Want to see the world, but unsure where to start? As part of my Beached Blonde Travels series I’ll be revisiting some of the distant shores – and Australian hotspots – that I’ve been lucky enough to adventure through. I’ll bring you travel tips and stories to pique your wanderlust and inspire your next trip. Next up, Palm Cove, the tropical paradise in North Queensland.
Photo credit: Beached Blonde
Known for its ancient melaleuca (paperbark) trees which line the casual esplanade, Palm Cove is all chilled, barefoot vibes, palms aplenty and clear, warm, tropical ocean waters – it’s the ultimate place to relax and unwind.
Set in the prettiest little pocket of Tropical North Queensland, fringed by World Heritage-listed rainforests, Palm Cove will transport you back to simpler days. Its village-like location is the perfect spot to soak up a slow travel experience. And being just 25-minutes from Cairns Airport and with everything in easy reach, there’s no need to hire a car.
I was lucky enough to spend a week in the tropical paradise living like a local (think: drinks at low key beach bars, casual dinners at excellent restaurants, moonlit walks with views of the Milky Way, sunrise yoga, travelling everywhere on foot or by bicycle, and all the oysters I could eat!).
While we’re in the middle of this global pandemic, it’s time to look to our own Australian shores for travel experiences (time to #HolidayHereThisYear), so read on for all of Palm Cove’s must-see spots and to plan your visit.
Stay
Photo credit: Beached Blonde
Upon arrival at The Reef House my partner and I were greeted by its relaxed and friendly staff, who were so accomodating that we were on first-name terms with them by the end of our stay.
The iconic property is steeped in colonial charm and built around centuries-old melalucas, while rooms at the hotel are luxe and feel spacious and inviting. Most come with huge balconies or verandas and have pool views – ours overlooked the main pool area.
It’s the little touches that set the hotel apart, like the prosecco that was thoughtfully left chilled in our room for an arrival drink, and the complimentary Brigadier’s punch and dainty canapés that were set out each evening in the lounge, where we chatted to fellow guests from all over the world. There’s also an honesty bar that was stocked full with top-shelf tipples and where we made our own cocktails (a recipe book was on hand for inspo, too!).
Palm Cove is easy to walk around, but we made use of the hotel’s bicycles every day to explore the village, and of course relaxed by the two pools, which were never too busy so we could always find room on the daybeds. There’s also a day spa on site. Talk about a slice of paradise.
Eat
Photo credit Beached Blonde.
With its vibrant dishes cooked by award-winning chefs using locally sourced ingredient, Nu Nu is a must-visit while in Palm Cove. The menu is seasonal and features quintessentially Australian dishes with a modern Asian twist.
Highlights of our dinner included the oysters (shucked to order and possibly the largest we’ve ever tried!) with fresh hibiscus granita, the pineapple and turmeric curry of wild ginger pork belly, caramel, coconut, Thai basil and crackle, and the rhubarb bunya nut and spelt tart, basil, rose and yoghurt sorbet. OMG, it was all divine!
Needless to say we almost rolled out of the restaurant, which is set in the most stunning spot – fronted by the beach, swaying palms and the lapping waves of the Coral Sea. Book ahead, you won’t want to miss out.
After dining here three times during our stay in Palm Cove, it’s safe to say that Vivo was a firm favourite. Menu stand outs? We couldn’t go past the oysters (spotting a theme yet?!) or the locally caught trout. The wine list is also worth making your way through and features some impressive drops. BYO (with corkage) is available on some nights too. Don’t miss the attached Artroom, which showcases local artists and is worth a look.
Drink
Talk about a laid-back, fun vibe. Chill Cafe is a welcoming venue for all – locals and tourists alike. This corner spot with its beach views serves up delicious cocktails, craft beers on tap, oysters (of course!), and the best burgers in town.
Thursdays to Sundays you’ll find the tables pushed back and dancing to live music, so bring your dancing shoes!
Coffee
Photo credit: Beached Blonde
Next door to The Reef House is 27 Degrees, a vibey little spot that’s hard to miss. With its bright neon sign and urban beach vibes it’s possibly the cheeriest cafe in Palm Cove.
Serving up coffee that is perfection (All Press), health bowls, raw treats, locally brewed kombucha on tap, cold pressed juices, house made peanut butter, and smoothies that are the perfect mix of health and indulgence, we went her daily. Tip: try the Charlie Brown smoothie, you won’t regret it!
Shop
Held on the first Sunday of each month, from April until December. Buy local, quality handmade products from contemporary jewellery, leatherwork, pottery, clothes, skincare, homewares, plants and produce, and food direct from the growers and makers.
Wellness
Photo credit: Beached Blonde
As soon as I set foot into the cool, calm spa at The Reef House, I instantly felt my shoulders drop. It’s a relaxing and calming space that’s the perfect spot to unwind. I tried the Muscle Melt hot stone massage while my partner went for a Deep Release massage. The treatments were more for relaxation than recovery, and we both left feeling fully pampered. We also overheard a guest raving about the “sublime” Ocean Spa Ritual.
Palm Cove classes are held in the morning at the beach outside the Alamanda resort or in the evening on the rooftop of the Sariya hotel. Classes are popular, so book ahead.
Have you been to Palm Cove? I’d love to hear what you thought in the comments below!
