CARDWELL
BY THE SEA
CARDWELL AND SURROUNDS
CARDWELL BY THE SEA
Cardwell is a masterpiece of Mother Nature. The town hugs the coastline of the Coral Sea overlooking idyllic tropical islands, with the rugged beauty of the Cardwell Range as a backdrop. Cardwell’s port serves as an access point to the amazing Hinchinbrook channel and its 45 kilometres of fully protected waters, offering the finest all-weather, all-tide fishing in North Queensland. Cardwell is also a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and 22 islands just off the coast, including the astonishing Hinchinbrook Island, Australia’s largest island national park and home to the famous Thorsborne Walking Trail.
CARDWELL & SURROUNDS
TOP THINGS TO DO
Explore the historic architecture of Innisfail on a guided Art Deco walking tour. Take a leisurely cruise along the Johnstone River and enjoy the scenic views. Indulge in freshly caught seafood. Head to Etty Bay and spot a cassowary on the beach. Discover the enchanting Paronella Park and experience the Mamu Skywalk for stunning rainforest views.
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Catch a Barra, soak in the picturesque Cardwell Spa Pool, cruise the waterways of Hinchinbrook Island or hike the Thorsborne Trail.
RECREATIONAL FISHING
Fishing is a big part of life here. No surprises really when your coastline is creeks and blue water, islands and reefs, and teeming with a variety of fishing experiences from freshwater to outer-reef in the Coral Sea.
Cast your line at a huge array of species, from trophy-sized Barramundi to spirited Spanish Mackerel. Explore wide estuaries, where elusive Mangrove Jacks hide, while your pot is set and waiting for some succulent Mud Crabs. Treat yourself to a day on a fishing charter with a seasoned local skipper to really make the most of your trip.
MOUNTAIn BIKING
Swap two feet for two wheels along one of the most beautiful inland drives in northern Queensland. Starting just a few minutes west of the Cardwell township, Cardwell Forest Drive is made up of rocky trails and shared routes, taking in incredible natural wonders including Attie Creek Falls, Cardwell Spa Pool, and Cardwell Lookout which steals views all the way out to Hinchinbrook Island.
For a challenge, tackle the Powerline Trail. Combining a larger, more technical route, it incorporates some of the best lookout points while serving up those challenging agility tracks you’re hankering.
KIRRAMA RANGE ROAD
Opened in 1941, the Kirrama Range Road was designed to facilitate the transport of timber from logging camps in the Kirrama State Forest to Cardwell. Taking three years to complete, it was considered a feat of engineering due to the steepness of the terrain and the wet climate. Today it’s a stunning drive across the ranges, with plenty to see and do, and spectacular scenery including lookouts, waterfalls, heritage-listed rainforest and swimming holes.
The foreshore offers stunning views of the Coral Sea and nearby islands, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront then grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby cafes.
GIRRINGUN ARTS CENTRE
Since 2008, the Girringun Art Centre in central Cardwell has promoted works of local, multi-award-winning artists. Northern Queensland is home to some of the best Indigenous art galleries in the country, but this impressive space represents artists specifically from the Nywaigi, Gugu Badhan, Warrgamay, Warungnu, Bandjin, Girramay, Gulngay, Jirrbal and Djiru people. As well as being able to purchase works from dedicated gallery, the centre is also a workshop where many artists can be found working on pieces. A truly special place.
Cardwell Historic Precinct
Step back in time at the Cardwell Historic Precinct. Explore interactive exhibits showcasing early colonial settlement including communications, telegraph lines, industry, cyclones, local government, police magistrates and shipwrecked sailors.
SAVOUR A MUD CRAB SANDWICH
. The Big Crab is a popular seafood restaurant located in Cardwell, Queensland, known for its delicious crab dishes. Enjoy the fresh and succulent crab meat in a sandwich, paired with your choice of sides and a refreshing drink. The relaxed atmosphere and stunning views of the ocean make it the perfect spot to indulge in a tasty meal.
Check out vibrant local markets, savour fresh seafood, stay in a range of accommodation. Attend the annual Australian UFO Festival.
DISCOVER
CARDWELL SPA POOL
CARDWELL SPA POOL
The Cardwell Spa Pool is a geological wonder, located in the beautiful coastal town of Cardwell in Tropical North Queensland. Although locals have been cooling off here for years, this magical swimming hole remained relatively unknown until a social media post went viral.
Why is the Cardwell Spa Pool blue?
The science behind the colour can get a little complicated but our team of geological experts suggest that the blue colour is from the chemistry of the rocks and water. Much of the water that flows to the creek comes from underground, where it picks up minerals from the sedimentary rocks, resulting in high levels of dissolved magnesium and calcium in the waters. Depending on the time of day and available sunlight, the colour can vary from a bright, baby blue to a more milky-blue colour.
The pool is on the Cardwell Forest Drive, a ring road with access points from Kennedy and Cardwell.
CARDWELL & SURROUNDS
MAJOR EVENTS
AUSTRALIAN UFO FESTIVAL
9 AUGUST 2026
The Cardwell UFO Festival highlights the extra-terrestrial activities around Cardwell. This annual event begins on Saturday afternoon filled with family fun activities, markets, show rides, and visitors from throughout the Universe.
Saturday is the C-Files forum this forum is the highlight of the festival for many visitors, a informative morning with guest speakers and visitors can listen to and share their personal experiences of all things unexplained. Then Saturday night is where the locals and visitors alike dance the night away at the Alien Invasion Costume Party.
CARDWELL & SURROUNDS
ACCOMMODATION
Kookaburra Holiday Park Cardwell
Enjoy sunshine, large pool, picturesque foreshore, lovely shops & fish from Jetty or boat. Relax in stunning and lush tropical surroundings with Islands, Falls, Creeks and Pools.
Cardwell Beachcomber Motel
Located on the beachfront in the seaside village of Cardwell. They offercamping to motel rooms, family cabins and ocean view villas. The Tourist Park is pet friendly, and dedicated pet friendly rooms are available.
VISTA HINCHINBROOK
Are you travelling through the region or staying awhile for the fishing and wildlife? Looking for Hinchinbrook accommodation? Whatever brought you past our door you will always find a welcome at Vista Hinchinbrook.
Nightcap Marine Hotel Cardwell
If you’re chasing beachfront bliss with a side of history and a schnitty, you’ve found your spot. Book in, chill out, and let Marine Hotel show you how TNQ does laid-back right.
Cardwell Beachfront Motel
12 well-equipped motel rooms ranging from ocean view studios for couples right through to family-size studio apartments, with swimming pool, off-street parking, guest BBQ and free Wi-Fi, all within walking distance to the centr of Cardwell.
CARDWELL & SURROUNDS
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS
Cardwell COUNTRY CLUB
Located in Gregory Street in beautiful Cardwell North QLD, the Country Club offers a nine hole Golf Course with a spectacular mountain backdrop that is a must-visit. The Club supports the local Bowling Club with a well maintained green and boasts a well stocked bar with friendly, personal small town warmth and service.
SACRED SKIN COMPANY
Indulge in the luxury of nature with Sacred Skin Co's premium skincare products, meticulously crafted from the finest Australian botanicals. 100% Aboriginal owned, 100% Australian Ingredients, 100% Natural Skincare. Nurture your skin with Sacred Skin Co.
HINCHINBROOK ISLAND TOURS
Discover the Beauty of Hinchinbrook Island with Local Experts. They are passionate about showcasing the untouched beauty of Hinchinbrook Island and its surrounding waters.They provide eco-friendly boat tours that highlight the island’s stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural history.
CARDWELL MAP
