Captain Cook Highway
Australia
Queensland's most scenic coastal road runs from Cairns north to Mossman between the Wet Tropics rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, the only place on Earth where two UNESCO World Heritage sites touch simultaneously.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Cairns
Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. The Esplanade lagoon and night markets set the tropical mood before heading north.
- Palm Cove
The most stylish beach north of Cairns, with melaleuca-lined avenues, boutique resorts, and excellent waterfront restaurants.
- Ellis Beach
A secluded cove where granite headlands shelter a crescent of sand. The highway hugs the cliff edge directly above the reef-fringed water.
- Port Douglas
A laid-back village of dive boats and Four Mile Beach. The Great Barrier Reef is just 45 minutes offshore by fast cat.
- Mossman Gorge
Clear water rushes through granite boulders in ancient rainforest. Kuku Yalanji guides share 9,000 years of connection to this place.
- Daintree Ferry Crossing
A short cable-guided punt carries vehicles across the crocodile-patrolled Daintree River into the world's oldest rainforest.
- Cape Tribulation
Where rainforest meets reef on a single beach. Cook named it here in 1770 after running aground on the coral.
Where to Eat
- Nu Nu RestaurantModern Australian
Beachfront dining offering contemporary Australian cuisine with tropical influences, using fresh local produce.
- Salsa Bar & GrillInternational
Vibrant eatery in Port Douglas serving a fusion of global flavors in a relaxed, open-air setting.
- Daintree Tea House RestaurantSeafood
Nestled in the rainforest, this spot offers fresh seafood and tropical fruits in a serene environment.
Things to Do
- Skyrail Rainforest CablewayScenic Viewpoint
Glide above the rainforest canopy and enjoy panoramic views of the Coral Sea and Cairns Highlands.
- Wildlife Habitat Port DouglasWildlife Park
Interactive zoo where you can hand-feed kangaroos and observe native Australian wildlife up close.
- Daintree Discovery CentreMuseum
Educational facility with aerial walkways and informative displays about the ancient Daintree Rainforest.