Palm Cove, Queensland: Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef

A beach with palm trees — Views from Alamanda Palm Cove, Queensland, Australia. [dailyblender.com]

When planning an excursion to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia’s Tropical North Queensland, there are plenty of scenic destinations to choose from, between Port Douglas to Heron Island. But just north of Cairns, you’ll find a cozy little palm-tree-lined bay dotted with shops and restaurants, perfect for respite and access to the reef. A tropical retreat destination aptly named Palm Cove.

Where to stay

With a bevy of rental options along the main Palm Cove strip, the stunning Alamanda Palm Cove is the sparkling anchor to the south. A resort of upscale rooms and luxury apartments with a view, Alamanda offers three crystal blue pools to choose from, including an adults-only option, along with spa services and beachside yoga classes.

As you make your way down the Williams Esplanade, you’ll find a collection of beach shops and eateries, along with plenty of accommodation options for singles, families, and couples. The Drift Palm Cove features a floating river drifting through its center, and The Reef House offers a sumptuous retreat for adults. For outdoor lovers, the Palm Cove Camping Ground is a busy, budget-friendly option.

Where to eat

People in a restaurant kitchen — Chef Nick Holloway and staff at Nu Nu Restaurant in Palm Cove, Queensland. [dailyblender.com]

The Alamanda Palm Cove not only has some of the best views in Palm Cove, it’s also next door to the finest dining in the area, Nu Nu Restaurant. Founded by a group of culinary-minded friends more than two decades ago, Nu Nu’s kitchen is led by chef Nick Holloway, who’s appeared at national food festivals and twice on MasterChef Australia. Holloway and his staff have the smoothest dining service with plenty of smiles and gorgeous “refined Australian cuisine,” utilizing everything available, local and fresh, in Far North Queensland. The beachside patio and open dining room welcome in the soft breezes and lulling sounds of ocean waves as drinks and dishes are delivered. For special occasions, guests can reserve a table and dinner service directly on the beach.

The best start to a Palm Cove morning is a stop at the Beach Hut Cafe and Juice Bar, where staffers serve housemade baked goods and breakfast bowls, along with coffee and smoothies. (Don’t miss the banana smoothie with a shot of espresso!) Well-mannered furry friends are perched on the cafe’s patio throughout the morning as squawks from local cockatoos ring through the trees above.

Other culinary highlights in the area include Vivo Palm Cove, with fresh pasta, meat, and seafood, as well as Rattle-n-Hum, a lively pizza joint with pool tables and a full bar.

When visiting Palm Cove

Palm Cove makes for a perfect jumping point to explore all that’s beautiful around FNQ. To the north, visitors can discover the rainforest wonders of the famed Daintree National Park, with the Kuranda National Park to the south (featuring a rainforest gondola).

Palm Cove is a stellar home base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef, with most charter services, including the incredible Ocean Free sailboat tour, providing transfers to and from the area’s hotels.

Or for a memorable experience, just an easy stroll from local accommodations, you can’t beat watching the sun rise from the end of Palm Cove Jetty, with Double Island in the distance. Grab your brekkie and a chair, or your favorite fishing pole, and enjoy the beauty of Palm Cove, Queensland.

~Jennifer Matthewson

Photo credit: Jennifer Matthewson / Daily Blender