Keep Dreaming of...Tropical North Queensland

Keep Dreaming of Travel

The world is full of fear and uncertainty right now, and we understand that the thought of travelling might be the last thing on your mind.

But as Australians, we're travellers at heart. And when the world opens up its doors again, we'll be there ready to explore every corner with you. So, we would like to invite you to spend the next month dreaming about your next adventure with us.

Starting with our own beautiful backyard, we're going to take you on a journey to uncover a new part of Australia in every edition of our new Keep Dreaming of Travel series.

So sit back with a cuppa and your notebook while we inspire your next holiday...

Where to Stay

We love Australia's most iconic private island resort - Intercontinental Hayman Island. Exquisite views paired with beautifully appointed rooms make for the ultimate luxury stay. The eight exclusive beach-front villas will take your breath away.

A short flight from Cairns takes you to the northern most resort on the Great Barrier Reef, Lizard Island Resort. And the view from the plane on your way there is just as good as the resort itself. A luxury lodge of Australia, Lizard Island is truly secluded from the rest of the world.

Privacy and tranquillity come first at Heron Island Resort. You'll be transported to a spectacular marine world where you can disconnect from the everyday world, with no televisions, phones or Wifi in any of the rooms. It's the perfect place for a digital detox.

Located 25 minutes north of Cairns and just metres from the esplanade of Palm Cove itself, the Alamanda Palm Cove is a favourite with couples and families alike. Described as the ultimate in barefoot luxury, you'll step straight our of your enormous suite onto golden sands with sweeping views of the coral sea.

Where to Dine

A private degustation on Lizard Island's Sunset Beachside Dining is not to be missed. Two private beach pavilions sit on Anchor bay - each commanding spectacular views of the nightly sunsets. Here, you feel as if you are the only people on the island as you are discretely served a seven course dinner with complementary wines.

At qualia, Executive Mark Jensen's cuisine is inspired by the resorts stunning vistas, creating menus that are light, fresh and healthy. The toughest decision you'll have (apart from what to eat) is whether to dine by the waters of Pebble Beach or the horizon's edge of the poolside pavillion. It's hard to say which view is better.

In the heart of Cairns is the city's most highly awarded restaurant - Ochre Restaurant. The innovative, modern Australian menu showcases a dedication to local produce and a craft of working with native ingredients. Your exquisite dish can be demolished while perched on a waterfront deck with harbour lights illuminating your plate.

A favourite with locals and travellers alike is beachfront Nu Nu Restaurant in Palm Cove. Enjoy your award-winning Australian dish with an incredible view of the coral sea, framed by picture-perfect palm trees. The menu is an asian-inspired smorgasbord of locally sourced delights reflecting the vibrant landscape of Tropical North Queensland.

What to Experience

Lizard Island is a treasure trove of must-do reef experiences. Snorkelling, diving, paddle boarding, kayaking, hiking, swimming with potato cod and morning yoga on the beach fill your days, while an indulgent spa experience will help you relax and unwind before the plentiful island dining options complete your night.

Journey to the Heart is a boutique reef experience that will both thrill and touch your soul. The luxurious three-hour getaway is exclusive for guests of Hamilton Island, accessible by way of a spellbinding helicopter ride with Hamilton Island Air. Words can't describe the magic - so just make sure you take your camera along with you.

Explore the oldest rainforest on the planet, which happens to only be a 2-3 hour drive north from Cairns (yes, you read that right). The Daintree Rainforest is an almost fairytale-like World Heritage landscape offering a number of ethical-access tours to the heart of this natural wonder. You'll be left completely inspired.

We know you've heard of the Great Ocean Road Drive, but we must say - the Great Tropical Drive is just as breath-taking. Explore palm-fringed beaches, ancient rainforests and the golden outback on a self-drive tour taking in the highlights of North Queensland. With 26 different routes to follow, every one of your senses will be in for a treat.

Discover our current holiday offers in Tropical North Queensland.

Talk to your local Travel Associates advisor about planning your next unforgettable tropical island holiday.