Palm Cove Holiday Houses & Accommodation

The quaint beach town of Palm Cove is conveniently located 27km north of Cairns. This small piece of paradise takes its name from the numerous palm trees which line the shore and is known not only for its natural splendour but also for its access to the Great Barrier Reef. Typical holiday accommodation here includes beachfront holiday houses with open plan living spaces and glorious terraces. Many holiday rentals in this sun-kissed Australian destination also come with outdoor swimming pools.

Getting to your Palm Cove accommodation

Situated halfway between Cairns and Port Douglas on the Coral Sea, the coastal village of Palm Cove is easily reachable. With Cairns Airport just a short 26km drive away, and frequent domestic and international flights from every major city to Cairns, getting to holiday houses in Palm Cove by plane is simple and straightforward.

By car, Palm Cove is a short drive from Cairns and a 43km drive from Port Douglas. Alternatively, enjoy the 1,700km of Queensland scenery on the Cook Highway if you are driving from Brisbane.

Prefer to use public transport to reach your accommodation in Palm Cove? Queensland Rail operate a train five days a week from Brisbane and Greyhound provide a frequent bus from Brisbane to Cairns. You can then catch the 110 bus from Cairns to Palm Cove.

Where to eat on your holiday in Palm Cove

Quaint cafes and award-winning restaurants can all be found in Palm Cove, with the majority of places to eat located on Williams Esplanade with excellent views across the beach and out to sea. Locally caught seafood dominates the culinary scene but there are plenty of international options to satisfy every palate. Early risers will relish breakfast in Palm Cove. The town prides itself on its lavish breakfasts of freshly baked pastries and brewed coffee as the sun peeks over the horizon.

Chill Cafe is a relaxed seafront eatery which takes diners from breakfast through to dinner with its extensive menu of classic favourites. Apres Bar and Grill is another highlight of the casual dining scene. Nu Nu is Palm Cove's only restaurant located directly on the beach. However, people flock here for more than the location. Head chef Nick Holloway creates wonderfully innovative menus inspired by seasonal, local ingredients which are as original as they are delicious. El Greko is a fabulous Greek-style taverna and The Reef House is a sophisticated and romantic affair offering classic food with unhurried service.

Family holidays in Palm Cove

Palm Cove's endless outdoor pursuits make it perfect destination for families and those travelling with children. The golden beaches are family-friendly and you can spend lazy afternoons reading and swimming in the delightful Palm Cove. Water sports are also popular in the area with paddle boarding and jet skiing just two of the water-based activities for the kids to enjoy.

To teach the kids about the history of Australia's native population, head to the immersive Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. The park offers hands-on experiences such as jewellery making, weaving and dance performances and you can even dine on an authentic Aboriginal buffet.

Hartley's Crocodile Adventure Park is known for its wildlife shows which are as entertaining as they are educational. The kids can get up close to the animals and there is a large emphasis on conservation taught through play.

Exploring around Palm Cove

The main draw for visitors to Palm Cove is the perennially beautiful Great Barrier Reef. There are numerous ways to explore the reef. While diving is the most popular way to discover the magical underwater world, it's not to everyone's liking. Snorkelling is better suited for younger children and those who are restricted from diving and a glass-bottomed boat tour offers a relaxing way to catch a glimpse of reef's vibrant coral and fish.

Back on terra firma there are acres of verdant rainforest waiting to be explored. The Daintree Rainforest has lush canopies populated with a wide variety of wild animals and is situated just a short drive from hotels located in Palm Cove. Daintree is best explored on an organised tour and many operate in the local area with Tropical Journeys recommended by the local tourism authority. To witness the forests from above, take a ride on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Capture spectacular views of the area as you glide through the air just metres above the jungle canopy.

Events to check out while visiting Palm Cove

Each year Palm Cove hosts the fantastic Reef Feast. Held annually around the first weekend in October, the event lasts for three days and is a family-friendly celebration of Palm Cove. The festival incorporates a range of activities such as a golf event, sunset parties, beer tastings and markets. Reef Feast culminates in a spectacular fireworks display held on a Saturday evening.

Palm Cove also holds a regular celebration each New Year's Eve. The fireworks display lights up both the sky and the sea with the best view from the Esplanade. The bars and restaurants also throw open their doors to welcome in the new year and some host special themed events many of which are family-friendly.

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