North of Cairns, the road unveils spectacular and varied landscapes. Explore the wild beaches of Cape Tribulation, be amazed by the mangroves of Cape Kimberley, or admire the panoramas from the headland of Bloomfield Track. Each stop reveals hidden treasures secret waterfalls, rainforests, and breathtaking viewpoints for an authentic and immersive road trip along the north coast.
๐ Palm Coveย
30 min north of Cairns
Palm Cove
In Palm Cove, you can relax on the palm-fringed beach, explore the lagoons and mangroves by kayak or paddleboard with Palm Cove Watersports, and 15 minutes away in Kuranda, the Kuranda Koala Gardens offer the opportunity to observe koalas, wombats, wallabies and other iconic animals up close.
Port Douglas
Here, you can relax on the golden sands of Four Mile Beach and admire the palm trees, visit the Wildlife Habitat to observe koalas, kangaroos, and tropical birds, and then explore the rainforest of Mossman Gorge. On Sundays, the Port Douglas Sunday Markets offer fresh produce, crafts, and local specialties, and to discover the town and its surroundings at your own pace, it's easy to rent bicycles or scooters from the Bike Shop & Hire.
๐ Port Douglasย
1h20 from Cairns
๐ Daintreeย
1h50 from Cairns
Daintree
In the Daintree region, you can explore the world's oldest rainforest, with trails winding through dense jungle, crystal-clear rivers, and pristine beaches, where you might spot cassowaries, crocodiles, and tropical birds. The Daintree Discovery Centre offers an accessible introduction to this unique ecosystem, while the Marrdja Boardwalk provides an easy stroll through mangroves and wetlands, perfect for wildlife viewing and enjoying the forest's beauty.
Cape Tribulation
At Cape Tribulation, the Dubuji Boardwalk offers an easy stroll through the rainforest to Myall Beach, while Cape Tribulation Beach itself captivates with its white sand where the jungle meets the ocean. Finally, the Kulki Boardwalk Lookout provides a spectacular panoramic view of the rainforest and the turquoise waters of the coast.
๐ Cape Tribulation
3h from Cairns
๐ Mossmanย
1h20 from Cairns
Mossman
In Mossman, the Mossman Gorge Boardwalk offers an easy walk through the dense rainforest with walkways over the river, while the Rainforest Walks offer short 30-45 minute loops to fully enjoy the lush vegetation.