When Brits envision Australia, they picture iconic destinations like the Great Barrier Reef, lush rainforests, the rugged Outback, pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and exquisite beverages. But, often, it's hard to figure out where exactly to visit, as it would take a week of constant driving just to get from one side of Australia to the other.
Now, there's no need to overthink your next trip Down Under—Tropical North Queensland has it all, making vacation planning a breeze.
With Singapore Airlines expanding its direct route from Singapore to Cairns, getting to Tropical North Queensland has never been easier.
This region is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, and gorgeous beaches, and for being the only place in the world where two World Heritage sites converge—the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.
Singapore Airlines offers return flights from £1,099, flying from London Heathrow to Cairns via Singapore.
But, here, we delve into the best activities to do in North Queensland, and why you should visit.
The Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is Australia’s most colossal natural wonder, needing no introduction. Visitors can immerse themselves in the reef through various programs, including citizen science initiatives.
Options include becoming a Marine Biologist for a Day with Passions of Paradise, embarking on Coral Expeditions' 10-night journey to study turtles and rays, or monitoring the reef with Reef Check Australia.
For diving enthusiasts, Pro Dive offers an 11-dive live-aboard experience over three days. Alternatively, you can work at a turtle hospital at Fitzroy Island Resort, providing a unique opportunity to assist with sea turtle care and reef restoration projects. Learn more at fitzroyisland.com.
The Rainforest
Spanning over 460 square miles from Mossman Gorge to the Bloomfield River, the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest is one of the planet's most complex ecosystems.
At approximately 180 million years old, it's significantly older than the Amazon and houses ancient plants and a rich diversity of birds, animals, and reptiles.
Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
The Daintree is accessible through hiking trails, swimming holes, paddle boarding, and boat trips. It's a prime spot for spotting the impressive cassowary and crocodiles along the Daintree River.
Silky Oaks Lodge offers a luxurious treehouse retreat adjacent to the Daintree National Park, featuring tours led by First Nations Kuku Yalangi guides and a relaxing Healing Waters Spa. Prices start from A$1300 (around £670) per night per room.
The Outback
Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
Venture beyond Cairns and the Atherton Tablelands to discover Tropical North Queensland’s outback. Just a three-hour drive or a 30-minute helicopter ride from Cairns, Mt Mulligan Lodge provides luxury accommodations in the heart of a 70,000-acre cattle station.
Guests can explore the stunning landscape, participate in daily cattle station activities, or enjoy guided tours, fishing, kayaking, and ATV biking. The all-inclusive lodge also features an infinity pool, sunset bar, and outdoor bathtubs in all accommodations, ensuring a relaxing stay. Rates start at A$1,320 (about £670) per night for two guests, including meals, drinks, and various activities.
The Beaches
Tropical North Queensland boasts some of the world's best beaches, including Palm Cove, which topped Conde Nast Traveller's list of ‘The 34 best beaches in the world’.
Palm Cove, just 25 minutes north of Cairns, is one of many stunning beaches in the area, including Ellis Beach, Four Mile Beach, Kewarra Beach, and Holloways Beach. Mission Beach stands out with its intimate coves and swimmable 14km coastline.
Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
The recently opened Elandra Mission Beach offers a boutique resort experience with breathtaking views of nearby islands and the Great Barrier Reef. Nestled in a private rainforest, the resort features 20 designer rooms, an open-terrace restaurant and bar, and a spectacular pool. Rates start at $475 (approximately £245) per night, including daily breakfast. Discover more at theelandra.com.au.
Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
The Culture
Tropical North Queensland is the heart of the world’s oldest living culture and the only place in Australia where two distinct Indigenous cultures—Aboriginal People and Torres Strait Islanders—coexist.
Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
Visitors can enjoy guided tours and firsthand insights into First Nations history and traditions. Just 10 minutes from Cairns, travellers can immerse themselves in the oldest civilization on the planet.
Mandingalbay Ancient Indigenous Tours offers experiences like a Welcome to Country and Smoke Cleansing Ceremony, while Back Country Bliss allows guests to explore the Daintree Rainforest with Kuku Yalanji Elder CJ.
The Breweries
While Tropical North Queensland may lack wineries, it boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with numerous local breweries.
Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
Notable breweries include Hemingway's Brewery in Port Douglas and Cairns, Macalister Brewing Company with its tropical Cairns Pale, and Barrier Reef Brewing Co., where visitors can meet the brewer at the Two Turtles Taproom and sample the popular Two Turtles Pale Ale. Barrier Reef Brewing Co. also supports the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre. Discover more at tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au.
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