Palm Cove is the quintessence of laid-back beach elegance. Take a stroll the palm-lined esplanade at sunrise, unwind with a beachfront spa and fine dining, and paddle out to Double Island for marine life encounters.

The Cairns Aquarium is a beautifully curated immersion into Tropical North Queensland’s ecosystems, from rainforest critters to vibrant reef species, with interactive talks, touch pools and shark or ray feeds that make conservation come alive.

No holiday here is complete without a day on the Great Barrier Reef; snorkel or dive amid kaleidoscopic coral gardens, encounter turtles and rays, or choose a luxury catamaran or scenic flight for an aerial reef panorama. Head out to Green Island or Fitzroy Island.

Glide above the Wet Tropics on the iconic Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, pausing at rainforest boardwalks and Barron Falls lookouts for unforgettable canopy views. Stop off at Kuranda Village and return on the Kuranda Scenic Railway.

Explore the region’s waterfalls from crystal cascades and Babinda Boulders to hidden gems tucked into rainforest like Fairy Falls, all perfect for cooling dips and dreamy photos.

Where ancient rainforest meets reef, Cape Tribulation delivers wild beauty. Explore mangrove boardwalks, secluded beaches and lush trails steeped in World Heritage magic.

Trails radiate from Cairns like nature’s invitation: trek Behana Gorge to Clamshell Falls, tackle Walsh’s Pyramid for sweeping vistas, or wander cool forest tracks in the Botanic Gardens (Red, Yellow, and Blue Arrow) and take a dip in Crystal Cascades.

Escape the coast for cool highland vibes in the Atherton Tablelands. Chase postcard-worthy waterfalls like Millaa Millaa and swim in crater lakes, with local coffee and artisan produce adding to the charm.

Port Douglas blends refined coastal living with nature. Lounge on Four Mile Beach, explore Mossman Gorge’s ancient rainforest, and access some of the reef’s most boutique, eco-savvy trip options.

In Cairns, balance tranquil esplanade cocktails with vibrant local culture; wander the lagoon and Rusty’s Markets, then let the city be your springboard to rainforests, waterfalls and reef adventures.