wet Tropics and is a great place to base yourself to explore this World Heritage listed area

There are plenty of things to do in Ingham, such as swimming in the natural rock pools at Bigge Dam, hiking to the top of Wallaman Falls – Australia’s highest single-drop waterfall, or take a leisurely stroll through the rainforest at Tyto Wetlands.

Tully: 1 Day

Just an hour drive from Ingham is the town of Tully , known as the gateway to the Cassowary Coast. This region is home to some of the most pristine rainforest in Australia, as well as stunning beaches and waterfalls

There are plenty of things to do in Tully, such as swimming in the natural rock pools at Bigge Dam, hiking to the top of Wallaman Falls – Australia’s highest single-drop waterfall, or take a leisurely stroll through the rainforest at Tyto Wetlands.

Mission Beach: 1-2 Days

A visit to Mission Beach is a must on your Far North Queensland road trip. This beautiful beach town is located between Cairns and Townsville and is the perfect place to relax and soak up the tropical Queensland sun

There are plenty of things to do in Mission Beach, such as swimming, surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking or just relaxing on the beach. For those who love the outdoors, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. For a bit of adrenaline, take a skydive or parasail over the stunning beaches.

And be sure to visit the nearby Dunk Island for a day of sun, sand and relaxation.

Innisfail: 1 Day

Innisfail is a great place to base yourself to explore the surrounding natural attractions. The area is nothing short of beautiful, dotted with sugarcane fields, and the town is known as the art deco capital of Australia. Much of its architecture was rebuilt during the heyday of the art deco style, after a devastating cyclone in 1918.

There are plenty of things to do in Innisfail, such as The Mamu Tropical Skywalk, situated an hour out of town, which is an elevated walkway above the jungle, a 37 meter high observation tower and 1200 meters of walking tracks – perfect for people who need just a little more rainforest on this road trip!

Hiking to the top of Josephine Falls is also popular, as well as taking a leisurely stroll through the rainforest at Mount Bowen.

Side Trip: Undara Lava Tubes

Ok, so this is quite the side-trip, but if you have the time, its well worth it. Undara Lava Tubes is located inland from Innisfail and is a must-see for anyone interested in geology and natural history.

These lava tubes were formed over 190,000 years ago and are the largest and longest lava tubes in the world. They are a truly unique geological formation and well worth a visit.

There are plenty of tours available that will take you through the lava tubes, as well as plenty of other activities such as hiking, mountain biking and bird watching.

Babinda: 1 Day

Babinda is a small town located in the Cassowary Coast Region of Far North Queensland about 65kms south of Cairns. This town is surrounded by World Heritage listed rainforest and is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in Australia.

There are plenty of things to do in Babinda, such as swimming in the natural rock pools at Devil’s Pool, hiking to the top of Babinda Boulders -a stunning creek, which are spotted with huge boulders that have been shaped by the flowing waters surrounded by pristine forest. For those who love the outdoors, there are plenty of hiking and camping opportunities in the nearby national parks.

Even though Babinda isn’t very big, you could easily spend a few days there relaxing, enjoying nature, and checking out the local gallery and savoring the local restaurants. If you only have one day to spend in Babinda, don’t miss The Boulders!

And, if you’re looking for some beach time, then head to the 1.5-kilometre long sandy beachfront known as Brampston Beach. This park is very family friendly, with playgrounds, picnic areas and plenty of space to relax and soak up the Queensland sun.

Cairns: 2-3 Days

As the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is a must-stop on your Far North Queensland road trip. This vibrant city is home to many great restaurants, cafes and bars, as well as plenty of shops for retail therapy.

For those who love the outdoors, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. Cairns is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Far North Queensland and for good reason – there is so much to see and do here!

Cairns is one of the best places for exploring the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. There are short tours around 45 minutes to inner reef islands like Green Island and Fitzroy Island, as well as trips further to the outer Great Barrier Reef.

Cairns has something for everyone. Families will love the Cairns Tropical Zoo, the world-class Cairns Aquarium, Zoom Wildlife Dome, where you can soar over an indoor wildlife park on a zip line and the many kid-friendly activities on offer at Cairns Esplanade.

One of the most popular things to do in this area is the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail. When you’re in Cairns, you won’t want to miss the chance to ride the Kuranda Scenic Rail up the mountain. Take the cable car back down to the village so you can enjoy both on your trip.

Side Trip: Atherton Tablelands

Not far from Cairns is the Atherton Tablelands, an area of stunning natural beauty that is well worth a visit on your Far North Queensland road trip. Here you will find beautiful rainforests, waterfalls, crater lakes, hot springs and more.

There are plenty of things to do in the Atherton Tablelands, such as hiking through the rainforest, swimming in the waterfalls or crater lakes, or relaxing in the hot springs. One of the most popular places to visit in the Atherton Tablelands is the Crater Lakes National Park. For those who love the outdoors, there are plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails to explore.

One of the most popular things to do in the Atherton Tablelands is visit Millaa Millaa Falls, a series of beautiful waterfalls located in Millstream Falls National Park. The park is also home to Zillie Falls and Ellinjaa Falls, which are also worth a visit. Another popular attractions in the Atherton Tablelands is the Curtain Fig Tree, a massive tree with a curtain of roots that is well worth a visit.

In addition to the natural attractions, the Atherton Tablelands is also home to many great cafes, restaurants and shops. Be sure to check out the local markets for fresh produce and handmade goods.

While here, you can also try an epic sunrise hot air balloon trip departing from Mareeba. There is nothing quite like floating above the rainforest as the sun comes up.

See a homestead from the 1800s at the Herberton Historic Village museum in Herberton, which is about 15 minutes south of Atherton. This village has 8 working displays, such as making billy tea, riding on a heritage train, blacksmithing, and more.

Port Douglas: 1-2 Days

Port Douglas is a beautiful coastal town located on the Coral Sea about an hour north of Cairns. As you drive up the coast from Cairns, you’ll want to stop off and take lots of photos of the spectacular scenery. The lush green rainforest set against the stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and serene blue ocean makes for some amazing, unforgettable views.

There are plenty of things to do in Port Douglas , such as swimming, snorkelling, diving, fishing, and exploring the rainforest. There are also plenty of great restaurants, cafes and bars to enjoy in this town.

One of the most popular things to do in Port Douglas is visit Four Mile Beach. This stunning beach is one of the best places to swim or relax on the sand. Another popular attraction is the Daintree Rainforest, which is located just outside of town.

Daintree Rainforest: 1-2 Days

Daintree Rainforest is home to one of the oldest rainforests in the world and is one of the most popular places to visit in Far North Queensland. The rainforest is full of amazing plants and animals, making it a must-see for any nature lover.

There are plenty of things to do in Daintree Rainforest, such as hiking through the rainforest, swimming in waterfalls, or taking a scenic drive. One of the most popular things to do is take a cruise along the Daintree River. This is a great way to see crocodiles, turtles and other amazing wildlife up close.

There are also plenty of great places to eat in Daintree Rainforest, such as the Rainforest Cafe, which offers a unique dining experience surrounded by the rainforest.

In addition to the natural attractions, Daintree Rainforest is also home to many great cafes, restaurants and shops. Be sure to check out the local markets for fresh produce and handmade goods.

Mossman Gorge: 1 Day

Mossman Gorge is a beautiful gorge located in Mossman Gorge National Park, about 30 minutes drive from Port Douglas. The gorge is fed by the Mossman River and is surrounded by lush rainforest.

There are plenty of things to do in Mossman , such as exploring the Mossman River, which makes for great swimming and tubing. There are also plenty of scenic drives and hiking to take in Mossman Gorge National Park.

There is a variety of wildlife to see in Mossman Gorge, including birds, reptiles, and mammals and the gorge is home to a variety of flora, including eucalyptus trees and staghorn ferns.

There are several waterfalls located in Mossman Gorge, including Josephine Falls and Mossman Falls and the area is home to the Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people – there are several cultural sites to respectfully explore in the region.

Cape Tribulation: 1 Day

Cape Tribulation is a beautiful sandy beach located about 2 hours north of Port Douglas. This beach is known for its dramatic cliffs, rainforest and stunning views.

There are plenty of things to do in Cape Tribulation, such as swimming, sunbathing, fishing, or exploring the rainforest. One of the most popular things to do is take a scenic drive along the Great Barrier Reef Drive. This is a great way to see the reef up close and to experience the beauty of the rainforest.

Cooktown: 1-2 Days

Cooktown is a small town located on the banks of the Endeavour River about 4 hours north of Cairns. It is a great place to learn about Australian history, as it was here that Captain Cook first landed on Australian soil.

There are plenty of things to do in Cooktown, such as exploring the local history, visiting the Captain Cook Museum, or taking a scenic drive along the Endeavour River. There are also plenty of great places to eat in Cooktown, with a variety of cafes and restaurants to choose from.

If you’re looking for a more active holiday, there are plenty of things to do in Cooktown, such as hiking, cycling, or kayaking. There are also several beaches located nearby, such as Finch Bay and Endeavour River Beach.

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About 'greatbarrierreef.org'

greatbarrierreef.org is a 'Web Magazine' website that is dedicated to all things related to the Great Barrier Reef. We are passionate about Australia's great natural wonder, its vast marine life, its golden sun-kissed beaches, its warm turquiose waters and the unforgetable experiences that are waiting for all who visit. Our aim is to discuss the Great Barrier Reef, its history, its environment, its marine life and its spectacular destinations. We hope that this website will inspire all who visit, just as much as the Great Barrier reef has inspired us.

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