Places to get the perfect picture in Cape York

Have you been to the jewel of tropical north Queensland, Cape York? If you haven’t ticked this destination off your bucket list, now is the time. It is one of the most picturesque locations in Australia. Here’s a list of some other spots that will make your photos look like they belong on a postcard.

Cape Tribulation

a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site where the beautiful tropical Daintree rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef. It is easy to see why it is one of the most popular destinations for nature lovers in Australia. It is around a 2 hour drive from Port Douglas. The area has many waterfalls, including the famous Mossman Gorge Falls. It’s also home to a variety of endangered species such as turtles, crocodiles and frogs. As tempting as the water may look, stick to pictures unless you want to meet a croc up close and personal. There are plenty of campsites if you wish to stay overnight and spend more than just one day exploring this special part of Cape York Peninsula.

The Bloomfield Track

One of Far North Queensland’s most scenic short road trips this beautiful, rugged wilderness is a photographers paradise. It’s a challenging off road hike that takes you through some of the most remote parts of Cape York, but it’s well worth the effort. You can camp out at the end of the track for free if you have all your own camping gear (which you should).

Cooktown is a great base for exploring the Bloomfield Track. It’s a historic town with many interesting old buildings, and there are many places to get coffee and food. There are also several beautiful beaches nearby that you can visit if you want to go swimming or snorkeling.

If you’re looking for something more relaxing, try taking an afternoon stroll along Lagoon Beach or snorkeling at Punsand Bay; both are great spots to spend some time with friends or family while enjoying views of crystal clear water and white sandy beaches.

Millaa Millaa Falls

Easy to see why it one of the most photographed waterfalls in Australia, Millaa Millaa Falls is a must-visit destination on any road trip to the tip of Australia. This heritage-listed beauty showcases vibrant falls dropping down into a refreshing plunge pool. And even better news, it is also a great swimming spot. So don’t stop at a picture of just the falls, get one of yourself underneath them too!

If you have enough time, another stunning waterfall is located a short drive from Millaa Millaa Falls Ellinjaa Falls.

Port Douglas

Famous for its palm-fringed beaches, relaxed seaside village vibe and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. Port Douglas has an abundance of picturesque locations where you are sure to make loved ones at home jealous that they didn’t journey to Cape York as well.

There are so many locations you can get a postcard perfect picture in this Australian paradise. To name a few; Low Isles Lighthouse, The Sugar Wharf, Cane Fields, Great Barrier Reef, Cow Bay, Alexandra Range Lookout, Emmagen Creek, Rex Smeal Park, Flagstaff Hill Lookout,. Four Mile Beach, Thala Beach Coconut Plantation and Rex Lookout. So many opportunities for the perfect picture in theis east coast region.

Fitzroy Island

Using Cairns as your base, take the ferry to the stunning and photogenic Fitzroy Island to be inundated with various scenic vantage points. It truly is a photographers paradise. After a short bushwalk you can make your way to Nudey Beach for some amazing pictures. There is also a swing on the beach which makes for a creative shot.

Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park

Rich with cultural connections to Aboriginal clan groups and early European exploration this National Park has it all. Located in Laura, Australia it is a true glimpse of the beauty of the outback.

It is also a popular destination for bird watching, fishing, camping and photography. Sweeping grasslands, coastal estuaries, lagoons, waterholes, sandstone hills and river systems. So many different ecosystems to explore.

Old Telegraph Track

This Famous four-wheel-driving challenge begins at Bramwell Station, located 2 hours North of Weipa or Archer River and 4 hours South of The Tip. This 4WD adventure will take you through some of the most remote, yet beautiful areas in the Cape York Peninsula.

Some sights you will see along the way include Jardine River National Park, The Rocky Rises and The Gunshot. Plenty of opportunities to take some incredible photos of a variety of different landscapes and scenery.

Seisia

It is clear there are many beautiful places in Cape York, but with white-sand beaches and crystal clear water, Seisia is one not to be missed. It is an excellent place to fish with a wharf, rocky headlands and of course boats to fish from. It is also a short boat-ride away from Red Island.

Kutini-Payamu (Iron Range) National Park

Protecting the unique flora and fauna of Cape York, this National Park is the best one to see in Cape York. There are lots of spots for amazing photos, particularly on the bushwalks. The Old Coen Road Walking Track is 5kms through the dense rainforest of the park, the highlight is the famous Smugglers Tree. The other walk is shorter and takes you out to Chilli Beach, providing you with another amazing photo opportunity. Not far from the National Park is the coastal Aboriginal community of Lockhart River. This also provides beautiful scenes and plenty of opportunities for photos. It is also home to the The Lockhart River Art Gang, a collective of Aboriginal artists who create beautiful, contemporary works.

Pajinka (The Tip)

No journey to Cape York would be complete without the obligatory photo at Pajinka – The Tip of Cape York. This signifies that you have made it to the Northernmost point of Australia. Any further north and you reach the Australian territory of the Torres Strait Islands. Make sure you take a picture of you with the sign to prove that you made it. All the creek crossings, bush camping, four-wheel driving and maybe even some towing through QLD was worth it!

Start planning your trip

There are many beautiful places to go photo hunting in Cape York. Wherever you visit in the region is sure to impress and provide ample opportunity to take amazing photos to bring home. If you need more inspiration about what Cape York can offer, take a look at our blog Our Cape York Travel Guide.