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You've come to the right place...Cook shire is remote enough to escape all your cares, but still offers you everything you need. Come and snorkel, fish, watch crocs, explore the outback, hide away, and whatever else you want!
There is absolutely nothing like a quiet day at the beach. Look at some of our beaches and plan a trip to one of them. Bring a picnic lunch, some togs and sunblock, and enjoy the natural beauty and solitude of Cooktown's beaches.
Natural wonders are rare in most places, but abound around Cooktown. With just a short drive, you can discover the most beautiful, lush natural settings. Among these are the beaches, of course, but you can also find tropical lagoons, waterfalls, hidden gardens, and magical mountain views. They are isolated lands of their own and allow for a lovely way to relax and have a picnic while you enjoy the scenery!
Many world famous anglers come to Cooktown for its amazing fishing, as the Great Barrier Reef and pristine local rivers are inhabited by a wide variety of fish. Among these are Barramundi, Queenfish, Mangrove Jack, and Black Marlin. Sportfishing safaris are available up these rivers as well as out to the reef, but if you want to go on your own, read here for some of the fishing spots that the locals recommend.
Nature's most beautiful and best kept secrets can often be found on a walk. Enjoy these guides and print them out if you like, so you can find your way. Bring water, a picnic lunch, and a camera if you like and get ready to explore the history and natural beauty that Cooktown has to offer.
Cooktown has over two centuries of rich history, starting with Captain James Cook's landing in 1770 and then the gold rush in the 1870's. Explore Cooktown's history and culture, not only by walking through town, but also by visiting the museums and monuments of Cooktown.
Cooktown is where the tropical rainforest meets the reef. The town is surrounded by some of the largest national parks in Cape York. Exotic animals and plants that can be found no where else abound here. Unique natural wonders, such as waterfalls, coral reefs, and lagoons, can often be found with a short trip. Explore these national parks and bask in the beauty of Cooktown's natural surroundings.
The cemetery at Cooktown is the final resting place for many of the diverse nationalities, religions and cultures that inhabited the pioneering town. The story that unfolds bears witness to the tragedies, triumphs and mysteries experienced by the people in times of exploration and adventure. Many of the events and individuals that contributed to Cooktown's development are recorded here. Read about the past inhabitants of Cooktown and their exciting adventures.
If none of the activities thus far suit you, there is plenty more to do. Enjoy our local treats, pokies, go golfing, horseback riding, or get involved with a club. Or, if you are only here for a visit, see if there are any events going on. You will be surprised at what our town has to offer you!
During James Cook's voyage, many of his crew members studied the plant life of Cooktown and made detailed notes. Years later, during the gold rush, the plant life was again studied, land set aside to protect and study the environment, and one of the oldest botanic gardens in Australia established. Today, the Cooktown Botanic Gardens are a lovely collection of Cape York plant life and can be seen with just a short walk. Read about their history and the different species of life here.
While finding your own way driving can be cheaper, we do realise that tours can be easier, but still comprehensive. There are several companies that offer fully guided tours of Cooktown in comfortable air-conditioned buses and four wheel drive vehicles. Make sure to compare prices and plan to experience our unique town, which is steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty.
