Location
Cardwell
What it is?
Cardwell is the access point to Hinchinbrook Island and channel area, the biggest island national park in Australia and home of the Thorsborne Walking Trail.
Settled in 1864, Cardwell was the first settlement north of Bowen and is situated 165km north of Townsville. It has a warm tropical climate and is a very popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.
What it offers?
Offering a range of attractions, site seeing, annual events and historical places to visit. The Cultural precinct brings together the arts and history of Cardwell. Follow the Cardwell Environmental, Cultural and Heritage Trail, enjoy local art at the gallery – Girringun Art Centre or learn about the devastation of Cyclone Yasi at the J C Hubinger Museum. Cardwell commemorates the historic Battle of the Coral Sea and host their annual UFO Festival each year in August.
Also offering a good range of services and shopping facilities and a variety of accommodation from 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.
Wheelchair Access?
May require assistance.
What we did?
The Cardwell Lookout
Attie Creek
Dead Horse Creek
Cardwell Spa Pools
Walked along the beautiful beach and out on the jetty.
Highlight?
The Spa pools were a bit busy with no parking, so i would say the lookout, even though its a hike up, it is a beautiful relaxing view from the top.
Would I do it again?
It is such a pretty location. I would spend a weekend here.
What do you need?
As a couple: Pre-downloaded maps on your phone (reception is patchy); water bottles; stainless steel coffee cup; healthy snacks; wide brim hat: sunscreen; bug spray; good sturdy shoes; swimmers and towels and a floatation device for the creek and pool; umbrella for sun/rain (the region is just down from Tully, one of the wettest towns in Qld); jacket; picnic and picnic blanket for the beach foreshore.
With Kids: water; snacks; wide brim hat; sunscreen; bug spray; good sturdy shoes.
With Pets: Be careful near the waters edge as there are crocodiles here.
Not permitted in the National Parks.
Yearly Events
A family-friendly event that celebrates Cardwell’s food, culture, arts, crafts, and local produce. The event includes a car show (Volksfest), food fest, markets, traditional dancers, and activities for kids. It takes place over the Queen’s Birthday Long weekend.
A weekend event that highlights extra-terrestrial activities around Cardwell. The event includes family activities, markets, show rides, a costume party, and a C-Files forum where experts discuss unexplained phenomena.
- A morning event that features live entertainment, stalls, food, and a display of classic automobiles