Idyllic beachfront of Palm Cove on a winter's day in Queensland, Australia

Things to do in  Palm Cove

As relaxing as its name

This peaceful neighborhood north of Cairns has a long sandy beach perfect for lounging under the Australian sun. Known for its excellent restaurants and boutiques, Palm Cove is a beach town for visitors looking for more luxury. Things to do in Palm Cove include kayaking with turtles, hiking the Daintree Rainforest, and cycling down the esplanade. From here, you’re well situated to explore all the highlights of Queensland’s Tropical North, with a laid-back home base to return to.

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Top 7 attractions in Palm Cove

#1

Mossman Gorge

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Marking the southern border of Daintree National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Mossman Gorge is one of the most popular places to experience the world’s oldest rain forest. Dating back more than 130 million years, the dense forest and scenic river gorge harbor a rich biodiversity and provide a stunning backdrop for hikers and swimmers.More
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#2

Daintree Rainforest

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From the dramatic jungle-clad gorges, wild rivers, and tumbling waterfalls of Daintree National Park to the deserted coast of Cape Tribulation along the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest is Australia’s largest stretch of rain forest, covering 460 square miles (1,200 square kilometers). A protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and a hiker’s paradise, the rainforest is renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity.More
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#3

Hartley's Crocodile Adventures

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Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures introduces visitors to Australia’s most famous reptiles (and other native species) through an informative and educational day out. Visitors can observe crocs on a cruise through a lagoon mimicking the creatures’ natural habitat and learn how crocodiles are sustainably farmed.More
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#4

Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas

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The Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas provides a chance to see Australia’s native animals—including koalas, kangaroos, crocodiles, and cassowaries—in the context of conservation. The animals live in expansive enclosures that mimic their natural environments, and the 8-acre (3-hectare) park comprises five areas: woodlands, wetlands, rain forest, savannah, and nocturnal.More
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#5

Centenary Lakes

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The beauty of the Great Barrier Reef often draws visitors to Cairns, but the natural beauty found on land is another great reason to visit. Lush, green, and with a touch of wilderness, this tropical city has a rainforest feel just off the Australian coast. One of the best places to experience this scenery is at the Flecker Botanic Gardens—specifically inside the swampy section known as Centenary Lakes.More
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#6

Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

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The Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park offers a fascinating insight into Australia’s diverse Aboriginal heritage. Visitors can discover the 40,000-year history of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and experience the Tjapukai people’s arts, traditions, and foods.More
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#7
Flames of the Forest

Flames of the Forest

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Australia’s only rain forest dining experience invites travelers for an evening of food and entertainment under the stars in one of the world’s oldest rain forests. The multi-course meal, highlighting ingredients from the rain forest, is served by candlelight to the sounds of live acoustic guitar or Aboriginal music and storytelling.More

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Top activities in Palm Cove

Skip the Line Kuranda Scenic Railway Gold Class and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Skip the Line Kuranda Scenic Railway Gold Class and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

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452
From
$175.28
Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation Day Tour from Cairns

Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation Day Tour from Cairns

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From
$179.93
Hartley's Crocodile Adventure Half-Day Tour

Hartley's Crocodile Adventure Half-Day Tour

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135
From
$77.93
Daintree Dreaming Traditional Aboriginal Fishing from Cairns or Port Douglas

Daintree Dreaming Traditional Aboriginal Fishing from Cairns or Port Douglas

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50
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$219.40
Breakfast with the Koalas at Hartley's Crocodile Park from Cairns or Palm Cove

Breakfast with the Koalas at Hartley's Crocodile Park from Cairns or Palm Cove

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35
From
$100.38
Kuranda Scenic Railway Day Trip from Palm Cove

Kuranda Scenic Railway Day Trip from Palm Cove

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From
$141.42
Hartley's Crocodile Adventures Breakfast with the Koalas

Hartley's Crocodile Adventures Breakfast with the Koalas

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38
From
$50.19
Premium Van, Private Transfer, Palm Cove - Cairns Airport.

Premium Van, Private Transfer, Palm Cove - Cairns Airport.

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$118.48
per group
Private Transfers - Cairns Airport to Palm Cove

Private Transfers - Cairns Airport to Palm Cove

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$77.93
per group
Green Island Day Trip from Cairns with Beaches Transfers

Green Island Day Trip from Cairns with Beaches Transfers

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$110.29
Hartley's Crocodile Adventures General Entry Ticket

Hartley's Crocodile Adventures General Entry Ticket

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$29.72
Private Daintree Wanderer Tour

Private Daintree Wanderer Tour

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$511.81
Port Douglas Sunday Markets Day Tour
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Port Douglas Sunday Markets Day Tour

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$93.12
Hartley's Crocodile Adventures Day Trip from Palm Cove

Hartley's Crocodile Adventures Day Trip from Palm Cove

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7
From
$73.30
Luxury Van, Private Transfer, Palm Cove - Cairns

Luxury Van, Private Transfer, Palm Cove - Cairns

From
$84.13
per group
Corporate Bus, Private Transfer, Palm Cove - Cairns

Corporate Bus, Private Transfer, Palm Cove - Cairns

From
$161.40
per group
2-Hour Mushroom Photography Activity in Cairns Botanic Gardens

2-Hour Mushroom Photography Activity in Cairns Botanic Gardens

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$44.91
Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge, and Daintree Rainforest Day Trip

Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge, and Daintree Rainforest Day Trip

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1569
From
$120.85
Palm Cove to Cairns Airport (CNS) - Departure Private Transfer

Palm Cove to Cairns Airport (CNS) - Departure Private Transfer

From
$50.32
Cairns City Sights and Surrounds Tour

Cairns City Sights and Surrounds Tour

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167
From
$71.98
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All about Palm Cove

When to visit

Many visitors use the tropical north region of Queensland as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. The number of visitors drops in spring (September–October) when temperatures remain warm. Come in spring to miss the heavy summer rains that start in November. A springtime visit also avoids the stinger season (November–May), when jellyfish blooms fill the ocean, and swimmers don full-body suits for protection.

Getting around

Located a 30-minute drive north of central Cairns, Palm Cove is small and walkable. It’s a sweet town to cycle around, especially on the beachfront esplanade. For longer trips, renting a car is best—the region is full of attractions best reached with a vehicle. However, the extensive TransLink transit system makes getting between the towns and suburbs easy.

Traveler tips

Palm Cove has been called the spa capital of Australia, so indulge in a proper holiday at one of the town’s day spas. The luxurious L.M. Spa has a menu that reflects the town’s beachy vibes, from the flowing Reef Wave Massage to the tropical-themed skin treatments, including mango enzyme body wraps, lime masks, and coconut sugar scrubs.

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People Also Ask

Is it safe to swim in the sea in Palm Cove?

Yes—the shallow beach and gentle swells make Palm Cove an excellent destination for families and those who want to float. In summer, make sure you swim within the enclosed jellyfish nets, which keep out the pesky stingers. Always check signage before diving in, no matter how calm the beach appears.

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Is there a bus from Palm Cove to Port Douglas?

Yes—several private shuttle services operate between Palm Cove and Port Douglas, and the trip typically takes around 45 minutes, depending on the route. Plenty of the resorts in Palm Cove offer shuttle services, so you don’t have to book your own transportation.

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What do you wear in Palm Cove?

Palm Cove might be a luxurious resort, but it’s still a beach town—pack breathable, casual clothing for the beach and a few nice outfits for nighttime. In Australia, some restaurants have dress codes. Men should pack long pants, a collared shirt, and closed-toed shoes, and everyone should skip ripped jeans.

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Do you see crocodiles in Palm Cove?

Yes—there are crocodiles in the region. Keep an eye out for warning signs, and never get in the water if there are crocodile warnings. If you want to get up close and personal with the creatures, head to one of the wildlife centers or parks in the region.

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How hot does Palm Cove get in summer?

The temperature in summer (December–February) can reach 89°F (32°C), and the water temperatures can reach as high as 84°F (29°C). Don’t forget a wide-brim hat and plenty of sunscreen, and remember to drink as much water as possible.

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Is Palm Cove expensive?

Yes. Most accommodations in Palm Cove are luxury beach resorts, making the town pricier for the region. To avoid taking an entire holiday at that price, plan a day trip from less expensive Cairns or Port Douglas and enjoy a beachfront cocktail and a stroll on the sand.

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Frequently Asked Questions
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