Palm Cove Beach Tours and Activities

Palm Cove Beach
Palm Cove Beach
Palm Cove Beach
Palm Cove Beach featuring landscape views, a sandy beach and tropical scenes
Palm Cove Beach


Located in between the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, this palm tree-lined beach is an idyllic spot to take it easy or begin an adventure.

Experience the stunning beaches, resorts and scenery where the rainforest hugs the shores of the Great Barrier Reef at Palm Cove Beach. Swim or sunbathe beneath the warm Tropical North Queensland sun. Explore the waters on a kayak or sailboat and take in the views of forested hills rising up behind the beach’s string of swaying palm trees.

Start your day at Palm Cove Beach with a quiet moment watching the sunrise over the calm Coral Sea. Rest beneath the shade of a coconut tree and take in the magnificent ocean views. Try tropical fruits for breakfast or take a seat at one of the oceanfront cafés and enjoy the morning’s serenity.

Go for a swim in the clear waters, which are patrolled year-round by lifeguards. In the summer months between November and May, you can swim within the expansive ocean enclosures that protect swimmers from jellyfish stings. Rent a kayak or catamaran from the beachside operators and explore the length of Palm Cove and intriguing Double Island, just 1.5 kilometres (0.9 miles) offshore.

Relax in the idyllic beach setting with a round on the golf course. Drop a fishing line at Palm Cove jetty and enjoy the ocean views as you wait for a bite.

Stroll along the esplanade and pick a spot to have a meal. Palm Cove Beach has a wide selection of dining options. Try the local barramundi or giant trevally paired with a wine in a restaurant or simply with chips on the beach.

Combine your visit to Palm Cove Beach with a trip to the Great Barrier Reef. Go scuba diving or snorkelling with the tours that depart daily from Cairns and Port Douglas. Within an hours’ drive to the northeast, you’ll find the lush rainforests of Daintree National Park. Join a guided hike to spot wildlife, discover the forest’s unique ecosystem and learn about local Aboriginal culture.

Palm Cove Beach is within a half-hour drive north of Cairns, and less than a 1-hour drive south from Port Douglas. The beach features mostly resort-style accommodation, but cheaper options can be found closer to Cairns.

Plan a trip to see Palm Cove Beach

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Club Wyndham Cairns Trinity Links Resort
Oasis at Palm Cove
Beach Terraces- Port Douglas

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Top Palm Cove Beach Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort and Spa

Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort and Spa

5 out of 5
5 Triton Street, Palm Cove, QLD
Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort and Spa
Alamanda Palm Cove by Lancemore

Alamanda Palm Cove by Lancemore

5 out of 5
1 Veivers Road, Palm Cove, QLD
Alamanda Palm Cove by Lancemore
Mantra Amphora

Mantra Amphora

4 out of 5
49-63 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove, QLD
Mantra Amphora
Oasis at Palm Cove

Oasis at Palm Cove

4 out of 5
McDonald Close, Palm Cove, QLD
Oasis at Palm Cove
South Pacific Bed & Breakfast

South Pacific Bed & Breakfast

18 Gibson Cl, Clifton Beach, QLD
South Pacific Bed & Breakfast
Villa Beach Palm Cove

Villa Beach Palm Cove

3.5 out of 5
85-87 Upolu Esplanade, Clifton Beach, QLD
Villa Beach Palm Cove
Drift Palm Cove

Drift Palm Cove

4 out of 5
Cnr Veivers Rd Williams Esp, Palm Cove, QLD
Drift Palm Cove
Peppers Beach Club and Spa - Palm Cove

Peppers Beach Club and Spa - Palm Cove

5 out of 5
123 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove, QLD
Peppers Beach Club and Spa - Palm Cove
Belle Escapes Villa by the C

Belle Escapes Villa by the C

Palm Cove
Belle Escapes Villa by the C
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Palm Cove Beach

Palm Cove Beach offers a perfect family holiday destination with its stunning beaches and picnic areas for leisurely afternoons. Visitors can unwind at luxurious day spas or enjoy fishing at nearby spots, making it an ideal getaway for relaxation and recreation. The tranquil atmosphere and beautiful surroundings ensure a memorable experience for tourists seeking both adventure and relaxation in this picturesque coastal town.

Shopping

Clifton Village Shopping Centre, only 966m from Palm Cove Beach, offers a vibrant mix of shops and eateries. For a unique experience, the Kuranda Original Rainforest Markets, located 8.0km away, showcase local crafts and produce. If you're up for a drive, Kite Rite Australia is also 8.0km away, featuring quality kite supplies.

Recreation

At Vie Spa Palm Cove, indulge in rejuvenating body treatments that promote relaxation, just 483m from the beach. Paradise Palms Country Club, located 3.2km away, offers a luxurious escape amidst beautiful surroundings. For outdoor wellness, explore the scenic trails at Smithfield Mountain Bike Park, 6.4km from Palm Cove.

Adventure

Skyrail Kuranda Cableway Station offers a breathtaking gondola ride above the rainforest, showcasing stunning views and wildlife. For an adrenaline rush, visit Cable Ski Cairns, where you can enjoy thrilling water sports in an exciting outdoor setting. Cairns Cable Ski also promises exhilarating water activities for adventure seekers.

Nightlife

For a vibrant night out, visit the Cairns Convention Centre, just 22.5km away, for a cultural performance. Alternatively, the Cairns Performing Arts Centre, 20.9km away, offers captivating shows, while the Rondo Theatre, 17.7km away, provides a charming atmosphere for family-friendly entertainment.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Palm Cove Beach

When visiting Palm Cove Beach, you'll find a delightful mix of attractions that cater to all types of travellers. From the stunning Palm Cove Beach itself to local museums and nature reserves, there's plenty to explore for those seeking culture, outdoor adventures, and relaxation by the sea. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and vibrant atmosphere that make this coastal gem a perfect holiday destination in Queensland.

  • Clifton Beach: Just a stone's throw from Palm Cove, Clifton Beach offers a serene escape with its golden sands and relaxed beach vibes. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, swimming, or soaking up the sun, it’s a great spot for families and beach lovers alike.
  • Australian Armour and Artillery Museum: This fascinating museum showcases a rich collection of military history, featuring tanks and artillery from various eras. It’s an insightful experience for those interested in Australian culture and heritage, with interactive displays and knowledgeable guides.
  • James Cook University: A vibrant hub of education and research, James Cook University boasts stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings. Visitors can explore the campus, enjoy public art installations, and soak in the lively atmosphere of this modern institution.

Best time to go to Palm Cove Beach

The best time to visit Palm Cove Beach is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January and February are its hottest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain (dry).

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January80.4°F (26.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February80.4°F (26.9°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March79.2°F (26.2°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
April76.5°F (24.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May73.0°F (22.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.3°F (21.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
July69.3°F (20.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August69.6°F (20.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September72.7°F (22.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October75.7°F (24.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
November78.1°F (25.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December79.9°F (26.6°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Palm Cove Beach

To save money on your trip to Palm Cove Beach, consider visiting between February to March or November when accommodation prices are lower. Booking about a month in advance can also help you secure better rates, while last-minute deals on Expedia may offer additional savings. Opt for a mid-week stay on Wednesdays for the best prices, and use Expedia's tools to compare options based on your budget. Combining hotel bookings with flights and activities can lead to further discounts, ensuring you make the most of your holiday without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Palm Cove Beach are February to March and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Palm Cove Beach is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Palm Cove Beach is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Palm Cove Beach is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Make the most of Expedia’s search tool to narrow down your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your Palm Cove Beach hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.