The best things to do in Cardwell

Located on the verdant southern tip of Tropical North Queensland’s Cassowary Coast, Cardwell is bursting with outdoor adventuring spirit. Home to Australia’s largest National Park, and wedged between golden beaches to the east, and the ancient canopies of the Wet Tropics to the west, there is no limit of things to do in Cardwell.

In addition to unparalleled outdoor experiences, the region holds a strong pioneering history, as well as a deeply connected Indigenous community with millennia-held traditions, making Cardwell a launching pad for an unforgettable long weekend. These are the best things to do in and around Cardwell.

Soak away your cares at Cardwell Spa Pool

Kicking things off with an icon of Cardwell, don’t even think about passing up a visit to Cardwell Spa Pool. A local hidden gem for many years, it’s no wonder locals flock here when the mercury soars; this gorgeous natural pool offers picturesque relief from Queensland’s steamy humidity.

Thanks to the science of nature, the water here is jarringly beautiful. Bright blue, often flitting between crystal clear or milky, it’s the minerals from surrounding sedentary rocks that gives the pool its magnificent hue. Peak visiting time is May-September when the water level is stable (read: perfect for a swim).

Take in the might of Murray Falls

With a backdrop as wild and rugged as Girramay National Park, Murray Falls is often hailed the prettiest waterfall in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. And we’re certain you’ll agree once you clap eyes on it.

Boasting a dramatic drop in the wet season, Murray Falls rushes over million-year-old granite boulders and is ensconced by dense tropical rainforest, all complete with a stunning natural pool at its feet. Spend a day in the area treading the boardwalk, hit the viewing platforms, maybe tackle the 1.8km walk – trust us, it’s a cascade more than worthy of your time (and Instagram feed).

Break out the BMX along Cardwell Forest Drive

Swap two feet for two wheels along one of the most beautiful inland drives in northern Queensland. Starting just a few minutes west of the Cardwell township, Cardwell Forest Drive is made up of rocky trails and shared routes, taking in incredible natural wonders including Attie Creek Falls, Cardwell Spa Pool, and Cardwell Lookout which steals views all the way out to Hinchinbrook Island.

For a challenge, tackle the Powerline Trail. Combining a larger, more technical route, it incorporates some of the best lookout points while serving up those challenging agility tracks you’re hankering.

Swim at the base of Attie Creek Falls

Fancy a dip? Find Attie Creek Falls and her achingly beautiful natural poll along the famous Cardwell Forest Drive just behind the township of Cardwell. A slender single-drop waterfall, Attie Creek Falls is one of a slew of seasonal natural pools in the region, and makes for the perfect swimming conditions. And, with access just a 700m walk from the adjacent car park, it’s a no-brainer ­– especially if the family’s in tow.

Wander the foreshore

With views over the World Heritage-Listed Great Barrier Reef and Hinchinbrook Island, Cardwell Foreshore is a destination all its own. An idyllic walking or cycling path, it’s home to all manner of things to do; take in Aboriginal art installations dotted along the foreshore, seek shade in the Coral Sea Memorial Park, or follow the signs for a DIY flora and fauna trail. Dugong Park and the Jetty Plaza are perfect for families with playground, barbecues, public toilets and shaded areas ­– all boasting those incredible views.

Admire the works of Indigenous artisans

Since 2008, the Girringun Art Centre in central Cardwell has promoted works of local, multi-award-winning artists. Northern Queensland is home to some of the best Indigenous art galleries in the country, but this impressive space represents artists specifically from the Nywaigi, Gugu Badhan, Warrgamay, Warungnu, Bandjin, Girramay, Gulngay, Jirrbal and Djiru people. As well as being able to purchase works from dedicated gallery, the centre is also a workshop where many artists can be found working on pieces. A truly special place.

Get answers at the UFO festival

Shining a light on the extra-terrestrial activity in both the Cardwell region and Australia, the Cardwell UFO Festival looks to the skies to answer life’s biggest question; are we really all alone out here? This weekend-long event holds a jam-packed schedule of food trucks, forums, speaking events and guest line ups, digging into some of the region’s underbelly of the unexplained – including UFOs, bigfoot, and the infamous Cardwell Lights. Get answers, leave with more questions; you’ll certainly leave with a curious mind…

Explore the majestic Hinchinbrook Island

There aren’t many places left in the world where you’re unlikely to share it with another living soul. The world’s largest island National Park, and the Cassowary Coast’s jewel in its crown, Hinchinbrook Island is one of them. Home to the world-famous Thorsborne Trail, this is pure, unadulterated nature at its best – and only ever accessible to 40 people at any given time.

Only have a day? There are plenty of ways to get a taste of this magnificent island; hitch a ride with Hinchinbrook Island Cruises, where you can choose from a variety of day cruise options to the island. Alternatively, join an expert guide on a Hinchinbrook Island tour, where you’ll hit up some of the most sought-after locations on the island.

Lean into the pioneering spirit

Get a taste of 1800s north Queensland life on the Cardwell Pioneers Tour. History buffs will bask in insights from a bygone era, courtesy of your local guide with a wealth of historical nuggets. Beginning at the old Bush Telegraph, learn about the origins of Cardwell and the significance as the first port in North Queensland. Hit up the Courthouse, the old lock-up building at the Cardwell Police Station, before rounding out at the old Shire Hall.