Cape York offers a diverse range of highlights and there are a number of ‘must-see’ and ‘must-do’ places to personalise your Cape York experience.
The Great Barrier Reef
Go diving, snorkelling or take a glass-bottom boat trip to marvel at the richness of the sea life on offer in the Great Barrier Reef, which is both the largest coral reef in the world and the largest structure made by living organisms.
The Daintree
Visit the World Heritage Daintree rainforest, which features the incredible Cape Tribulation and Daintree Discovery Centre canopy boardwalks that allow travellers to explore Australia's largest continuous area of rainforest.
The Tip of Australia
The end point of countless epic journeys to the northernmost tip of the Australian mainland, the Tip is a rewarding checkpoint for anyone travelling off the beaten track in Cape York (there are also plenty of things to do on the east Tip and west Tip).
Chili Beach
On the eastern side of Kutini-Payamu (Iron Range) National Park is Chili Beach, an open tropical beach and campground location that's a worthwhile side trip on any Cape York adventure.
Torres Strait
Head off from the mainland and spend some time discovering the brilliant turquoise waters of Thursday and Horn Islands to get to the heart of the Torres Strait.
Chillagoe Caves
Just 215km west of Cairns are Chillagoe Caves, which contain ancient underground limestone caverns and passages home to spectacularly unique stalactites, stalagmites and flowstones.
Eliot Falls
One of the most picturesque waterfalls in all of Cape York, Eliot Falls is a worthwhile detour off the famed Old Telegraph Track.
Fruit Bat Falls
The single-tiered flow of Fruit Bat Falls is an idyllic place to stop, have a swim and relax in the midst of an unforgettable Cape York adventure along the Old Telegraph Track.
Ussher Point Cliffs
Marvel at the bauxite cliffs of Ussher Point, a remote location on the eastern side of Cape York which delivers stunning ocean views as you stand on the edge of Jardine River Regional Park.
Frangipani Beach
Adjacent to The Tip is Frangipani Beach, a crescent of stunning riparian scenery fringed by white sand and electric blue waters that can be seen from the walk to the northernmost tip of Australia.
Hidden Waterfall, Sam Creek
Near Sam Creek on the Old Telegraph Track is a hidden waterfall that delights those who come across it.
Twin Falls
One of the most iconic sights in the region, Twin Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall that flows with clear waters that are synonymous with Cape York.
Grassy Hill Lookout
Get a 360˚ view over Cooktown and the Endeavour River from the Grassy Hill Lookout, which is a must-visit spot before heading further north into the wilderness that is Cape York.
Wonga Beach
Enjoy quiet coastline at Wonga Beach just north of Cairns on North Queensland's tropical coast.
Split Rock, Laura
Immerse yourself in the Aboriginal rock art at the Split Rock site in Laura, which is categorised by UNESCO as one of the 10 most significant rock art sites in the world.
Old Laura Homestead
Discover the rich history of The Old Laura Homestead, a heritage-listed property that gives travellers an insight into the region's past.
Punsand Bay
Enjoy the solitude of Punsand Bay, a beachside destination west of the Tip that offers camping and tropical coastline for travellers to enjoy.
World War II Plane Wrecks
Marvel at the wreckages of a DC3 and Beaufort Bomber from plane crashes during World War II near Bamaga.
Dulhunty River
A relatively shallow water crossing on the Old Telegraph Track, the Dulhunty River is the source of clear flowing waters that make for lush surrounds and picturesque scenery.
Secluded Beach, Cape Weymouth
Find secluded beaches at Cape Weymouth at the end of a rugged sandy track, which lies north of Chili Beach just outside of Kutini-Payamu (Iron Range) National Park.
Portland Roads
Visit the tiny fishing village of Portland Roads, whose secluded tropical beaches and surrounding natural beauty can be reached by
Quintel Beach
Head to Quintel Beach, just a short drive from the Lockhart River, to soak in a slice of Cape York's coastal beauty.
Beaches at Weipa
While swimming is a no-no at Weipa's beaches, there are plenty of pursuable sights and activities available on the beachfront of central Cape York's largest town.
Mutee Head
A serene coastal destination that can be reached by 4WD, Mutee Head has pastoral, Aboriginal and WWII history entangled within its pristine beaches and riparian environs.