Clifton Beach

Wedged between the World Heritage listed rainforest and the oceans of the Great Barrier Reef, is the tropical beachside township of Clifton Beach. A walk north will take beachcombers to Palm Cove while Cairns is found less than 30 minutes drive to the south.

A dip in the ocean is safe here, within the confines of stinger-resistant enclosures, found along white sandy beaches so wonderfully set among green palm trees.

Black, boulder and crystal opal displays are to be found at the Outback Opal Mine near town, with a simulated underground opal mine, educational film and the chance to buy local opals.

Families might like to visit the local zoo called Wild World with animal watching and feeding - including shy and nocturnal Australian mammals.

Golfers can head over to the world class resort golf course at Paradise Palms, one of the top 50 golf courses in Australia. Greg Norman has played here and you can expect to pay playing fees accordingly!

Nearby Palm Cove has plenty of its own palm-fringed white beaches and calm blue water, boutiques, galleries and shopping

Things to do