For a unique and awe-inspiring experience, visit Tropical North Queensland. Expansive landscapes, pristine beaches and an abundance of activities will impress visitors seeking a fulfilling, adventurous getaway. To make the most out of your experience, try these top five tips for visiting this beautiful region.
1. Back to nature
Seeking an outdoor adventure? Embark on the daylong Daintree Dreaming tour and venture into the World Heritage Daintree Rainforest. Take in the stunning greenery – and watch out for tree pythons – before cooling off in the crystal-clear swimming holes of the Mossman Gorge. Make a splash jumping from one of the high rocks or simply swim in the shallows. This tour will also give you the chance to meet indigenous people and learn about the cultural practices of the region.
2. To market, to market
Port Douglas’s Sunday markets sell locally made arts, crafts and produce, including jewellery pieces and clothing. Stop in at the popular coconut stand for fresh coconut water, then head back to the stand before leaving and they’ll cut your coconut in half for you so you can enjoy the flesh. If you’re staying nearby, bring a basket and take home some of the tasty local produce.
3. Sealife central
Check out the new Cairns Aquarium while in Tropical North Queensland. It takes you on a journey from the creeks, frogs and snakes of the rainforest through to the mangroves, and the inner reef and outer reef with giant rays and sharks. Bring a camera and capture the different coloured fish as a memento of your visit.
4. The perfect location to stay
Few people know about sleepy Mission Beach, made up of four beach villages, halfway between Cairns and Townsville. It’s the perfect launch pad for the secluded islands of Dunk and Bedarra. Get the Mission Beach Water Taxi and motor to semi-deserted islands; 4km from the mainland.
5. Arts and culture
There’s a strong arts scene in Tropical North Queensland. View authentic Australian art at Cairns Art Gallery, which mixes contemporary indigenous and non-indigenous artworks for an exciting experience. Try your hand at an art class at Janbal Gallery, where you will learn how to create the dots indigenous art is synonymous with, using a stick.
