Cardwell Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hike and bike routes, activities and tours, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options and logistics, and nearby destinations and excursions in Cardwell, Queensland, Australia.


Introduction to Cardwell

Cardwell is a small coastal town located in Far North Queensland, Australia. It is situated between Cairns and Townsville, making it a perfect stopover destination for those traveling in Queensland.

Cardwell was first discovered by Captain James Cook in 1770 and was later named after a prominent British admiral. The town is home to stunning natural attractions such as the Great Barrier Reef and Hinchinbrook Island, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It also boasts a rich cultural history, evident through its various museums and historical sites.

In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, hike and bike routes, activities and tours, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options and logistics, and nearby destinations and excursions in Cardwell.

List of Places to Visit in Cardwell

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cardwell Visitor and Heritage Centre - This is the perfect place to start your journey in Cardwell. Here, you can learn about the town’s history and culture through interactive exhibits and artefacts.

  • Cardwell Bush Telegraph Heritage Centre - This museum showcases the history of communication in Australia, from the telegraph to the internet.

  • Cardwell Post Office and Telegraph Station - This historical site is a must-visit, with its well-preserved architecture and cultural significance.

Natural Attractions of Cardwell: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Great Barrier Reef - This natural wonder is a must-see when in Cardwell. The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system and is home to a diverse array of marine life. Snorkeling and diving tours are available to explore the reef up close.

  • Hinchinbrook Island National Park - This island is a pristine paradise for hikers, with over 90 km of hiking trails that take you through lush rainforests and rugged coastline.

  • Wallaman Falls - This spectacular waterfall is the tallest in Australia and can be accessed by a short walk through the national park.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cardwell

Hiking Routes

  • Thorsborne Trail - This 32 km trail runs through the heart of Hinchinbrook Island National Park and takes you through pristine rainforests, mangrove swamps, and crystal-clear streams.

  • Wallaman Falls Trail - This easy 1.5 km walk takes you to the base of Wallaman Falls, where you can admire the natural beauty of the waterfall up close.

  • Cathedral Fig Tree Trail - This 3 km walk takes you through the rainforest to a massive fig tree that stands over 50 meters tall.

Biking Routes

  • Cardwell Foreshore Trail - This scenic trail runs along the coast of Cardwell and takes you past beautiful beaches and lookout points.

  • Paluma Range Road - This challenging 25 km ride takes you through lush rainforest and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Kennedy Valley Road - This easy 10 km ride takes you through picturesque farmland and beautiful rolling hills.

Best Things to Do in Cardwell: Activities and Tours

  • Snorkeling and Diving the Great Barrier Reef - There are many tour operators in Cardwell that offer snorkeling and diving tours to the Great Barrier Reef, allowing you to see the diverse marine life up close.

  • Kayaking and Paddleboarding - The calm waters of Cardwell make it the perfect place for kayaking and paddleboarding. Many tour operators offer rentals and guided tours.

  • Fishing - Cardwell is a popular destination for anglers, with many fishing charters available in the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cardwell

Day Activity
1 Explore Cardwell’s cultural heritage at the Cardwell Visitor and Heritage Centre and Cardwell Post Office and Telegraph Station.
2 Visit Hinchinbrook Island National Park and swim at Zoe Bay Beach.
3 Take a snorkeling tour to the Great Barrier Reef.
4 Hike the Thorsborne Trail in Hinchinbrook Island National Park.
5 Visit Wallaman Falls, the tallest waterfall in Australia.
6 Go fishing in the waters near Cardwell.
7 Relax on the beach and watch the sunset over the Coral Sea.

Food and Drink Scene of Cardwell

Must-Try Dishes

  • Barramundi - This locally caught fish is a staple in Cardwell and is often served battered or grilled.

  • Mangoes - Cardwell is known for its mango farms, and the fruit is a must-try when in season.

  • Burgers at the Cardwell Beachcomber Motel and Tourist Park - This local favorite serves up delicious burgers made with locally sourced ingredients.

Local Beverages

  • XXXX Beer - This popular beer is brewed in Queensland and can be found at many bars and restaurants in Cardwell.

  • Bundy Rum - Bundaberg Rum is a famous Australian rum that is distilled in nearby Bundaberg.

Where to Stay in Cardwell: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Cardwell Beachcomber Motel and Tourist Park - This hotel offers comfortable rooms and caravan sites, and is located within walking distance of the beach.

  • Kookaburra Holiday Park Cardwell - This family-friendly holiday park offers cabins and campsites, and is located near the town center.

  • Cardwell at the Beach - This beachfront guesthouse offers stunning views of the Coral Sea and is perfect for a relaxing getaway.

What to Buy in Cardwell: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Mangoes - Cardwell is known for its mangoes, and the fruit makes for a delicious souvenir to take home.

  • Local Art and Crafts - Many local artists in Cardwell create beautiful pieces of art and crafts that make for unique souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Cardwell

Cardwell has a rich culture and history, and it’s essential to respect the local customs and traditions. The town is home to the Nywaigi Aboriginal people, and it’s essential to learn about their customs and beliefs before visiting.

Best Time to Visit Cardwell

The best time to visit Cardwell is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. The weather is cooler, and the skies are clearer, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cardwell

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Take advantage of the outdoor activities and natural attractions.

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the environment or wildlife.

  • Ignore safety precautions when engaging in outdoor activities.

  • Disrupt the quiet, peaceful lifestyle of the town.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cardwell

Cardwell is a safe town, but it’s essential to take precautions when engaging in outdoor activities. Be sure to follow all safety guidelines and listen to the advice of tour operators and locals.

Health in Cardwell

Cardwell has a medical center that offers basic healthcare services. However, if you require specialized treatment, you may need to travel to Cairns or Townsville for medical attention.

Getting to Cardwell: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cardwell

  • Cairns Airport - Cairns Airport is approximately 157 km north of Cardwell and is the closest major airport.

  • Townsville Airport - Townsville Airport is approximately 196 km south of Cardwell.

Bus Stations Near Cardwell

  • Greyhound Australia - Cardwell is a regular stop on the Greyhound Australia bus route.

Other Options

  • Driving - Cardwell is accessible from Cairns and Townsville via the Bruce Highway.

  • Train - Queensland Rail operates a train service from Brisbane to Cairns, with stops in Townsville and Cardwell.

How to Get Around in Cardwell

The best way to get around Cardwell is by car. There are several car rental services available to those who want to explore the area independently.

Where to Go Next from Cardwell: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cairns - This vibrant city is approximately 157 km north of Cardwell and is known for its beaches and access to the Great Barrier Reef.

  • Townsville - This coastal city is approximately 196 km south of Cardwell and is home to many cultural attractions and historical sites.

Conclusion

Cardwell is a beautiful town filled with cultural and natural treasures. From its rich heritage to stunning natural wonders, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Cardwell. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or looking for a relaxing getaway, Cardwell is the perfect destination.