The man behind Paronella Park had emigrated from Catalonia, Spain—and the distinctive features of Spanish architecture are evident in the palace and gardens. Visitors can come during the day or at night for guided walks that last 45–60 minutes, followed by free time for independent exploring. Many travelers visit Paronella Park independently while driving around Queensland. Day tours also depart from Cairns, which typically include other attractions such as Lake Barrine and Millaa Millaa Falls.
The park is divided into two levels, connected by a stairway. A courtesy vehicle can transport visitors who are unable to use the stairs. The paths through the park, however, are quite rough and not ideal for wheelchair or stroller use.
Ticket holders may stay at the nearby caravan park for free for one night.
Tickets to the park include food for feeding the fish.
There’s an on-site café, as well as picnic areas.
Paronella Park is 74 miles (120 kilometers) south of Cairns, in Northern Queensland. It takes about 90 minutes to drive from Cairns to the park. Although the park is much closer to Cairns than to Townsville, it is located en route between the two Queensland cities. If you're driving along the North Queensland coast between Cairns and Townsville, Paronella Park makes a good stop.
Paronella Park is typically open year-round from morning until evening, except for Christmas Day. The climate of tropical North Queensland can get very hot, so avoid visiting in the middle of the afternoon if you’d rather stay cool. The evening is a pleasant time to visit, and the park is lit up.
About a 45-minute drive from Paronella Park, toward Cairns, are the Babinda Boulders. There’s a short walk from the parking lot to a swimming hole, surrounded by interesting geological formations. It’s also a place of significance to local Aboriginal people. Check water conditions before taking a dip, but the temperature is almost always good for swimming there.
