Cooktown, Queensland

Cooktown has over two centuries of rich history. Cooktown was the site of the first white 'settlement' in Australia when Captain James Cook, having accidentally struck the Great Barrier Reef, off the coast north of Cape Tribulation, struggled up the coast and beached the Endeavour on the shores of the Endeavour River. Cook and his crew were to stay on the edge of the Endeavour River from 17 June to 4 August, 1770, the longest time they were to spend at any location in Australia.

Explore Cooktown's history and culture, not only by walking through town, but also by visiting the monuments and museums of Cooktown.

Discover the most beautiful, lush natural settings of Cooktown. Naturally there are the pristine beaches, but you can also find tropical lagoons, waterfalls, hidden gardens, and magical mountain views.

A must-see is a visit to Grassy Hill Lookout where you can experience 360 degree views of the countryside and beaches. There is also a walking track from the summit to the nearby beach at Cherry Tree Bay.

Cooktown

Cooktown, with it's anchor and cannon recovered from the reef that wrecked Captain Cook's "Endeavour", is a fascinating place. Located in far north Queensland Australia, the fishing is great and the scenery is unique. A visit to the Museum and the historic cemetery should be on everyone's list, followed by an afternoon at the Fishermans Wharf to watch the barramundi being caught and the sun set.

Getting to Cooktown

In the past, Cooktown could only be accessed by 4WD's but with the completion of the sealed Cooktown Developmental Road in January 2006, Cooktown is now more accessible to everyone.

Cooktown also has an Airport.