The Ultimate North Queensland Road Trip Itinerary

If you're planning a road trip through Northern Queensland, then this is the itinerary for you! We've put together the ultimate itinerary of all the best places to visit, sites to see, and activities that’ll create memories to last forever when holidaying in Cairns or North Queensland! So, sit back, relax and start planning your adventure!

Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef

Kick off your amazing adventure by flying into Cairns! Here, you'll have the chance to explore one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef. Why visit the Great Barrier Reef? This World Heritage-listed site is the world's largest coral reef system, comprising over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands. The reef is home to a diverse range of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 400 species of coral, and thousands of other species of plants and animals.

The reef promises a wonderful day out, while Cairns itself offers a great range of dining, shopping and attractions. Some activities available for visitors include:

• Snorkelling and diving: Clear waters of the offer the opportunity to see a variety of marine life up close, including colourful fish, coral, and other animals
• Glass-bottomed boat tours: These tours allow visitors to see marine life from the comfort of a boat, with a clear view of the underwater world through a glass bottom
• Helicopter and seaplane tours: These tours offer a unique perspective of the reef, allowing visitors to see it from above and get a sense of its vast size and beauty
• Sailing and boating: Visitors can explore by boat, either on a guided tour or by renting a boat and exploring on their own
• Educational tours: Many tour operators offer educational tours that provide more in-depth information about the reef and its marine life, as well as the conservation efforts being undertaken to protect it
• Beach activities: The islands and mainland areas surrounding the reef offer a range of beach activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing
• Fishing: The Great Barrier Reef is a popular destination for sport fishing, with a variety of species available to catch
• Resort accommodation: There are a number of resorts located on the reef or on nearby islands, offering a range of accommodation options and activities for visitors

Drive up to Port Douglas

From the Great Barrier Reef, head on over to Port Douglas and visit the Daintree Rainforest. The small but picturesque town is home to many attractions sure to inspire adventure. Take a journey up the sparkling coastline and linger along the nearby beaches - the shores are vibrant with crystal-clear waters and an incredible array of marine life. Spend time exploring the lush wilderness on one of many trails available in this region - including four-wheel drive tours (or hire your own 4x4!) sailing trips or perhaps a cruise down the nearby rivers and creeks. Pack your bag with your favourite sights and sounds as you take on this memorable trip - from adrenaline pumping boat rides with dolphins to helicopter tours over stunning beauty you won't soon forget!

Drive from Cairns to the Atherton Tablelands

Adventuring from Cairns to the Atherton Tablelands is an exhilarating experience that should be at the top of any traveller’s must-see list! The Atherton Tablelands is a region located in the Far North of Queensland, Australia. It is a plateau situated approximately 1,000 meters above sea level and is known for its natural beauty, including rainforests, waterfalls, and scenic drives.

Just a few of the activities that visitors to the Atherton Tablelands enjoy are:

• Hiking and bushwalking: The Atherton Tablelands has a number of trails through the rainforest and other natural areas, offering the opportunity to explore the region's beauty
• Scenic drives: The region has several scenic drives, including the Palmerston Highway, which takes visitors through the heart of the tablelands, and the Gillies Highway, which takes visitors through the rainforest
•  Waterfalls: The Atherton Tablelands has several beautiful waterfalls, including Millaa Millaa Falls and Zillie Falls, which are popular attractions
• Cultural experiences: The region has a rich Indigenous Australian history, and there are several cultural experiences available, including guided tours of Indigenous sites and art galleries

Make sure to have your camera ready - you won't want to miss iconic shots of lush greenery and shimmering lakes with dreamy reflections of fragrant paperbark trees. You'll never experience such pristine landscapes anywhere else on earth! See our recent blog on where to explore driving from Cairns to the Atherton Tablelands.

Catch the ferry from Townsville to Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island is a truly unique experience that should not be missed! Located off the coast of Townsville, Maggie offers a stunning array of scenery and activities. From its breathtaking sandy beaches to its towering mountains, you'll be mesmerised by the unparalleled beauty of this island paradise.

Popular activities on Magnetic Island include:

• Beaches: Magnetic Island has 23 beaches, many of which are popular for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports
• Hiking and bushwalking: The island has a number of trails through the national park and other areas, offering the opportunity to explore the island's natural beauty
• Snorkelling and diving: The waters around Magnetic Island are home to a variety of marine life, and there are several spots suitable for snorkelling and diving
• Boating and fishing: There are several marinas and boat ramps, and it is a popular destination for fishing
• Wildlife encounters: The island is home to a variety of native animals, including wallabies, koalas, and birds, and there are several tour operators offering guided wildlife encounters

Head to Airlie Beach

If you are looking for an unforgettable experience with nature, then next your must-see destination is Airlie Beach. Explore the crystal-clear waterfalls and spectacular sights of Conway National Park or take a leisurely trip to the Whitsunday Islands.

With plenty of outdoor activities on offer such as horse riding, parasailing and kayaking, there’s something here for all adventure seekers and nature lovers. Make sure to check out the local culture and indulge in some delicious seafood while listening to local music. Get captivated by stunning natural scenery and make memories that will last a lifetime in Airlie Beach.

Make your Dream a Reality

North Queensland is a beautiful region of Australia that should not be missed. This road trip itinerary provides the perfect way to see all the best that North Queensland has to offer, from rainforests to beaches and everything in between.

So, rent a car and hit the open road - you won't regret it! And for convenience, be sure to book with 1300 Meteor Rentals—we provide a free airport pickup service for all our car rentals in Cairns and Townsville. View our range and give us a call on 1300 638 367 to secure the perfect vehicle for your adventure.