Top Destinations For 5 Days In Tropical North Queensland

Morning: Pick your campervan up from our Cairns branch and start your day at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon. After a quick dip, head over to Caffiend, a local favourite known for its legendary coffee and brunch menu. Once you’re fuelled up, wander down to the Cairns Esplanade Boardwalk to check out the local public art installations and beachside views.

Afternoon: In the afternoon, you can either head to the city’s outskirts and check out the Babinda Boulders or take the family to the Cairns Aquarium to meet some of the incredible marine life that calls the Great Barrier Reef home. Feeling adventurous? Book a half-day tour to Barron Gorge National Park for a rainforest trek and breathtaking waterfall views instead!

Evening: The day isn’t over yet! Check out the lively Cairns Night Markets, where you can shop for unique souvenirs, enjoy a foot massage, or just immerse yourself in the atmosphere. For dinner, head to Prawn Star, an iconic seafood spot where you can feast on fresh prawns, oysters, and more – all served right off a floating boat!

Where to Stay: BIG4 Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort, 23/51 Anderson Rd, Woree QLD 4868

Top-notch facilities, huge pool, mini-golf, and spacious powered sites. Absolute gem!

Cairns Aquarium, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: Start your day with one of Tropical North Queensland’s most iconic experiences: The Kuranda Scenic Railway. This historic train gives you the best shots of the rainforest, bridges, and waterfalls. Once you reach Kuranda, your first priorities will be the colourful markets and a coffee stop.

Afternoon: In the early afternoon, discover the region’s incredible wildlife by visiting either the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, home to thousands of vibrant butterflies, or the Kuranda Koala Gardens, where you can get up close with Australia’s most iconic animals. When you’re ready to head back, hop aboard the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway – another must-see experience.

Evening: After a full day of exploring, keep the evening chill. Head back to Cairns for a relaxed dinner at one of the many eateries, or grab some takeaway and unwind by the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon.

Where to Stay: BIG4 Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort, 23/51 Anderson Rd, Woree QLD 4868

Why pack up when you’re already settled and close to everything?

Kuranda, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: Hit the road early and head north along the Captain Cook Highway, one of Australia’s most scenic coastal drives. As soon as you catch the ferry across the Daintree River, you’ll get your first look at the Daintree Rainforest – the oldest living rainforest on Earth! Start your day at the Daintree Discovery Centre, checking out the canopy walkways and information displays to find tours and easy hiking.

Afternoon: Take it slow in the afternoon with the Marrdja Boardwalk, which takes you deep into the rainforest and into mangrove swampland. Keep your camera handy! Afterwards, head to Cape Tribulation Beach, where the rainforest meets the reef. It’s the perfect spot to kick back and sink your toes into the sand.

Evening: You can find guided tours that take you through the Daintree at night, which is a super unique, slightly spooky experience where you can spot glowing fungi, elusive nocturnal critters, and hear the rainforest truly come alive. Afterwards, treat yourself to a well-earned feast at Whet Restaurant in Cape Tribulation. With its relaxed tropical vibe and delicious, locally inspired dishes, it’s the perfect way to wrap up the day.

Where to Stay: Cape Tribulation Camping, 3812 Cape Tribulation Rd, Cape Tribulation QLD 4873

Right near the beach, powered sites available and pure jungle vibes.

Daintree Discovery Centre, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: Rise and shine early today, because you’re heading up into the highlands of the Atherton Tablelands. First stop: Millaa Millaa Falls – hands down one of Australia’s most iconic waterfalls. Pack your bathers if you fancy a dip, or if you like to keep your feet dry, you can soak up views from shore.

Afternoon: Keep the waterfall chase going in the afternoon along the famous Waterfall Circuit, ticking off Zillie Falls and Ellinjaa Falls along the way. Afterwards, cool off with a swim at Lake Eacham, a gorgeous volcanic crater lake known for its crystal-clear freshwater. Before you wind down, swing by Gallo Dairyland for a cheeky cheese and chocolate tasting session… because let’s be honest, you’ve earned it!

Evening: You can either head back toward Cairns for another night or settle in at Lake Tinaroo Holiday Park for an authentic camping experience.

Where to Stay: Lake Tinaroo Holiday Park, 4-28 Tinaroo Falls Dam Rd, Tinaroo QLD 4872

Powered sites by the lake, quiet and relaxing after a big day of exploring.

Lake Eacham, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: Ease into your final day with a drive up the coast to Port Douglas, only about an hour from Cairns, with fantastic ocean views that’ll have you pulling over for a few photo ops. Once you arrive, kick off your morning with a coffee and a wander down lively Macrossan Street, known for its boutique shops, art galleries, and laid-back coastal charm.

Afternoon: In the afternoon, make a beeline for the iconic Four Mile Beach. You can go for a walk or a swim – just make sure you’re in an area with stinger (jellyfish) nets! If you didn’t get your fill of Aussie wildlife yet, swing by Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas for one last chance to cuddle a koala, feed a kangaroo, or spot a cassowary in the wild. If this is the last day of your holiday, head on back to our branch in the late afternoon, aiming to drop your campervan off before 3:30pm!

Four Mile Beach, Tourism & Events Queensland