Things to do in Cardwell

Cardwell and Port Hinchinbrook are the southern gateway to the Cassowary Coast region. They are also the gateway to Hinchinbrook Island, the biggest island national park in Australia and home of the Thorsborne Walking Trail.

Cardwell is situated 165km north of Townsville. It has a warm tropical climate and is a very popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.

Cardwell offers a good range of services and shopping facilities. A variety of accommodation is available including caravan parks, hostels, motels and bed & breakfasts. A number of cafes and restaurants offer a range of options to visitors, and menus often include fresh locally-farmed prawns.

The Cardwell Golf Club has a nine-hole golf course where visitors are very welcome. The adjacent Cardwell Country Club offers bar services, a bowling green and a restaurant on site.

Hinchinbrook Island is 5km offshore with 393sqkm of beaches, rainforest and wilderness walks. The Thorsborne Trail, a 32km wilderness trek, is on the eastern side and is recognised as one of the top wilderness walks in the world. Ferry trips to the island are from Cardwell and Lucinda.

Cardwell is surrounded by natural attractions including national parks, waterfalls and walking trails. The Cardwell Forest Drive is a 26km scenic drive from the town centre, taking in lookouts, freshwater swimming holes and picnic spots.

There is plenty to do and see in Cardwell. The revamped esplanade has a walkway along the beachfront, picnic spots, children’s playgrounds and public artwork. 

The Cardwell Bush Telegraph Centre is a step back in time, with an insight into North Qld history. There is also the Cardwell Art Gallery and the Girringun Aboriginal Art Centre.

Photo courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland