Discover a green oasis with this complete guide to Conway National Park

From the bustle of tropical Airlie Beach to the world-famous turquoise vista of Whitehaven, The Whitsundays has plenty of undeniable must-dos that attract crowds for good reason. But beyond the hotspots, a new adventure awaits: a lush utopia that buzzes only with the sounds of tumbling waters and the call of wildlife – Conway National Park.

What’s so special about Conway National Park?

This serene coastal expanse, with its secluded beaches and tangled rainforest flanked by the towering Conway Ranges, has been home for thousands of years to the Gia and Ngaro Elders and Traditional Owners of the Birri-Gubba Nation. The second-largest patch of lowland tropical rainforest in Queensland, it’s uniquely biodiverse. The park counts six rare or threatened species, including the endangered Proserpine rock wallaby (count yourself lucky to catch a glimpse), and three species only found in the area, like the shy leaf-tail gecko.

There’s no shortage of wildlife to see, though: keep an eye out for emerald doves, sulphur-crested cockatoos and brush-turkeys. Orange-footed scrubfowl mounds are dotted along the tracks, while buff-breasted paradise-kingfishers visit in summer. Brilliant, electric-blue Ulysses butterflies are common, but that won’t stop you exclaiming in delight whenever one flits past. Luscious flora including vine thicket, mangroves, open forests, paperbark and pandanus woodlands, Alexandra palms, and lowland rainforest provide refuge for Conway’s diverse inhabitants as well as a gorgeous scenic backdrop.

How to get to Conway National Park 

Spanning 75 km of coastline, Conway National Park sits between Airlie Beach and Shute Harbour. Turn off the Bruce Highway just north of Proserpine or 65 km south of Bowen, then travel 26 km to Airlie Beach.

To explore the park, you have several options (starting from Airlie Beach):

• Follow Shute Harbour Road south-east for 7 km to the Conway National Park day-use area. Toilets here are suitable for wheelchairs, although some assistance may be required.

• Follow Shute Harbour Road south-east for 8 km to the Swamp Bay/Mount Rooper carpark.

• Follow Shute Harbour Road south-east for 10 km, turn left onto Whitsunday Drive and follow for 1 km to the Coral Beach carpark.

Things to do in Conway National Park

Hiking and mountain biking trails 

The only way to really immerse yourself in this untouched wonder is through the many Conway National Park walks and trails. Tracks range from short, easy walks and shared trails to challenging mountain bike rides and overnight hikes.

The Circuit Track, a 1.2 km stroll through lowland rainforest, is one of the most popular and starts from the day-use picnic area. Extend the loop via the Hayward Gully Way turnoff (3.2km return).

From the Swamp Bay/Mount Rooper carpark, Swamp Bay trail is a 4.2 km return walk with views of Molle Islands, or the 5.3 km Mount Rooper Circuit is steep but worth it for the panoramic vista of the Whitsunday Passage.

From Coral Beach carpark, Coral Beach Trail is 2.2 km and also features breathtaking views, while the Kingfisher Walk from Forestry Road carpark is the same length but leads you through moody rainforest. This one can be extended via Wompoo Way (7 km return) where you'll find an idyllic creek and be serenaded by wompoo fruit-doves.

Up for a challenge? Lace up your boots for the Conway Circuit (formerly the Whitsundays Great Walk) – a 27.1 km journey that starts at Forestry Road and finishes at Airlie Beach. This is your chance to truly explore the expanse of the park via dense, ancient rainforest, through valleys, and along creeks. It’s recommended to allow three days, with two camps provided along the way.

Cedar Creek Falls

A verdant oasis located midway between Airlie Beach and Proserpine on Saltwater Creek Rd, Cedar Creek Falls is like a hidden jewel. Step through white cedar trees to discover a natural rock amphitheatre where a waterfall cascades into a crystal-clear rock pool surrounded by swaying palms, wild orchids, bright butterflies and singing birdlife. 

Sink into the refreshing water or take a cool shower under the waterfall and spot fish, turtles and lizards as you literally immerse yourself in the natural beauty. Just remember, jumping or diving from this Conway National Park waterfall isn’t permitted.

Swimming in Conway National Park

There are also several hidden beaches fringing the park. The soft sands are typically free of crowds, guaranteeing the perfect spot to laze, surf, or snorkel these idyllic bays. Just remember marine stingers can be around from October-May; stay shark-smart and croc-wise by never swimming alone; and be aware that Conway’s beaches aren’t patrolled by lifeguards.

Conway National Park tours 

Let an expert guide your adventure through Conway National Park with one of these tours.

Whitsundays Segway Rainforest Discovery Tours

This adrenaline-fuelled 3.5-hour, 9 km Segway tour will see you gliding along part of the Conway Circuit and having morning tea alongside Impulse Creek. 

Bike and Hike Whitsunday

Jump on the saddle and join expert mountain biking guides through the park, through your choice of rainforest trails, lookouts and valleys.

Airlie Beach Trike Tours

Customise this trike tour of Airlie Beach to explore Conway National Park and Cedar Creek Falls on three wheels. 

Picnic spots

Pack the Esky and head for the picnic tables at Swamp Bay, or Conway National Park day-use area (where toilets, a shelter shed and barbecues are also provided). Otherwise, throw down a picnic blanket at any of the postcard-perfect beaches or rainforest clearings – just remember to leave it as pristine as you found it.

Lookouts

A mountainous national park on The Whitsunday coast, overlooking the Great Barrier Reef? You can bet that’s the recipe for glorious views. 

• Beak Lookout at the eastern end of Coral Beach – a 3.4 km return with a 600m climb to the top – is definitely worth the effort. 

• From Mount Rooper lookout, take in jaw-dropping views over a cluster of tropical islands: Hamilton, Dent, Long, and Henning.

• Honeyeater Lookout: Starting from the Conway National Park Trail Head at Kara Crescent, turn right toward the Honeyeater Lookout. The walk is uphill and steep, but the views when you catch your breath are magnificent.

Where to stay

Three camping spots are available for those looking to sleep under the stars in the park itself. Camping permits apply, so make sure you pre-book before setting up your tent. 

Swamp Bay bush camp is accessible only by foot, boat or kayak, and sits on the coastline overlooking the Whitsunday Islands. Repulse Creek and Bloodwood camping areas lie along the Conway Circuit and are accessible only on foot or by mountain bike. Swamp Bay has no facilities, however Repulse Creek and Bloodwood have toilets, rainwater tanks, and food storage trunks.

Prefer a few extras? Base yourself at nearby Big4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, where you can camp, book a cabin or stay in an apartment, and make use of the family-friendly facilities like their lagoon pool and waterpark. 

No matter your travel style or needs, the area’s brimming with local options to rest your head after a day of exploring: just peruse our Airlie Beach or Whitsundays accommodation guides.

Where to eat and drink

There’s no doubt that walking, biking, swimming and exploring are the best ways to work up an appetite. Luckily, you can continue your feast for the senses with a smorgasbord of local eateries nearby. From homemade treats at Fat Frog Beach Cafe (perfect for packing into the picnic basket or backpack for your trip) to hearty pub grub at KC’s Bar & Grill or sweeping ocean views from Paradiso (Airlie’s only rooftop bar), you’re spoiled for choice.