Here’s What Makes Palm Cove a Paradise Destination

Planning a Queensland vacation? Consider the village of Palm Cove as your first choice in the region.

Palm Cove is a unique vacation destination just sitting off the Coral Sea that has tons of award-winning resorts and spectacular scenery.

Located between Port Douglas and Cairns, two more of the state’s top tourist spots, its location guarantees that you’ll never get bored once you head out to this tropical paradise.

Whether you plan on staying or just making it your tropical vacation hub, make sure to put Palm Cove on your list. And here are five reasons why you should do so.

Great Tropical Weather

One of the main reasons to visit Palm Cove is the weather, as this tropical slice of paradise gets two seasons in a year. It even has warm temperatures and very little rainfall during winter.

The winter or dry season is between May and October. Its low humidity and fresh breezes make it ideal for many tourists. That’s why you can also comfortably swim from April all the way through October.

During the summer, which is from November to April, you get the wet season. The high humidity and occasional electrical storms make it a tricky season. However, the water temperature stays above 70 degrees. And in February, you can even swim in the low 80s.

From April to October, there’s also a period that’s ideal for swimming. It’s when the temperatures are great and the water isn’t filled with jellyfish.

Perfect Environment for a Romantic Getaway

Many Palm Cove hotels offer amazing accommodations for couples. But it’s ultimately the scenery that makes it an attractive destination for couples.

There’s a fabulous blend of clear ocean waters, powdery sands, and ancient wilderness. Although it’s a hotspot for tourists from around the world, there are plenty of ways to find seclusion, too. There are a number of secluded beaches in Palm Cove for you to explore. So why not go stargazing in one of them?

You can always go on a long and relaxing hike to admire the local flora and fauna. Or, you can book a romantic dinner for two at one of the many Palm Cove restaurants. The local fresh seafood is to die for, after all.

Palm Cove is also a premier tropical wedding destination. And if you ever wanted to have a beach wedding, there are few places as inviting as this.

All of the above leads to the area having the well-earned nickname of the Spa Capital of Australia. It’s simply a perfect place to relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy some pampering.

Catching the sunrise and sunset are other things you should do at least once. 

Tons of Iconic Attractions and Exploration

You don’t even have to look hard to find cool things to do in Palm Cove. In fact, one of the top reasons to visit Palm Cove is to see the many attractions.

The Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef are in and around Palm Cove. And both are known to offer spectacular views and amazing adventures.

Also, you can explore the areas on foot or on gondola rides. Scuba diving and snorkeling around the reef is another great reason to book your next vacation in Palm Cove.

Take any one of the many wildlife tours and watch the famed Australian native animals in their natural habitats. And if you prefer to get some adrenaline rush, you can take the adventurous route and interact with them.

Exploration is something that many tourists do after catching a few hours of sun in the morning. It’s ideal in Palm Cove, as it is home to animal sanctuaries, very old plant life, and aboriginal culture.

Water Sports for Thrill Seekers

Any place in the world with a beach offers potential for water activities. But things are a bit different in Palm Cove.

The great weather and area popularity bring you more opportunities. You can surf, dive, go kitesurfing, or jet skiing. Also, you try your hand at boating or take paragliding tours on the beaches. Why not spend a full day on the water and do something new every couple of hours?

If you want to feel the rush and take in fantastic tropical scenery, that’s another one of the reasons to visit Palm Cove.

A Vacation Fit for Any Budget

Traveling to Palm Cove and spending a few days isn’t an expensive trip. 

Sure, the region has its fair share of five-star restaurants and resorts. But there are plenty of budget-friendly accommodations, too. The beaches even have tons of small eclectic cafes and dive bars.

If you want to enjoy a tropical paradise on a tight budget, you can do it in Palm Cove.

Most of the tours and cruises aren’t that expensive either, not to mention there’s a lot you can do and see for free too. For example, exploring the rainforest doesn’t cost anything. And if you have your own gear, you can check out the Great Barrier Reef on your own. Some of the beaches also offer grilling areas so you can cook your own food.

Besides, a destination so popular always offers vacation deals and packages. If you’re an avid bargain hunter, it shouldn’t take you long to find one that works for you.

Too Many Palm Cove Experiences to Count

Although it’s not a big city, Palm Cove always has so much to offer. Its weather, landscape, and aquatic life can keep you occupied for days.

The gorgeous beaches and clean waters make swimming and water sports very rewarding. And the pricing and offering variety also makes it suitable for a wide range of tourists.

Palm Cove Beach alone can give amazing memories for your time there. But don’t be afraid to go beyond the sandy shores and explore. 

Once you take it all in, it’s hard not to think about going back next year, or maybe one of these years soon.

Northern Queensland is known as the place where the rainforest meets the reef. For Palm Cove, in particular, it’s the meeting point of two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

There are not enough words to describe how amazing this tropical village is. So, let’s just say for now that Palm Cove is a popular holiday destination for many travelers around the globe.

You’ll have to see it for yourself to understand why. 

And to give you a preview, here’s our list of the top 10 things to do in Palm Cove.

1. Visit the Great Barrier Reef

The number one spot to explore on your Palm Cove trip is also one of the world’s natural wonders – the Great Barrier Reef. 

Due to the many available tours, it’s best to learn more about each type beforehand. You can choose from a Pontoon Reef trip, snorkeling, scuba diving, island day trips, and so much more. 

At the Great Barrier Reef, you’ll be exploring the Earth’s largest coral reef chain with more than 2,900 reefs and 900 islands over a total area of 132,800+ square miles – or at least part of it anyway.

2. Get on the Kuranda Scenic Railway

Dedicate a whole day to the scenic railway tour across the UNESCO heritage-listed Kuranda rainforest. You’ll find yourself immersed in a forest ride that’s filled with awe-inspiring sights, bridges, and tunnels. 

You can also hop on a train ride to Kuranda Village in the middle of the rainforest. If you get hungry, there are mouthwatering culinary specialties for you to try out, after which you can continue on through scenic markets and pathways. 

3. Take a Ride on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Yet another scenic skyrail takes you across Barron National Park, which is the other UNESCO World Heritage Site in the area. 

Enjoy the sight of the powerful waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and numerous mountains and gorges at one of Queensland’s most famous parks. 

Dominating the park is the Barron River, which winds around some 37 miles across the Atherton Tablelands before entering the Barron Gorge and the Coral Sea. If you visit during the wet season, you might catch some spectacular floodwater at Barron Falls. 

The best view can be had at the Din Din lookout. 

4. Enjoy the Delicacies in the Restaurants

Looking for the area’s culinary standouts? 

The great news is that there are plenty of top-notch beachfront restaurants in Palm Cove. Some of the most renowned include Nu Nu, which serves local seafood, and Vivo, which has some of the most delicious panna cottas on the coast. 

There are also plenty of bars like the Rising Sun and 27 Degrees that are great for a casual dinner or a relaxing sunset cocktail after a long day at the beach. What better way to enjoy the sunset than sipping a glass of a refreshing beverage at the beachfront while discussing your adventures for the following day?

5. Go On a Cairns Hot Air Balloon Flight

Visiting Cairns from Palm Cove will only take around 30 minutes by car and will make for a day packed with exciting activities. One such adventure is taking a hot air balloon flight over the Atherton Tablelands and examining the tropical landscape of Queensland’s far north. 

This 40-minute flight offers a stunning view of the blue reef on one side and the rainforest on another. If you can’t drive yourself there, know that many tour agencies organize hotel pickups and returns. 

You’ll get to experience a sunset like never before during the air balloon flight. 

6. Immerse in a Fitzroy Island Adventure

Looking for exciting family things to do in Palm Cove? 

Take the kids out for a snorkeling lesson at the nearby Fitzroy Island. Explore the adjacent rainforest walking trails or get on the ocean trampoline. This largely untouched island was once part of mainland Australia and is now a protected national park. 

Its many interesting tours include a ride on a glass-bottom boat, hikes on rainforest tracks, seeing breathtaking scenery, swimming tours, rainforest walks, and much more. You can book either a full day or a half-day tour with the many local operators. 

7. Visit Hartley’s Crocodile Farm

Located just 15 minutes north of Palm Cove, this exciting crocodile farm is your best bet for seeing crocodiles and other local wildlife in Australia’s tropical region. 

Be prepared to travel the 2100-meter worth of boardwalks that run through woodlands and end at the natural habitat of tropical birds, insects, and other fauna. 

There’s plenty of lagoons and pools and even boat cruises for you to see the crocodiles and koalas during feeding time. If you’re looking for really fun kid-friendly things to do in Palm Cove, check out the entertaining wildlife shows on offer. 

8. Take a Night Wildlife Tour

Interested in exploring Australia’s exotic wildlife? 

An Atherton Tablelands tour is your chance to see some of the animals in their natural habitat. Along with kangaroos and lizards, be ready to have your mind blown away by the rainforest landscapes amidst the many trails, waterfalls, and mountains. 

The tours start in the day and continue past sunset until you see the elusive platypus. And if you’re up for making new friends, there are afternoon tea get-togethers at Lake Barrine and country restaurant dinners. 

9. Have a Romantic Rainforest Dinner

A candlelight dinner under the trees of one of the world’s oldest rainforests. Sounds romantic enough, isn’t it?

This is precisely one of the best experiences you’ll have if you’re looking for romantic things to do in Palm Cove. 

Surprise your better half with a lovely wine & dine named Flames of the Forest (located in Port Douglas). In addition to the fancy dinner and surroundings, there’s also music to round off the magical atmosphere.

There’s no better way to experience Aboriginal culture and gastronomy than at this unforgettable late-night getaway. 

10. Spend a Day at the Spa 

You wouldn’t be doing the Spa Capital of Australia justice without treating yourself to one. Palm Cove alone plays host to six world-renowned spas. 

The next time you go down Williams Avenue while in town, consider the opportunity to rejuvenate at a Palm Cove spa. 

Go All-in in Palm Cove

Whether you have in mind a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Palm Cove has got you covered. Bask in the world’s most astonishing natural sights, taste the local seafood dishes, enjoy the scenic sky rail rides, and do it all within driving distance.

You’ll never regret going on a trip here.

Seven Things to Do On Your Next Visit to Palm Cove

Don’t miss out on some of the exciting adventures in this slice of paradise. Here’s how you can make the most out of your trip to Palm Cove.

The beautiful stretch of land that is Palm Cove is one of the top tourist destinations in Northern Queensland. It’s close to Cairns and Port Douglas, so there are plenty of scenic day trips and tours you can take from the village, too.

Palm Cove’s prime location allows access to two world heritage domains, one aboveground and one underwater. It’s a tropical paradise by any standards and it offers many exciting activities for visitors.

1. Take Full Advantage of all Palm Cove Beach Experiences

Getting that perfect tan is one of the best things to do in Palm Cove. But don’t think that it’s the only thing the beach offers.

First of all, it’s one of the cleanest beaches in the country. Put swimming on your itinerary, too, because the crystal clear water offers an amazing experience.

Take a picnic with your travel companions and spend the whole day at the beach. The large palm trees can provide you with plenty of shade during peak sun activity hours.

2. Explore the Daintree National Rainforest

If the air gets too dry for you, the Daintree National Rainforest offers an escape. You can take a cableway day trip and see most of the rainforest from above.

The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway takes you up to just above the rainforest canopy for a 360-degree unobstructed view. There’s also the option to go on the Kuranda Scenic Railway, which takes you on a dramatic scenic route. You can also stop at the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary.

Another way that you can experience the rainforest is on a guided walking tour. You won’t see too much of the vast ancient wilderness, but it will get you an up-close experience.

3. Take a Wildlife Tour

If you don’t want to get your tan in the morning, consider a wildlife tour. The best by far in the area is Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures.

This tour takes you to a crocodile farm. It’s a bit outside the village of Palm Cove, but the experience is worth it.

There’s other wildlife at the farm but the crocodiles take center stage. You can even check out hand feeding shows and take a boat cruise around the farm.

Alternatively, you can also visit Cape Tribulation. It’s a bit further north and has mesmerizing beaches. Yet its waters are home to many crocodiles.

While it’s not the safest place to swim, it does give you a chance to get up close and personal with the local wildlife.

4. Underwater Exploration and Water Activities

When you’ve had enough of the sand and sun, how about going underwater? There’s as much to see below the sea level as there is above.

Palm Cove provides easy access to the Great Barrier Reef. In fact, it’s as easy as renting some gear and booking a seat on a cruise or private boat ride. You can get to the Great Barrier Reef from Palm Cove Beach or the neighboring beaches.

You can go scuba diving and snorkeling and interact with the local marine life. The underwater view is nothing short of spectacular thanks to the crystal-clear waters. It’s one of the top things to do in Palm Cove for tourists of all ages. 

If you don’t want to make the effort, don’t worry. You also have leisurely alternatives, like seeing the corals in a semi-submersible submarine. Even if a scuba dive and the freedom of motion offers a different experience, the submarine experience is something to remember.

At Palm Cove Beach, you can also engage in some water activities. Try your hand at canoeing or take a paddleboarding lesson. There’s even a group lesson that starts early in the morning.

Of course, don’t forget to watch the sun go down. Seeing the sunset while out on the open waters is nothing short of amazing.

5. Book a Spa Day

Are you looking for some tranquility or rejuvenation? Take a break from the beach and book a spa day. Fortunately, many Palm Cove Resorts offer wellness treatments. Some even have the best offerings in the country.

You may not know this, but lots of tourists go to Palm Cove for the spa experience. That’s why if you have many outdoor adventures planned on your trip, setting a day of relaxation isn’t a bad idea.

You wouldn’t want to get home tired from your vacation, right?

6. Spend an Afternoon at the Silver Crescent Park

Granted, the Silver Crescent Park is not as beautiful as the rainforest. But it offers a vast space to walk around in, including for pets.

If you’re traveling with your dog, there is a fenced dog run in the park. You can also find paved walking and biking trails to explore.

The park offers a nice opportunity to get some shade, breathe in the fresh air, and escape the winter season’s dryness.

7. Enjoy the Local Cuisine

Among the best things to do in Palm Cove is eating. In fact, most restaurants and cafes have diverse menus. But what’s more important is the locally sourced food. 

Whether dining at a five-star resort restaurant or at a small place on the beach, the local food is just divine. 

Palm Cove restaurant owners take customer satisfaction very seriously. That’s why dining is one of the most pleasurable experiences in the village. Even the cattle come from nearby graziers, so don’t worry about getting frozen food dumped on your plate.

Try some tropical cocktails, too, while you’re at it.

An Amazing Vacation Any Time of the Year

It doesn’t really matter when you visit this idyllic tropical destination. There are so many things to do in Palm Cove year-round.

The stunning surroundings, weather, and unique attractions give the place its incomparable vibe. It’s not hard to find a bargain, either.

Yes, the village is perhaps most famous for its wellness centers and spas. But don’t think that the local resorts don’t cater to more budget-minded visitors too.

There’s really something for everyone to enjoy in Palm Cove.