Palm Cove Beach
Palm Cove Beach
4.5
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience Palm Cove Beach
The area
Address
Best nearby
Restaurants
38 within 5 kms
Attractions
34 within 10 kms
See what travellers are saying
- Mark EWhitianga, New Zealand803 contributionsSydney to Cairns 2023We stayed at the NRMA caravan park just across the road from this beautiful palm lined beach. Life guards are present at times Coral sea so water temperature is good although we only dipped our toes. Of course this is northern Queensland so beware of Stinger Season and Crocodiles.Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 13 April 2024
- Ronal26 contributions"Worlds best beach" - in some ways, not so in others'Worlds best beach 2024' as selected by editors and readers of Conde Nast Traveller magazine ... in some ways, not so in others. The resort town of Palm Cove is perfect for a relaxing get away. It is a very quiet, tranquil place with just a handful of hotels, almost the size of a small suburb of Brisbane, so was not crowded. Most of the resorts are on the main beachfront strip. This is generally also the area where all the restaurants, bars and cafes are located. There is a beautiful landscaped path all the way along the beach front. the picture postcard palm trees that you will see on instagram are only on the very Southern end of the strip, and run for about 200m. Very picturesque, but do not believe all the pictures thinking the entire beach is like this. However the rest of the beachfront is still very lovely. The ONLY downside is the fact that you can only swim in one small section of the beach where they have the crocodile and jellyfish nets. DO NOT enter the ocean at any other point. Also, do not expect pristine white sand and azure waters. Palm Cove is at the foothills of a series of hills covered in tropical rainforest, so naturally the seawater will be murky, and the beach sand browner than you would expect. Overall, the title of 'worlds best beach' is more due to the overall ambience and amenities of the overall town, rather than the actual beach itself. Still worth a visit or a few nights stay!Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 14 May 2024
- Charlotte1234569 contributionsBeautiful but no swimmingBeautiful beach and white sands. We went in May and the winds were too high every day making a beach day impossible. You cant swim because of dangerous things lurking in the sea which is a shame but for you own safety. They do have a part of the water sectioned off safely by a barrier so you can go in for a swim but generally we never saw anyone use it. Stunning but not for those who want to swim in the sea.Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 25 May 2024
- Ava HGalway, Ireland3 contributionsPerfect bachelorette party getawaySummer 2023 at Palm Cove Beach was an absolute dream for our bachelorette party. The pristine sands and clear waters provided a relaxing backdrop for sunbathing and beach activities. Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef and enjoying lively evenings at local bars made for unforgettable moments. Accommodation options were superb, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout. Palm Cove Beach truly delivered the ultimate tropical escape for celebrating with friends. I loved every single minute of it.Visited January 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 16 June 2024
- JoanneAuckland, New Zealand61 contributionsParadise in Palm CoveBeautiful beach, delicious restaurants, chilled vibe and well worth a stay of you like a slower pace. Highly recommend for all sorts - families, couples & friends. Will be back again - we love it!Visited June 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 17 June 2024
- Bronte S103 contributionsBeautiful!!!Absolutely breathtaking beach. The scenery with the palm trees, white sand and crystal clear water is beautiful. The beach is clean and well patrolled. The staff in the shops are very friendly- I suffered from an allergic reaction to sunscreen whilst there, and the staff in the chemist were so helpful!! A little hidden gem off the Captain Cook Highway and a must visit!Visited July 2024Travelled soloWritten 22 July 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
2,230 reviews
Excellent
1,330
Very good
675
Average
195
Poor
25
Terrible
5
Jean B
9 contributions
Feb 2020
Beautiful but wet season so croc and box jelly season. I didn't even walk on the edge of the water, just on the boardwalk. There are flags and nets for swimming but a local told me only tourists go in, locals are too afraid. Loved the people and little area where I stayed, especially the Reef Retreat. Loved snorkeling the Reef so much.
Written 29 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
June D
Gold Coast, Australia48 contributions
Aug 2022
We have stayed at Palm Cove (on Williams Esplanade) at least once a year for the past 6-7 years. It is a fantastic place to stay, with so many restaurants and bars to choose from, all within walking distance of your accommodation. However, each time we go it seems to get a bit more crowded, and this time around it was manic! So many people crowding into everywhere, I think we might think about staying at Clifton or Trinity Beaches next visit to far North Queensland as its much quieter, and drive to Palm Cove to visit our favourite eateries!
Written 14 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gunner do
Newcastle, Australia571 contributions
Jun 2022
Once this was a lovely beach and village scene. Over development of resorts, units shops and restaurants has created this mainstreet eyesore.
The main avenue is over shopped, and full of Panama hatted visitors strolling from shop to shop, to restaurant to gallery!
And this is called a holiday.
That's a visitors honest opinion. The only way developers make improvements is through their own pockets.
If you visit here, don't forget your hat!
The main avenue is over shopped, and full of Panama hatted visitors strolling from shop to shop, to restaurant to gallery!
And this is called a holiday.
That's a visitors honest opinion. The only way developers make improvements is through their own pockets.
If you visit here, don't forget your hat!
Written 30 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Smiley_BH
Windella, Australia28 contributions
Jul 2021
Great from the shore, shady sandy beach which turns muddy not far after the waterline. This leads to the water colour becoming dirty when weather conditions are not calm.
There were plenty of people swimming there, both inside and outside the lifeguarded area (yes there is a lifeguard on duty), but I was not willing to go in as a croc was spotted in the area within the previous 7 days (or that is what was signposted).
There were plenty of people swimming there, both inside and outside the lifeguarded area (yes there is a lifeguard on duty), but I was not willing to go in as a croc was spotted in the area within the previous 7 days (or that is what was signposted).
Written 8 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dianne S
Moss Vale, Australia603 contributions
May 2021 • Couples
Palm Cove in Queensland is an exceptional place for relaxation and just getting away from the humdrum of city life. The beach, restaurants, accommodation is vast and varied, but I would say stay in the Main Street area for the accommodation. The Reef House, The Mantra, Peppers, The Alamanda are all situated in the Williams St precinct close to some fantastic and memorable dining experiences. All of which are in walking distance.
Written 19 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brian E
Melbourne, Australia159 contributions
Feb 2021 • Family
Probably the best beach in the cairns area this beach is well worth visiting adjacent to many cafes and great restaurants one can arrive there before lunch have a swim get changed and then be tempted by the wonderful food that is just a short walk across the road.
Even the evenings allow for a late afternoon swim followed by a quick change of clothes and then a stroll to a well known restaurant for excellent food.
if not in the mood for food grab a coffee from several cafes then head down to the beach sit on the sand enjoy your coffee with a magnificent view. Water is always warm enjoy.
Even the evenings allow for a late afternoon swim followed by a quick change of clothes and then a stroll to a well known restaurant for excellent food.
if not in the mood for food grab a coffee from several cafes then head down to the beach sit on the sand enjoy your coffee with a magnificent view. Water is always warm enjoy.
Written 6 January 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rtramos
Sydney, Australia80 contributions
Apr 2022
Pleasant getaway place. We were lucky however that the sun came out for most of the time we were there as we were told it was raining the day before. It was also raining the day we left. It is quite unusual weather this time of year. The long-stretch of the beach is great for a stroll or for just enjoying the site and listening to the waves. There are multiple places to choose from for meals and drinks although most are pricey. There are cheaper option as well in case you are on a budget.
Written 30 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Simon Kirstie O
Gold Coast, Australia36 contributions
Sept 2020
If you like muddy water to swim in then the northern beaches of Cairns including Palm Cove are for you. The sand is nice and the palm trees give photos that tropical look but there is almost always a wind blowing in the afternoon (too uncomfortable to be at the beach), the waves are too big for small children and not enough for adults. Definitely don't swim between dusk and dawn unless you want to risk coming face to face with local wildlife (the crocodiles). There is a reason that the Cairns Esplanade lagoon was built. Disappointing!
Written 7 October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
von s
North Queensland, Australia124 contributions
Aug 2022 • Couples
Beautiful beach and views but even out of season expect rude and unsmiling people on your walk along the esplanade. Been there multiple times now and it is overcrowded and extremely unhappy people everywhere. I dont expect smiles all the time BUTdont smile at people and NEVER. say hello they look at you as if you are something nasty they just walked in! Come on people it is a beautiful place made very unpleasant by lots of self important people being rude
Written 21 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cat J A
Melbourne, Australia421 contributions
Apr 2023 • Friends
Such a beautiful and easily accessible beach that runs the length of the esplanade. The 110 bus from Cairns stops at the edge of the sand and carparks are equally close although hotly contested. Clean and fringed by palm trees it is something out of a postcard so it was just unfortunate then that we couldn't swim due to the stingers. Despite the lifeguards closing the beach, some brave souls ventured in - not us but the temptation was overwhelming! A walk across the road to casual cafes and the ice cream shop made it a great day at the beach.
Written 25 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi are there any places to change and shower on the beach at palm Cove?
Written 8 February 2020
Yes. Shower and change in the middle of Palm Cove opposite to the Australian surf control.
Written 12 June 2023
SOOOO disappointed to hear we cannot swim in the ocean! Is this just seasonal? We will be there in June and were hoping for some beach time - is it too dangerous to swim off Palm Coast? Just wondering if we should reconsider our hotel reservations...
Written 13 March 2019
We visited in February and areas were netted of for jellyfish - there were folk in the water.
Written 14 March 2019
what are the chances of ocean swimming in November at Palm Cove?
Written 11 October 2016
Kathleen, I think the response from Lou Charlie is perfect. The only thing I can add is don't be put off visiting Palm Cove because you can't swim in the ocean. It's a gorgeous spot with a variety of accommodation options - with lovely pools. 🌼
Written 15 October 2016
Are there lockers at Palm Cove Beach?
Written 20 June 2016
Hi , is the beach crowded in the winter months? July-August? Also, can we swim in the water? With the crocs and the jelly fish?
Many thanks!
Written 23 January 2016
That time of year is fine as crowds go. If you prefer it even less crowded avoid the two week school holidays at the beginning of July. Swimming is safe as long as you swim in the patrolled areas between the flags. You can take off to a lot of other places from there.
Written 24 January 2016
Hi I am staying at palm cove next week, can you walk from palm cove to Ellis beach?
Written 7 August 2015
Hi. We are in Palm cove at the moment and have driven to Ellis beach twice. The drive is about 5-10 mins along the highway and this would be the only way to walk. I wouldn't recommend it and didn't see anyone walking the highway is quite narrow in this part and there is no footpath. And you'll have lovely weather for your stay.
Written 8 August 2015
Hi,
We are getting married in Palm Cove August next year. We have been advised that the north end near the jetty is the ideal place because it is quieter and less windy there. Please can you tell me if I would need a car to get me there from The Reef House Hotel or is it walkable? How long would it take? Is there a road the whole way along? Is there parking up near the jetty. I also hear there is a market Friday nights - when do they set up as we are getting married on a Friday?
Thanks for all your help.
Best wishes,
Ingrid
Written 22 June 2015
I stayed at the Reef House last March and yes, you can definitely walk there. Also I would like to say that you'll love the Reef House hotel. It's a beautiful, serene hotel. I could have moved in and never returned. Have a great time!
Written 2 February 2016
Showing results 1-7 of 7
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing