Overview
Cooktown is a small coastal town in tropical Far North Queensland with a distinct frontier feel unlike the resort towns further south. In 1770 Captain James Cook landed here on the banks of the Endeavour River to repair his ship after it ran aground on the Great Barrier Reef.
Day Trips · Diving · History · Museums · Nature
Before you go
Food
Expect to pay more than Cairns for dining. Best budget value is the takeaway/bakery at the southern end of town. Pubs serve mains around $20+.
Safety
Crocodiles inhabit beaches and creeks; marine stingers are present during stinger season. Avoid swimming at Finch Bay and Cherry Tree Bay during these periods.
Transport
Cairns is the main access point with an international airport. Most visitors arrive by car or camper. The township is walkable with taxi and airport shuttle available.
Weather
Tropical climate with monsoon in summer. Best visited during warm, dry winters. Locals say Cooktown has only a couple of weeks of winter per year.
