A special place where rainforest meets reef, the tropical Far North sun warms winter, green season rains make waterfalls rumble, and the people here first tell Dreamtime stories. It's the spot to escape the ordinary and a destination that makes magical holiday memories lasting a lifetime.

Get on the GBR

Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns sits steps from Reef Fleet Terminal making it a cinch to explore the reef. Tourist boats depart daily with some making the dash to Fitzroy and Green islands, others heading for pontoons anchored above the coral, and a few drifting towards remote stretches of blue that are home to Nemo and his mates.

Dreamy Daintree Day

A trip to TNQ isn’t complete without seeing the place rainforest meets reef. It’s a 90-minute motor north from Cairns and tours collect guests in the morning before dropping them back at the hotel after a day of exploring. It’s the easiest way to experience bucket-list destinations like Mossman Gorge, Cape Tribulation and the Bloomfield Track.

Wander to a Waterfall

The Far North is home to spectacular waterfalls with green-season showers bringing the wet stuff that makes these hidden gems rumble. Venture into the Atherton Tablelands – head up “The Gillies” for a spectacular journey before returning via Kuranda – with locations like Malanda Falls, Tchupala Falls and Millaa Millaa Falls perfect for a summertime soak.

Going to Market

Weekend markets are a way of life with communities from Palm Cove and Port Douglas to Tully and Tolga playing host. Remember to take a hat and arrive ready to eat as food is a highlight. And, if you can’t make it to the regions, Rusty’s Market and the Night Markets are within walking distance of the hotel while Kuranda is just a jaunt up the range.

South Pacific Perfect

Keen to see the islands but already crossed Fitzroy and Green from your to-do list? Then it’s time to book a Frankland Islands tour and see one of Tropical North Queensland’s true hidden gems. The excursion includes a cruise along the South Johnstone River to the Coral Sea and time to explore the empty islands from above and below the surface.

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