Cooktown Visitor Information
Welcome to Cooktown!
Location and Climate
Cooktown is a small town located in Far North Queensland, Australia. It is situated on the banks of the Endeavour River, approximately 328km north of Cairns. The town enjoys a tropical climate, with hot, humid summers and warm winters.
History
Cooktown is famous for its rich history, particularly as the place where Captain James Cook beached the HMS Endeavour for repairs in 1770, during his voyage along the eastern coast of Australia. The town was later established as a port for the Palmer River gold rush in the 1870s, and subsequently became one of Queensland's largest ports in the late 19th century.
Things to See and Do
- Cooktown Museum and Historical Society: Learn about the town's fascinating history, including its Indigenous culture, European settlement, and gold rush era.
- Grassy Hill Lookout: Enjoy panoramic views of the town and surrounding ocean and rainforest.
- Endeavour River National Park: Explore the park's lush rainforest and pristine coastline, and learn about the area's Indigenous culture and history.
- James Cook Museum: Discover more about Captain Cook's voyage to Australia, his interactions with local Indigenous communities, and the archaeological and historical evidence of his visit to Cooktown.
- Keatings Lagoon: Spot crocodiles, birds and other wildlife in this tranquil wetland area, located just outside of Cooktown.
Accommodation and Dining
Cooktown has a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly backpacker hostels to luxury resorts. There are also numerous dining options, including seafood restaurants, cafes and local pubs.
Getting There
Cooktown can be reached by car, bus or private charter flight from Cairns. The drive from Cairns takes approximately 4 hours, and there are also regular coach services available. Alternatively, charter flights operate from Cairns and other regional centres.