Are you planning to visit Palm Cove Queensland on your next staycation? You have chosen one of the top destinations in Queensland, Australia. You will be spoilt for choice with so many things to do in Palm Cove.
Located along the stunning coastline of Far North Queensland, Palm Cove is a tropical paradise that offers visitors a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Nestled between the Great Barrier Reef and the lush rainforests of the Daintree National Park, this charming seaside village boasts pristine palm-fringed beaches and crystal-clear waters teeming with colourful marine life.
With an abundance of outdoor activities, luxurious resorts, and delectable dining options, Palm Cove is the ultimate destination for those seeking an idyllic getaway in Queensland. Whether you want to soak up the sun on the beach, explore nature trails, indulge in spa treatments or embark on thrilling water sports adventures, there are countless things to do in this enchanting coastal town that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
We love Palm Cove in far north Queensland and we know you will too! An idyllic tropical paradise suitable for that short getaway or a longer staycation in Australia. From its silky sand beach to its delicious food, chilled vibes, and large range of accommodations, there are many good reasons to visit Palm Cove. A haven of spas, tours, cruises and boutique shopping, there is something for everyone!
Check out this unique Airbnb Palm Cove luxury 3-bedroom villa with pool here.
We share with you our best things to do in Palm Cove on your next tropical getaway. Palm Cove is a great destination for family travel, couples, friends getaways and solo travellers.
Palm Cove is easily accessible from Cairns Airport, being just a short 25-minute drive. Further north is Port Douglas which can be reached in just 40 minutes. Cairns is easily reached from Brisbane, the flight time is 2 hours and 25 minutes.
Travel Tip: We would recommend booking well in advance for car rentals. We have rented a few cars from different companies and they vary in price and in availability. Popular holiday times such as Christmas, Easter and school holidays you will find cars are booked well in advance. We have found Rentalcars to be competitive in pricing but you still need to book in advance. You can save money by paying upfront for car rental.
Whether you are searching for a romantic break, travelling as a couple, or with friends or family, Palm Cove offers so much on your next vacation.
If you love spending time on the beach, Palm Cove Beach, is the place for you and if you are a pool lover some of the best swimming pools can be found in the beautiful Palm Cove resorts e.g. Mantra Amphora located opposite the beach where we have stayed several times.
Good to know: During Summer which covers the months from November to March we recommend that you swim inside the marked enclosures on Palm Cove Beach due to jellyfish.
Also, there are chances of crocodile attacks during the breeding season from September to April. There are signs along the beachfront concerning the crocodiles.
You will find everything you need to know in our article:
- Best selling tours
- Where to eat in Palm Cove – Palm Cove Restaurants and Cafes (regularly updated with latest finds)
- Trinity Beach
- Palm Cove Golf
- Palm Cove Car Rentals
- How to get to Palm Cove
- Weather in Palm Cove
If you have any questions on Palm Cove or other staycation destinations around Australia, you can join our Staycation Australia Facebook Group here.
Palm Cove Attractions: Top best-seller tours
Fun things to do in Palm Cove:
Enjoy a Cairns Hot Air Balloon Flight
Get up, up and away over the amazing tropical landscape of far north QLD with this unforgettable Cairns hot air ballooning adventure that has to be experienced to be truly appreciated. With rainforest in one direction and stunning blue reef in the other, this top-selling Cairns hot air balloon ride includes a minimum of a 40-minute flight as well as return accommodation transfers.
Have you always wanted to visit Green Island and wondering what it is like to take a day trip to the Island? You can read our review here.
Fitzroy Island Full-Day Trip
For the quickest and most effective way to get to the beautiful, unspoiled Fitzroy Island, this option includes ferry transfers from Cairns that is not only an efficient way to get “from A to B” but makes for a spectacular tour in itself!
Heading out from the Cairns Marina, you’ll board a comfortable vessel and cruise out across the pristine reef waters towards the wonderful shores of Fitzroy Island on a journey that takes roughly 45 minutes.
Once on Fitzroy Island, you’ll have five hours to explore its many stunning natural offerings, taking part in a range of activities on both land and water including snorkelling, glass-bottom boat tours, kayaking, island adventures and much more.
Great Barrier Reef Sailing Cruise
Check-in for your cruise at 7.15 from the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal. During your day adventure, you will visit 2 outer reef locations on your brand-new catamaran. You can scuba dive, snorkel or just relax and soak up the sunshine. Morning and afternoon tea is included plus a tropical hot and cold buffet lunch.
Travel at a leisurely pace on your self-drive Kuranda Tour. Explore the village of Kuranda and enjoy spectacular views over the rainforests and waterfalls.
Drive yourself to the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Hop on the Scenic Railway for your visit to Kuranda where you can explore the village at your own pace. Return on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to collect your car. If you need to rent a car whilst you are in Palm Cove check the latest rates here.
Cape Tribulation, Daintree Rainforest and Wildlife Tour from Cairns, Palm Cove and Port Douglas
Tropical North Queensland is a place of wonder filled with world-heritage rainforests, dazzling coral reefs and fascinating wildlife. Come and discover it all on this day tour to the Cape Tribulation and Daintree Rainforest with entry to Wildlife Habitat and a tropical lunch included. Your day is set to be filled with adventure and Instagram-worthy views as you head North to explore Queensland’s most iconic locations.
Start the day with a ride along Australia’s most scenic drives between Cairns and Port Douglas before cuddling up to some furry friends at the Wildlife Habitat. Next, you’ll move on and cross the Daintree River on the cable ferry for lunch in the forest and stroll along the Cape Tribulation Beach. Stretch your legs with a guided walk in the rainforest and continue on to the famous Alexandra Lookout and Daintree River Cruise. Comprising incredible landscapes and fascinating wildlife, this Cairns tour is a must for nature lovers.
Hartleys Crocodile Adventures
One of Palm Cove’s most popular tours is Hartleys Crocodile Adventures.
Take a cruise on Hartley’s Lagoon to see the wildlife. This is the best place to see crocodiles in Far North Queensland. Hartley’s Crocodiles Adventure is located in Palm Cove. Enjoy the Cassowary Walk and the Wildlife Discovery Trail and enjoy wildlife presentations.
While crocodiles are in the name, there’s a host of other wildlife on offer as well, including such favourites as cuddly koalas and slithery snakes. Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is both entertaining and educational – so don’t miss the chance to visit when you’re in tropical North QLD; grab a ticket online today.
From Cairns: Atherton Tablelands Food and Wine Tasting Tour
Embark upon a food and wine-tasting adventure that showcases the spectacular produce and landscapes of the Atherton Tablelands on a foodie tour from Cairns. Sample locally produced coffees and wines along with homemade cheeses, jams and much more.
Top Things To Do in Palm Cove For Kids
Palm Cove is a top destination for families. If you are wondering what to do in Palm Cove with your kids here is our top 10 list for you:
- Visit Palm Cove Beach for swimming (remember between November to May there are stingers and possible crocodiles in the vicinity) – other times of the year it is the perfect place to enjoy the beach. During summer there is life-saving patrols halfway down the beach and they offer an enclosed area for swimming away from the stingers
- Cycle Williams Esplanade – along its bike and walking track. The beach reaches from the Palm Cove Jetty to Clifton Beach
- The kids will love the Palm Cove Playground which is located on the beachfront on the Esplanade
- Fish off the Palm Cove jetty
- Visit Palm Cove markets on the first Sunday of the month for live entertainment and activities for the kids
- Visit Hartleys Crocodile Adventures
- Have breakfast with the koalas at Hartleys Crocodile Adventures
- Enjoy gelato and icecreams from Scoops Gelatiland and Numi
- Enjoy a picnic on the beach – pick up fish & chips from Lucky Fish at Shop 18, 111 – 117 Williams Esplanade Palm Cove
- Eat at Palm Cove Tavern where there is indoor entertainment which includes computer games and play equipment for kids under 12 and 120cm high
Visit Trinity Beach
9.3 km from Palm Cove is Trinity Beach perfect for a visit. Walk along the beach towards the south end and head to the point for great views over Trinity Beach. Trinity Beach has more of a local feel and is not as touristy as Palm Cove.
Enjoy lunch or dinner at the Trinity Beach Tavern with views over the Coral Sea from the upstairs deck.
We had lunch at Trinity Beach Tavern overlooking the beach. Great service and an excellent tavern menu and drinks that were all reasonably priced as well.
Good to know: There are bus services from Palm Cove but you have to change buses along the way. We opted for an Uber each way around $25
Palm Cove Golf
Are you looking to play a round of golf or two on your next staycation in Palm Cove? Check out the list of available golf courses below:
Half Moon Bay Golf Club — 18 holes located at 66 Wattle St, Yorkeys Knob.
Telephone: (07) 4055 7933
Oceans Edge Health Club – 9 holes located at Coral Coast Dr, Palm Cove
Telephone: (07) 4059 1117
Palm Cove Restaurants
Palm Cove is not short of high-end quality restaurants, cafes and bars. We have listed the best restaurants in Palm Cove where we have dined recently.
The award-winning Good Food ‘hatted’ beachfront Nu Nu Restaurant at 1 Veivers Road in Palm Cove is an excellent choice for breakfast, lunch and dinner serving the best of modern Australian cuisine.
Good to know: Reservations for dinner should be made in advance.
Such a great spot for breakfast and lunch. We recommend you do visit Nu Nu and if you can’t get in for dinner try breakfast and lunch. The setting is unique, close the Palm Cove’s instagrammable row of palm trees, that you will see in advertising material all over the world showcasing Palm Cove.
Telephone: (07) 4059 1880
Dining in a beautiful Queensland colonial building overlooking the Coral Sea at 49 Williams Esplanade. Vivo is open from 06.30 am to 9.00 pm for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Modern Australian dining at its best with vegetarian and vegan options available.
Good to know: Dinner reservations need to be made in advance, we enjoyed dinner on the Verandah with great sunset views. If you can make a table reservation for the Verandah you will be in for a treat.
Telephone: (07) 4059 0944
Chill at Portofino is popular all times of the day. It is exactly as the name applies, you can really chill out here, enjoy your meals, coffee and people watch.
We enjoyed daily breakfasts and dinner throughout our stay here. Their daily menu consists of fish, meat, pasta, pizzas, desserts, coffees and their award-winning smoothies, cocktails and fruit juices.
Address: 3/41 Williams Esplanade Palm Cove
Telephone: 0439 361 122
We are huge fans of Greek cuisine and El Greko certainly did not disappoint with the quality of the food and a great Greek menu. The service was excellent and the tropical Grecian setting took us back to the times we have spent in Santorini and Mykonos.
Good to know: Reservations need to be made in advance Telephone: +61 7 4055 3703
Address: Shop 14, Palm Cove Shopping Village, 115-117 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove
The best fish & chips in Palm Cove, we can highly recommend them. You can either dine-in, take away or have a picnic across the road. We have eaten here many times and always have had the best service and the best dishes.
Address: Shop 18/111-117 Williams Esplanade Palm Cove Telephone: +61 7 4231 9622
For a beautiful Asian decor setting and the best Thai food in Palm Cove head to Choc Dee. You will also need to book in advance for this popular restaurant that offers takeaway as well as dining in.
Address: 12/123 Williams Esplanade Palm Cove. Telephone: +61 7 4059 2533
O’Donnell Irish Bar & Grill
For an afternoon sundowner with views over the ocean head to O’Donnell’s. They offer some great pub food and it is very popular with locals and visitors.
Address: 139 Williams Esplanade Palm Cove. Telephone: +61 7 4055 3009
Palm Cove Cafes
There are many cafes in Palm Cove to choose from. Here are some of our favourites:
The best coffee can be found at Espresso & Co Cafe at 115/117 Williams Esplanade Palm Cove.
If you are craving for burgers, steaks or pizza try Rattle n’ Hum Bar and Grill at 119 Williams Esplanade Palm Cove. They have live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
Palm Cove Car Rentals
There is so much to see and do in and around Palm Cove from visiting Cairns to Port Douglas and the Tablelands. Renting a car will give you flexibility and a way to visit all the beaches along the coast.
Frequently Asked Questions for Visiting Palm Cove
What are the travelling distances around Palm Cove?
Palm Cove to Cairns – 25.4 km and an average driving time of 29 minutes
Cairns Airport to Palm Cove – 24.8 km with an average driving time of 27 minutes
Palm Cove to Port Douglas – 42.3 km with an average driving time of 38 minutes
Palm Cove to Trinity Beach – 9.3 km with an average driving time of 10 minutes
Are there Supermarkets in Palm Cove?
Palm Cove Deli is located in the Palm Cove Shopping Village at 115/117 Williams Esplanade.
Palm Cove Coles is located on Endeavour Road at Clifton Beach.
Pete’s Place offers a small grocery section as well as takeaway food. Address: 73 Williams Esplanade
What is the closest airport to Palm Cove?
Cairns is the closest airport. It is located 24.8 km from Palm Cove with an average driving time of 25 minutes.
Palm Cove Weather
Palm Cove Average Monthly Maximum & Minimum Temperatures
| Temperatures | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Av Max C | 30 | 30 | 29 | 28 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 30 |
| Av Min C | 23 | 23 | 22 | 21 | 19 | 17 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 20 | 22 | 22 |
Palm Cove Average Monthly Rainfall & Humidity
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rainfall in mm | 405 | 435 | 424 | 197 | 99 | 49 | 30 | 27 | 35 | 38 | 89 | 175 |
| Humidity % | 76 | 79 | 78 | 75 | 75 | 74 | 72 | 70 | 67 | 68 | 69 | 70 |
When is the best time to visit Palm Cove?
Summer in Palm Cove is the wet season with high temperatures reaching around 32 – 34 degrees.
Wintertime daytime temperatures are in the low 20s and at night can drop down to around 17 degrees.
The best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is between October and December.
Getting To Palm Cove
Palm Cove Australia is in Far North Queensland. The main airport is Cairns which is an international airport as well as a domestic airport.
There are flights to Cairns from all over Australia. Some examples of flight times are:
Flights to Cairns from Brisbane take 2 hours 15 minutes
Flights from Gold Coast to Cairns – 2 hours 15 minutes
Flights from Perth to Cairns – approx 8 hours with one-stop in either Melbourne, Sydney Brisbane or Darwin
Flights from Sydney to Cairns – 2 hours 55 minutes
Flights from Melbourne to Cairns – 3 hours 25 minutes
Flights from Adelaide to Cairns – 3 hours 10 minutes
Flights from Hobart to Cairns – 1 stop approx 5 hours 45 minutes
Flights from Darwin to Cairns – 2 hours 30 minutes
Palm Cove Australia Flights – Cheap Flight Deals to Cairns
Shared Bus Transfers from Cairns Airport
Take the worry out of your airport transfers in North Queensland. Be greeted by friendly staff and take a shuttle bus between the airport and Cairns City, Port Douglas, or Palm Cove.
Conclusion
Palm Cove Queensland is a tropical destination that will suit all families, solo travellers and couples. It really is a unique place to visit in Queensland and is one of Queensland’s most famous beach areas.
With beautiful views over the Coral Sea, excellent dining options and one of the best locations in Far North Queensland to experience the major attractions no doubt you will return year after year to Palm Cove.
As you can see there are lots of Palm Cove tourist attractions to enjoy. We would love to hear from you if you have visited Palm Cove.
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More Staycation Australia Ideas:
Queensland Accommodation Guide
A – Z of Australian Bucket List Experiences
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