Tropical North Queensland (TNQ) offers everything newlyweds could want: stunning beaches, exquisite aquamarine waters and dense jungle, rife with wildlife and incredible flora and fauna.
With a land coverage equal to 20 per cent of Queensland’s total area and home to only six per cent of the region’s population, TNQ makes for a great place to get away from it all.
Famous as a portal to the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics Rainforests, TNQ is comprised of many spectacular areas, such as Cairns, Cairns Beaches, Port Douglas, Mission Beach, Bedarra Island and Fitzroy Island, to name a few.
Whether you and your love are looking for complete and total relaxation or longing for an adventure, TNQ can accommodate your needs.
Frolic hand in hand on private beaches or book a dive in the Great Barrier Reef, where you can spot clown fish, turtles and even whales. You can also enjoy this world heritage site by kayak or glass-bottom boat.
Couples can take a guided tour into the rainforest to witness firsthand the area’s fertile soils, dense forests and rich cultural history.
When planning your honeymoon, first decide what’s most important to you and your fiance – adventure, relaxation or a combination of the two.
Here are some of the best regions to honeymoon in North Queensland:
Cairns
Cairns, known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest, is an ideal destination for a memorable Australia honeymoon. This magical part of Queensland offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation as you begin your married life. In addition to the iconic attractions, there is so much more to explore in this region. From breathtaking natural beauty to thrilling adventures, you’ll be spoiled for choice with over 600 daily tours to choose from. And when you’re ready to unwind, there are plenty of alfresco dining options, vibrant markets, cultural experiences, and sandy beaches to enjoy. With its year-round outdoor lifestyle, lively nightlife, top-notch restaurants, and luxurious accommodations, Cairns provides all the ingredients for a truly unforgettable honeymoon or romantic getaway.
Palm Cove
Located just 20 minutes north of Cairns in Tropical North QLD, Palm Cove is a picturesque suburb known for its palm trees and romantic atmosphere. This resort-style destination is perfect for honeymooners, offering a range of activities and amenities to make your heart melt. Take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront esplanade, lined with beautiful Melaleuca trees, or indulge in a day of pampering at the award-winning Reef House Day Spa. Spend your days lounging on the serene beach, shaded by the trees, and in the evenings, treat yourself to a delicious meal at the oceanside Bella Baci restaurant, known for its mouthwatering Italian and seafood dishes. If you’re looking to explore further, take a scenic 40-minute drive along the coastal road to Port Douglas, another stunning beach town with breathtaking views of the ocean, cliffs, and white sand.
Port Douglas & Four Mile Beach
Port Douglas is a charming tropical village that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and luxury for honeymoon couples. Take a leisurely stroll along Macrossan Street, lined with beautiful trees, and explore the various boutiques. Indulge in the local dining scene and enjoy a drink at one of the many bars and cafes. Don’t miss the Sunday market in Anzac Square, where you can find unique arts and crafts. For a shopping spree, head to Marina Mirage, where you’ll find designer-label clothes, jewellery, shoes, and even Cuban cigars. Experience the fun and excitement of the cane toad races at The Iron Bar, and admire the stunning architecture of St Mary’s by the Sea, a beautiful historical whitewashed timber church. For breathtaking views of Four Mile Beach, climb up Flagstaff Hill. If you’re interested in wildlife, visit the fascinating Wildlife Habitat and observe native animals up close. For breathtaking views of Four Mile Beach, climb up Flagstaff Hill. If you’re interested in wildlife, visit the fascinating Wildlife Habitat and observe native animals up close.
Mission Beach
Mission Beach is a breathtaking 14 km-long stretch of golden sand in North Queensland. Surrounded by lush palm trees and rainforests, this serene beach offers a secluded escape from the crowds. Explore the four charming hamlets along the beach, including Bingil Bay, North Mission Beach, Wongaling Beach, and South Mission Beach. Take a stroll or bike ride along the shore to enjoy the stunning views of the turquoise water and tropical islands in the distance.
For adventure-seekers, Mission Beach offers plenty of thrilling outdoor activities like white-water rafting on the Tully River, hiking through native rainforest, skydiving over Dunk Island, or kayaking and diving around Beaver Cay on the Great Barrier Reef. If you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, head to the nearby Tam O’Shanter State Forest, where you can spot wallabies and the elusive blue-headed southern cassowaries. Don’t miss the chance to visit Dunk Island, a picturesque paradise with pristine beaches and enchanting rainforest trails.
To the north of Mission Beach, you can explore Bingil Bay and Garners Beach, where you’ll find the Bicton Hill track and encounter shy cassowaries amidst the native palms. To the south, the Edmund Kennedy track offers scenic walks along the beach, through mangroves, and into the rainforest.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Mission Beach is a tropical paradise that offers something for everyone.
The Daintree
The Daintree Rainforest, located just a short drive from Port Douglas, is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. As the oldest living rainforest on earth, it offers a unique and captivating experience. One of the highlights is the Mosman Gorge, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the river, hills, and valleys while enjoying scenic walking tracks. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic picnic or a refreshing swim.
Another breathtaking part of the Daintree Rainforest is Cape Tribulation. Here, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of the turquoise ocean meeting the golden sands and lush green forest. Take a leisurely stroll along the vast, empty beaches or embark on a bushwalk to higher ground for panoramic views of this awe-inspiring landscape. Don’t miss the Walu Wugirriga, or Mount Alexandra lookout, which offers incredible views of the Daintree River mouth, Snapper Island, and Low Isles.
Another breathtaking part of the Daintree Rainforest is Cape Tribulation. Here, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of the turquoise ocean meeting the golden sands and lush green forest. Take a leisurely stroll along the vast, empty beaches or embark on a bushwalk to higher ground for panoramic views of this awe-inspiring landscape. Don’t miss the Walu Wugirriga, or Mount Alexandra lookout, which offers incredible views of the Daintree River mouth, Snapper Island, and Low Isles.
Whichever area you choose – or better still, combine a few nights at each! – you’re sure to have the honeymoon of your dreams!
Related Article: 8 Romantic Things to Do in The Daintree
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