Brisbane to Cairns in a week
Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland

Details

Open leg route
1799.3KM / 1118.0MI (Est. travel time 20 hours)
Fast chargers available along the route

The ultimate Brisbane to Cairns road trip itinerary, taking you along Queensland’s tropical Pacific coast.

Okay, so you’ve crossed the Brisbane River to South Bank to get a dose of culture, including a visit to the Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), learned that crime doesn’t pay on a visit to the historic Boggo Road Gaol, toured the iconic XXXX Brewery and said hello to a few marsupials at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. You’ve eaten splendidly at Gerard’s Bistro and Jellyfish. And had a great night’s sleep at Mantra South Bank, splashed out at Treasury Hotel & Casino or played it smart at Brisbane Holiday Village or Travelodge Hotel Garden City Brisbane. Now it’s time to hit the road north to Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
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1
Brisbane

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2
Noosa

Enjoy Noosa River in a canoe or on a wilderness cruise, or discovering a freshwater lake in the sand dunes.

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Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Arrive via car from Noosa139KM / 86MI ~ Approximately 2 hours
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Cooloola, Great Sandy National Park
TEQ
Noosa North Shore, Queensland, Australia, 4565
qpws@des.qld.gov.au
Get Directions
Accessible
Public Toilet, Picnic Area
Picnic Area, Barbeque
Public Toilet
Birdwatching, Boating, Camping, Canoeing/Kayaking, Fishing, Four Wheel Driving, Hiking, Walks, Lookouts
$14.4 ~ $291 AUD*
Parking
Accessible
* A vehicle access permit must be obtained before driving on Cooloola recreation area, fee apply. Vehicle access permit fees for Cooloola vary from $14.40 for a day up to $291 for more than a month (up to a year). Prices subject to change.

Cooloola, Great Sandy National Park, features long white beaches, towering cliffs of coloured sands, peaceful reaches of the Upper Noosa River and unforgettable camping experiences.

3
Gympie

Keep moving through the gold-rush town of Gympie on the Mary River, “the town that saved Queensland” from bankruptcy.

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Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Arrive via car from Gympie62KM / 38MI ~ Approximately 43 minutes
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Learn all about it at the Gympie Gold Mining & Historical Museum. And if you’re a country music fan, time your visit to coincide with the Gympie Muster in August.
Gympie Gold Museum, Markets & Cafe
Gympie, QLD, Australia, 4570
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The Museum showcases Gympie's rich history of the discovery of gold, farming, rail, military our emergency services from days gone by and much much more.. Also enjoy a meal or a coffee in the Cafe at the Museum. Open 7 days a week 9am to 4pm

Gympie Music Muster
Gympie Music Muster
Amamoor Creek Road, Amamoor Creek, Queensland, Australia, 4570
(07) 5482 2099
info@muster.com.au
Get Directions
Accessible, Ambulant Access
Ambulant Access, Public Toilet
Cafe
Public Toilet
Parking, Coach Parking
Accessible, Ambulant Access, Caters for people with sufficient mobility to climb a few steps but who would benefit from fixtures to aid balance. (This includes people using walking frames and mobility aids) Welcomes and assists people who have challenges with learning, communication, understanding and behaviour. (includes people with autism, intellectual disability, Down syndrome, acquired brain injury (ABI), dyslexia and dementia)

The Gympie Muster is Australia’s original and most loved community camping and music experience.

4
Hervey Bay

At Maryborough, take Highway 57 to Hervey Bay for a bit of whale watching from July to October.

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Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland
Arrive via car from Hervey Bay121KM / 75MI ~ Approximately 2 hours
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Eurong Beach Resort
Easton Street, Fraser Island, Queensland, Australia, 4581
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Kingfisher Bay Resort
Kingfisher Bay Resort, Fraser Island, Queensland, Australia, 4581
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Fraser Explorer Tours
Fraser Island, Queensland, Australia, 4581
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Whale Watching
Hervey Bay, Hervey Bay, Queensland, Australia, 4655
1800 811 728
tourismhb@visitfrasercoast.com
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Accessible
Public Toilet
Public Toilet
Coach Parking
Accessible

When it comes to soul-stirring interactions with Humpback Whales, there's no place like Hervey Bay. Experience them up close and personal from July to November.

5
Bundaberg

Take Highway 3 through sugarcane country to Bundaberg, home of Australia’s iconic Bundaberg.

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Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Arrive via car from Bundaberg121KM / 75MI ~ Approximately an hour
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Lake Monduran
Monduran Dam Road, Gin Gin, Queensland, Australia, 4671
(07) 4154 7200
info@bundabergregion.org
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Accessible, Free Entry
Public Toilet, Picnic Area
Picnic Area, Barbeque, Kiosk
Public Toilet
Camping, Canoeing/Kayaking, Fishing, Swimming, Walks
Parking
Accessible

Known for its breathtaking scenery and tranquillity, this man-made lake offers a perfect retreat for fishing enthusiasts, water sport wizards and nature lovers alike.

Bundaberg Spanish Motor Inn
134 Woongarra Street, Bundaberg, QLD, Australia, 4670
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The Spanish Motor Inn is affectionately known as Bundy's quiet motel due to our location. Good old f

Burnett Riverside Hotel
7 Quay Street, Bundaberg Central, Queensland, Australia, 4670
(07) 4155 8777
reception@burnettriverside.com.au
Get Directions
44 rooms
Ambulant Access, Laundry Facilities, Non-smoking, Outdoor Dining
$140 ~ $300 AUD*
Parking, Secure Parking
Accessible, Ambulant Access, Wheelchair Access, Caters for people who use a wheelchair. Caters for people with sufficient mobility to climb a few steps but who would benefit from fixtures to aid balance. (This includes people using walking frames and mobility aids) Welcomes and assists people who have challenges with learning, communication, understanding and behaviour. (includes people with autism, intellectual disability, Down syndrome, acquired brain injury (ABI), dyslexia and dementia) Caters for people with allergies and intolerances.
* Extra person rate is AUD25. This includes a roll away bed, linen and toweling.

Boasting picturesque river views, king sized beds, spa rooms and an amazing on-site restaurant, Burnett Riverside Hotel is the best place to base yourself.

Sabrosa Steakhouse
167a Bourbong Street Bundaberg, Bundaberg, QLD, Australia, 4670
Get Directions

Sabrosasteakhouse2016@gmail.com

Mon Repos Turtle CentreMon Repos Turtle Centre, Mon Repos Conservation Park
Queensland Government
141 Mon Repos Road, Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia, 4670
137468
qpws@des.qld.gov.au
Get Directions
Accessible
Public Toilet, Picnic Area
Picnic Area
Public Toilet
Birdwatching, Walks
Parking, Coach Parking
Accessible, An access and inclusion statement is available (make this available on your website).

Learn about the special journey marine turtles and people have taken together—and then head off on your own park experience.

Great Barrier Reef Day Trip to Lady Elliot Island
Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort
Lady Elliot Island, Queensland, Australia, 4805
1800 072 200
reservations@ladyelliot.com.au
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Accessible
Birdwatching, Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, Swimming
Accessible

Lady Elliot Island is a coral cay located at the southern tip of Australia's iconic Great Barrier Reef (north of Fraser Island).

Burnett River Cruises-Bundy Belle
11E Petersen Street, Bundaberg East, Queensland, Australia, 4670
0427 099 009
info@bundybelle.com.au
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Boating
Parking

Enjoy a relaxing two and a half hour river cruise on the beautiful Burnett River aboard the fully restored classic river ferry.

Bundaberg Rum Visitor Experience
Diageo Australia
Hills Street, Bundaberg East, Queensland, Australia, 4670
(07) 4348 3443
distillery@bundabergrum.com
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Accessible, Ambulant Access, Wheelchair Access
Ambulant Access, Public Toilet, Parents Room
Public Toilet
Walks
$20 ~ $30 AUD*
Parking, Coach Parking
Accessible, Ambulant Access, Wheelchair Access, Accessible for Hearing Impairment, Catering for High Support, Caters for people who are blind or have vision loss. Caters for people who are deaf or have hearing loss. Caters for people with sufficient mobility to climb a few steps but who would benefit from fixtures to aid balance. (This includes people using walking frames and mobility aids) Caters for people who use a wheelchair. Caters for people with high support needs who travel with a support person. Welcomes and assists people who have challenges with learning, communication, understanding and behaviour. (includes people with autism, intellectual disability, Down syndrome, acquired brain injury (ABI), dyslexia and dementia) Caters for people with allergies and intolerances.
* The premium Blend Your Own Rum Experience costs AUD250.

Bundaberg Rum - Australia’s most awarded rum distillery and the home of Bundaberg Rum, has opened the doors to its new Visitor Experience.

6
Rockhampton

Back on the road, it’s about 90 minutes to Rockhampton.

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Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Arrive via car from Rockhampton288KM / 179MI ~ Approximately 3 hours
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Capricorn Caves
30 Olsens Caves Road, The Caves, Queensland, Australia, 4702
(07) 4934 2883
reception@capricorncaves.com.au
Get Directions
Accessible
Public Toilet, Swimming Pool, Picnic Area
Picnic Area, Cafe, Barbeque, Kiosk
Public Toilet
Abseiling, Birdwatching, Camping, Rock Climbing, Swimming, Walks
$39.5 ~ $90 AUD*
Parking, Coach Parking
Accessible
* Cathedral Cave Tour- $39.50 Capricorn Explorer- $74.00 Capricorn Adventurer- $90.00 All pricing is per person. Prices as of 4/2/2025

The intimate Capricorn Explorer and Capricorn Adventurer tours allows further exploration with breath-taking views from the summit and a true bucket-list experience.

Denison Boutique Hotel
233 Denison Street, Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia, 4700
(07) 4923 7378
contact@denisonhotel.com.au
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17 rooms
Non-smoking
Pay TV
Pay TV
$120 ~ $155 AUD*
Parking
Accessible
* Our prices range and vary from day to day.

The Denison Boutique Hotel is located on the south side of Rockhampton on the corner of Denison and Stanley Street, only a five minute walk

The Goat Cafe & Bar
128 East Street, Rockhampton, QLD, Australia, 4700
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The Goat Cafe and Bar offer a range of contemporary Australian cuisine in a relaxed environment. Passionately known as 'The Heart of East Street'

Ribs and Rumps - Rockhampton
5 East St, Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia, 4700
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Mount Etna Caves National Park
Tourism and Events Queensland
Mount Etna Caves National Park, Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia, 4700
(07) 4936 0570
qpws@des.qld.gov.au
Get Directions
Accessible
Public Toilet, Picnic Area
Picnic Area, Barbeque
Public Toilet
Birdwatching, Walks, Lookouts
Parking
Accessible, An access and inclusion statement is available (make this available on your website).

Limestone outcrops, decorated caves, rare bats and dry rainforest patches are now protected in a national park that once Australia’s longest running conservation battle.

Archer Park Rail Museum
Archer Park Rail Museum
Denison Street, Rockhampton City, Queensland, Australia, 4700
(07) 4922 2774
admin@archerparkrailmuseum.com
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Accessible
Public Toilet, Non-smoking
Cafe
Public Toilet
$7 ~ $10 AUD*
Parking, Coach Parking
Accessible
* Adult entry AUD10 Child up to 14 years AUD6 Concession/Student entry AUD7 Family (two adults and two children) AUD30 plus AUD4.50 per extra child. Carers entry is free.

Archer Park Rail Museum contains many exhibitions associated with railways and the Rockhampton Council Tramways from 1899.

The Outlook Café
Auckland Point Lookout Bishops Dr, Gladstone, QLD, Australia, 4680
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We serve Merlo Coffee to start your day right, with a variety of Sweet Treats or something more with

7
Mackay

It’s all sugar cane and fruit up this way.

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Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Arrive via car from Mackay336KM / 209MI ~ Approximately 4 hours
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Airlie Beach
Tourism Whitsundays
Airlie Beach, Queensland, Australia, 4802
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Birdwatching, Boating, Camping, Canoeing/Kayaking, Cycling, Fishing, Helicopter, Hiking, Mountain Biking, Sailing, Scenic Drives, Scuba Diving, Skydiving, Snorkelling, Swimming, Walks

Airlie Beach is the vibrant hub of the Whitsundays and the ideal mainland base for fun and adventure in the Whitsundays.

Cape Hillsborough National Park
TEQ
Cape Hillsborough Road, Cape Hillsborough, Queensland, Australia, 4740
qpws@des.qld.gov.au
Get Directions
Accessible, Free Entry
Public Toilet, Picnic Area
Picnic Area, Barbeque
Public Toilet
Birdwatching, Boating, Camping, Fishing, Hiking, Walks
Parking
Accessible

Cape Hillsborough National Park is one of the most ruggedly beautiful parks on the Central Queensland coast.

Park Regis Anchorage
Seibu Prince
51 Palmer Street, South Townsville, Queensland, Australia, 4810
(07) 4722 6200
anchorage@parkregishotels.com
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30 rooms
Non-smoking, Swimming Pool
Barbeque
Swimming
$140 ~ $450 AUD*
Parking
Accessible
* Seasonal rates apply Special event dates and weekends are surchargeable. rates are aligned to market rates and are dynamically bookable on the hotel website

Park Regis Anchorage is a welcoming oasis in the heart of Townsville, Australia's largest tropical city.

The Church on Palmer
15 Palmer st, Mackay, QLD, Australia, 4740
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Our restaurant aims to caters for a large range of taste and dietary requirements using the freshest of produce with everything made on premises.

Marque Bar & Grill
55-63 River Street, Mackay, Queensland, Australia, 4740
(07) 4862 7206
reservations@theoaksgroup.com.au
Get Directions
Accessible
Modern Australian
Accessible

Marque Bar & Grill is located at Oaks Rivermarque, 55-63 River Street, Mackay, QLD. This restaurant is yet to be rated by Zomato users. Serves

Ban-Na Thai Restaurant
220 Victoria Street, Mackay, Queensland, Australia, 4740
(07) 4951 3939
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Accessible
Thai
Accessible

Ban-Na Thai Restaurant is located at 220 Victoria Street, Mackay. It is rated 3.2 by 21 Zomato users. Serves Thai. The average cost for 2

Sarina Sugar Shed
Sarina Field of Dreams Parklands, Sarina, Queensland, Australia, 4737
(07) 4943 2801
info@sarinasugarshed.com.au
Get Directions
Accessible, Ambulant Access, Wheelchair Access
Pets Allowed, Ambulant Access, Public Toilet, Parents Room, Non-smoking
Cafe
Pets Allowed, Public Toilet
Parking, Coach Parking
Accessible, Ambulant Access, Wheelchair Access, Catering for High Support, Caters for people who use a wheelchair. Caters for people with high support needs who travel with a support person. Caters for people who are blind or have vision loss. Caters for people with sufficient mobility to climb a few steps but who would benefit from fixtures to aid balance. (This includes people using walking frames and mobility aids) Welcomes and assists people who have challenges with learning, communication, understanding and behaviour. (includes people with autism, intellectual disability, Down syndrome, acquired brain injury (ABI), dyslexia and dementia)

Sarina Sugar Shed is one of its kind in Australia and has a big story to tell! It is a multi-award winning attraction.

8
Townsville

This is a military town, home to Lavarack Barracks, one of the Australian Army’s largest facilities.

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Credit: Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Arrive via car from Townsville389KM / 242MI ~ Approximately 4 hours
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TYTO Wetlands
Cooper Street, Ingham, Queensland, Australia, 4850
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Cactus Jack's Bar & Grill
21 Palmer St, Townsville, Queensland, Australia, 4810
(07) 4721 1478
Get Directions
Accessible
Outdoor Dining
Hamburgers, Mexican, Steak, Takeaway
Entertainment
Accessible

Catus Jack's Bar & Grill is a buzzing dining spot decorated with Mexican memorabilia, dishing up fajitas, nachos & margaritas.

Chico Rio
247 Flinders Street, Townsville City, Townsville, Queensland, Australia, 4810
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Longboard Bar and Grill
80 Gregory Street, Townsville, Queensland, Australia, 4810
(07) 4724 1234
townsville@longboardbarandgrill.com
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Accessible
Modern Australian, Waterside Dining
Live Music
Accessible

Zomato users recommend Burgers, Buffalo Chicken Wings and Beer at Longboard Bar and Grill. Most of the visitors also appreciated the Live Music. Longboard Bar

Magnetic Island
Townsville Enterprise
Magnetic Island, Magnetic Island, Queensland, Australia, 4819
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Mountain Biking, Birdwatching, Boating, Camping, Canoeing/Kayaking, Rock Climbing, Scuba Diving, Fishing, Horse Riding, Sailing, Snorkelling, Swimming, Walks

Escape to a tropical island paradise surrounded by secluded bays, golden beaches and activities to excite everyone. With 23 beaches and bays and just a

Jezzine Barracks
Mitchell Street, North Ward, Queensland, Australia, 4810
1800 801 902
hello@townsvillenorthqueensland.com.au
Get Directions
Free Entry
Pets Allowed, Public Toilet, Picnic Area
Picnic Area, Barbeque
Pets Allowed, Public Toilet
Walks
Parking

A significant site for both the Australian military and local Aboriginal People, the Jezzine Barracks include coastal boardwalks, artwork, traditional plantings and parklands.

Big Mango
Bowen Tourism & Business
18305 Bruce Highway, Bowen, Queensland, Australia, 4805
(07) 4786 4222
info@tourismbowen.com.au
Get Directions
Accessible, Wheelchair Access, Free Entry
Pets Allowed, Public Toilet, Picnic Area
Picnic Area
Pets Allowed, Public Toilet
Parking, Coach Parking
Accessible, Wheelchair Access, Caters for people who use a wheelchair. Caters for people who are blind or have vision loss. Welcomes and assists people who have challenges with learning, communication, understanding and behaviour. (includes people with autism, intellectual disability, Down syndrome, acquired brain injury (ABI), dyslexia and dementia)

The 10-metre high Big Mango represents the delicious fruit which carries the name sake of the town 'Bowen Mango'.

9
Cairns

There is much to see and do in and around Cairns and the World Heritage Daintree Rainforest is a two-hour drive north.

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Credit: Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Arrive via car from Cairns344KM / 214MI ~ Approximately 4 hours
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Coral Tree Inn
166-172 Grafton Street, Cairns City, Queensland, Australia, 4870
(07) 4031 3744
reservations@coraltreeinn.com.au
Get Directions
58 rooms
$84 ~ $117 AUD*
* Standard double/ twin or suite

Nestled in the heart of Cairns, close to all the attractions, restaurants and bars. Coral Tree Inn stands as a private oasis offering you a

Mantra Esplanade
53-57 The Esplanade, Cairns, Queensland, Australia, 4870
131517
info@mantra.com.au
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115 rooms
Non-smoking, Swimming Pool
Barbeque
Pay TV, Public Telephone
Swimming, Pay TV
$193 ~ $634 AUD*
Parking
Accessible
* Conditions apply, subject to availability. Block-out dates and minimum night stays apply. Prices based on per room per night.

Mantra Esplanade offers stylish and contemporary accommodation in the heart of the holiday hub of Cairns, with Hotel Rooms to One or Two Bedroom Apartments.

Bayleaf Balinese Restaurant
227 Lake St, Cairns North, Queensland, Australia, 4870
(07) 4047 7955
reservations@bayvillage.com.au
Get Directions
Accessible
Outdoor Dining
Asian, Brunch, Indonesian
Accessible

Zomato users recommend Fish, Duck Curry and Corn Fritters at Bayleaf Balinese Restaurant. Most of the visitors also appreciated the Friendly Staff and Decor. Bayleaf

Salt House
Salt House
6/2 Pierpoint Road, Marina Point, Cairns, Queensland, Australia, 4870
(07) 4041 7733
greatviews@salthouse.com.au
Get Directions
Accessible
Pets Allowed, Non-smoking, Outdoor Dining
Australian, Bar, Beer, Beverage, Cheese / Charcuterie / Platters, Cocktails, Gluten Free Available, High Tea or Afternoon Tea, Modern Australian, Vegetarian, Wine, Woodfired Cooking, Dinner, Lunch, Private Dining, Takeaway, Waterside Dining
Pets Allowed
Entertainment, Live Music
Accessible

Often described as a "designers dream", Salt House is glamorous, chilled-out, progressive, stylish, calming, lively and welcoming all at once.

The Raw Prawn
101 The Esplanade, Cairns, Queensland, Australia, 4870
(07) 4031 5400
info@rawprawnrestaurant.com.au
Get Directions
Accessible
Seafood, Modern Australian
Accessible

Zomato users recommend Sea Food, Cocktails, Eye Fillet, Barramundi, Wine, Calamari and Set Menu at The Raw Prawn. Most of the visitors also appreciated the

Caffiend
78 Grafton St, Cairns, Queensland, Australia, 4870
(07) 4051 5522
hello@caffiend.com.au
Get Directions
Accessible
Outdoor Dining
Bistro/Cafe/Deli, Takeaway
Accessible

Zomato users recommend Coffee, Coconut Latte, Big Breakfast and French Toast at Caffiend. Most of the visitors also appreciated the Friendly Service and Friendly Staff.

Kuranda Scenic Railway
Bunda Street, Cairns, Queensland, Australia, 4870
1800 577 245
ksrres@qr.com.au
Get Directions
Accessible
Public Toilet, Non-smoking
Cafe
Public Toilet
Walks
$55 ~ $642 AUD*
Parking, Coach Parking
Accessible, An access and inclusion statement is available (make this available on your website).
* One-way and return adult fares. Family packages available.

The original Kuranda Scenic Railway is a spectacular journey comprising unsurpassed views of dense rainforest, steep ravines and picturesque waterfalls.

Raging Thunder Adventures
Cairns Adventure Group
19-21 Barry Street, Cairns North, Queensland, Australia, 4870
(07) 4042 7300
info@cairnsadventuregroup.com.au
Get Directions

Raging Thunder Adventures offer guests amazing experiences rafting through the beautiful rainforests and stunning gorges of this spectacular part of the world.

Tully Golden Gumboot
CCRC
Butler Street, Tully, Queensland, Australia, 4854
(07) 4068 2288
info@cassowarycoasttourism.com.au
Get Directions
Free Entry
Public Toilet, Picnic Area
Picnic Area
Public Toilet
Parking, Coach Parking

Make sure you plan a stop at the Tully Golden Gumboot!

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