31 Best Things To Do In Palm Cove in 2025

Wondering what the best things to do in Palm Cove are? 

With its luxury resorts, palm-lined esplanade and tropical calm, it’s easy to assume it’s all about relaxation, but there’s so much more to this little beach town than meets the eye.

After visiting many times, our love for Palm Cove only grows, it’s the kind of place that makes you slow down, soak it all in, and start picturing your retirement (seriously). 

From palm tree photo ops and waterfall swims to beachside ice cream and local adventures beyond the esplanade, this guide covers the best things to do in Palm Cove to help you plan your trip with ease.

Let’s get into it.

31 Best Things To Do In Palm Cove

1. Take a walk along the palm-fringed beach

Our favourite part about Palm Cove is the beautiful long beach that runs along the entire town.

This beautiful long beach is often uncrowded, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Cairns.

The golden sand and gentle waves make it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or it makes for a beautiful spot to sit down under a palm tree to take in the views and read a book (like we did).

2. Spend the morning at the Palm Cove markets

The Palm Cove markets are held on the first Sunday of every month from April to December, focusing on sustainable and high-quality local handmade products.

Grab a coffee and wander beneath the palms through over 130+ stalls, these markets have built up their reputation as Far North Queensland’s premier community markets.

Open 8:00 am to 2:00 pm on the first Sunday of every month (April – December).

3. Grab your camera and get some photos with the palm trees

Be sure to take some beautiful photos under the iconic palm tree tunnel.

The best location to capture the palm trees is to the right of Williams Esplanade, in front of Nu Nu’s cafe.

We highly recommend visiting in the morning to capture the golden light on the trees and with the ocean glistening in the background.

4. Walk along Palm Cove Jetty 

When you visit Palm Cove, you will notice a long jetty at the northern end of the town.

Originally this jetty was built as a departure platform for vessels going to the Great Barrier Reef.

Today, it is a popular spot for fishing for both locals and visitors. Even if fishing isn’t your thing, the jetty is a great place for a leisurely walk, especially at sunrise or sunset.

5. Watch a sunrise over the ocean

This is one of the best things to do in Palm Cove, It’s truly a magical way to start your day.

Imagine sitting under a palm tree, watching the sunrise over the ocean’s horizon as the light paints hues of pink and gold across the sky.

If you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins playing close to the shoreline, just as we did on our last day!

6. Kayak to Double Island

One of the best Palm Cove activities is kayaking over to Double Island!

In less than 30 minutes, you can reach Double Island, where you’re likely to see a variety of sea life, including stingrays, shovel-nose sharks, sea turtles, and many other species of fish.

If you would rather explore independently, you can hire a single or double Kayak or stand-up paddle board by the hour at Palm Cove Watersports.

7. Pedal your way around Palm Cove

Another great option when deciding what to do in Palm Cove is to go for a bike ride, a nostalgic activity that can take you back to your childhood.

We highly recommend following the bike path to Clifton Beach, which is a hidden gem and only a few kilometres from Palm Cove!

You will find that many resorts and accommodations in Palm Cove offer bikes, or you can hire a bike from Biked, located right on Williams Esplanade.

8. Stroll along Williams Esplanade

Williams Esplanade is the heart of Palm Cove, running parallel to the beautiful beachfront and offering breathtaking views of the ocean.

The street is lined with boutique shops, cafes and restaurants, all shaded by melaleuca and palm trees.

There are well-maintained BBQ areas and a popular, secure kids playground, it is the perfect spot to bring the family.

9. Spoil yourself to a day spa

Palm Cove is home to some of the best award-winning day spas in Australia.

The Reef House offers couples-focused treatments and a popular three-day vitality package with Vichy showers and warm stone massages. Vie Spa, an award-winning day spa, provides the ultimate luxury experience with romantic couples suites.

Alamanda’s LM Spa features a variety of pampering treatments, including a tropical mango enzyme and creamy coconut body wrap.

The locally owned Palm Cove Retreat Day Spa boasts four treatment rooms and offers skin-focused therapies like anti-aging facials and mani-pedis.

10. Enjoy local cafes & Restaurants

Palm Cove also offers an amazing dining scene for its size as a small coastal town.

From the modern Australian menu at Nu Nu Restaurant to the vibrant Mediterranean cuisine at Vivo, and the authentic Greek dishes served at El Greko Greek Tavern, there is something here for everyone.

Most cafes and restaurants in Palm Cove have beautiful views, creating the perfect setting whether you are indulging in a high-end dining experience or enjoying locally sourced fresh produce.

If you are after a cocktail, be sure to check out Nu Nu restaurant for their passionfruit chilli margaritas!

11. Beach Yoga Class

One of the best things to do in Palm Cove is participate in a beach yoga class, an activity that perfectly suits the beauty of this coastal paradise.

Hartig Yoga, located outside Alamanda Resort, offers a variety of classes tailored to suit everyone’s preferences, such as gentle yoga, Sunrise Beach yoga and Vinyasa yoga.

This experience will allow you to connect to nature and find inner peace amidst the backdrop of the coral sea and golden sands. 

12. Discover Clifton beach

Nestled near Palm Cove, Clifton Beach is a hidden gem that we only discovered on our last trip to Palm Cove, it is perfect if you want to escape the crowds.

Accessible via a scenic bike ride or a 3 km leisurely stroll along the beach or path from Palm Cove.

This pristine stretch of coastline is lined with palm trees ideal for leisurely strolls, shaded relaxation, or a refreshing dip in the ocean (in the cooler months – May – October as there is no stinger net).

13. Try the local ice cream

We can’t be the only ones that NEED to visit the ice cream shop when on holidays.

Located along Williams Esplanade, Numi Ice Cream is a must when looking for things to do in Palm Cove.

Numi Ice Cream specialises in homemade artisan Ice cream and sorbet, crafted with natural and locally sourced ingredients.

They have some incredible and unique flavours, such as white chocolate, donut and strawberry jam, or Plum and shortbread cheesecake.

If you are in need of a caffeine fix, you need to try the cold-pressed coffee vanilla ash sprinkled with choc crumb!!

Those who prefer a drink also have creamy smoothies and delicious milkshakes.

Numi Ice Creamery’s Opening Hours: Every day from 10:00 am – 10:00 pm

14. Use the Palm cove BBQ facilities

Palm Cove offers excellent BBQ facilities along the esplanade, providing the perfect opportunity for outdoor gatherings, and the best part is that they are FREE to use.

With plenty of well-maintained BBQs to choose from, located amidst the greenery, you can enjoy breathtaking ocean views while grilling your favourite dish.

These BBQs come equipped with a cover to shield against the wind, and there are picnic tables available in a sheltered area.

15. Go for a swim in the enclosed nets

In Palm Cove, swimming within the enclosed nets provides a safe and enjoyable experience, especially during the stinger season from November to May.

There are lifeguards present to ensure swimmers’ safety, especially during periods of strong southerly winds when conditions may become rough.

The beach has a gentle slope which makes it perfect for all age groups!

Things to do in the Palm Cove area

16. Hartley crocodile adventures

Spend half the day at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, just a short 15-minute drive north of Palm Cove within the UNESCO-listed Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.

As North Queensland’s largest wildlife attraction, Hartley’s offers an incredible experience to encounter with crocodiles, cassowaries, koalas, wombats, emus, kangaroos and wallabies.

With daily activities and shows, including boat tours and feeding demonstrations, Hartley’s promises a fun day for all.

Jump aboard Hartley’s Lagoon for a 25-minute cruise through coastal melaleuca wetlands to observe crocodiles in their natural habitat. Don’t miss shows like the croc attack show, providing a chance to see the feeding habits of crocodiles. 

You can get a Hartleys Crocodile Adventure Half Day tour with a return transfer to Palm Cove from $110 per adult.

17. Visit the oldest rainforest in the world

It’s crazy to think that the Daintree rainforest is over 180 million years old, it is the oldest rainforest in the world by 10 million years!!

There are plenty of things to do in the Daintree Rainforest:

• Daintree River Cruise – Enjoy a 1 hour to spot some rare wildlife including estuarine crocodiles, birds, frogs, snakes, lizards, goanna, butterflies and insects 
  
• Guided Tours – Enjoy a guided tour by the local Indigenous people of the Kuku Yalanji Tribe, during the Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk they will explain the cultural significance of sites and assist in learning about the health value of trees and plants
  
• Wellness Spa – The Daintree wellness spa located at the Daintree Ecolodge is the ultimate place when searching for relaxation with a range of spa treatments. 
  
• Daintree Discovery Centre – An award-winning discovery centre that features an aerial walkway that includes a 23m tower used to study carbon levels. There is a theatre screen to learn about cassowary birds, conservation, crocodiles and climate change.

18. Check out Cape Tribulation

Cape Tribulation is where the rainforest meets the reef, and what makes it truly unique is that it’s the only place in the world where two UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites meet: the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.

Cape Tribulation is located 115 km (around 2 hours) north of Palm Cove along the Captain Cook highway.

Here are some of our favourite things to do in Cape Tribulation:

• Explore the Great Barrier Reef – Join a tour to Mackay Reef and Undine Reef with Ocean Safari.
• Watch the sunrise on Cape Tribulation Beach.
• Enjoy a guided rainforest walk
• Take a swim in Masons Swimming Hole – don’t stress it is croc-free!
• Experience horse riding on the beach with Cape Trib Horse Rides
• Cool off at Emmagen Creek 
• Challenge yourself with a hike up Mount Sorrow – A 7km return hike offering amazing views of the Daintree Rainforest.
  

19. Check out the local swimming holes

Even though Palm Cove itself doesn’t have swimming holes to offer there are plenty nearby that offer a refreshing escape.

Crystal Cascades – Just under 30 minutes away is a hidden gem known mostly by locals. After a 1.2km walk through the rainforest, you will discover a beautiful freshwater swimming hole.

Mossman Gorge – 50 minutes north of Palm Cove will have you at the famous Mossman Gorge in the Daintree Rainforest. Take an Indigenous tour or explore on your own.

Babinda Boulders – If you feel like a road trip, Babinda Boulders is a beautiful swimming hole 90 km south of Palm Cove. Babinda Boulders is very easy to access and has a short 1.2km (return) walk to the lookouts.

20. Enjoy a scenic drive to Port Douglas

The road to Port Douglas from Palm Cove via the Captain Cook Highway which is also know as the Great Barrier Reef Drive is one of the most scenic drives in Australia.

It is a 40-minute journey that offers breathtaking views of the coral sea and lush tropical landscapes.

Don’t miss out on stopping at Rex Lookout, located halfway between Palm Cove and Port Douglas – it’s the perfect place to take photos and soak up the panoramic views of the coastline.

Also, make sure you stop at the Crocodile lookout on the Mowbray River footbridge. If you are lucky, you might catch some crocs lying on the river bank!

Things to do in Port Douglas:

• Walk or swim at Four Mile Beach
• Drive or walk up to Flagship Hill Lookout
• Visit the cute St Mary by the Sea Church
• Roadtrip to Mossman Gorge
• Check out Flagship Hill lighthouse
• Have a picnic at Rex Smeal Park
• Wander around the Port Douglas markets

21. Take a day trip to Fitzroy Island

One of our favourite islands in Australia, a day trip to Fitzroy Island should be at the top of your list of things to do when visiting Palm Cove.

Located approximately 45 minutes from Cairns by ferry, Fitzroy Island is a tropical paradise filled with lush rainforest, beautiful walking trails, and pristine beaches.

We highly recommend spending a lot of time at Nudey Beach, a secluded spot with crystal-clear blue water that is perfect for snorkelling with turtles. 

The island offers guided activities such as snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and glass-bottom boat tours. However, you can also hire water sports gear from FISH if you prefer to explore independently.

22. Take a Gondola over the rainforest

One of the most popular things to do in Tropical North Queensland, and for good reason, is taking the Skyrail over the lush canopy of Australia’s Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.

Located a 15-minute drive south of Palm Cove, it is the perfect place to visit for the day.

The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway spans a total distance of 7.5km, offering stunning panoramic views of the rainforest, Coral Sea and Barron Falls.

The Skyrail stops at two stations along the way: Read Peak, where you can explore the rainforest boardwalk, and Barron Falls, where you enjoy the spectacular views of the falls from the lookout (the best after decent rain).

The Skyrail takes you to the town of Kuranda, which offers plenty of things to do, such as visiting local markets, and wildlife sanctuaries, and enjoying the vibrant arts and culture of the village. 

We would highly recommend also getting an ice cream from Kuranda Gelato!

23. Jump onboard the Kuranda Railway

Another must-do experience in Tropical North Queensland is the Kuranda Scenic Railway, offering a unique and fun experience to see Australia’s Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.

We still remember doing it as a kids and thinking what an amazing experience it was.

Departing from Cairns or Freshwater station, the railway winds through lush rainforest and past Barron Falls all the way to Kuranda village.

The 37-kilometre journey includes commentary about the railway’s history and stops at Barron Falls, where you disembark to take in the breathtaking views.

During peak season we recommend booking your tickets in advance!

For a full experience, consider getting a pass for both the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway & Kuranda Scenic Railway You can choose to ascend via the cableway and descend on the railway, or vice versa.

24. Visit the best fruit and veg market in Australia – rusty’s market

Rusty’s Market located in the heart of Cairns is a vibrant and bustling experience, perfect for those wanting to experience local culture and the best fresh produce.

With over 180 stalls offering a diverse range of food, including tropical fruits, vegetables, artisan breads and homemade baked goods.

Make sure you have cash on you as some of the stalls don’t accept card and try to get in early to avoid crowds.

Make sure you visit Annee’s, it is known for the best Vietnamese iced coffee in Australia, it is perfect on a hot day!

Rusty’s Market Opening Hours
Friday & Saturday – 5:00 am – 4:00 pm
Sunday – 5:00 am – 3:00 pm

25. Wander around the magical Paronella Park

Another popular attraction in Tropical North Queensland is Paronella Park, located 130 km South of Palm Cove along Mena Creek.

The park showcases a stunning Spanish-inspired castle nestled in between beautiful waterfalls and surrounded by lush rainforest.

Your ticket includes the option for a guided tour during the day or night, offering insights into its fascinating history.

If you are camping or have a caravan you are also able to stay at the ground for a night included in your entry fee to Paronella Park.

26. Take some pics at The Coconut Farm

Thala Beach Reserve coconut farm is one of the most Insta ‘famous’ spots in Tropical North Queensland for palm tree photos.

You can’t miss it on the right when you drive into Port Douglas! Even though this is an awesome spot for photos, please note that it is private property and you need to respect Thala Beach Reserves rules.

27. Day trip to Cairns attractions

You can’t come to Palm Cove without checking out the attractions in Cairns!

Located less than 30 minutes south of Palm Cove, Cairns is the gateway to Tropical North Queensland and a vibrant city filled with activities and culture.

Here are some of our favourite things to do to fill your Cairns Itinerary:

• Relax along Cairns Esplanade where you can enjoy the FREE lagoon pool, boardwalk and weekly markets.
• Savour fresh seafood on the trawler at Prawn Star.
• Sample local beer at Hemingway’s on Wharf St – they offer a $20 paddle
• Take a stroll through Cairns Botanic Gardens
• Explore the night markets and food market every evening from 4:30 pm

28. Visit tropical paradise – Ellis Beach

When looking for the best things to do in Palm Cove, make sure you put this on the list!

Only 4km (10 minutes) north of Palm Cove, along the Captain Cook highway, lies the picturesque and relaxing destination of Ellis Beach.

This 6 km stretch of golden sands features a beautiful beachfront caravan park and a popular Bar and Grill restaurant, which offers live music every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

During the summer months, a stinger net is patrolled by the surf life-saving club!

Ellis Beach Bar and Grill Opening Hours

• Breakfast every day from 7:00 am – 11:30 am
• Lunch every day from 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
• Dinner open Thursday 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

29. Day trip to Green Island

A day trip to Green Island is another great way to see the stunning Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

This 6000-year-old rainforest island offers amazing snorkelling, diverse birdlife and scenic trails to explore.

There are plenty of activities to enjoy on the island such as;

• Glass bottom boat tours
• Scuba diving
• Parasailing 
• Helicopter flights

The island is also home to Cassius, the largest captive crocodile in the world which can be seen when you visit Marineland Melanesia.

30. Take a road trip to Atherton Tablelands

When looking for things to do in Palm Cove, a road trip to Atherton Tablelands is always a great option

Just over an hour’s drive away, the Atherton Tablelands offers a stunning change of scenery with its lush rainforest, rolling hills and cute villages!

The Waterfall Circuit is a scenic drive that takes you to three beautiful waterfalls: Millaa Millaa Falls, Zillie Falls and Ellinjaa Falls.

Millaa Millaa Falls is one of the most photographed falls in Australia, known for its postcard-perfect cascade and swimming hole – it even featured in the Herbal Essence ad back a few years ago!

The falls also have picnic tables and a grassy area, perfect for enjoying a picnic while soaking in the beauty.

Zillie Falls offers a viewing platform where you can appreciate the waterfall from different angles.

Ellinjaa Falls is a less crowded spot, perfect for a refreshing dip.

We would highly recommend getting to these falls early to enjoy the peace before tour buses and crowds arrive!

31. Visit all the waterfalls in the region

There are multiple waterfalls that surround the Palm Cove region which make for a fun day trip.

Stoney Creek Falls – Just 20 minutes from Palm Cove and provides 3 different falls depending on how long you want to hike.

Barron Falls – Located 40 minutes from Palm Cove in the Barron Gorge National Park, it is accessible via a 1.2km return boardwalk or you can also see these falls on the Kuranda Railway or Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.

Davies Creek Falls – Less than one hour from Palm Cove, is a lesser known but impressive high cascading waterfall.

Behana Gorge – One of our favourite waterfalls in Queensland. Behana Gorge is located 55 minutes south of Palm Cove, and offers a beautiful gorge, waterfall and swimming hole (if it is safe), it is a scenic 6 km return walk.

Josephine Falls – Nearly 100km South of Palm Cove (16 km South of Babinda) is a very popular swimming spot. A 700-metre walk from the car park will have you sliding down natural rock slides and enjoying the views of the waterfall from the lookouts.

How to get to Palm Cove

Getting to Palm Cove is easy and convenient, whether you are arriving from Cairns, Port Douglas or elsewhere.

Perfectly located between Cairns and Port Douglas, Palm Cove serves as a perfect spot to base yourself when exploring the surrounding area.

The most popular way to reach Palm Cove is from Cairns, which is a 30-minute drive away, while Port Douglas offers a scenic 35-minute journey.

Cairns Airport is the nearest airport, providing both domestic and international flights and is located approximately 25 minutes from Palm Cove.

Here are the easiest ways to get to Palm Cove

• Hire a car – We would highly recommend hiring a car to fully experience all that Palm Cove has to offer. Car rental companies are available at the airport and booking can be made online.
• Local Shuttle Bus – Cairns airport offers a shuttle service to Palm Cove for $31 per adult, check the bus timetable for schedules
• Alternatively, taxis and Uber are an option.

How to get around Palm Cove

The best part about Palm Cove is that everything in the town is within walking distance, allowing you to explore the streets and coastline at your own pace.

However, if you plan on visiting the surrounding area (which we highly recommend), hiring a car is the best option as it provides the flexibility and convenience to visit nearby attractions and scenic spots at your leisure.

Additionally, renting a bike is another easy and fun option for exploring Palm Cove, with plenty of bike paths available for safe and scenic rides. 

For those looking to travel beyond Palm Cove, the Translink bus service offers a convenient and cost-effective way to access neighbouring towns and attractions.

Whether you choose to stroll, drive, bike or hop on a bus, Palm Cove has various transport options to suit your preferences and needs!

When to visit Palm Cove

The best time to visit Palm Cove largely depends on your preferences and what you plan to do during your trip.

We love visiting in the months of April and October as the weather in Palm Cove is still beautiful but there aren’t as many crowds.

The dry season (May – October), is typically considered prime time to visit. During this period, temperatures range from 20 to 30 degrees, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

The dry season usually has clear skies and minimal rainfall creating the perfect conditions for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.

Another advantage of visiting Palm Cove in the dry season is the absence of stingers in the ocean, allowing you to enjoy the water stress-free when swimming and snorkelling.

The wet season (November – April), brings hot and humid weather, with temperatures ranging from 24 – 34 degrees.

Although this period has increased humidity, rainfall and the possibility of cyclones, it is an excellent time to witness the lush greenery of the Daintree Rainforest and the waterfalls flowing.

Where to stay in Palm Cove

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Palm Cove, you’re spoilt for choice from luxury resorts to laid-back beachfront stays and family-friendly finds.

Luxury – The Reef House Palm Cove (Adults-Only, 5-Star)

For an elegant, child-free stay just steps from the beach, The Reef House is Palm Cove’s iconic luxury option. Designed to feel like a colonial beach house, it offers 67 stylish rooms and suites, complete with complimentary champagne, daily sorbet service, and a tranquil, adults-only vibe.

Best for: couples, honeymooners, and luxe escapes
Why book it: high-end service, beachfront location, and serious relaxation

Boutique – Villa Beach Palm Cove

Tucked away in nearby Clifton Beach, Villa Beach Palm Cove offers just six ocean and pool-view apartments with dreamy views from private terraces and patios.

We stayed here on our last visit and honestly, it’s one of our favourite stays ever. From pre-stocked food in the fridge to complimentary bikes and beach gear, everything felt thoughtful and homely. If you love personalised touches and boutique vibes, this is your spot.

Best for: couples, chilled getaways, and ocean views
Why book it: peaceful setting, incredible value, and heartfelt hospitality

Budget Friendly – Paradise On The Beach Resort

Travelling on a budget? Paradise On The Beach is a great-value stay just across from the beach and a short walk to Palm Cove’s cafes, restaurants and shops.

It offers studios and one-bedroom suites with garden or pool views, plus microwaves, TVs and spacious bathrooms.

Best for: solo travellers, couples, and travellers looking for value. 
Why book it: unbeatable location without the luxury price tag

Family Friendly – Peppers Beach Club & Spa Palm Cove

If you’re visiting with kids, Peppers Beach Club is a resort-style favourite with plenty of space and family-friendly facilities. Think three swimming pools, a day spa, tennis courts, on-site dining, and lush tropical gardens.

Best for: families, groups, and longer stays
Why book it: spacious rooms, resort amenities, and central location

Airbnb – Belle Escapes 58 Ocean Luxury Home

Prefer an Airbnb style private holiday home? This three-bedroom Belle Escapes property is just 200m from Palm Cove beach, with a 12.5m heated pool, large entertaining area, and a full kitchen with premium appliances.

Perfect for families or groups who want a luxe, self-contained space to unwind.

Best for: families, friend groups, and longer stays
Why book it: homey feel, privacy, and everything you need to settle in

Palm Cove Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Wrap up: Best Things to Do in Palm Cove

In conclusion, Palm Cove is a destination that holds a very special place in our hearts.

Palm Cove is more than just a luxury beach town with resorts and restaurants, it has an incredible feel about it that you can only experience first-hand.

This guide has covered everything from the best things to do in Palm Cove including where to get stunning palm tree photos, where to find the most delicious ice cream, and local favourites for waterfalls and swimming holes.

Whether you are looking for relaxation or adventure, Palm Cove offers a unique blend of natural beauty and luxury.

Use this as your one-stop resource when planning things to do in Palm Cove! We hope you fall in love with this magical place just as we have. If you have questions, feel free to reach out!

Happy Travels 😁

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