Just a two-hour drive south of Cairns in North Queensland,
Hinchinbrook has made headlines for being the biggest and most geographically diverse island national park in the world.
Not only is the island visually stunning, it is largely untouched. Across on the mainland, Port Hinchinbrook is the newest accommodation option in the area. The rooms are very comfortable and positioned right on the water.
Board the Hinchinbrook Explorer for a cruise of the surrounding beaches. The Explorer's first stop, Ramsay Bay, is a perfect spot for a swim. Stretching nine kilometres across, the bay is absolutely gorgeous. Even though Ramsay Bay is in tropical north Queensland, the locals swear it is completely free of stingers so its safe to swim.
The next stop on the Hinchinbrook Explorer is Makushla. From here, tourists can stroll all the way to Cape Richards Resort at the northern end of the island. The walk takes between an hour-and-a-half and two hours, with about two thirds of it in the rainforest shade, and the other third back on the beach.
The boat moors at Makushla for three hours so cruisers have plenty of time to look around and appreciate the massive grove of palms. Tourists can bring lunch and eat down by Orchid Beach or try Cape Richards restaurant.
Cruises on the Hinchinbrook Explorer wind up late afternoon, just in time to swap boats and head out for a fishing adventure. The Hinchinbrook Channel is a popular fishing spot, and the big catch in the area is Barramundi.
Fishing is all about local knowledge, and your host will explain that the further down the channel you go the bigger the catches get.
Back at the marina, dinner at Ship to Shore is only a few steps away. The waterfront location features amazing views and it isnt surprising that Barramundi makes an appearance on the menu.
If you didn't catch anything on the fishing tour, head to Bluewater Barra Farm. Visitors can toss in a line and keep what they catch. It's a great option for kids and inexperienced anglers.
The facts:
Qantas flies to Cairns from every capital city. Prices start from $520 ex Melbourne and $859 ex Perth. Prices include charges, levies and taxes.
Qantas
Tel: 13 13 13
A Day Tour Discovery Package including accommodation at Port Hinchinbrook and a day trip on the Hinchinbrook Island Explorer. Starts from $125 per person twin share. Conditions apply.
Port Hinchinbrook Resort
Tel: 1800 22 00 77
The full-day cruise aboard the Hinchinbrook Explorer costs $85 for adults and $43 for kids. Chartering a boat for the day costs $200 per person and includes a guide.
Cape Richards restaurant offers a three-course lunch for $25. Main meals at the Ship to Shore cost about $20. Fishing at the Bluewater Barra Farm costs $25 per person.
