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I totally understand the popularity of Australia’s east coast among tourists. Queensland is a beautiful state with so much wonderful places. Travellers are easily tempted to only visit Cairns and Brisbane, because they would like to visit and discover other states in Australia as well. A shame, if you ask me! In North Queensland alone you won’t have enough time because there are so many beautiful places to visit.
Most beautiful places in North Queensland
In this blog, I have listed my 10 favourite places in North Queensland. From islands and national parks to big cities, everything is covered. Get inspired for your next trip along the east coast now. Is North Queensland on your list?
Magnetic Island
The name says it all. This special island off the coast of Townsville has a magnetic effect on tourists. Azure water, beautiful beaches, rock wallabies, koalas, kookaburras and lots of beautiful walking trails, Magnetic Island has it all. I have never seen so much wildlife and beautiful coastlines in such a short time as I did on Magnetic Island. It was really a pleasure to be here. For me, the highlights were visiting the rock wallabies at Geoffrey Bay and the many cute koalas we spotted during The Forts Walk.
Visit Magnetic Island: Accommodations | Tours & Ferry Tickets
Video about Magnetic Island
Daintree National Park
Daintree National Park had been at the top of my list for years. I finally made it in 2020 and went on an adventure in Daintree to look for the cassowary, the most dangerous bird in the world. The Daintree National Park is one of the most beautiful rainforests I have ever seen. I was amazed by the amount of nature and wildlife that can be spotted at Daintree. Even if you wander around Daintree National Park during tropical rain, it is still a pleasure. The nature, sounds, sky and views made me speechless. Daintree is really a must visit if you are in North Queensland.
Visit Daintree: Accommodations | Tours
Video about Daintree National Park
Port Douglas
Port Douglas is a village that you quickly fall in in love with. Although it is a village with 4311 inhabitants, but it feels a bit more bustling because of the many tourists that visit it. Port Douglas is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. But that’s not the only thing that makes Port Douglas special. The coastline is also great, where you can hike and enjoy the most beautiful views. The Flagstaff Hill Walking Trail is a must do if you like hiking, as it offers a magnificent view of Four Mile Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in North Queensland. Read more about Port Douglas
Visit Port Douglas: Accommodations | Tours
Video about Port Douglas
Fitzroy Island
If you like snorkelling or diving, Fitzroy Island is the place to be. Although the island is not large and there is only one resort, Fitzroy has everything you need for an unforgettable holiday. When we arrived on the ferry, we were quickly in love. Especially when we saw how clear the water was and how many beautiful fish were swimming around. Fitzroy Island is a paradise for romantic couples, but also a perfect island to visit for families and groups. The island is not far from Cairns and can be easily combined with a visit to that vibrant city. Read more about Fitzroy Island
Visit Fitzroy Island: Accommodations | Tours & Ferry
Video about Fitzroy Island
Wallaman Falls
There are beautiful waterfalls all over Australia, from South Australia to the Topend. But Wallaman Falls is the odd one out. It is in fact the highest singledrop waterfall in Australia. With a beautiful route to the falls and a stunning surrounding around the falls, it’s a place not to be missed on your trip through Northern Queensland. Read more about Wallaman Falls
Video about Wallaman Falls
Airlie Beach
In the heart of the Whitsundays region you’ll find the beautiful town Airlie Beach. A place that is very famous among backpackers. From Airlie Beach you can easily reach the Great Barrier Reef, because many boats depart from Port of Airlie to this world famous spot.
Besides the fact that the coastline is wonderful, the town itself is also a gem. The many houses on the hills that sparkle in the sun and the beautifully landscaped parks with facilities (such as a large public swimming pool) make this place truly paradisiacal. Port of Airlie is also the starting point to visit the beautiful Hamilton Island.
Video about Airlie Beach
Visit Airlie Beach: Accommodations | Tours
Hamilton Island
It’s fair to say that Hamilton Island is not the cheapest destination in Australia and is the most expensive island to visit in this Northern Queensland list. However, a visit to this island is well worth it! If Hamilton Island doesn’t destress you, then I don’t know any more.
On the island you can swim, snorkel, dive, windsurf, play mini-golf and drive around in a (golf) buggy. The island is known as the ‘buggy’ island of Australia. You won’t see many cars on the island, as people mainly transport themselves in golf buggies. If you really want to relax and treat yourself some luxury during your North Queensland trip, then Hamilton Island is ‘the place to be’.
Visit Hamilton Island: Accommodations | Tours
Video about Hamilton Island
Kuranda
In contrast to Daintree National Park Kuranda is a bit more touristic and often the first choice when in Cairns. But despite this, it is really worth a visit. Kuranda is interesting in several ways. It is a great experience to hang in the sky rail above the rainforest. And the train to Kuranda village is also a very nice way to explore this beautiful area. Once you are up there, you can enjoy the hippy village of Kuranda Village. Here you will find nice restaurants/shops and also wildlife parks where you can pet kangaroos and see many Australian animals. Would you like to visit one of the oldest rainforests in the world? Visit Kuranda!
Visit Kuranda: Tours
Video about Kuranda
Babinda Boulders
If you like nature and swimming, I recommend a visit to Babinda Boulders. Devil’s Pool (part of Babinda Boulders) is a natural pool where you can cool down between granite boulders and enjoy a beautiful green oasis. Even if you are not into a swim, a visit to Babinda Boulders is interesting. Babinda Boulders is a very photogenic place because of the enormous granite boulders. Take a walk and admire the beauty of Babinda Boulders, as we did.
Video about Babinda Boulders
Townsville
Townsville is a city that needs some time. But I soon realised that Townsville is a town that you slowly fall in love with. During my visit to Townsville, a town with 178,860 inhabitants, I discovered more and more the beauty of this town. Townsville is truly a unique city in my eyes.
It is different if you compare it with other cities in Australia. Maybe because of that huge beautiful mountain, Castle Hill, that you can spot from different parts of the city. But also the idyllic houses along the river and the many nice bars & restaurants make Townsville unique. I definitely want to return to Townsville in North Queensland and especially to combine the town with the magical Magnetic Island again.
Visit Townsville: Accommodations | Tours
Video about Townsville
Is North Queensland on your bucket list?
For more tips about Tropical North Queensland visit: Tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au
