This corner of Queensland has many extraordinary natural attractions. 2 of the most well known are The Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Both of which should not be missed on a visit to this tropical region. Even if you don't want to get wet you should take a cruise to the Outer Barrier Reef. The colours and range of coral and fish are sensational. You can see all of this on a semi-submersible or underwater viewing platform for those who are not into snorkelling or diving. Diving is available to anyone with reasonable fitness. You don't need to be certified as first time divers can go down with an instructor (known as a resort dive). I was so hooked after my first experience, I went 3 times and bought the video!

Swimming
It is important to note that the Box Jellyfish inhabit the waters around the coast, mainly during the months of October - May, so swimming off beaches that don't have stinger nets is not safe. As the Jellyfish breed in the estuaries they only travel as far as the coast and swimming off the islands or on the Great Barrier Reef is perfectly safe year round.

Accommodation
The region is split up into various townships along the coast. Most of the action happens in and around Cairns. This is where all the day tours operate from and the vast majority of accommodation is found. Below is a table of drive times to give you an idea of the geography:

Cairns to Mission Beach - 2hrs drive south
Cairns to Palm Cove - 20mins drive north
Cairns to Port Douglas - 1hr drive north
Cairns to Cape Tribulation - 2 1/2 hrs north of Cairns.

All of the tour operators pick up from Cairns and Palm Cove hotels. Some tour operators pickup from Port Douglas accommodation i.e Quicksilver and Australian Pacific Tours for the Daintree. When choosing where to stay it is important to decide what sort of a holiday experience you are looking for. i.e Romantic getaway relaxing around the pool, sightseeing packed or a combination of both. [more Cairns, Tropical North and Cape York (QLD) info]