| Things To Do | Places To Go |
| Walk along the foreshore | Cardwell & Port Hinchinbrook Jetties |
| Bike riding | Rainforest and Reef Visitor Centre |
| Fish on the jetty, beach or boat | Bush Telegraph and Museum |
| Drive through Cardwell State Forest | Attie Creek Falls |
| Boating | Cardwell Spa Pool |
| Wine & Dine | Cardwell Pub and Resturants |
| Off shore fishing | Tully Golden Gumboot |
| Crocodile Spotting | Alligators Nest |
| Swimming | Tully Sugar Mill Tours |
| Turtle watching | Mission Beach |
| Golf and Lawn Bowls | Wallaman Falls |
| Dining out | Etty Bay |
| Hike to Cardwell Lookout | Kurramine Beach |
| Visit Hinchinbrook Island | Parnonella Park |
| Cassowaries Spotting | Ingham |
| Mountain Bike Tracks | Hinchinbrook Island |
Cardwell Town
The Cardwell Foreshore has recently been given a $40 Million Upgrade! It stretches from the Port of Hinchinbrook right around to the Coral Sea Park. With stunning views to Hinchinbrook Island along the entire walk, the Cardwell Jetty is the focal point with Jetty Plaza at its entrance with easy access to the Cardwell Visitor Centre. It also boasts a children’s’ playgrounds, bbq areas, shelters, an amphitheatre, gym equipment, viewing areas and also another large playground area with bbqs and picnic tables at the Coral Sea Park end. A fantastic way to spend a family day out! The Kookaburra Holiday Park is the best value accommodation in Cardwell.
The Rainforest and Reef Visitor Centre, Cardwell Bush Telegraph Museum and Information Centre, Girringun Art Centre and the Hinchinbrook Art Gallery are all great places to learn about the region, it’s history and it’s vibrant communities.
Surrounds
The Carwell Forest Drive is a 26 km loop which visits the Cardwell Lookout, Attie Creek Falls, Dead Horse Creek and the famous Cardwell Spa Pool. The drive its suitable for most weather conditions but the gravel roads and creek crossings maybe effected by heavy rains.
Notable waterfalls in the area include Wallaman Falls, Australia’s highest single drop waterfall (305m), the remote but spectacular Blencoe Falls as well as the nearby, beautiful Murray Falls.
For the more sporting inclined a game of golf, tennis or bowls is on offer. For even more adventure, how about a white water rafting trip down the nearby Tully Gorge. You can even enjoy some local markets almost all year round.
Fishing and Boating at Cardwell
The fishing enthusiast will lack no opportunity in this premier fishing region! From the novice to the expert, all will have the opportunity to go freshwater or beach fishing, prawning and crabbing.
For those who have their own boat, estuary, creek, reef and island fishing is easily accessible. No Boat! Check out Boab Boat Hire.
There are also regular reef and estuary fishing trips available that depart from Cardwell.
Cardwell, located in Far North Queensland, is a gateway to several stunning natural attractions, including Murray Falls, which are indeed a highlight. Here are some must-see sights for short day trips around the Cardwell area, perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to unwind:
1. Murray Falls (Girramay National Park)
- Distance from Cardwell: 27 km (about 30 minutes by car)
- What to Expect: Murray Falls are one of the region’s most spectacular waterfalls. The falls feature several swimming pools, including some natural rock slides that are perfect for a refreshing dip. There are walking tracks through lush rainforest, providing a great way to explore the area.
- Tips: Don’t miss the scenic lookout for an incredible view of the falls and surrounding rainforest.
2. Cardwell Rainforest and Cardwell Lookout
- Distance from Cardwell: In town
- What to Expect: The Cardwell Rainforest is a perfect spot to take a short walk among ancient trees, with the option to visit the Cardwell Lookout for panoramic views of the Coral Sea and Hinchinbrook Island. It’s an easy and scenic spot to explore.
- Tips: Visit the Cardwell Jetty nearby for a pleasant stroll along the coast.
3. Hinchinbrook Island
- Distance from Cardwell: 15-20 minutes by boat
- What to Expect: Known for its rugged beauty, Hinchinbrook Island is a nature lover’s paradise, with pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and crystal-clear waters. There are various boat tours that offer a chance to spot marine life, or you can explore part of the world-famous Thorsborne Trail, a multi-day hike that winds through the island’s wilderness.
- Tips: If you’re after a day trip, consider a boat tour or a scenic flight for breathtaking aerial views.
4. Lucinda Jetty and Beaches
- Distance from Cardwell: 30 km (about 25 minutes by car)
- What to Expect: Lucinda is known for its long sugar terminal jetty and beautiful beaches. The beach is great for a relaxing stroll, birdwatching, and enjoying the peaceful coastal surroundings. It’s also a good spot for fishing.
- Tips: While in Lucinda, you can stop at the Lucinda Point and enjoy views of the Coral Sea.
5. Tully Gorge and Tully River
- Distance from Cardwell: 60 km (about 1 hour by car)
- What to Expect: Tully Gorge is a dramatic, steep-sided gorge that offers a range of outdoor activities, including white-water rafting on the Tully River. The gorge also has several walking tracks with stunning views and wildlife sightings.
- Tips: If you’re feeling adventurous, white-water rafting is a must-do experience in this area.
6. Hull River National Park
- Distance from Cardwell: 30 km (about 30 minutes by car)
- What to Expect: Hull River National Park is a peaceful and less-visited spot for exploring wetland habitats, mangroves, and rainforests. It’s ideal for birdwatching, and there are walking tracks along the river.
- Tips: It’s a great location for a quiet, scenic picnic or to take in the natural beauty.
7. Kurrimine Beach
- Distance from Cardwell: 30 km (about 25 minutes by car)
- What to Expect: Kurrimine Beach is a laid-back coastal destination perfect for a beach day. The area is great for swimming, picnicking, and fishing. There are also a number of local cafes where you can enjoy fresh seafood and casual dining.
- Tips: Visit the nearby Kurrimine Beach Crocodile Reserve to learn about local wildlife.
8. Hinchinbrook Channel
- Distance from Cardwell: 15 km (15 minutes by car)
- What to Expect: This channel is a serene and beautiful area, perfect for boating, kayaking, or fishing. It offers stunning views of Hinchinbrook Island and the surrounding mountains. Several boat tours operate in the area, allowing you to explore the waters and spot marine life like dolphins, turtles, and dugongs.
- Tips: Consider taking a guided eco tour to explore the rich marine environment.
These day trips offer a great mix of nature, adventure, and relaxation all within a short distance of Cardwell, with Murray Falls being the crowning jewel. Whether you’re hiking through lush rainforests, swimming in natural pools, or soaking up the coastal beauty, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful part of Far North Queensland