State of Queensland Travel Forum

Hi, I'm going to be in Australia in August and was wondering if it is reasonable to say I can drive from Cairns to Arlie Beach in a day? I know the distance is around 800 km and here in Canada that is a long, but doable day's drive. Has anyone else out there done this drive and how long did it take?

Yes, this is a reasonable drive. I did it in December.

About 6 Cairns to Townsville (400K's) on a good day - no rain etc. And then roughly 2 1/2 (200K's) to Airlie. In August you would expect dry roads.

Roads are generally good but not major 4 lane highway. Parts are pretty boring but there are some interesting places to stop on the way through. Speed limit is 100K's/hr.

You could have an enjoyable slow trip down the highway calling in to places of interest.

http://www.greatgreenwaytourism.com/map.html

Have a lovely drive

It's quite possible to drive it straight-through (I have done it in the opposite direction), but I far more enjoyed a trip with a rental car when I stopped mid-way at Cardwell and took a day boat excursion to Hinchinbrook Island. If you like nature and learning about Australia's great diversity, this is a terrific place. The boat goes through mangrove swamps, giving you a view of that ecological system with commentary, then there's walking in the rainforest, and also a walk on the splendid beach on the Pacific side. There's also a small resort here to overnight, or you can stay in Cardwell. Recommended if you have time!