Palm Cove sits on the northern Queensland coastline that is popular for its great weather and proximity to almost all tourist destinations the region has to offer.
Whether you’re longing for week-long vacation or a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, Palm Cove is the place to be for a tropical holiday.
Palm Cove sits on the northern Queensland coastline that is popular for its great weather and proximity to almost all tourist destinations the region has to offer. The majestic Great Barrier Reef and the lush Daintree Rainforest are at the forefront of those attractions. No wonder why Palm Cove is on everybody’s bucket list!
Aside from these natural wonders, there are still countless must-see attractions that you surely don’t want to miss in Palm Cove. To save you from a time-consuming research of all these tourist spots, we are whittling them down to a top five.
These must-sees are in no particular order so feel free to pick a favourite! You’ll love them all, anyways.
The Reef
Of course it’s first on the list! The Great Barrier Reef and the colorful and lively marine life it nestles never fail to wow local and foreign tourists. That’s why it’s one of the most popular destinations in northern Queensland.
If you want to see marine life up close, Cairns Aquarium is the way to go. You may spend a whole day and still won’t get enough of the aquatic creatures of The Great Barrier Reef. We suggest that you try swimming with the friendly sharks or just appreciate the beautiful corals under the sea.
Sunset by the Reef House
After a whole day of fun with fish and other marine life at The Great Barrier Reef, there’s no better way to cap it off with a relaxing and scenic view of the sunset. And you can do this at the comfort of your own private balcony at the Reef House that’s overlooking Palm Cove Beach.
Reef House is nestled within the lush gardens and emerald pools that Palm Cove has to offer. Everywhere you turn your head, you will be welcomed by the picturesque views. Perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day under the sun!
World’s oldest living rainforest
Daintree Rainforest spans across the Cairns Region and one the world’s oldest rainforests. You can appreciate the vastness of this land that nestles century-old trees through a number of tours that you can book.
Have a bird’s eye view of the Daintree Rainforest through the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. If heights is the last thing your fear of, exploring the canopy of trees inside a gondola will not be a problem for you. This tour allows you to glide just meters over the trees that you can almost touch, giving you a memorable experience!
If you’re acrophobic, Billy Tea Safaris might be more suitable for you. It’s a river cruise at the scenic coastal route that leads to the Daintree River that is rich in mangrove forests and wildlife. This tour will also allow you to dip in the Emmagen Creek after a barbecue lunch under the shade of the rainforest.
Friendly neighbours from the wild
From koalas, to crocodiles, Amazonian macaws and other endangered species, Palm Cove is home to our furry and feathery friends. If you have a soft heart for these wonderful creatures, then make sure to book a trip to the Koala Gardens, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventure Park and Birdworld Kuranda!
A visit to Koala Gardens is perfect if you want to see the Australian furry icons in person. You can observe them (lots of them!) in their natural habitat while they’re eating, sleeping or purposefully looking cute, stealing your heart. You can even carry them and strike a pose for a picture!
If you’ve had enough of the cuteness overload, maybe it’s time for something wild in Hartley’s Crocodile Adventure Park. They are famous for their educational and entertaining wildlife shows that feature crocodiles, snakes, wombats and other reptiles. Don’t worry, these guys are professionals!
Lastly, come over the Birdworld Kuranda and join more than 60 species of birds roaming freely around you. A cheeky rainbow lorikeet might even hitch a ride at your shoulder so beware!
History and art
A day in the Palm Cove is also a good time for an art attack! Palm Cove is home to hundreds of aboriginal artists that exhibit their art and culture in Pandanus Gallery and the Village Gallery.
Some of the original works displayed there are paintings, carvings, limited edition prints and authentic historical artifacts by homegrown artists of North Queensland and other artists in all of Australia.
If you are an art lover on a weekend getaway, you’re more than welcome in the Pandanus and Village Galleries.
Whether you’re planning for a quick weekend escape, a family holiday, or a romantic honeymoon, Palm Cove is the perfect place. If you’re going solo, you don’t have to worry. There are countless locals and foreign tourists that visit the Palm Cove to meet their fellow travel enthusiasts.
So pack your bags now and fall in love with Palm Cove!
Sophie Armstrong is passionate about solo travelling, always hunting for a new adventure and experience. She prides herself on finding the best local hotspots and untouched secrets anywhere she goes.
