The combination of the wet tropics of Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef makes for one of the most spectacular, diverse and unique places on Earth. The wet tropics of Queensland span along the far north coast of Queensland for 450km between Townsville and Cooktown, meeting up at the coast with The Great Barrier Reef, which is also one of 7 Wonders of the Natural World.
The Great Barrier Reef spans over 2,600 km along the northern coast of Queensland, includes over 900 islands, has more than 2,900 separate reefs, and supports one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world.
It is also the only living thing on Earth that is visible from space.
These regions are also two of only a handful of places worldwide that meet all four criteria for a World Heritage listing:
- they both represent a major stage of the earth’s evolutionary history
- they both are an outstanding example of ongoing ecological and biological processes
- they both contain superlative natural phenomena
- they both contain the most important natural habitats for conservation of biological diversity
So when these natural wonders meet at the coast, you can find some of the most beautiful rainforest beachside locations in Queensland, Australia and the world.
When exploring the untouched parts of this region, you will be taken back in time to experience what the world looked like millions of years ago. With the wet tropics of Queensland forming over 85 million years ago, and some of the coral reefs that make up the Great Barrier Reef originating 500 million years ago, you will find an abundance of diverse plant and animal life that will simply take your breath away.
So if you’re thinking about visiting North Queensland and want to find the most beautiful rainforest beachside locations to kick your feet up and experience this magical part of the world, we have you covered.
Beautiful Rainforest Beachside Locations In Queensland
Mission Beach
Mission Beach is a relaxed, quiet beachfront town located an hour south of Cairns and 2.5 hours north of Townsville – a place where palm-fringed beaches roll into calm, blue ocean waters.
Along this stretch of beach you will find four townships: South Mission Beach, Wongaling Beach, North Mission Beach and Bingil Bay. Although this place has a very relaxed pace, there is still plenty do with a vibrant arts, culture and food scene.
You will also find a range of accommodation options to suit any budget. From very affordable camping and hostels, to luxury resorts nestled amongst the rainforest.
Whilst here you must do a trip to the islands that lay just offshore. You can easily take a boat ferry for a day trip to both Dunk and Bedarra Islands. Here you can relax, swim or snorkel amongst the coral reef and abundant marine life in this secluded paradise.
Image Credit: tropicnow.com.au
Fitzroy Island
Ever wanted to escape to an island paradise and just let the worries of the world wash away? Then Fitzroy Island is the place for you.
This naturally diverse and vibrant island is located just 45 minutes by boat from Cairns. It is a popular island for locals, mainly because it is not as popular with the tourists. Although Fitzroy Island is one of the quieter islands located off Cairns, it still has plenty of amenities, activities and accommodation options to suit any budget and preference.
There is a resort that has been carefully built into the lush rainforest which covers the island, where you can find everything from luxury villas to quaint beachside cottages. There are also camping options for the budget conscious traveller.
Fitzroy Island really has something for everyone, with beautiful hiking trails, secluded beaches, sea kayaking destinations and an abundance of marine and coral life for those looking to get back to nature. And for those looking for a little more comfort or excitement there are restaurants, a lagoon pool, bar/nightclub, supermarket and watersports hire.
If you’ve been wanting an island escape, Fitzroy Island will definitely not disappoint.
Cape Tribulation
Cape Tribulation is another one of those magical places that is completely spoilt with natural beauty.
Nestled between the world’s oldest rainforest, the Daintree Rainforest, and the Great Barrier Reef, Cape Tribulation (Cape Trib for the locals) can be found at the end of a winding sealed road that weaves through the rainforest from the Daintree River Crossing. It is the end of the road as you head north to Cape York for anyone without a 4WD, so you really feel that you are a million miles away from the rest of the world.
Once in Cape Tribulation you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to natural wonders to visit. There are a number of secluded beaches that surround the main town, with beautiful fringing coral reefs that can be explored at low tide.
When it comes to exploring the rainforest, there are a number self-guided walking trails, group tours, or you may even want to book a guided horse tour with a local company.
In town, you can find budget to high end accommodation, several restaurants and as the sun goes down you can head to PK’s Jungle Resort for a few relaxing drinks.
Image Credit: cape-trib.com
If you’ve never visited this amazing part of the world before, or you have but missed these destinations, then put it on your bucket list right now whilst these natural wonders remain relatively untouched. You won’t be disappointed!
