Overview
Palm Cove is a compact beach town 30 minutes north of Cairns, offering a quieter alternative to busy Port Douglas while providing easy access to Great Barrier Reef tours. The town lines the beach with hotels, restaurants, and apartments clustered along Williams Esplanade.
Beach · Day Trips · Nature
Before you go
Beach
Patrolled beach with stinger nets during box jellyfish season (October to May). Safe swimming between the nets.
Connectivity
All Australian mobile networks have coverage. Internet terminals available in tourist areas.
Food
Palm Cove has one small supermarket and two convenience stores with higher prices than Cairns. Beachfront restaurants range from budget takeaway to upscale dining.
Shopping
Souvenir shops are plentiful. For better prices and variety, visit shops in neighboring Clifton Beach or head to Cairns.
Transport
Cairns buses run to Palm Cove every 30 minutes. A taxi from Cairns takes about 30 minutes. Reef tours depart from Cairns or Port Douglas.
