After a long, hot day of exploring the City Walls and famous historic sites, beach hopping is one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik to cool off!

It’s no secret that Croatia has some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, and the country’s southernmost city is no exception. In this guide, I’ll reveal to you some of my favorites, from the stoney shores of Lokrum Island to secret sandy cave beaches you didn’t know existed.

Dubrovnik Beaches Map

Ready to dive into the list of amazing Dubrovnik beaches? Here's a useful map to help you navigate this post.

15 Best Dubrovnik Beaches

1. Beach Banje (Plaža Banje)

Banje Beach (Plaža Banje) is the closest beach to Dubrovnik's Ploče Gate and therefore one of the most popular beaches in the city.

This is a broad, fine-pebble beach lined with lounge chairs and sun umbrellas. As you'd expect, the water is crystal clear and great for swimming. During the summer months, you'll find a small floating platform to swim out to and relax under the warm Dalmatian sun.

There's also a famous establishment on the western tip called Banje Beach Restaurant and Night Club, or Banje Beach Club for short. Here you can enjoy a meal or grab a cocktail as the sun sets.

Banje Beach is also a popular place to book water sports activities like kayaking and hiring jet skis, with many vendors lining the shores.

Travel Tip: Ploče in front of Banje Beach is one of the best places to stay in Dubrovnik! The incredible Grand Villa Argentina in Ploče even has its own private beach!

2. Sveti Jakov Beach

While all of the tourists flock to Beach Banje, the locals hang out at Sveti Jakov.

This beach is less than 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from the Pile Gate and is easy to reach on foot or via Uber or the public bus.

Sveti Jakov is arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in Dubrovnik. Here, you'll discover tall pine trees surrounding a small cove lined with fine pebbles and crystal clear water.

The Betina Beach Cave is a magical cave with its very own small pebble beach with clear, shallow waters. However, travelers can only access this secret cave via the sea, as there isn't a path down from the road.

To get here, hire a kayak or embark on a sea kayaking tour from town, which will also take you to some of the other coastal wanders near Dubrovnik and Lokrum.

Tip: How to Get Around in Croatia

Rent a car! Croatia is very safe for motorists & the best way to explore the country. Rentals sell out quickly in the Summer months. Make sure to book in advance using a comparison site like DiscoverCars to get the best deals.

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4. Donje Celo - Koločep Island Beach (Elaphiti Islands)

The first sandy beach on this list is the beautiful Donje Celo beach on Koločep Island, just northwest of Dubrovnik.

This is a beautiful stretch of soft sand lined with sunbathing chairs and sun umbrellas. The water is quite shallow, making it a great beach for swimming.

The beach backs onto a small spa resort called TUI Blue Kalamota Island, with its white shade sails and iconic blue pool a standout at this location.

The easiest way to get here is to book an Elaphiti island hopping trip from Dubrovnik. This is one of the top-rated activities in the city and will get you to many more beautiful beaches just like this one.

5. Lokrum Island Beaches

Lokrum Island is the large green island directly in front of Dubrovnik, just 500 meters out from the Adriatic Coast. Visiting the island is a great way to spend your day, with highlights including the famous botanical garden, Fort Royal, and Benedictine Monastery.

But, since it's beaches you're after, the island of Lokrum has them too.

The Lokrum Main Beach is the most well-known, found on the southwest corner of the island. This is a mostly rocky beach with some small stretches of fine pebbles. There are also some small cliffs to jump off!

Another beach on Lokrum is "FKK Beach " on the southeast corner. This is famous for being Dubrovnik's nudist beach!

Want to visit the iconic Blue Cave? - While it is far from Dubrovnik, there is one speedboat tour running daily trips to the amazing natural phenomenon known as Croatia's Blue Cave on Biševo Island.

6. Danče Beach

Another local favorite, Danče Beach is hidden away at the end of a short downhill track leading from the Gradac Park, just west of Dubrovnik.

This beach is mostly a rocky shore and features a roped-off area with deep water that is perfect for swimming. Additionally, there’s a Franciscan convent church Sv Marija right next to the beach.

7. Šulic Beach

Šulic Beach is one of my favorite beaches in Dubrovnik. While the strand isn't wide or impressive, it's the atmosphere that makes this one so unique!

Both sides of this beach are edged by high cliffs and rocky outcrops, dropping into clean, blue water. The cove forming the beach is also very narrow, meaning it's a great spot to swim in Dubrovnik, no matter the weather!

Also, the rope indicating the safe swimming area is quite far out, meaning this is a great beach if you want to swim laps!

Additionally, there's a small bar/cafe on the western side of the cove which is the perfect place to grab a cocktail and enjoy a warm summer afternoon.

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8. West Harbor Beach (Kolorina)

West Harbor is a small jetty area tucked between the Pile Gate entrance to the Dubrovnik Old City and the famous Fort Lovrijenac. While most famous for kayak tour departures and for being one of the main Dubrovnik Game of Thrones filming sites, you'll also find a quiet beach here, called Kolorina.

This is a small, pebble beach with mostly shallow water surrounded by the City Walls and the steep cliffs beneath Fort Lovrijenac. The harbor sees a little boat traffic, so don't expect the most pristine swimming beach, although it is a nice spot to sit and relax close to town.

9. Copacabana Beach

Often named Dubrovnik's best beach, Copacabana Beach is a sandy-pebble beach dropping into deep, blue water. If you're looking for a beach to drink and party at, this is the one. It's a private beach club and a very popular place to visit in large groups.

You can hire your own private cabana, or rent some inflatables to go out and float in the clear, blue water.

Copacabana Beach is located approximately a 10 - 15-minute drive from Dubrovnik via Bus 10 or an Uber in the Babin Kuk peninsula.

10. Bellevue Beach

Bellevue Beach, also known as Miramare, is a great place to go if you're looking to soak up some rays, swim in clear water, and cliff jump, without the hoards of tourists you'll find at some of the closer Dubrovnik beaches.

To get here, you can either walk the short 1.4-kilometer (0.9-mile) road from Pile Gate to Hotel Bellevue or simply get an Uber or Taxi there for less than 10 euros. Bus 10 also has a stop near the hotel. From here, simply walk down the staircase to its pristine shores.

This beach is also one of the best spots in Dubrovnik for cliff jumping. You'll find some great spots on the left side of the beach, accessible via a short swim. Additionally, if you're into water polo, you can even catch local athletes playing here.

Don't miss Croatia's Most Beautiful Beach: Stiniva Beach on Vis Island

11. Uvala Lapad Beach (Sunset Beach)

Uvala Lapad Beach, also known as Sunset Beach is another excellent choice for beachgoers looking for a mix of a sandy and pebble beach.

Located in Lapad Bay (Lapad Peninsula), Sunset beach features a waterslide and several bars and restaurants, making it a great spot for couples and families alike.

Of course, the beach lives up to its reputation as well! Uvala Lapad is one of the best beaches in Dubrovnik to watch the sunset as its shores face west, directly in front of Grebeni Island.

12. Buža Bar (Bard Mala Buza & Buza Beach)

Dubrovnik is famous for its iconic beach bars, which remain a mix between an icon and a bit of a local secret. That's because while everyone knows about them, few find these awesome cliffside drink spots.

Buža Bar (Buza Beach) is tucked on the outside of Dubrovnik's city walls facing the Adriatic Sea. It's a small, rocky outcrop where locals have built a small bar. This is an excellent place to swim, have a drink, and even launch some flips off the cliff jumping spot.

To get here from the Stradun, walk past the Church of St Blaise, and continue down past the Hemingway Bar and the cathedral towards the wall. Enter the door and turn left. From here, you'll walk down a set of steps to the beach.

13. Coral Beach Club

Another great public beach on the Lapad Peninsula is the popular Coral Beach Club.

This is a famous fine pebble beach with iconic square shade umbrellas, rocky foreshore, and curved pier. There's also a nice wooden deck with comfortable lounges to relax on beneath the palm trees.

While the beach is known for its bar, this isn't a private beach, meaning you can come down here for a swim even if you don't want to buy a drink.

However, Coral Beach Bar is known to play great music and serve delicious cocktails, so if that's what you're into, it's worth a trip!

14. Sunj Beach

Sunj Beach, located on the island of Lopud is one of the only sandy beaches near Dubrovnik. This wide cove is protected by far-reaching headlands and its waters are crystal clear!

This region of Lopud Island is inhabited and is usually visited by travelers on an island-hopping boat trip. If you're looking for a Dubrovnik beach for kids, then this is a great option since the swimming area features shallow waters and a soft, sandy bottom.

15. Porporela

The last swimming spot on this list of Dubrovnik Beaches is the iconic breakwall located next to Dubrovnik's Old Harbour, right beneath the City Walls.

Porporela pier is a great spot to stroll down to if you're in Dubrovnik Old Town and looking for a place to swim. You'll find a small roped-off area just off the rocks which serves as the local swim spot beneath the historic St John Fortress.

About the Beaches in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is located on the Dalmatian Coast of the Adriatic Sea, one of the world's premier beach destinations. The water here is crystal-clear almost all year round and there are several great beaches to check out when you visit.

However, don't expect too many fine white sand beaches here. While there are a couple of fine sand beaches in Dubrovnik but most of the swimming spots near the Old City are either pebble beaches or rocky coves.

If you're in a rush, below I've given you a quick summary of the different beach options to choose from around Dubrovnik.

However, read on for more photos and information on how to get to each beach!

Pebble Beaches

Pebble beaches usually consist of rocky shores with small to medium-sized stones. These stones are usually quite smooth and are great to lay on. However, they're not quite as comfortable to walk on as sandy beaches.

Some of the best fine pebble strands include:

• Banje Beach
• Coral Beach Club
• Bellevue Beach
• Sveti Jakov
• Betina Beach Cave
• Šulic Beach
• West Harbor Beach (Kolorina)
• Coral Beach Bar
• Bellevue Beach

Dubrovnik Travel Tip: Many of the beaches closest to the Old City including Banje Beach and Šulic Beach, and Kolorina can get crowded during the peak season (Summer Months). Therefore, if you want to find some more secluded beaches, I highly recommend this popular guided sea kayaking tour, which visits some of the beautiful small coves in the area!

Sandy Beaches

If you're looking for fine sand beaches in Dubrovnik, you'll need to book an Elaphiti Islands boat trip to nearby Lopud and Koločep islands or get transport to Uvala Lapad Beach on the Lapad Peninsula.

The best sandy beaches near Dubrovnik are:

• Beach Sunj (Lopud Island)
• Koločep Island Beach (Donje Celo)
• Uvala Lapad

Famous Beach Bars & Rocky Coves

Chances are, if you're looking for a beach, you'll also be interested in finding some awesome swimming spots!

Below are some awesome beach bars, cliff bars, and rocky coves for swimming and cliff jumping in Dubrovnik:

• Danče Beach
• Coral Beach Bar
• Porporela
• Buža Beach

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik

With a population of only around 42,000, Dubrovnik isn't a large city. However, it does attract over 1.5 million tourists every year. As a result, you can expect many great places to stay in Dubrovnik, including resorts, hotels, and hostels for every budget.

The best area to stay is in or close to the Old Town (Stari Grad, or Walled City). This is where you'll find most of the attractions and highlights. However, staying just outside the city, or in one of the beautiful cliffside resorts and hotels is also a great option.

Below are my top-rated accommodation picks for the city of Dubrovnik, Croatia.

• Bota Palace - Located in the center of the Old Town and a 3-minute walk from Buza Beach. This Bed and Breakfast offers beautifully decorated rooms, wifi, a kitchen, fridge, oven, and a la carte breakfast. A great pick for couples wanting to explore the city within the walls.
• Hostel Petra Marina - With direct access to the local bus stop right outside, this hostel is just 200 meters away from the port and the perfect place to stay for backpackers wanting to explore Dubrovnik.
• Rixos Premium Dubrovnik - A luxury choice for those wanting to relax in ultimate style. Modern-styled rooms with sea views and only a 2-minute walk to the beach. It offers a 2-story spa with features a Turkish bath and indoor pool.

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After the Dubrovnik Beaches: More Croatia Travel Inspiration

I hope you've enjoyed this Dubrovnik beach guide to the top swimming and lounging spots in Croatia's Pearl of The Adriatic.

Below I've linked some additional travel guides and useful resources that I'm sure you'll find useful for your travels!

• 15 Awesome Things to do in Omiš, Croatia - Complete Guide
• 21 Dubrovnik Game of Thrones Filming Locations (Croatia)
• 25 Awesome Things to do in Kotor, Montenegro
• 25 Best Things to do in Split, Croatia in 2023
• Blue Cave Croatia (Biševo Blue Grotto) - Complete Guide
• Cetina Rafting - How to Go River Rafting From Split or Omiš
• Stiniva Beach - Complete Guide (Vis Island, Croatia)
• Zipline Omiš - Croatia's Cetina Canyon Adventure (Ultimate Guide)

The post 15 Best Beaches in Dubrovnik, Croatia appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Cairns and Far North tropical Coral Coast is where the rainforest meets the reef. It’s one of the most beautiful, diverse and naturally rich destinations on earth. If you’re planning a visit to Cairns, then you need to head offshore and experience at least one of the many incredible islands dotting the coast.

I’ve been fortunate enough to spend close to a year documenting, photographing and exploring the best destinations, attractions and Great Barrier Reef islands near Cairns and Far North Queensland.

Below is a summary of what I believe to be the most comprehensive and up-to-date list of the best islands off Cairns that you should visit this year!

Island Resorts Near Cairns - Staying on the Great Barrier Reef

Out of all of the nearby Cairns islands, there are only three islands that you can actually spend the night on. If you're looking for island accommodation near Cairns, you'll want to check out:

• Fitzroy Island
• Green Island
• Lizard Island
• Bonus: Great Barrier Reef Pontoon (more details below)

In my opinion, Fitzroy Island has one of the best offshore resorts and is also the closest island to Cairns. I've visited Fitzroy several times and can highly recommend the famous Fitzroy Island Resort.

It features everything you need for a once-in-a-lifetime island getaway including a pool, snorkelling opportunities off the beach, a restaurant and a cocktail bar!

Read: My review of Fitzroy Island Resort (with photos)

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Green Island features a resort with luxurious suites. It's an eco-resort with 2 pools and a poolside bar. The Green Island Resort is top-end, with a day spa, massage and beauty treatments and a restaurant.

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Lizard Island is arguably one of the most incredible islands in Far North Queensland. It also has a 5-star luxury resort which is voted one of the best island resorts in Australia. The only catch is that to get here, you will need to get on a 1-hour scenic flight from Cairns.

That's because Lizard Island is located 200 kilometres north of Cairns. But hey, if you wanted to see the Great Barrier Reef from the sky, this might be a win-win. This option isn't exactly a budget-friendly one, but definitely the most amazing for those of you looking for a honeymoon escape or an extra-special experience.

Book: Lizard Island Resort (free flight from Cairns if staying more than 5 days)

The Great Barrier Reef Pontoon experience is a great option for visitors looking to spend a night on the reef. While not technically a Cairns island resort, the pontoon offers the opportunity to spend a night floating just off the reef and includes snorkelling and an optional 10-minute helicopter flight.

Book: Great Barrier Reef Pontoon Experience

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Related: The 11 Best Cairns Tours & Experiences

Don't Miss This Cairns Packing List

Preparing a trip to Cairns? Don't miss these must-bring items on your list!

Cairns Packing List

Cairns Islands: 8 Islands Off Cairns

Below you'll find my list of the 8 best islands off Cairns. But, just keep in mind that I haven't ranked them in any particular order. Therefore, you should use this list to compare each island's flares and reasons to visit to make a choice for yourself.

1. Green Island

Reasons to visit: Great snorkelling, several beaches and a rainforest interior.

Green Island is probably one of the most popular islands near Cairns. It's one of the closest to the Cairns coast and a fast boat only takes about an hour.

Highlights include snorkeling at the incredible fringing reef and at "the pinnacle". You can also explore the island on foot, checking out the incredible tropical flora and white-sand beaches that line its shores.

Furthermore, Green Island is one of the only islands off Cairns with its own rainforest ecosystem. This makes it one of the most unique options for a day trip from Cairns. However, you can also stay here if you book a return ticket below (open-ended).

The Green Island Resort is one of the best tropical resorts off Cairns, especially for those looking for a luxury offering out on the reef.

Stay here: Green Island Resort

2. Fitzroy Island

Reasons to visit: Cheapest island from Cairns, incredible resort, hiking.

Another incredible tropical paradise just around the corner from Cairns is Fitzroy Island. The fast boat to Fitzroy will only take you about 45 minutes, and you can choose to spend a day or even stay overnight at the Fitzroy Island Resort.

In my opinion, the best thing about Fitzroy Island is the incredible turtle population. I counted up to 13 turtles during my first time snorkelling, which is the most I've seen anywhere on the Australian East Coast.

Also, if you like a good hike, there are plenty of walks to choose from. The highest of which takes you to one of the best viewpoints on the Cairns Coast; The Fitzroy Island Summit. I've featured this walk in my list of the best hikes in Cairns!

Since these first two Cairns Islands are the most popular, I've also written a comprehensive comparison guide to Fitzroy Island vs Green Island to help you choose. Otherwise, keep reading to find more islands off Cairns to visit.

3. Frankland Islands (Normanby Island)

Reasons to visit: Incredible snorkelling, healthiest reef, river cruise included

Although a little further than some of the other islands around Cairns, the tropical archipelago of the Frankland Islands are definitely a must-visit when in the Tropical North!

These islands include High Island, Russel Island, Mabel Island, Round Island and Normanby Island. All of them are definitely less popular than the others on this list, but let me tell you, the Frankland Islands are amazing!

The best island to visit is Normanby Island. In fact, I honestly believe that the coral reef system here is healthier and richer than many of the popular spots on the outer reef!

If you're looking to see a real slice of the Great Barrier Reef on a nearby Cairns Island, don't miss out on this one!

Related: How to Spend 5 Days in Cairns - Itinerary

50+ More Cairns Bucketlist Items

• Visit the Cairns Islands
• Kuranda Railway & Skyrail
• Rusty's Markets
• Day trip to Cape Tribulation
• ... +51 more things to do in Cairns!

Read the Full List

4. The Low Isles - Epic Islands off Port Douglas

Reasons to visit: 15-minute fast boat from Port Douglas, loads of guided snorkelling options.

Located closer to Port Douglas than Cairns, The Low Isles are still one of the best islands worth checking out from Cairns. The great thing is, Port Douglas is just an hour north of Cairns and is worth at least a day trip in its own right.

The Low Isles is a set of two smaller islands; Low Island and Woody Island. Woody Island is reserved for bird nesting so Low Island is the only accessible part of the Low Isles.

On the island, you'll find a picturesque lighthouse and a far-reaching fringing reef to explore. The snorkelling is not quite as good as what you'll find on Green Island, but it's still an epic Great Barrier Reef Island not to miss!

How to get to Low Isles

You can get to the Low Isles by taking a speed boat, which is ridiculously fast - only 15 minutes to the islands from Port Douglas! However, if you'd prefer to visit this Cairns island on an organised snorkelling or sailing trip, then check out these options below:

Book: Low Isles Luxury Catamaran

Book: Lowe Isles Sailing & Snorkelling Trip: Wavedancer

HEADING NORTH?: Guide to the Great Barrier Reef Drive | Things to do in Cape Tribulation

5. Dunk Island

Reasons to visit: awesome sand spit, hiking trails and lookouts

Another must-visit and one of my personal favourite islands off Cairns is Dunk Island. This one is located a little further south of Cairns, accessible from the Mission Beach area.

On the island, there is an abandoned resort, an old airstrip, plenty of hikes, great snorkelling and an incredible reaching sand bar that's a favourite on Instagram.

If you decide to visit Dunk Island, don't miss Mound Island, which sits just opposite the main beach. You'll need a kayak or boat to get over there, but if you do, you'll get a small taste of isolated island life.

How to get to Dunk Island

Dunk Island is popular with both Innisfail and Mission Beach locals, as well as the many backpackers and travellers that visit the Tropical North every year.

While there aren't many ways to get to Dunk Island on an organised trip from Cairns, you can book a fairly cheap and quick boat if you're driving south to Mission Beach anyway.

Update: As of 2022, there's now a brand new ferry running to Dunk Island from Mission Beach!

6. Michaelmas Cay

Reasons to visit: Outer reef cay, great snorkelling, sea bird population

Want more of a taste of the outer Great Barrier Reef? If you're in Cairns, then you're in luck. Fortunately, Cairns is one of the best places in Australia to access the Great Barrier Reef, with both epic islands and reef cays just off the coast.

One of the best island cays on the outer reef is Michaelmas Cay. Compared to the other islands off Cairns, Michaelmas Cay and the surrounding reef has the best snorkelling and diving you'll find.

This cay doesn't have much in terms of things to do on land. But, let's face it, Cairns island hopping is all about the underwater world! There is also a sea-bird population that returns to nest each afternoon on Michaelmas, which is great for nature lovers and bird watchers.

7. Vlasoff Cay

Reasons to visit: most scenic Cairns island cay, epic snorkelling.

Vlasoff Cay is perhaps the most famous and iconic cay on the Great Barrier Reef off Cairns. You'll often find it on promotional posters and tourism campaigns. That's because it really is the most perfect, iconic little patch of white sand that has to be seen to be believed.

A similar size to Michaelmas Cay, Vlasoff offers similar snorkelling but without the sea bird population.

8. Lizard Island

Reasons to visit: Epic resort, large island to explore, great snorkelling & diving

Lizard Island is perhaps the most remote island off Cairns, located 200 kilometres to the north. Chances are you won't meet too many people who've been here but that hasn't stopped Lizard Island's international acclaim. It's been featured in several Hollywood films and is often featured on Cairns travel posters and ads.

There are loads of things to do on Lizard Island. From exploring the many beaches and coral-lined bays to hiking around to the viewpoints, there's no way you'll run out of things to do.

Also, as I mentioned above, Lizard Island is home to one of the best Cairns Island resorts. So, if you make the effort to see this tropical gem, it'd be a shame not to spend at least a night here.

Book: Lizard Island Resort

How to get to Lizard Island

Being the most remote island off Cairns, you'll need to book a scenic flight to get here. I recommend searching SkyScanner for great deals or checking the Cairns airport website for up-to-date departure information.

The flight from Cairns international airport takes just under an hour and isn't just a regular commercial flight. It's a low-flying scenic flight that also passes some of the best aerial views of the Great Barrier Reef. Currently, there's a promotional deal where if you book at least 5 nights at the resort, you can get a free return flight to Cairns.

The Best Islands off Cairns: A Summary

After reading this island list, I'm sure you're itching to get out and explore the tropical beauty of the Far North. If you're still tossing up which Cairns island to visit, then below is a quick summary that might help you make the call.

1. Closest islands to Cairns: Fitzroy Island & Green Island
2. Best snorkelling & diving: Frankland Islands & Vlasoff Cay
3. Cairns Islands for a road trip: Dunk Island & Low Isles
4. Best cay for bird-spotting: Michaelmas Cay & Green Island
5. Healthiest Coral Reef: Frankland Islands

To save you time and money, I've selected the best-rated and most cost-effective options to get to each island from Cairns above.

Update: BackpackerDeals.com also has some great last-minute deals at the moment. I've partnered with them to give my readers $5 off all their tours and tickets when using code: OLLY5.

Cairns Accommodation Guide – Where to Stay

Visiting Cairns? The best places to stay are near the Cairns Esplanade or on the sunny Northern Beaches. Below are the top 4 options for varying budgets.

• Crystalbrook Riley - If luxury and location are what you're after, you can't beat the Crystalbrook Riley. This is the best 5-star resort in Cairns and features absolutely everything you'd expect from a Crystalbrook resort.
• Fitzroy Island Resort - Sleep out on one of the picturesque Great Barrier Reef Islands at Fitzroy Island Resort. Spending the night on the island can work out cheaper than staying in town and means you get more time to explore the reef, coral beaches and rainforest walking trails.
• Gilligan's Backpackers - The best backpacker option for a great vibe in Cairns. Great place to meet like-minded travelers and has facilities including a pool. air-con, a huge shared kitchen, and a great common area!
• Pepper's Beach Club - stay at the best beach resort in the heart of Palm Cove on the Cairns Northern Beaches!

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More on HostelWorld

For a bigger list, don't miss my Cairns accommodation guide or as an alternative stay in FNQ, read my Port Douglas Accommodation guide too.

Sailing or boating on the Coral Coast? Read about my sailing adventures on our homebuilt yacht up the East Coast of Australia.

More Cairns Travel Guides and Adventure Inspiration

I hope that this travel guide to the best islands off Cairns has given you a better understanding of what to expect from the paradise that is the Far North.

Below are some more Cairns travel guides and inspiration that I think you'll love.

• 23 Best Things to do in Cairns Australia - UPDATED 2020
• 5 Things to Know BEFORE Booking Cairns Scenic Flights on the Great Barrier Reef
• 8 Things to Know Before Booking Cairns Helicopter Tours on the Great Barrer Reef
• Babinda Boulders and Devils Pools, Cairns
• Barron Falls Kuranda - Largest Waterfall Near Cairns
• Cairns Beaches: 11 Best Beaches in Cairns & The Tropical North
• Hot Air Balloon Cairns - Everything You Need to Know in 2023
• Kahlpahlim Rock Hike (Lambs Head) Cairns Hiking Guide (2023)
• Milla Milla Falls - Incredible Waterfall in the Atherton Tablelands Near Cairns
• Mount Bartle Frere Hike: Hiking Queensland's Tallest Mountain
• Nandroya Falls, Wooroonooran National Park - Cairns
• Packing List for Cairns: Essential List of What to Pack for Cairns & Why
• Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Experience Cairns - 2023 Guide
• Walsh's Pyramid Hike in Cairns - Complete Hiking Guide 2023

The post Cairns Islands: 8 Islands Off Cairns You Need to Visit in 2023 appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Aoraki/Mount Cook is New Zealand’s Everest. In fact, the mountain was the old proving ground for the world’s most coveted mountaineer; Sir Edmund Hillary.

While the towering peaks of Aoraki are inaccessible to everyday hikers, there are still some epic day hikes to be had beneath her slopes. In this guide, I’ll be outlining some of the best hikes in Mount Cook National Park for those looking to chase views!

I’ve also written independent hiking guides for each of the hiking day trips below if you’re looking for detailed information.

Top 3 Mount Cook National Park Experiences

6 Amazing Hikes in Mount Cook National Park

So, let's get straight into the list of best hikes in Mount Cook National Park. If you have any more recommendations, make sure to let other travelers know in the comments section.

1. Hooker Valley Track

• Hike Distance & Duration: 10 km in 2 - 3 hours
• Elevation: 100 m elevation gain
• Difficulty: Easy

The Hooker Valley Track is by far, the most popular day hike in Mount Cook National Park. In fact, it's often rated as one of the best and most popular hikes in New Zealand.

Following up Hooker Valley, the track gently winds up to the Hooker glacial lake. There are several epic swing bridges on the way, with plenty of opportunity for spanning views of the Sealy Mountains and Aoraki/Mount Cook.

2. Sealy Tarns Track

• Hike Distance & Duration: 7.5 km return in 2 - 3 hours
• Elevation: 1310 m with 550 m total elevation gain
• Difficulty: Moderate (steep)

The Sealy Tarns track is a more difficult hike that climbs steeply to a set of beautiful mountain reflective pools (tarns).

Known as New Zealand's "Stairway to Heaven" the track is mostly just a monotonous wooden stair climb to the tarns. However, turning around at any point of the hike reveals incredible views of the Hooker Valley and of course, Mount Cook herself.

3. Mueller Hut Route

• Hike Distance & Duration 10.4 km return in 5.5 - 8 hours (usually overnight)
• Elevation: 1150 m total elevation gain (1250 m incl. Mt Ollivier)
• Mueller Hut Elevation: 1800 m AMSL
• Difficulty: Moderate - Difficult

The Mueller Hut route is one of my personal favourite hikes in Mount Cook National Park and perhaps in all of New Zealand. It's better to attempt this hike over two days, either staying in the hut or freedom camping nearby.

Following on from the Sealy Tarns track, the Mueller Hut route continues on, climbing to a mountain pass on the Sealy Range.

From the pass, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the opposing ice walls and just around the corner, the Mueller Hut.

This hut is one of the most scenic in New Zealand, being surrounded by ice-covered mountains on each side, and incredible sunrise and sunset views of Mount Cook.

There is also the option to summit Mount Ollivier from the hut, which is only a short, yet incredibly rewarding side trip.

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4. Kea Point Track

• Hike Distance & Duration: 6 km in 1-2 hours
• Elevation: 180 m total gain
• Difficulty: Easy

For a shorter and much easier day hike in Mount Cook National Park, the Kea Point track is a good bet.

Branching off from the Sealy Tarns track before the stair-climb, the Kea Point track runs gently along the feet of the Sealy Range. The track ends at an incredible viewing platform of the Mueller moraine and Mount Cook.

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5. Tasman Glacier Moraine Viewpoint

• Hike Distance & Duration: 8.5 km in 2 hours
• Elevation: 260 m total gain to 910 m AMSL at the moraine viewpoint
• Difficulty: Easy but slightly sketchy scree climb

This Tasman Glacier viewpoint hike follows the Balls Hut track from the Tasman Glacier car park.

Although this offers arguably the best hiking views of the glacier, it is not marked or mentioned by the DOC. I suspect that the reason for this is that the scree climb up to the edge of the moraine wall is simply too dangerous due to the risk of rockfall.

However, in good conditions, this hike is the best viewpoint to see New Zealand's largest glacier up close and personal.

6. Blue Lakes and Tasman Glacier Walk

• Hike Distance & Duration: 2.6 km return in 1 hour
• Elevation: Mostly flat
• Difficulty: Very Easy

If you want to see the Tasman Glacier but you're not prepared for a long walk or a slippery scree climb, then I'd recommend taking the Blue Lakes and Tasman Glacier walk.

This is a much shorter walk to Tasman Lake, where you can spot the retreating glacier from afar.

There is also an option to detour to the Blue Lakes, which is a set of three colourful lakes which is a good spot for a quick swim in Summer.

Related:

8 Best Hikes in Queenstown, New Zealand

How to Get to the Mount Cook National Park

Most of these hikes depart from the Mount Cook National Park area near the White Horse Hill Campsite, approximately 3.5 kilometeres from the Mount Cook Village.

Getting to Mount Cook National Park requires a drive down one of New Zealand’s most scenic roads; Mount Cook Road, famous for the Peters Lookout Bend.

This road branches off State Highway 8 (Tekapo-Twizel Road) at the junction just before Lake Pukaki.

Tip: How to Get Around in New Zealand

Rent a car! New Zealand is very safe for motorists & driving is the best way to explore the country.

Make sure to book in advance using a comparison site like DiscoverCars to get the best deals. Or, if you want a camper, my favourite in NZ is Spaceships.

Compare Rental Deals

With so many amazing hiking opportunities in Mount Cook National Park, it's worth staying at least a night in the nearby Mount Cook Village. Below are the 3 top-rated options with links to check availability & pricing.

• Aoraki Court Motel - a spacious motel offering small, affordable rooms and large, two-bedroom apartments in the Mount Cook Village.
• Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge - beautiful lodge with spacious rooms accommodating everyone from couples to large families, just 5 minute's walk from the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre.
• Aoraki Alpine Chalet - an incredible chalet with mountain views & a warm fireplace, just a short walk to the start of the Hooker Valley Track.

More Mount Cook Accommodation

Camping at Mount Cook

If you're on a budget or would prefer to camp, then the best place to stay overnight at Mount Cook National Park is the White Horse Hill Campsite.

Here, there are 60 unpowered sites and you'll need to arrive early in peak season to secure a spot. It's not possible to book online as it operates on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Fees are $15 per night per person.

Related:

11 Epic Mount Cook View Locations

Best Time to Hike in the Mount Cook National Park

Many of the day hikes on this list can be attempted year-round. However, the best time to hike in New Zealand is between November and April.

These months offer warmer conditions, less ice on the track and clearer skies.

However, hiking in the colder, winter months is also great for those who prefer more challenging conditions.

Registering Hiking Intentions in the Mount Cook Visitor Centre

For the majority of these hikes, registering your intentions with the DOC Visitor Centre in Mount Cook Village is not required.

However, if you're intending to do some bigger hikes such as the Mueller Hut Route, or you're hiking in Winter, then registering with the DOC is a must.

This is a free process whereby you notify the DOC about what you intend on doing and where you are going. This helps to prevent unwarranted searches from taking place when they find your car in the car park overnight.

It's also a great safety protocol so that the authorities know where you are if things were to go south on the mountains.

More Epic Adventures in New Zealand's South Island

I hope that you enjoyed this quick guide to some of the best hikes in Mount Cook National Park. If you're looking for more day hikes or things to do in New Zealand, make sure to check out the list below.

A good starting point is this guide to the 31 Best Hikes in the South Island.

• 12 Epic Mount Cook View Locations - Best Places to See Mount Cook
• 31 Best Hikes in South Island New Zealand
• 37 Best Things to do in Queenstown New Zealand
• 8 Best Hikes in Queenstown and Surrounds, New Zealand
• Hiking Avalanche Peak New Zealand - Arthur's Pass
• Mount Fox Route - Hiking Guide to the Best Fox Glacier Viewpoint
• Roberts Point Track - Franz Josef Glacier Lookout, New Zealand
• Rocky Mountain Summit Track - Diamond Lake New Zealand
• Roys Peak New Zealand - Complete Wanaka Hiking Guide
• Where to See the Kaikoura Seal Colony - South Island New Zealand
• Where to Stay in Queenstown New Zealand: Best Areas, Hotels & Accommodation Options

The post 6 Incredible Hikes in Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand (2023) appeared first on We Seek Travel.

You might be surprised to know that some Koh Tao boasts some of Thailand’s best beaches!

Whether you’re looking for a great snorkeling or freediving spot, or just a scenic cove for swimming or cliff jumping– this updated Koh Tao beach guide has you covered.

Koh Tao Beach Map

I spent just over two months on Koh Tao completing my Dive Master program, so I had plenty of time to check out these beaches and to make a good call on which ones would make the list. Keep in mind this list isn't in any specific order and will depend on what you are looking for. 

Check out the map to find the locations of all of the beaches on Koh Tao in the list below. 

Travel Hack: Click on the map of the Koh Tao beach locations above and it will load on your Google Maps app. You can save it by clicking the grey star at the top, which will add it to "Your Places" on your Google Maps account. This way, you have a handy digital app on the go with all the beaches pinned– just refer back to this article (or bookmark it) for the explanations!

8 Best Beaches on Koh Tao

1. Koh Nang Yuan

Koh Nang Yuan isn't really one of the beaches on Koh Tao, but a very small double-headed island about half a kilometer off the North-West coast of the island.

This is one of the most famous and recognizable photo spots in the Gulf of Thailand, with an awesome viewpoint looking over a skinny stretch of white sand connecting the two island heads– definitely a must-visit!

To get here, you'll want to jump on the epic day trip from Sairee Beach, since you need a boat to get here.

Book a Day Trip to Koh Nang Yuan

2. Shark Bay (Haad Thien Beach)

Shark Bay is located on the Southern facing side of Koh Tao.

This beach is famous for its snorkeling and the Black Tip Reef Sharks that frequent the shallows in the early mornings. If you're looking to swim with the sharks, check out this post detailing how and when you will need to visit this beach. 

The actual beach (Haad Thien Beach) is privately owned by the resort. You can either drive to the resort and pay for entry or simply enter the bay from the cliff side stairs.

The best route to access the beach is to head to OK2 Bungalows and walk down the cliff-side ramp until you reach the water. 

Once you are at the water, there is a bamboo walkway over the jagged rocks around the side of the bay. You can either chill out once you reach the smooth rocks and snorkel in the bay, or keep walking around for some small little cliff jump spots of 2 -3 meters.

3. Freedom Beach

Freedom beach is one of my favorite beaches on Koh Tao. This small, sheltered white-sand beach has epic turquoise water and a quiet surf ambiance without the waves. There are some hammocks hanging from the trees just behind the water's edge.

Freedom Beach is on the opposite side of Shark Bay, and can be reached by riding about 3 minutes passed the turnoff to OK2 Bungalows. There will be a short stretch of dirt road before reaching the car park for a resort. Keep walking down and you will see a sign for Freedom Beach. 

The owners of the small restaurant do a pretty great job of keeping the beach clean, so if you want to thank them, buy a drink or snack. Just remember to take your trash with you. 

4. Tanote Bay

Although Tanote Bay is on the other side of the Island from the hustle of Sairee, it is one of the most popular beaches on Koh Tao. This is largely due to the awesome snorkeling and cliff jumping. 

To get to Tanote Bay from Sairee, head towards Cha Lok until you see a large sign on your left. You will pass the small and only animal clinic on the island and continue up and over the hill. Continue straight on this road until you reach the end, where you will see a small dirt road that continues all the way to the beach. 

This main road is one of the most scenic in Koh Tao, offering epic panoramic views. We found ourselves stopping most times along the road to check out the epic views of the island coast. 

There is a large rock surfacing about 4m out of the water at Tanote Bay. This rock has some of the best snorkeling out of the other beaches on Koh Tao. You can also climb to the top of the rock to jump off into the deep water below. 

5. Hin Wong Bay

Hin Wong Bay is another epic bay with a small rocky beach on Koh Tao. This spot is a little quieter than other beaches on Koh Tao, mainly due to the monster hill that you have to ride up to reach it. 

To get to Hin Wong Bay, ride towards Smile Mart from the Sairee Beach main area. Keep riding along this main road, past Smile Mart, and up the hill. It is quite steep and you will most likely need at least a 110cc scooter to get up this one.

Once you've reached the top of the hill, you can check out the spectacular views of Sairee, before riding down the other side of the hill towards Hin Wong Bay. 

Many people like to visit Hin Wong Bay for snorkeling or simply just relaxing on the rocky beach. There are also many dive boats that moor here when the weather is rough on the Sairee, Western Side of Koh Tao. 

The Ultimate Koh Tao Travel Resource

Looking for more Koh Tao travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

• Top Things to do on Koh Tao
• Where to stay on Koh tao

6. Cha Lok Bay

Cha Lok Bay is a large beach stretched by a long strip of white sand. There are a few boats moored up on this bay, but the water is clear and much better for swimming than the poplar Sairee Beach. 

This beach is fairly easy to find as many dive shops are scattered along the stretch of the beach. To get to Cha Lok Bay, head towards Cha Lok town and keep riding past the turnoff to Tanote Bay. Once you reach Koh Tao Resort, you can walk through the gaps in the many resorts and dive shops and onto the beach. 

Although the snorkeling isn't as good as some of the other beaches on Koh Tao, Cha Lok bay is great for spending the day on the beach or at one of the beach-side bars. This beach is also right next to the popular John Suwan Lookout.

7. Sairee Beach

Everyone heading to Koh Tao will end up at Sairee Beach at one point or another. Whether if it's for the famous Koh Tao pub crawl, or looking for dive shops to organize a Padi certificate with, Sairee Beach is the main tourist area of Koh Tao. 

It's not hard to miss this beach, but I found the best spots were on the northern tip of the beach, away from the longtails and dive boats that are coming in and out of the bay. 

There are also some great bars along the stretch of the beach. Sairee is great for sunset, as you can watch the sun disappear behind the horizon. 

Tip: Make sure to check out the fire throwers who perform nightly along the stretch of Sairee beach. 

8. Abandoned Resort Beach (Laem Thian Beach)

The Abandoned Resort is one of my favorite beaches on Koh Tao. A once-bustling resort is now empty and deserted. Due to the face that it takes around one hour to walk here, you will usually also have the whole bay to yourself. 

After checking out the abandoned resort, you have the option of snorkeling in Laem Thain Bay, or cliff jumping on the other side of the bay where some tall rocks stick out of deep water. 

Where to Stay on Koh Tao - Accommodation Guide

There are several options for travelers wondering where to stay on Koh Tao island. Generally speaking, most people like to stay near Sairee Beach to be close to all the highlights and things to do. However, you can also stay near Mae Head, or a bit further up the mountain from Sairee as well.

To save you time searching the web, I've listed some of the best options for where to stay on Koh Tao below.

• Best Luxury Pick: Jamahkiri Resort & Spa - a really great bang-for-buck luxury resort. Guests will find this one on the beachfront of Shark Bay in a quiet and secluded location away from the hustle and bustle.
• Best self-catering villa: Phandara Pool Villas - a luxury option for those who want their own kitchen & pool.
• Best Backpacker Hostel: Summer Guesthouse - located within walking distance of the dive shops on Sairee beach and of course, the nightly pub crawls– this is the top budget option with a great vibe.

View on Booking.com

View on HostelWorld

More Thailand Travel Guides

I hope that this guide to Koh Tao's best beaches has inspired you to explore this island gem! For more travel guides from Thailand, make sure to take a pick from the list below.

• 7 Best Things to do in Khao Lak, Thailand - Complete Travel Guide
• Best Secret Sunset Viewpoint on Koh Tao, Thailand
• Where to Stay on Koh Tao - 2023 Accommodation Guide

The post 8 Best Beaches on Koh Tao, Thailand appeared first on We Seek Travel.

With more than 300 days of sunshine per year, the Maltese islands are officially Europe’s sunniest country!

Combine this great weather with beautiful beaches, secluded rocky coves, and the crystal clear, Mediterranean Sea, and you’ve got yourself the ideal seaside vacation spot!

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll reveal the 35 best beaches in Malta, from Mellieha Bay on the main island to the far-flung golden sands of Ramla Bay on Gozo! If you scroll to the bottom of this post, I’ve also included a useful beach map to help you find your way around the coast!

Beautiful Sandy Beaches on Malta Island

1. Golden Bay Beach

Famous for its golden red sands and crystal clear water, Golden Bay is up there with one of the most popular beaches in Malta!

Located on the northwest region of the main island, this beach is also well-known for its water sports activities and incredible seaside resort, the Radisson Blue Resort– one of the best places to stay in Malta.

Car Rentals in Malta

The best way to experience both Malta and Gozo islands is to rent your own car! I recommend booking well in advance using price comparison sites like DiscoverCars if traveling in the busy summer season.

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2. Għajn Tuffieħa Beach (Riviera Beach)

Situated just south of Golden Bay, Għajn Tuffieħa Beach is another sandy beach protected by a rocky headland. Here, you’ll find shallow waters which are great for swimming with kids.

While by no means a secluded hidden gem (more of these below), Għajn Tuffieħa is often much less crowded than Golden Bay.

Additionally, travelers will find a few walking tracks just above the sandy shores. The best one winds up to a View Point on the Il-Qarraba headland, providing spectacular views of the transparent waters of the Mediterranean.

3. Gnejna Beach

Gnejna Bay holds another excellent sandy beach known for water sports and unique rocky geological formations.

This is a great option for those looking to do some kayaking, as just around the headland you’ll find some spectacular sea caves, known as Ta’ Marija Cave.

4. Mellieħa Bay (Għadira Bay)

Mellieħa Bay is one of the most popular beaches in the north of Malta. That’s because Mellieħa Bay is Malta’s longest sandy beach, with peaceful, shallow waters that are very safe for young children.

This region is also one of the best areas to stay in Malta, with some of the best seaside resorts and beach clubs located in this surrounding area of Għadira Bay.

5. Armier Bay Beach

Moving further north of Malta and we’ll discover some of the best secluded beaches on the island. Armier Bay Beach and Little Armier Beach are two beautiful protected coves on Malta’s northeast tip providing soft sands and clear water for swimming.

This is a popular spot for those looking to escape the crowds at some of Malta’s more popular beaches like Mellieħa Beach and Golden Bay. Furthermore, kayak rental stalls often operate on the beach here, which is perfect for exploring the rocky north.

6. Paradise Bay Beach

The northern peninsula of Malta is where you will find the Cirkewwa Passenger Terminal for the Gozo Channel Ferry. While it seems contradictory, one of Malta’s most beautiful beaches is tucked just around the corner from this terminal!

Paradise Bay Beach is an incredibly beautiful bay that is perfect for swimming and snorkeling in scenic natural surroundings. In fact, the beach is so tranquil that you’ll likely forget that you’re right next to a ferry terminal!

7. Pretty Bay Beach

Another stunning beach with surprising surroundings is Pretty Bay beach near Il-Bajja s-Sabiha in the south of Malta.

Pretty Bay is another sandy beach with several hotels and traditional limestone buildings dotting its shores. This is a great place for sunbaking, boating, or grabbing an ice cream or espresso at the many local shops.

While this beach is undoubtedly a great place to hang out, there is the unfortunate eye-sore of the Malta freeport in direct view. Nonetheless, the clear waters and nearby amenities mean that Pretty Bay deserves a spot on this list of the best beaches in Malta.

8. St. George’s Bay

As we make our way across the main island to the lively resort and hotel areas of Paceville and St Julians we’ll find the protected little cove called St. George’s Bay.

If you’re staying at one of the many hotels or all-inclusive resorts in the area, this little beach is well worth visiting! The waters are quite deep on this side, but the long, arching coast protects it from almost all wind.

9. Balluta Bay Beach

Similarly to St. George’s Bay, Balluta Bay Beach is a popular little sandy beach located smack-bang in the heart of the busy St Julian’s resort area.

This is a good spot for a quick swim or, head over to the Balluta Watersports stall and rent a jet ski!

Tip: Balluta Bay & St. George’s Bay can get very busy due to their central locations. However, if you walk north around the bay in Balluta, you’ll find another small rocky beach called Exiles Beach, a small local hidden gem.

10. Malta Freeport Beach

Another unlikely location to have a beautiful white sand beach, Malta Freeport Beach is surprisingly a nice and very unique place to swim!

Situated directly opposite the busy port, this little strip of sand makes for an excellent place to stretch out on a towel or go for a quick swim away from the crowds at nearby Pretty Bay.

11. Imġiebaħ Beach

Looking for a secluded cove without tourists? A great spot is Imġiebaħ Beach, a quiet and remote beach with clear water situated on Malta’s northeast shore, not far from Mellieħa Bay.

This one is definitely more of a local’s beach, and one of my absolute favorites in Malta!

12. St. Thomas Bay Sandy Beach

St. Thomas Bay is an excellent sandy beach located between the beautiful villages of Marsaskala and the famous fishing village of Marsaxlokk on Malta’s east coast.

This is another local favorite, with a few rocky shores and sections of beautiful sandy beaches hidden to the south beneath the Munxar cliffs.

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Rocky Beaches, Natural & Secluded Coves in Malta

13. Ramla tal-Qortin & Ramla tal-Bir

While there are plenty of picturesque sandy beaches in the archipelago, what truly makes Malta unique is its amazing limestone shorelines. One of my favorite spots to hang out on the rocks and snorkel in deep, clear water are the two bays surrounding the former Ramla Bay Resort (currently under renovation).

These are known as Ramla tal-Bir and Ramla tal-Qortin, or the Ramla Bays of northern Malta island. Not to be confused with the famous Ramla Bay on Gozo, these two scenic bays both have a long, flat rocky shore perfect for summer picnics.

The water is also crystal clear here, and one of the best beaches in Malta for snorkeling!

14. Anchor Bay (Popeye Village)

On the opposite side of Mellieħa, across the narrow, isthmus-like section of Malta’s main island lies the former film-set turned theme park known as Popeye Village of Anchor Bay.

Many tourists visit Popeye Village to see the set, but not many are aware that this is also a great place for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving! Just below the cliff to the south of the village is a sheltered area providing easy access to the water, and a great place to have a barbecue or picnic.

Additionally, sunset chasers will definitely want to head to this spot during the golden hour, as this is the ideal place to catch a sunset, with spectacular views of the sun sinking below the Mediterranean horizon.

Featured in: Best Sunset Viewpoints in Malta & Gozo

15. Qarraba Bay

Qarraba Bay is a rocky area wedged between Gnejna and Għajn Tuffieħa beaches. This spot is one of the most scenic in Malta, with unique limestone cliff formations unlike anywhere else on the island.

I recommend renting a Kayak at one of the nearby beaches and visiting this bay, which is usually only accessible from the sea. Additionally, the nearby Ta’Babu Cove and the protruding rock makes for an excellent snorkeling spot!

16. Ghar Lapsi Beach

Ghar Lapsi is a remote area in the very south of Malta’s main island. While often missed by most tourists, this location features some scenic coastal walking tracks, passing some spectacular beaches complete with sea caves and clear blue waters.

17. Zurrieq Valley Sea Inlet

While most tourists will visit Wied iz-Zurrieq for the opportunity to explore the incredible Blue Grotto, the tiny rocky inlet near the Blue Grotto boat service is also a spectacular place to swim in Malta.

These rocky shores are very picturesque, with sharp drops into deep water, making for a great cliff jumping spot. Additionally, scuba divers will not want to miss the nearby Um El-Faroud wreck, which is one of the best wreck dive sites in Malta.

18. Il-Kalanka

Next up is my favorite rocky beach in Malta, the pristine Il-Kalanka bay near Marsaxlokk in eastern Malta. This one is situated near the very end of Il-Kalanka point, near the lighthouse.

This bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in Malta, complete with deep, calm water to jump in straight from the limestone rocks. Furthermore, there are steel ladders fixed around the bay, making for easy access and a lot of fun!

19. St. Peter’s Pool

Malta is renowned for its spectacular natural pools. One of the very best is found just north of Il-Kalanka beach and is known as St. Peter’s Pool. This is a horseshoe-shaped natural swimming pool with deep, crystal-clear water.

Many tourists and locals will head down to this pool in the summer months to relax and jump off the limestone rocks into the pool. If you’re up for some fun and adventure, St. Peter’s Pool is a great place to visit on your Malta beach-hopping itinerary.

20. Il-Ħofra l-Kbira & Ta Kalanka Sea Cave

Heading north from Kalanka Point, on the small peninsula located between Marsaxlokk and St. Thomas Bay is a secluded rocky beach that is very little-known by tourists.

Accessible only via a single road leading out to the headland, here you’ll discover an incredible rocky beach complete with a large sea cave, providing excellent shelter during the hot summer days on Malta island.

21. Coral Lagoon

In terms of hidden gems, they don’t get much better than the Coral Lagoon. Appropriately named, this collapsed sea cave is a unique geological natural pool etched into the limestone cliffs on Malta’s northern point.

You’ll need a kayak or boat to access this one, but once inside you’ll discover one of the most tranquil places in Malta. The lagoon is filled with azure water and corals, and is deep enough to swim and snorkel.

22. Qawra Point Beach

Travelers staying in the buzzling Buġibba area will certainly want to add Qawra Point to their list of beaches to visit in Malta.

This rocky coastline is hidden at the tip of the bay, just beneath the famous Cafe del Mar beach bar. There’s plenty of space to relax here, and plenty of access to the deep bay.

23. Buġibba Perched Beach

The main beach in Buġibba is really a sandy one, but the sand is artificial, placed on a beautiful rocky shoreline lined with palm trees and resorts. This beach is quite busy but is a great place to swim and lounge beneath a sun umbrella with a cocktail.

24. Mistra Bay

Across the bay from Buġibba is a quiet, rocky coastline area known as Mistra. Mistra Bay Beach, while certainly not as vibrant as its immediate neighbors, it provides a tranquil place to relax or rent a kayak from.

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Amazing Beaches on Comino Island

25. Blue Lagoon

Comino’s Blue Lagoon is Malta’s most notable natural attraction. Picture iconic orange limestone cliffs dropping into some of the clearest waters you’ve ever seen.

Located on the smallest island, Comino, and only via a boat trip from Malta or Gozo, Blue Lagoon also has one of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the country! One of the best ways to get to the Blue Lagoon is to book the popular Blue Lagoon & Comino Caves trip, which is great value for money.

Book a Blue Lagoon Trip

26. Crystal Lagoon

While not as famous or well-known as the Blue Lagoon, Comino’s Crystal Lagoon is arguably just as beautiful. This picturesque bay is situated on the southwest corner of the tiny island and is often missed by tourists.

Here, you’ll discover a deep bay with crystal clear waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. There’s also a small pebble beach at the edge of the bay, providing a great place to relax as well.

27. St Niklaw Bay

Travelers taking the ferry or boat trip to the Blue Lagoon will likely soon realize just how busy this place gets. If you’re looking for a Malta beach to escape the crowds from on Comino, take the short island walking trail to St. Niklaw Bay, just a few hundred meters from the Blue Lagoon.

This bay has a small sandy beach with turquoise waters– great for swimming or snorkeling!

28. Santa Maria Bay

Besides the Blue Lagoon, Santa Maria Bay (Santa Marija Bay) is the most popular beach on Comino Island. The waters here are quite shallow, with a long stretch of white sand lining its shores.

The color of the water in this bay is unbelievably blue, providing excellent conditions for snorkeling. Additionally, visitors will have the option of taking a short walk over to the Santa Maria Caves, which are a must-visit attraction on Comino!

Top Beaches on Gozo Island

29. Ħondoq ir-Rummien

Starting directly across the channel from Comino over to Malta’s sister island; Gozo we have the picturesque and compact beach named Hondoq Bay (Ħondoq ir-Rummien Bay).

This is a very small beach with soft sands, protected by rocky outcrops on either side. Furthermore, there are several water sports companies operating here, so you have the option of water skiing, kayaking, or renting a SUP!

30. Ramla Beach (Ramla Bay)

Perhaps one of the most famous beaches in Malta, Ramla Bay Beach is a spectacular stretch of red sand overlooking the northern shores of Gozo Island.

Similarly to Mellieħa on the main island, the shallow water here makes it the perfect place for water sports or for enjoying a day at the beach with the family.

Additionally, Ramla Bay is known for its adjacent caves, Calypso’s Cave, and the spectacular viewpoint cave called Tal-Mixta Cave– go check them out!

31. Wied Il-Għasri

My personal favorite beach on Gozo Island, Malta is Wied Il-Għasri. This is one of the most scenic rocky inlets in the Maltese Islands and features a minuscule sandy beach entering into a snaking river-like canyon leading to the Mediterranean Sea in the north.

The Wied il Ghasri cove also contains several surrounding underwater caves, which makes it a popular spot for scuba divers and snorkelers.

32. Inland Sea

The Inland Sea might not appear on all lists of Malta’s best beaches, but I’d say it’s one of the most unique! This is a magnificent natural saltwater lagoon situated in Dwejra Bay on the island of Gozo’s rugged west.

This shallow semi-circular lagoon is lined by a thin, pebble beach and is often dotted with small fishing boats laying anchor during rough seas.

33. The Blue Hole

Malta’s Blue Hole is another spectacular rock formation right next to the famous Inland Sea in Dwejra Bay (Gozo).

While not a traditional beach, it is a great place to swim and snorkel, as this awesome vertical underwater tunnel is filled with crystal clear water! This is also located right beneath the former Azure Window!

34. Xlendi Beach

Xlendi Beach in Gozo’s lively Xlendi township is an excellent place to visit if you’re chasing beach bars, caves, and an overall chill vibe.

While the beach here is very small, travelers will want to check out the cliffside walking trails leading to a nearby cave and cliff-jumping spot! Afterward, go check out the nearby salt pans or grab a drink at one of the many seaside bars.

35. Mġarr ix-Xini

Looking to get off the beaten path on your Gozo beach hopping itinerary? If you’re visiting during the high season, make sure you include a visit to Mġarr ix-Xini.

This is a sheltered bay similar to Wied Il-Għasri but attracts a fraction of the tourists. Due to the high, fjord-like cliffs, this bay is usually very sheltered, even during bad weather.

Furthermore, beachgoers in Malta can enjoy the small pebble strand or the many flat rocks around it, providing a great place to sit down with friends and family.

Malta Accommodation Guide – Where to Stay Near the Beach

While visitors will find hotels and resorts scattered all over Malta’s islands, the most popular neighborhoods to base yourself in Malta include Valletta, Sliema & St Julian’s, Mellieħa Bay, and Gozo Island.

Travelers also have a broad variety of accommodation types, from 5-star resorts to traditional terraced boutique hotels. To save you time searching, below are the four best accommodation picks for Malta, based on location, reviews, and my personal experience.

• St Julian’s & Sliema Area: The Hilton
  This is Malta’s premiere resort, located at the heart of the picturesque Portomaso Marina. This is a great pick if you’re trying to balance great location with utmost luxury.
• Valletta: Iniala Harbour House
  Perched atop Valletta’s stunning St Barbara Bastion, this incredible boutique experience is well-regarded as one of the best accommodation options in Malta. The experience offers stunning views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities from traditional Maltese balconies.
• Mellieħa – db Seabank Resort
  The db Seabank is well-regarded as the best resort in the calmer Mellieħa area. Situated just feet from the white sandy shores of Malta’s longest beach, this complete all-inclusive hotel offers features five restaurants, a fitness center, a spa, multiple pools, and even a bowling alley!
• Gozo – Quaint Boutique Hotel (Nadur)
  Accommodation on Malta’s quieter sister island should reflect its more peaceful and traditional ambiance. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.

View more on Booking.com

Travel tip: Accommodation in Malta sells out quickly, especially for the summer vacation period. This is a location where you do not want to book at the last minute!

Map With the Best Beaches in Malta

Travel Hack: Click on the photo of the map above and it will load on your Google Maps app (must be installed on your phone). Then:
– Save it by clicking the grey star at the top, which will add it to “Your Places” on your Google Maps account.
– Now you have a handy digital app on the go with all the scene locations pinned
– Just refer back to this article (or bookmark it) for ideas and directions.

Useful Beach Resources for Malta

Below are some useful resources that’ll serve you well as you explore the spectacular beaches in Malta, Gozo, and Comino!

The Blue Flag Beaches in Malta

This flag system is one of the world’s most recognized voluntary awards for beaches, awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) to beaches that meet environmental standards. There are several blue flag beaches in Malta, including

• Mellieħa Bay
• St George’s Bay
• Qawra Bay
• Golden Bay
• Paradise Bay
• Ghajn Tuffieha
• Ramla Bay (the beach in Gozo)
• Hondoq ir-Rummien

How to get to the Beaches in Malta

By far, the best way to explore the Maltese islands is to rent a car. However, during the busy summer months, cars can sell out quickly. I recommend comparing prices across dealerships in St Julian, Mellieħa, and the International Airport on a comparison site like DiscoverCars.

Alternatively, you can always use Malta’s well-connected public transport bus network– just plan ahead for the return trip!

Common Jellyfish

Due to rising sea levels in the southern Mediterranean, Malta suffers from a growing jellyfish problem.

Luckily, these stingers are not dangerous, but some regular culprits like the Mauve Stinger can leave a slight burn.

Luckily, there is a useful map that tourists can check out showing the best beaches in Malta to avoid jellies, based on weather conditions like wind and waves. Additionally, this map will show information about rough weather and give advice on the best beaches to visit during the summer months in Malta.

The Ultimate Malta Travel Resource

Looking for more Malta travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

• – 70+ Things to do in Malta
• – Gozo Island Travel Guide
• – Comino Island Travel Guide

FAQs About Visiting Beaches in Malta

More Malta Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

I hope that you’ve enjoyed this Malta beach guide featuring the best sandy beaches, rocky coves, and secluded inlets of the Maltese Islands.

While you’re still here, don’t miss some of my other epic Malta travel guides! I’m sure you’ll find something you would have missed!

• 10 Amazing Boutique Hotels in Gozo (Where to Stay in 2023)
• 16 Awesome Things to do in Mellieha, Malta
• 16 Things to do on Comino Island Malta – Top Sites & Attractions
• 21 Best Sunset Viewpoint Locations in Malta, Gozo, & Comino
• 26 Awesome Things to do in Valletta, Malta
• 40 Amazing Things to do on Gozo Island, Malta
• 70 Awesome Things to do in Malta – 2023 Travel Guide
• 8 Things to do in Marsaxlokk Malta (Colorful Fishing Village)
• Mgarr ix Xini Beach Gozo – A Malta Hidden Gem
• Ultimate Guide to Golden Bay Malta + 5 Useful Tips
• Wied il Ghasri Beach Gozo (Malta) – Complete Guide

The post 35 Best Beaches in Malta, Gozo & Comino – Ultimate Guide With Map appeared first on We Seek Travel.

When searching for epic places to visit in Australia, you might pick Cairns for some of its celebrated highlights, like the Great Barrier Reef or the ancient Daintree Rainforest. Truthfully though, Cairns offers so much more than that.

Cairns is Australia’s outdoor adventure capital!

So, for travellers and adventurers who would prefer to bathe in a rainforest waterfall over a resort jacuzzi, you found yourself in the right place on this Cairns hiking guide.

From epic tropical rainforest tracks to rocky outcrops above the clouds, let’s just say hikers and bushwalkers won’t be disappointed in what Cairns has to offer. Without further ado, let’s dive into this list of the best Cairns hikes and walking tracks to help you plan some epic adventure day trips.

A Foreword for "Cairns Hiking Guide: 38 Best Hikes in Cairns"

In this blog post, I've formulated a complete list of all of the most epic hikes and walks in and around Cairns. I've spent several months exploring, documenting and photographing all of the best hiking trails in the region to compile this epic list.

Consequently, this is a long post but still only contains a short brief for each hike. However, here are a few things to note:

• I've written comprehensive hiking guides for each and every Cairns walking track listed in this blog post. You'll find the link beneath each heading.
• For hikes with waterfalls exclusively, make sure to check out my comprehensive guide to the Best waterfalls in Cairns and surrounds.

• Many of the hikes and trails included in this list are a fair drive from Cairns CBD itself. Travelers will want to rent a car for the most freedom since there is very little public transport to the best hiking trails.
• This list is not ranked in any particular order. Instead, I have grouped trails and routes that are closer together to help you better plan your trips.

Lastly, at the bottom of this post is a comprehensive Cairns hiking guide. This includes useful tips and resources that will help you out on your adventures in Cairns.

38 Best Hikes & Walking Tracks in Cairns

1. Walsh's Pyramid

• Hike Distance: 6.2 km (return)
• Duration: 3.5-5 hours (return)
• Elevation: Approximately 900 m total elevation gain |
  Peak height: 922 m AMSL
• Difficulty: Moderate (strenuous)

This one is perhaps the most iconic hike in Cairns. Just south of town is the world’s tallest freestanding natural pyramid; Walsh’s Pyramid. Hikers who are keen to tackle the summit will be rewarded with some of the best panoramic views of the Cairns and Innisfail Coast.

Walsh’s Pyramid’s elevation stands at 922 metres above sea level. However, hikers start pretty close to sea level, so the total elevation gained is close to 900M. Due to its natural pyramid shape, this Cairns hike is a pretty straightforward slog to the top.

I suggest starting early to beat the heat and grab a chance at an epic sunrise.

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Preparing a trip to Cairns? Don't miss these must-bring items on your list!

Cairns Packing List

2. White Rock Lookout

• Hike Distance: 5 km (return on same track)
• Duration: 1.5-2 hours return
• Elevation: 315 m elevation gain |
  White Rock Elevation: 510 m AMSL
• Difficulty: Moderate

The White Rock hike is an out-and-back walking track leading to “White Rock Lookout”— one of the best peak lookout points near Cairns CBD.

White Rock Lookout is located on the Lamb Range just beside the suburb of Mount Sheridan. The walking track is within Dinden National Park, beside the Lake Morris Reserve on the mountains overlooking Cairns.

While there is a suburb near Cairns which shares the same name, don't mistake them. Instead, this trail begins near the top of the steep and winding Lake Morris Road and nowhere near the suburb.

Views span 180 degrees from Cairns to Walsh’s Pyramid and the Gillies Range.

Just below, you’ll have a perfect vantage point of the suburbs south of Cairns. Also, a bit further out is an uninterrupted view of the entire Trinity Inlet!

3. Glacier Rock Lookout

• Hike Distance: 5.9 km return
• Duration: 2-2.5 hours
• Elevation: 395 m elevation gain |
  450 m AMSL
• Difficulty: Easy

The Glacier Rock hike is a medium-length out-and-back trail offering magnificent coastal views from Cairns to the Northern Beaches. If you’re up for a decent, rewarding hike near Cairns or Kuranda, then the Glacier Rock walking track is an excellent choice. 

From the Glacier Rock lookout, there are spanning views of the coast, including the Northern Beaches, Cairns CBD, the Barron River, Earl Hill, the Mount Whitfield Conservation Park and the distant mountains of the Lamb Range.

4. The Arrow Tracks (Short Hikes Near Cairns CBD)

Mount Whitfield Summit Loop (Lumley Hill Lookout)

• Hike Distance: 8.5 km (loop)
• Duration: 2.5-3.5 hours return
• Elevation: 465 m elevation gain |
  315 m AMSL at Lumley Hill Lookout
• Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

The Cairns Arrow Tracks are a very popular set of walking tracks near Cairns. They are named after the different routes marked by coloured arrows: red, blue, yellow and green.

Due to their easy access and proximity to Cairns CBD, these Cairns walking tracks are the most popular in the area. Departing from the Cairns Botanical Gardens, walkers have a selection of several walking tracks in the Mount Whitfield Conservation Park.

However, if you're up for the longer tracks with better views, I'd suggest taking the Red and Blue Arrow Tracks.

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5. Mount William Track

• Hike Distance: 13 km
• Duration: 4-6 hours
• Elevation: 1220 m elevation gain |
  ~1000 m AMSL at the summit
• Difficulty: Hard

The Mt William hike is a very lightly trafficked walking track that branches off from Smiths Track near Stoney Creek, just north of Cairns. Although easily accessed, this Cairns hike is fairly demanding, steep, dense and absolutely full of leeches!

At the Mount William summit, you’ll find the remains of a 1986 plane crash, which tragically claimed the lives of eight people in 1986. Although this one doesn't offer much in terms of views, if you're up for a challenging hike with ever-changing flora as you ascend, this one might be a good bet.

6. Crystal Cascades and Fairy Falls

• Hike Distance: less than 1 km
• Duration: 15 minutes
• Elevation: Almost none, slight incline to the falls
• Difficulty: Very Easy

After pinning some of the epic hikes in Cairns included in this list so far, you might also want to squeeze in some time for the Crystal Cascades. This is only a very short and easy walk to either the main Crystal Cascades waterfall or the hidden and secluded Fairy Falls.

You will reach both of these waterfalls from the same location, just a short drive from Cairns. However, both the falls are on separate trails, each very easy and only roughly a 15-minute walk.

Travel tip: You're going to need a car or transport to get to many of the trails. Most of the trails are up in the National Parks and there is limited public transport to these spots. RentalCars.com is one of the best resources for finding and comparing deals across brokers.

7. Stoney Creek Falls (Old Weir Falls)

• Hike Distance: 4 km (return)
• Duration: 40 minutes (return)
• Elevation: 100 m
• Difficulty: Easy

Stoney Creek is a popular freshwater swimming spot just a 20-minute drive from Cairns CBD. There is a dedicated car park (just near the Glacier Rock trailhead), with a nice swimming hole immediately adjacent.

However, if you're up for a longer walk to a better waterfall, I'd suggest taking the relatively easy trail to Old Weir Falls. This is accessed by taking the straight track from the footbridge fork leading up a wide, dirt track.

This Cairns walking track is fairly easy and not very long, with only a slight incline. So, it's the perfect waterfall track for bushwalkers chasing something easy with a refreshing freshwater swim at the end.

8. Saddle Mountain Summit Hike

• Hike Distance: 10.5 km return
• Duration: 2.5 - 3.5 hours
• Elevation: 670 m elevation gain |
  Saddle mountain summit: 640 m AMSL
• Difficulty: Difficult: steep and muddy

Saddle Mountain is a summit hiking trail located between Kuranda and Smithfield and accessed from the Northern Beaches. You begin by crossing through the Smithfield mountain bike tracks before entering the unsigned Saddle Mountain walking track.

This Cairns hike is steep and strenuous but well worth the views at the top, which is indicated by the unmissable weather radar at the summit. The track itself is narrow and very easy to miss initially. So, make sure to read the full guide below if you're going to attempt this steep but worthwhile hike in Cairns.

9. Ivan Evans Walk/Waddlebla Trail

• Hike Distance: 7-8 km return
• Duration: 1-3 hours (depending on your route)
• Elevation: ~ 600 metres elevation gain
• Difficulty: Moderate (steep in sections)

The Ivan Evans Walk is a popular Cairns walking track among locals out for a quick stroll close to town. However, the Ivan Evans trail itself is quite short and not much of an adventure on its own. For this reason, I chose to combine the Ivan Evans Walk with the steeper Waddlebla Trail up to Boi Boi Peak and Waddlebla Peak. This made it a much more challenging, more scenic and more rewarding hike.

Some sections of this trail involve walking on a downhill mountain bike run which is very steep. For this reason, you'll need to be vigilant and keep an ear and eye out for bikes.

Unfortunately, this hiking trail in Cairns doesn't offer much in terms of views. However, you could potentially combine this track with sections of the White Rock track to the lookout. This would make it one of my favourite tracks close to town!

50+ More Cairns Bucketlist Items

• Visit the Cairns Islands
• Kuranda Railway & Skyrail
• Rusty's Markets
• Day trip to Cape Tribulation
• ... +51 more things to do in Cairns!

Read the Full List

10. Barron Falls Track

• Hiking Distance: 500 metres return
• Duration: 20 minutes return
• Elevation: N/A
• Difficulty: Very easy

While not a strenuous bushwalk by any means, the short boardwalk stroll to the Barron Falls railway viewpoint is a must if visiting Kuranda. Barron Falls is the largest waterfall in the area and is truly a sight to behold following heavy seasonal rain.

The walk is quite short, yet has loads to offer in terms of a view and a taste of the incredibly diverse rainforest landscapes.

To get here, you can take the Skyrail to Kuranda. I recommend getting the combined Skyrail & Scenic Rail tickets to save money and get an easy and scenic transport route back to Cairns.

11. Mount Bartle Frere Summit

• Hiking Distance: 9 km to the summit
• Duration: 5 hours to the summit
• Elevation: 1600 m |
  Mount Bartle Frere summit: 1611 m AMSL
• Difficulty: Difficult

Those up for a serious Cairns hiking adventure should definitely consider tackling Queensland's tallest peak: Mount Bartle Frere.

There are two route options to hike Bartle Frere, from near the Windin Falls car park or the Josephine Falls car park.

I'd suggest taking the eastern approach to the summit via the Josephine Falls car park, a 5+ hour steep slog from near sea level to 1611M above the clouds. While you can tackle this famous Far North Queensland mountain in a single day, I'd highly recommend camping at the summit for extraordinary sunset and sunrise views!

12. Josephine Falls Track

• Hiking Distance: 1.4 km return
• Duration: 25 minutes return
• Elevation: N/A
• Difficulty: Very Easy

While a fair drive from Cairns, Josephine Falls is still one of Far North Queensland's most iconic waterfall swimming locations. Sharing a car park with the Mount Bartle Frere trail above, the Josephine Falls walking track is a picturesque boardwalk stroll to turquoise rainforest swimming holes.

A visit to Josephine Falls is a must for those heading on a road trip from Cairns and also makes the perfect post-hike shower after the difficult Mount Bartle Frere summit.

13. Kahlpahlim Rock (Lamb Rock)

• Hiking Distance: 18 km return loop
• Duration: 4-5 hours
• Elevation: N/A
• Difficulty: Very easy

The Kahlpahlim Rock Hike, also known as Lamb’s Head, is a walking track located near the town of Mareeba. This is an enjoyable hike that can be attempted year-round and leads through both dense pine forests and thick, tropical rainforest.

The main event, Kahlpahlim Rock, is a stand-alone rock monolith overlooking the wild surrounding rainforest.

Best of all, this Cairns hike can be completed in a loop, which means you don't have to return on the same trail you came in on.

14. Windin Falls Track

• Hiking Distance: 11.5 km return
• Duration: 2.5-3 hours return
• Elevation: 350 m elevation gain (most on the return)
• Difficulty: Moderate (mostly easy)

Quickly becoming one of Far North Queensland's waterfall icons, Windin Falls offers one of the most dramatic waterfall viewpoints near Cairns. This hike is relatively easy as it undulates along a wide walking track in the Wooroonooran National Park.

It's only at the final stretch down to the waterfall infinite falls that this hike becomes a little steep.

For sunrise adventures, you really can't beat Windin Falls when planning an epic Cairns hike with a waterfall and view in one epic package!

15. West Mulgrave Falls Track

• Hiking Distance: 12 km return
• Duration: 4-5 hours return
• Elevation: 535M total gain (most on the way back)
• Difficulty: Difficult

I refer to the West Mulgrave Falls hike as "FNQ's Best-Kept Secret". That's because no matter how hard you try, you simply won't find much information about this incredible waterfall hike at all.

However, before strapping up the gear bag, make sure you're well prepared. This hike requires solid bush and navigation experience. The track is mostly overgrown with orange markers sparsely deployed along the route.

Beginning from an unmarked trail near the Windin Falls car park, the West Mulgrave Falls track winds through dense forest before steeply descending down a sharp canyon. After hours of battling through persistent wait-a-while and sloppy boar tracks, the reward is a swim at one of Australia's most magnificent waterfalls.

Just remember, the hard part is climbing back up the canyon on the return, so plan accordingly!

16. Turtle Rock Hike

• Hiking Distance: 6.7 kilometres (circuit)
• Duration: 1.5 hours – 2.5 hours
• Elevation: Gain 320 m |
  910 m AMSL at Turtle Rock
• Difficulty: Moderate

Another one of those hikes near Cairns that's truly "off the beaten path".

The Turtle Rock trail features a spectacular boulder lookout, light rock scrambling and an easy river crossing. You'll need to drive out to Dindin National Park to get here. However, it's well worth it, especially for adventurers keen on exploring what else the region has to offer.

17. Behana Gorge Track/Clamshell Falls

• Hiking Distance: 6.6 km
• Duration: 1.5-2 hours
• Elevation: 220 m total gain (undulating)
• Difficulty: Easy

The Behana Gorge walking track lies within the Wooroonooran National Park, approximately 35 minutes south of Cairns. This mostly sealed walking track follows a water pipe along the scenic cascades of Behana Gorge.

At the end of this relatively easy hike, you'll reach Clamshell Falls, a picturesque waterfall and swimming location that's worth a visit. It's also possible to do a canyoneering trip here, which is a fun option for those looking for a bit of adrenaline.

Stay in Port Douglas!

Port Douglas, just a short hop from Cairns makes for an ideal alternative (or addition) with great accommodation options such as:

• Top Resort: Sheraton Grand Mirage
• Mid Range: Oaks Resort
• Budget: Global Backpackers
• ...+10 more in this Port Douglas Accommodation Guide

More on Booking.com

18. Nandroya Falls

• Hiking Distance: 5 km return
• Duration: 40 minutes-1 hour return
• Elevation: 100 m
• Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

The Nandroya Falls waterfall hike is another magical rainforest bushwalk in the incredibly underrated Wooroonooran National Park near Cairns. This waterfall hike is one of my personal favourites in the entire Wet Tropics Heritage Area. The trail is narrow and surrounded by thick rainforest vines and tropical vegetation on all sides.

And, what's a great hike without an even better reward? Nandroya Falls is up there with one of the most impressive waterfalls in the area, go check it out for yourself!

19. Hypipipamee Crater Loop

• Hiking Distance: 1.2 km loop
• Duration: 30-40 minutes
• Elevation: Mostly flat
• Difficulty: Easy

Okay, this hike is a fair slog from Cairns. Nevertheless, you are planning a trip out to the Tablelands, aren't you? Many of the epic walking tracks on this list are in the area. A great example is the Hypipamee Crater loop, a short bushwalk featuring a huge volcanic crater viewpoint and a scenic waterfall and swimming spot.

Wait, a volcano? Actually, the Hypipamee Crater is in fact, a diatreme. This is an ancient volcanic pipe caused by a gaseous explosion, which has since filled with water.

It was discovered in 1879 when a gold-prospecting party accidentally fell into it! Don't worry though, it's no longer easy to miss by any means.

20. Millaa Millaa Waterfall Circuit

The Millaa Millaa Waterfall Circuit is a trio of epic rainforest waterfalls located in the Atherton Tablelands Region just behind Cairns.

As to not confuse you, this isn't a big hiking circuit. Instead, travellers need to drive or take a bus to each waterfall along Theresa Creek Road in Millaa Millaa and take a short walk down to each.

For hikers and waterfall lovers visiting the Tablelands from Cairns, I'd highly recommend checking out the Millaa Millaa circuit. While the hikes aren't lengthy or difficult, the area is one of the most beautiful in Far North Queensland.

I haven't included hiking data for this place since each walk involves just a short descent to the waterfall from the corresponding car park. Well, all except Millaa Millaa Falls, which you can pretty much drive straight up to.

21. Cannabullen Falls (Top of Waterfall)

• Hiking Distance: 13.8 km return
• Duration: 4 hours return
• Elevation: 436 m total elevation gain (undulating)
• Difficulty: Moderate - Difficult

The Cannabullen Falls hike is an example of just how raw and underrated the region around Cairns and the Far North really is. The wide, remote trail to Cannabullen Falls is a step back in time.

Hikers will experience no more sound than the echoing calls of prehistoric birds and their own muddy feet as they traverse through the oldest surviving rainforest on earth.

This trail involves two creek crossings and a long, undulating trek through dense and wet rainforests that can get very muddy. The end goal is the top of Cannabullen Falls, one of Queensland's most incredible waterfalls. You likely won't see anyone else on this trail, so prepare accordingly.

22. Tully Gorge Lookout

• Hike Distance: 1.5 km return
• Duration: 30 minutes return
• Elevation: N/A
• Difficulty: Very Easy

Tully Gorge is one of those raw Australian locations that leave a lingering feeling of absolute awe. This Jurassic Park-like waterfall and gorge is 293 metres tall and carved by the Tully River as it runs downstream from the densely forested Cardwell Range.

Again, this one's for the destination chasers.

From Cairns, expect at least a 2-hour 15-minute drive up the Gillies Range Road, past Millaa Millaa and Malanda en route to Ravenshoe, QLD’s highest town. However, as you'll see from this list of epic hikes in and around Cairns there are plenty of things to check out on the way.

The hike begins from the waterfall lookout and is fairly short and flat as it leads out to the top of the falls overlooking the gorge. Although not difficult by any means, this lookout spot has to be one of the most epic in Cairns and well worth the drive!

23. Big & Little Millstream Falls Tracks

• Hiking Distance: 300-500 m each
• Duration: Each about 10 minutes
• Elevation: N/A (Little Millstream involves a slight gradient)
• Difficulty: Very Easy

While we're on the outskirts near Ravenshoe and really pushing the limits on what can be considered the Cairns region, make sure to check out Big and Little Millstream Falls. These waterfalls run on “The Millstream”, the watercourse and source of both waterfalls.

Both of these hikes are a short distance from one another but require a brief drive to access. These bushwalks are sealed, short and very easy. However, the waterfalls are quite spectacular. If you decide to make the trip, make sure to be quiet on the trail for a chance to spot a wild platypus!

24. Souita Falls Track

• Hiking Distance: 450 m return
• Duration: 15 minutes
• Elevation: Steep on the way back up
• Difficulty: Easy

Souita Falls is another waterfall hike located in the hinterlands just off the Palmerston Highway near the township of Middlebrook.

This Cairns/Tablelands walking track is only 220 metres and passes two cascading waterfalls. It’s very accessible with a clear track the entire way. Although, it’s a little steep on the way back up, but nothing to worry about.

For those looking for a short-burst rainforest walk that is almost guaranteed to be void of other hikers, this is the one!

25. Mungalli Falls Track

• Hiking Distance: 1.2 km return
• Duration: 25 minutes
• Elevation: ~ 100 m
• Difficulty: Easy

This waterfall hike is one of the more "unique" ones on this list of the best hikes in Cairns. I say that because it's actually located within a Wilderness Retreat Complex. Don't worry though, the owners of the land allow visitors to check out the Mungalli waterfall free of charge and it certainly doesn't feel like a commercial experience.

There are several levels to this waterfall, all of which are accessible via the sealed walking track. I recommend walking all the way to the bottom level, where you'll find a 75-metre giant hidden in a rainforest cove. It's also said that there are wild platypi and glow worms that live here.

26. Isabella Falls

• Hiking Distance: 2 km return
• Duration: 45 minutes - 1-hour return
• Elevation: 150 m
• Difficulty: Easy - Moderate

Readers chasing a hike in Cairns close to the suburbs and CBD will definitely appreciate this local gem. Isabella Falls is tucked behind the hill suburbs near Mount Sheridan but definitely doesn't feel like it! Immediately after stepping onto the trail, you could easily confuse yourself for being kilometres in the scrub.

The walking trail is unmarked but quite easy to follow. There are small cascades and shallow freshwater pools along the track but the main event requires a short but steep rope-assisted root scramble to reach.

There isn't much of a view at the top but the waterfall is tranquil and makes for a perfect place to relax before climbing back down.

27. Tchupala and Wallicher Falls Track

• Hiking Distance: 5 km return (both tracks)
• Duration: 1 hour
• Elevation: Mostly flat or undulating
• Difficulty: Easy

The Tchupala and Wallicher Falls walking tracks are another set of waterfall hikes in the Wooroonooran National Park. Both departing from the same trailhead, the track forks quickly, with options for Tchupala and Wallicher waterfalls.

Both waterfalls are impressive and the rainforest hiking trails are incredible! Therefore, I'd recommend checking out both falls if you have the time.

28. Babinda Boulders and Devil's Pool

• Hiking Distance: 1.3 km return (Devils Pool track)
• Duration: 20 minutes return
• Elevation: Mostly flat
• Difficulty: Easy

The Babinda Boulders freshwater swimming spot is a popular creek cascade and wash-pool area near the township of Babinda.

The water is crystal clear, and perfect for swimming or cooling off in hot, tropical Cairns weather. There is also a short trail known as the "Devils Pool Track", which follows a stretch of the river to view the scenic granite boulders.

This walk is easy and mostly flat. There are also a couple of viewing platforms along the hike where you can witness the force of the river carving through the smooth granite walls.

29. Fitzroy Island Lookout Track (Summit) - Best Cairns Island hike

Fitzroy Island is one of the closest islands off Cairns and certainly offers the most for people looking to do some trail hiking. Ferries depart frequently from the Cairns reef fleet terminal and only takes about 45 minutes. So, whether you want to take a short stroll to Nudie Beach or climb to the island summit, the island's your hiking oyster.

The Fitzroy Island summit hike can be completed as part of a loop with an optional stop at the island lighthouse located at the back of the island.

The trail departs from the beach near the ferry terminal and climbs steeply on a mostly sealed track. Thankfully, the views from the top are well worth the effort and one of the most unique out of all the epic hikes in Cairns!

Read: What It’s Like Staying at Fitzroy Island Resort

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30. The Earl Hill Track

• Hiking Distance: 3.2 km loop
• Duration: 45 minutes
• Elevation: 200 m
• Difficulty: Easy - Moderate

The Earl Hill Track is a small hill loop circuit located near the Northern Beaches suburb of Trinity Beach.

The track is popular among morning walkers and dog lovers and is made up of a few tracks, one leading to the Earl Hill summit. Furthermore, as of 2020, there is a new beach access track which means that you can start at the trailhead and finish on the shores of Trinity Beach!

31. Davies Creek Waterfall Track

• Hike Distance: 250 m
• Duration: 5 minutes to the falls
• Elevation: N/A
• Difficulty: Very easy

The Davies Creek waterfall track is a short walking trail ending at a spectacular waterfall in Davies Creek National Park. You'll find the well-marked trailhead just before the Kahlpahlim Rock hike.

Although this one is quite short, the waterfall is, in my opinion, a must-visit if you're in the Dindin/Davies Creek National Park region.

The waterfall features some shallow swimming holes just a little further upstream. So, if you've just tackled Kahlpahlim, Davies Creek is a great post-hike cool-off point.

32. Emerald Creek Falls Track

• Hiking Distance: 2 km return
• Duration: 30 minutes return
• Elevation: Mostly flat
• Difficulty: Easy

Another eucalypt-surrounded waterfall hike on the western side of the Lamb Range from Cairns is the Emerald Creek Falls track. The track is accessed via a short stretch of dirt road that isn't suitable for caravans. However, the hike itself is fairly flat and relatively easy.

The waterfall offers a larger, cascading level and deep swimming holes which makes it a perfect spot to cool off all year round. Also, Emerald Creek is one of the only dog-friendly waterfall hikes near Cairns since it lies within a State Forest.

33. Hartley's Creek Falls Hike

• Hiking Distance: 7.5 km (return)
• Duration: Roughly 1 hour each way
• Elevation: 290 m total gain (undulating)
• Difficulty: Easy

Hartley's Creek Falls is somewhat of a “local secret”, hidden at the back of Wangetti near the well-known Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. Don’t worry though; there aren’t any crocs lurking at Hartleys Creek Falls! So, you’re free to swim and cool off at the waterfall after the short but rewarding hike.

The track is wide and easy to follow, undulating sporadically through the native scrub. Also, the trail's length follows the banks of Hartleys Creek all the way to the waterfall without needing to make any turns. So, it's quite easy to follow.

While there are some dips and steep sections, overall, the Hartleys Creek Falls track is very gentle and can be completed by anyone with an average fitness level.

34. Spring Creek Falls Track

• Hike Distance: 6.3 km return
• Duration: 2.5 – 3.5 hours return
• Elevation: roughly 300 m overall gain
• Difficulty: Moderate

The Spring Creek Falls track also known as Black Rock Falls is located just a short drive from the Port Douglas coast in the Mowbray National Park. The walk up to Spring Creek Falls doesn’t follow a set track but instead winds up the length of Spring Creek to the upper waterfalls. While there are sections of a noticeably worn track, you’ll likely end up skipping, hopping, scrambling and crawling over the rocky banks on a random course all the way to the waterfall.

Those heading north from Cairns and looking for a little-known hike and waterfall gem should definitely add this one to their Cairns hiking list!

35. Mossman Gorge Tracks

Mossman Gorge is a series of rainforest circuits and tracks that gives visitors a real taste of the ancient Daintree National Park. The tracks offer swimming holes, freshwater creeks, and huge ancient rainforest trees.

I haven't supplied hiking data for this item on the list because there are just so many tracks. However, most are quite short and fairly flat too.

If you're in the area and interested in learning more about indigenous rainforest life, I'd highly recommend booking a Dreamtime walk at Mossman Gorge. This is a great tour because you are directly supporting small indigenous businesses while learning more about rainforest life, culture and history.

You can arrange this as a full-day trip from Cairns, which also stops at Cape Tribulation and includes a cruise!

36. Devil's Thumb Hike (most Epic Cairns Hike)

• Hiking Distance: Official: 10.6 km return | Recorded: 14.8 km (with side-trip to waterfall)
• Duration: 7-9 hours
• Elevation: Total elevation gain: 1275 m |
  Highest point: 1190 m AMSL
• Difficulty: Difficult

The grand finale of this epic list of 36 best hikes in Cairns and surrounds is my personal favourite: the Devil's Thumb or Manjal Jimalji hike in Mossman. This is a long and steep hike through the Daintree Rainforest that finishes at a megalithic granite boulder overlooking the entire Cairns and Port Douglas Coast.

This epic view is well earned after a long 4-5 hour slog up the steep and dense mountain range. The Devils Thumb trail is marked with pink and orange ribbons to follow as you climb the towering hills. However, QLD Parks recommends bushwalking experience to navigate safely and above-average fitness to complete this hike.

37. Wankaroo Falls, Wooroonooran National Park

• Hike Distance: 13.2 kilometers (return)
• Duration: 4-5 hours return
• Elevation: ~400 meters total incline (undulating)
• Difficulty: Moderate

The Wankaroo Falls trail is an unmarked, 13.2 km return trail starting from the Golden Hole, close to Josephine Falls and the Mount Bartle Frere trailhead. The waterfall itself is a roughly 35-metre single-plunge flowing on Wankaroo Creek within the often wet Wooroonooran National Park.

This waterfall takes a bit more effort to reach than others in the area, and therefore I'd only recommend it if you've lived in Cairns for a while and looking for something new.

38: Mount Sorrow Summit at Cape Tribulation

• Hike Distance: 8.8 km return
• Duration: 3-4 hours return
• Elevation: 850 metres total elevation gain |
  Mount Sorrow summit: 700M AMSL
• Difficulty: Moderate – Difficult

As if we weren't done there, here's one more epic hike that shouldn't really make the list due to the distance. Regardless, I thought it should be mentioned, especially since many people plan a trip to Cape Tribulation when visiting Cairns.

The Mount Sorrow hike is rated as one of the more difficult hiking trails that is popular among adventure seekers in Cape Tribulation. However, it's certainly not as difficult or physically demanding as the Devil's Thumb or Mount Bartle Frere hikes.

The rainforest landscapes at Cape Tribulation are some of the wildest on earth. It's also one of the world's most unique locations since the rainforest creeps all the way down to the water's edge where the fringing Great Barrier Reef begins.

The Mount Sorrow trail climbs to the ridge of Mount Sorrow, one of the tallest peaks in the area. At the top, there is an official "viewpoint" that is admittedly disappointing, to say the least. However, if you continue past this for a few hundred metres up the ridge, the treeline opens up, revealing incredible views of Cape Tribulation— where the rainforest meets the reef.

Cairns Hiking Resources

So, that's it. The most comprehensive Cairns hiking guide you'll find for free, anywhere.

But it doesn't end there. Below I've compiled a comprehensive resource guide to help you plan your hiking and bushwalking trips to Cairns.

• WillyWeather and BOM are my go-to for weather and radar forecasts when planning Cairns walking tracks and bushwalks. Remember. that Cairns is a tropical region and heavy rainfall can smash the coast with little warning.
• The National Parks in the Cairns region are maintained by QLD Parks. On their website, you can find up-to-date information on trail closures and severe weather events, as well as book National Park camping sites for overnighters.
• If you're looking for guided walks and other adventure or adrenaline activities when visiting Cairns, make sure to use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best rates. They both list only the best local operators and often give you a better price than if you were to try to find a deal in town.
• Reception and internet connectivity is sparse as you get out into the bush. Use your phone browser to download the walking track guides or maps for offline use before you hit the trails.
• I've also listed this in the gear section below but DEET is absolutely essential when hiking in Cairns. Especially in the wet season. Leeches and ticks are no joke in the Australian tropics

Cairns Hiking Tips to Stay Safe on the Trail

• Orange trail markers are common on some of the longer and more off-the-beaten-path Cairns walking tracks. However, the rainforest grows quickly and they are often obscured or engulfed in the foliage. Keep an eye out for them and have a physical map or GPX track with you.
• Several of the Cairns hikes in this post feature watercourses, rivers and creek crossings. So, as a precaution, only enter the water if you are 100% confident in your ability and avoid fast-flowing water at any cost.
• Cairns gets viscously hot and humid. Don't be surprised if you lose 3-4L of sweat per hour of walking. I always bring a Grayl water purifier bottle to refill and filter water from creeks to avoid dehydration.
• Plan your hike to the weather. Following heavy downpours, creeks can get flooded quickly. Check the weather and be cautious if it has been raining.
• Wait-a-while vines are everywhere on Cairns walking tracks and trails. These long, twisted vines with sharp barbs WILL catch your skin and everything you're wearing too. When you inevitably encounter one of these buggers, simply "wait a while" and peel them out, don't try to barge through.
• Bush ticks can carry life-threatening diseases. Although it's not pleasant, wear DEET and spray your shoes.
• Educate yourself on the local snakes and spiders of the North Queensland rainforest. Surprisingly, there are fewer venomous critters in Far North Queensland than in other parts of Australia. However, there are definitely some out there on the Cairns walking tracks that can kill you.
• Be Croc-wise and Cass-o-wary. While freshwater crocodiles won't attack you unless you accidentally step or jump on them, salties definitely will. Furthermore, don't assume that saltwater crocodiles won't lurk upstream in the freshwater. They have been found in creeks and rivers hundreds of kilometres from the coast!

Cairns Accommodation Guide – Where to Stay

Visiting Cairns? The best places to stay are near the Cairns Esplanade or on the sunny Northern Beaches. Below are the top 4 options for varying budgets.

• Crystalbrook Riley - If luxury and location are what you're after, you can't beat the Crystalbrook Riley. This is the best 5-star resort in Cairns and features absolutely everything you'd expect from a Crystalbrook resort.
• Fitzroy Island Resort - Sleep out on one of the picturesque Great Barrier Reef Islands at Fitzroy Island Resort. Spending the night on the island can work out cheaper than staying in town and means you get more time to explore the reef, coral beaches and rainforest walking trails.
• Gilligan's Backpackers - The best backpacker option for a great vibe in Cairns. Great place to meet like-minded travelers and has facilities including a pool. air-con, a huge shared kitchen, and a great common area!
• Pepper's Beach Club - stay at the best beach resort in the heart of Palm Cove on the Cairns Northern Beaches!

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For a bigger list, don't miss my Cairns accommodation guide or as an alternative stay in FNQ, read my Port Douglas Accommodation guide too.

Essential Gear for Cairns Hikes & Bushwalks

Below I've listed a few things that I consider essential when hitting some of the longer hikes in Cairns.

For footwear, I always just use Brooks trail runners since they are light and easier to take off when you need to cross a creek or get your feet wet. In saying that, it can get a little sketchy in the bush on the snake front. Although I haven't used them, these snake gaiters should cover you if you wear trail shoes as I do.

1. Lightweight clothing

Firstly, hiking on the trails around Cairns and the Tropical North gets hot and sweaty quickly. Consequently, wearing lightweight, sweat-wicking clothing is essential. Remember though, you'll still want body coverage to avoid the bugs and wait-a-while vines.

2. Lightweight hardshell jacket
I consider this an essential hiking item for literally anywhere in the world. It will keep you dry when it rains and break the wind at the peaks and good ones pack down really small. I've had the same North Face Jacket for 6 years now and still use it daily.
3. Water bottle/purifier
Above all else, we need water. As I mentioned earlier, I rely on my Grayl water bottle purifier to store water and quickly filter and clean any freshwater I find on the trails.

4. Maps/Phone
It's wild out there. Trails can disappear quickly and the last thing you want is to get lost in the rainforest without a map.

5. DEET/Insect Repellent
Many walking tracks and hiking trails around Cairns are absolutely loaded with leeches, especially when it's wet. Mosquitos and bush ticks also thrive out there, so good repellent is essential. I recommend the red Bushmans.

Cairns Hiking FAQs

More Cairns Hiking Guides & Adventures From Far North Queensland

So, that wraps up my "Cairns Hikes: 38 Best Hikes in Cairns" mega-post. Cairns is a special place that's left a permanent mark on me. It's a place I know that I'll always return to when I'm itching for some Aussie adventure. I hope this Cairns hiking guide has been useful for you and that you find some epic walking tracks, bushwalks, waterfalls and rainforest lookouts on your next trip.

If you'd prefer to chill at the beach after a long hike, then don't miss these 11 epic beaches near Cairns.

Find some more hikes that you feel should have made the list? Make sure to let me know in the comments and I'll be sure to check out the trail next time I'm in Cairns!

• 5 Things to Know BEFORE Booking Cairns Scenic Flights on the Great Barrier Reef
• 8 Things to Know Before Booking Cairns Helicopter Tours on the Great Barrer Reef
• Cairns Beaches: 11 Best Beaches in Cairns & The Tropical North
• Etty Bay Cassowaries - Where and How to Spot Wild Cassowaries near Cairns in 2023
• Hot Air Balloon Cairns - Everything You Need to Know in 2023
• How to Book a Great Barrier Reef Tour From Cairns in 2023 (WIth Best Deals)
• Packing List for Cairns: Essential List of What to Pack for Cairns & Why
• Tully Gorge Lookout - How to Get Here & What to Expect
• Wallaman Falls, Queensland - Guide to Visiting the Tallest Waterfall in Austalia

The post 38 Best Hikes in Cairns & Tropical North QLD appeared first on We Seek Travel.

The volcanic island of Santorini (Thera) is one of the most unique and undoubtedly beautiful locations in the Cyclades. However, unlike some of the other nearby Greek Islands including Ios or Paros, travelers won’t find many white sand beaches here.

Instead, what makes the famous beaches of Santorini Island so unique is their stunning dark sand and black pebbled shores.

So, in this guide, I’ll give you a detailed rundown on the best Santorini Greece black sand beaches to help you plan your volcanic beach hopping adventure on Thera!

In this beach guide, you’ll find a detailed list, as well as a map showing all the black sand and pebble beaches in Santorini, as well as some tips and recommendations for your vacation.

7 Beautiful Black Sand Beaches in Santorini

Many tour operators and even guidebooks recommend visiting the black sand beach on Santorini. However, this is very confusing as there are more than seven of these scattered around the island's volcanic coastline!

1. Perissa Beach

Perissa Beach, located on the eastern coastline of Santorini, is a small stretch of soft, black sand near the town of Perissa. This is widely acknowledged as the official black sand beach on Santorini, and the one visited on the majority of the island tours and day trips.

The reason is that Perissa Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Santorini. Wedged against the towering Mesa Vouno hill, this wide stretch of sand drops gently into the calm Aegean Sea. It's perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on one of the many sun beds or straw umbrellas.

To get here, you'll want to make your way to Perissa, which is an approximately 45-minute drive from Oia, or 20 minutes from Thira on an ATV (quad bike). Alternatively, a visit to this iconic black beach is included in the highly-rated Santorini Highlights Tour.

2. Kamari Beach

Kamari Beach is another popular black sand and pebble beach on the eastern side of Santorini. This one is located on the opposite side of the Mesa Vouno mountain from Perissa and features a similar long stretch of soft sand and many sunbeds to tan on.

Additionally, this beach is popular with tourists looking to do water sports like jet skis, banana boat rides, or tubing.

3. Perivolos Beach

While technically joined, Perivolos Beach is the continuation of Perissa Beach, leading for approximately 2 kilometers to the south, where it joins again to Agios Georgios Beach.

Paralia Perivolos is quite popular, especially with those tourists staying at one of the more affordable accommodation options on the eastern side of Santorini. The beach is lined with many eateries, hotels, and popular beach bars, and is well-known for its festive atmosphere.

4. Vlychada Beach

Moving on to the southern tip of Santorini and we'll find another gorgeous black pebble beach edged by tall volcanic cliffs called Vlychada Beach. Paralia Vilchada is located at a relatively remote part of the island and isn't frequently visited by tourists. However, many day cruises do operate from the marina in Vlychada village (also written Vlichada), which is just beside this long beach.

If you're looking for a spot to swim, relax, and enjoy some tranquility on the often hectic island, then this is a great spot. There are often straw beach umbrellas and day beds for hire during the summer months.

5. Monolithos Beach

Monolithos Beach is a very large and mostly sandy beach located on the very eastern tip of Santorini, near the Kratikos Aerolimenas airport.

Compared to some of the more popular Santorini beaches, Monolithos doesn't have much infrastructure along the shore. However, there is a small beach bar called East View serving up cold beers and cocktails right on the beach! Additionally for a couple of euros visitors can rent a sunbed here too, with large palm-leaf shade covers.

Monolithos Beach is also the closest beach to the popular village of Fira, since it is directly on the other side of the island. As a result, this is one of the best beaches for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle and relax!

Planned Where to Stay Yet?

Santorini is world-famous for its epic cave hotels overlooking the caldera.

Make sure to check out my updated guide to the best cave hotels with swim-out pool views below– or my neighborhood guides to the best places to stay in Oia, and the top hotels in Fira.

Top Santorini Cave Hotels

6. Kampia Beach

Following along the Santorini caldera to the remote southwest region and we'll discover two more beautiful black sandy beaches in the Akroti Area.

The first is Kampia Beach, and while a little tricky to get to, is a great place to swim and relax without the crowds.

To get to Kampia Beach, you'll need to drive all the way around t the village of Akrotiri, following the directions on Google Maps to Kampia.

Once you arrive, you'll find a quiet, rocky black beach with only a tiny restaurant and cafe Called Kambia. To the east you'll witness the iconic red lava cliffs– a wild landscape unique to Santorini Red Beach.

Additionally, there are sometimes kayak rentals here, which is a great option if you would like to visit White Beach and Red Sand Beach, which are immediately on either side of Kampia Beach.

7. Mesa Pigadia Beach

The final black sand beach in Santorini worth visiting is the distant Paralia Mesa Pigadia. This is the most isolated beach on Santorini island and consists of a long stretch of black sand and small black pebbles. The crystal clear water is often quite calm on this side, tucked away from the strong wind you'll likely experience in Fira or Oia.

Additionally, from the shores, you'll witness beautiful panoramic views of the eroded volcanic rock coastline to the east which really are magnificent.

Unlike some of the most popular beaches like Perissa and Kamari, there are no hotels or resorts on this side of the island. As a result, it's one of the most quiet beaches on the entire island and sun loungers will likely get to enjoy its fine black sand all to themselves!

Where to Stay in Santorini

To make the most of an unforgettable Santorini travel experience, you'll want to stay at one of the beautiful cliff villages of Oia or Fira (Thira). Below I have selected the top three accommodation options for each budget.

• Divine Cave Experience - rated as the best cave hotel experience in Santorini. This adults-only cave hotel is located just north of the exclusive Imerovigli cliffside village and each room comes with its own cave pool with views over the ocean!
• La Perla Villas and Suites - arguably the best mid-range option for a memorable and romantic Santorini getaway. These villas and suites are very well located in the beautiful village of Oia, where you can catch unforgettable sunset views over the volcano.
• Bed Spot Hostel - The best hostel in Santorini. This one is located in the Fira center district and is very popular with backpackers and budget-conscious travelers after all the amenities such as a shared kitchen and a huge outdoor terrace common area.

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Why Are the Beaches Black in Santorini?

The dark grey and black color of the sand and pebbles at many of Santorini's onyx-colored beaches is due to volcanic activity. In fact, the island of Santorini changed completely following a devastating volcanic eruption 3,600 years ago. This is referred to as the Minoan eruption and destroyed the Akrotiri settlement, as well as nearby islands' agriculture.

This resulted not only in a thick layer of volcanic ash, pumice, and lava covering the island, but reshaped the island completely from a round island to its current crescent shape.

Santorini Black Sand Beach Map

Travel Hack: Click on the photo of the Santorini beach map above and it will load on your Google Maps app. You can save it by clicking the grey star at the top, which will add it to "Your Places" on your Google Maps account. This way, you have a handy digital app on the go with all the scene locations pinned– just refer back to this article (or bookmark it) for more information or to choose the best beach for your trip.

More Santorini & Greek Island Travel Guides

I hope that you've enjoyed this short travel guide summing up the best black sand beaches in Santorini, Greece.

While you're here, take a pick from the list below for more useful Greek Island travel guides and inspiration for your next adventure in Greece!

• 11 Best Cave Hotels in Santorini With Swim-Up Pool Views in 2023
• 11 Best Hotels in Fira, Santorini for Amazing Caldera Views in 2023
• 11 Best Places to Stay in Oia Santorini - Top Hotels in 2023
• Top 11 Mykonos Luxury Resorts & Beach Hotels in 2023

The post 7 Awesome Black Sand Beaches in Santorini, Greece appeared first on We Seek Travel.

The sleepy town of Minca has long been a chilled-out backpacker hub. However, in recent years its popularity has reached international acclaim, especially amongst the adventurous crowd due to its rich biodiversity, beautiful waterfalls, and awesome hiking trails.

If you’re looking for a place on the northern Caribbean coast of Colombia to do some hiking, then don’t look past Minca. This small town is a stepping stone into the Sierra Nevada mountains, with plenty of great trails, scenic viewpoints, and wildlife-spotting opportunities.

In this guide, I’ll give you a run-down of the top 10 best hikes in Minca! I’ve also written comprehensive guides to many of these, which you’ll find in the links throughout.

Related: 21 Best Things to do in Minca, Colombia

Best Experiences in Minca

10 Awesome Hikes in Minca

1. Lost City Trek (Ciudad Perdida)

In terms of the most unforgettable Minca trekking experience, the famous Lost City Trek (Ciudad Perdida hike) takes the cake.

This incredible 4-day hike leads adventurers deep into the jungles and foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, passing rural villages occupied by indigenous groups along the way. This trek covers some seriously scenic ground, with an opportunity to see beautiful streams, scenic vistas, and rare endemic species.

Of course, you’ll need a guide to hike to the Lost City, and there are only a handful of operators conducting licensed tours.

Below I’ve linked to the best one, which you can book directly with Get Your Guide (which means you’ll also get free cancellation).

Book: Lost City Trek (Ciudad Perdida) – 4 days of trekking

2. Pozo Azul Trail

Looking for a short walk with an awesome freshwater swimming pool at the end?

Pozo Azul offers just that, and is a very popular destination amongst international travelers and Colombian day-trippers.

You’ll discover Pozo Azul along the sealed, main road heading north to El Campano (a small village just outside of Minca). You can either walk this road from town (roughly 1-hour walk) or pay a motorbike taxi driver to take you to the start of the trail for 10,000 pesos.

From the trailhead (marked by a small cafe), expect a short, 15-20 minute hike to the base of the waterfalls. This trail is mostly shaded throughout and passes some small food vendor stalls and lush bamboo outcrops.

Pozo Azul features two waterfall tiers. In my opinion, the upper waterfall is much better since its less crowded and has a small cliff jump.

Related: 4 Awesome Waterfalls in Minca

3. Cerro Kennedy Hike

While the Ciudad Perdida trek (number 1), is an awesome hike, my personal favorite is the overnight trip to Cerro Kennedy. This is a viewpoint sitting at 3,100 meters and offers incredible views of Colombia’s highest mountains; Pico Cristòbal Colòn and Pico Simòn Bolívar.

Unfortunately, there’s a military base at the very top, meaning you can’t actually walk all the way to the summit. However, there is an epic viewpoint just a little further down which offers equally as amazing views.

To get to Cerro Kennedy, you have three options. I’ve gone into more detail on each of these in my guide linked above. However, if you’re planning to hike from Minca, then expect a 2-3 day adventure, passing El Dorado Nature Reserve and staying at Moncho’s Place near the viewpoint.

If you’re going to make it up to Cerro Kennedy viewpoint, I highly recommend getting up early the next day and hiking to the viewpoint in the early morning. This gives you the best chance of getting views of the surrounding mountains above the cloud forest.

Tip: Minca is an adventure playground! If you’re planning to rent motorbikes or go hiking, then make sure you have travel insurance for adventurers. The best option currently is WorldNomads, which cater to young adventure travelers.

4. Marinka Waterfall Hike

My personal favorite waterfall hike in Minca is the road track to Marinka Waterfalls.

This beautiful set of two waterfalls is arguably the most beautiful in the surrounding area. The lower falls at Las Cascadas de Marinka also feature a wide, deep basin that is great for swimming!

Furthermore, you’ll also find a giant hammock and a cafe/restaurant on-site.

However, the hike from Minca to Marinka Falls isn’t the most interesting hike as it follows a road for most of the way. It’s only the last section that climbs a small dirt road before arriving at the entrance to the falls. Similar to Pozo Azul, you can also get a motorbike taxi to the entrance.

If you’re looking to do some more hiking, you could continue on to Los Pinos (below), through the Reserva Natural Tierra Adentro, which is much more scenic.

5. Los Pinos Viewpoint

The Los Pinos viewpoint is a great place to head to, offering loads of different hiking trail options from Minca. The most popular way to get here is to head up through the Reserva Natural Tierra Adentro from Marinka Falls.

However, you can also form a long loop track from the center of town, passing most of the attractions like Pozo Azul, Minca Waterfalls, Ear of the World, and of course, Sierra Minca (the best hostel in Minca).

From the top, hikers will get awesome views of Minca all the way down to Santa Marta and the Caribbean Sea. Due to the high elevation, you can also get a good chance for bird watching. We managed to spot a pair of toucans flying high above the canopy below.

Tip: The Los Pinos hike used to be a popular side trip from Casa Elemento, but this hostel has now closed down.

6. Ear of the World Waterfall Trail

In terms of short Minca hiking trails, the walk to Ear of the World, or Oído del Mundo waterfall is a great choice.

This waterfall is located closer to Minca than the popular Pozo Azul or Marinka Falls. Furthermore, you often won’t find any other tourists here at all, since it’s very much still a hidden gem! Similar to the other spots on this list, the Ear of the World offers opportunities for swimming in its shallow freshwater pools.

To get here, hike to the end of Carrera 5a (the restaurant street) in Minca. If you continue on, keeping left at the only obvious fork, you’ll soon come to a small detour trail on your right. This is the start of the very short hiking trail to the Ear of the World Waterfall.

The track is very short-lived, and after less than 3 minutes you’ll find yourself at the base of the falls.

7. Las Piedras

Another very short hike in Minca is the walk down to Las Piedras, which translates to “the stones” and is an awesome freshwater swimming spot on the river near the town.

This spot is located on the Costeño River (one of the small mountain streams running through Minca). As a result, the walk here is very short, especially if you’re staying close to town.

To hike to Las Piedras, simply head down to “Carrera 1a” on Google Maps, and you’ll find access to the river. While I didn’t stay close to town, I’d say this hike would take less than 15 minutes from the center.

The exact GPS coordinates for Las Piedras is 11°08’26.5″N 74°07’22.4″W.

8. 360 Mirador

The 360 Mirador is another awesome viewpoint hike in Minca with epic views of the town and surrounding mountains. “360 Mirador” means 360 Viewpoint, and this one got its name because it not only offers views down to Santa Marta and the Caribbean Coast but also on the other side, deep into the Sierra Nevada mountains.

This trail begins at the back of Minca and climbs a rather steep dirt road before entering the forest and climbing the back of a steep mountain ridge.

This is one of the steepest Minca walking trails but you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views at the top! If you’re chasing the best light, a good option is to head up here late in the afternoon to watch the sunset on the ocean.

9. Sunset Viewpoint HIke at Finca San Rafael

During a large chunk of our two weeks in Minca, we stayed at Finca San Rafael. This is a beautiful mountain lodge set on a massive coffee plantation and cacao farm. What’s unique about this particular finca is that its terraces were carved into the earth by indigenous populations over 300 years ago!

If you stay here, (highly recommend), make sure to hike up these ancient steps through the plantation all the way up to the top of the ridge. This steep walk takes less than 40 minutes but was actually one of my favorite sunset hikes in Minca!

Tip: Finca San Rafael offers private rooms and shared dorm options. While not always recommended on blogs, I consider it one of the best hostels in the region, especially if you’re looking to relax.

10. Trail to La Victoria Coffee Farm

The farm at Finca La Victoria offers the most famous coffee tour in town. And, for hikers, the best part is that you can take a scenic trail to get here!

If you’re going to walk all the way from the village, expect a long push that involves mostly road walking. This is the same road leading off to Pozo Azul. Alternatively, get a motorbike taxi to Pozo Azul first, then walk the rest of the distance.

The trail begins on the left side of the road, just after “Colores de la Sierra”. From here, it’s just a 30-40 minute walk through the forest to reach the plantation. I highly recommend taking a coffee tour from here, and you can even organic coffee beans at reasonable prices.

Book: Coffee tour of La Victoria Coffee Farm (from Minca)

Where to Stay in Minca

Packing List for Hiking in Minca

Here’s a quick Minca packing list for adventure travelers who plan to be hitting the hiking trails!

• Bug repellent – seriously, this is crucial, the sand flies are ruthless in Minca. I’ve stopped using deet and now swear by the natural alternative from Sallye Ander
• Bug cream – something to treat the inevitable bites. Again, the Sallye Ander cream helps reduce itching.
• Hat and sunscreen – many of the hiking trails are shaded, but you will be exposed to the sun a lot in Minca. I’m Aussie so I might be biased, but Blue Lizard makes the best natural sunscreen on earth.
• Grayl water purifier – I swear by this water purifying bottle. I’ve used it all over the world (including tap water in India), and saved thousands of plastic bottles from landfill in the process.
• Hiking shoes and clothes – make sure to pack the outdoor clothes!
• A lightweight rain jacket – while the coast around Santa Marta is dry, the Sierra Nevada mountains around Minca get a lot of rain.
• Camera or GoPro – this mountain village is beautiful and totally safe to have your camera out! Read my guide to camera gear for travel for suggestions.
• Warm clothes – the cooler climate in Minca can result in some chilly nights, especially if you head further into the mountains to Cerro Kennedy.
• Travel quick-dry towel – a must have travel essential
• Imodium – trust me, you might want to bring some
• Head lamp or flashlight –

More Colombia Travel & Adventure Inspiration

That’s a wrap for this guide to the 10 best hikes in Minca, Colombia!

While you’re here, make sure to check out some of my other blog posts for more travel guides and inspiration for travel in South America.

For ideas for where to go after Minca, a good option is to check out Tayrona National Park, Palomino, Cartagena, or head back to Medellín or Guatapé!

• 10 Things to Know Before Visiting Cabo San Juan in 2023 – Tayrona National Park
• 15 Awesome Things to do in Palomino Colombia – 2023 Travel Guide
• 15 Things to Do in Tayrona National Park Colombia – 2023 Travel Guide
• 21 Best Things to do in Minca, Colombia – 2023 Travel Guide
• 30 Best Things to do in Medellín Colombia – 2023 Travel Guide
• 37 Things to do in Guatapé Colombia – 2023 Travel Guide
• 4 Awesome Minca Waterfalls – Complete Guide
• Where to Stay in Medellín – 5 Best Neighborhoods + Hotels & Hostels

The post 10 Awesome Hikes in Minca, Colombia appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Looking for a quick list of awesome waterfalls in Minca? I’ve got you covered. In this guide, I’ll outline the top four waterfalls, cascades, and freshwater swimming spots to help you plan your adventures in this beautiful mountain village.

I’ve also written independent travel guides to these waterfalls, which you’ll find if you click the links under each heading.

Read: 21 Awesome Things to do in Minca

4 Awesome Waterfalls in Minca

1. Pozo Azul

Pozo Azul is one of the most popular waterfalls in Minca and features two small but beautiful cascades nestled in dense jungle surrounds. The bottom falls has a large but shallow natural swimming pool that is a favorite spot for Colombian tourists and day trippers.

However, if you continue upstream a little, you’ll find a more secluded upper tier, which even has a fun little cliff jump.

If you’re going to visit Pozo Azul, then you don’t need a tour guide. Simply hike up the road from town, or pay a motorbike taxi driver 10,000 to take you to the entrance. From here, it’s just a short walk down to Pozo Azul.

This is a great place to swim and take in the beautiful natural surrounds in the forested foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. However, try to avoid visiting this waterfall during busy periods like weekends or public holidays. Instead, the best time to visit Pozo Azul is early in the morning, or at lunch time when many of the tour groups leave.

Tip: Minca is an adventure playground! If you’re planning to rent motorbikes or go hiking, then make sure you have travel insurance for adventurers. The best option currently is WorldNomads, which cater to young adventure travelers.

2. Marinka Waterfalls

The Marinka Waterfalls, or Cascada de Marinka is another beautiful set of waterfalls near Minca town. Here, you’ll discover two larger waterfalls separated by a short hike. My favorite place is the the lower falls, which offers a wide, natural basin to swim in.

There’s also a restaurant on-site which has an iconic giant hammock offering great views over the cascades.

Again, you can either walk here from the small town of Minca (one-hour walk), or take a motorcycle taxi. In my opinion, the best way to visit Marinka falls is to hike here in the early morning to have it all to yourself.

Also, if you’re up for a quick adventure, you can also combine a visit to is beautiful waterfall with a hike up to Los Pinos. Along the way, you’ll pass a cacao, banana, and coffee plantation where you can also get coffee tours from.

Book: Epic Waterfall Rappelling Adventure (from Minca)

3. Cascada Escondida (THe Hidden Waterfall in Minca)

Looking for a more secluded place to swim and enjoy the gentle mountain streams of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta? Make sure to check out Cascada Escondida. This is a very little known waterfall hidden amongst dense forests near the small village adjacent to Pozo Azul.

You’ll find the short 5 minute trail down to this waterfall just after a bend on the road adjacent to “Panaderia Alto de la Montana”. While you won’t see a signpost here, simply continue down the trail on the left side of the building.

When we visited a kind old man selling his art next door pointed us in the right direction. Once you reach the river, cross it, turn left, and you’ll see the “Hidden Waterfall of Minca”, on your right.

Unfortunately, it seems that the upper level, which has the deepest pool, is not off-limits. I’m not sure what the thought process was here. But regardless, it’s a nice waterfall, and one you’ll get to enjoy all to yourself!

4. Oído del Mundo (Ear of the World)

Now for the fourth and final Minca waterfall, the Oído del Mundo, or “Ear of the World” falls.

Similarly to Cascada Escondida above, the Ear of the World is very much a hidden gem. There aren’t any signposts leading to it, and as a result, you won’t find hoards of tourists here either.

Instead, at the Ear of the World, you’ll discover a set of small, multi-tiered waterfalls plunging into a deep but shallow pool. What’s cool about this one is that you can climb up on the rocks on the right. From here, you’ll get access to the middle pool, which is a great place to cool off. Here, you’ll also discover why it’s called the “Ear of the World”.

Conveniently, Oído del Mundo Waterfall is located just a short walk from the centre of Minca. In fact, it’s found on the same dirt roads leading to the Marinka Waterfalls, which means you can visit both on the same trip!

Tip: Keep your eye out for exotic birds when hiking in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta! This region is very rich in biodiversity and a great place to do some bird watching.

Where to Stay in Minca

Minca Waterfall Packing List

Here’s a quick list of things to bring on your waterfall chasing adventures in Minca.

• Bug repellent – seriously, this is crucial, the sand flies are ruthless in Minca. I’ve stopped using deet and now swear by the natural alternative from Sallye Ander
• Bug cream – something to treat the inevitable bites. Again, the Sallye Ander cream helps reduce itching.
• Hat and sunscreen – many of the hiking trails are shaded, but you will be exposed to the sun a lot in Minca. I’m Aussie so I might be biased, but Blue Lizard makes the best natural sunscreen on earth.
• Grayl water purifier – I swear by this water purifying bottle. I’ve used it all over the world (including tap water in India), and saved thousands of plastic bottles from landfill in the process.
• Hiking shoes and clothes – make sure to pack the outdoor clothes!
• A lightweight rain jacket – while the coast around Santa Marta is dry, the Sierra Nevada mountains around Minca get a lot of rain.
• Camera or GoPro – this mountain village is beautiful and totally safe to have your camera out! Read my guide to camera gear for travel for suggestions.
• Warm clothes – the cooler climate in Minca can result in some chilly nights, especially if you head further into the mountains to Cerro Kennedy.
• Travel quick-dry towel – a must have travel essential
• Imodium – trust me, you might want to bring some
• Head lamp or flashlight – great for those return sunset hikes or when the power goes out.

More Colombia Travel Guides

I hope you’ve enjoyed this quick round up of these awesome Minca waterfalls!

Before you head out, check out some of my other South America travel guides below for more inspiration, ideas, and travel tips for Northern Colombia!

• 10 Awesome Hikes in Minca, Colombia
• 10 Things to Know Before Visiting Cabo San Juan in 2023 – Tayrona National Park
• 15 Awesome Things to do in Palomino Colombia – 2023 Travel Guide
• 21 Best Things to do in Minca, Colombia – 2023 Travel Guide
• 360 Mirador – Epic Viewpoint Hike in Minca, Colombia
• Cerro Kennedy Hike Near Minca Colombia – Everything You Need to Know
• Guatapé Rock – Complete Guide to Climbing La Piedra del Peñol (Colombia)
• Los Pinos Minca – Complete Hike & Trail Guide (Colombia)
• Pozo Azul in Minca – Everything You Need to Know (Colombia)
• Where to Stay in Medellín – 5 Best Neighborhoods + Hotels & Hostels

The post 4 Awesome Minca Waterfalls – Complete Guide appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Tulum on the Yucatan Peninsula, was once a sleepy backpacker town but is quickly becoming one of the most popular travel destinations in Mexico. Here, on this thin slice of paradise wedged on the Caribbean Coast, you’ll find amazing white-sand beaches, rich history and culture, and of course, incredible tacos and street food.

However, what many people don’t know is that Tulum is also home to some of the best cenotes in all of Mexico!

While there are over 6000 in the Yucatan Peninsula alone, I’ve outlined the very best cenotes in Tulum in this round-up of the top twenty. This list is based on my personal experience traveling in Tulum and visiting these amazing natural sinkholes.

About the Cenotes in Tulum & Mexico

Cenotes (pronounced seh-no-tays) are natural sinkholes that have formed over time as groundwater slowly erodes the limestone bedrock.

They can be found all throughout Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula but are especially concentrated in Tulum and the Riviera Maya, where the sea often connects to these freshwater underground passageways.

There are three different types of cenotes in this region, including

• Cave Cenotes - also known as "underground cenotes". These dark freshwater systems are located underground with a cave roof and as a result, offer little light. These cenotes are great for exploring or cave diving with a torch.
• Open Cenotes - these are the most common cenotes you'll find in Tulum. They are remnants of a cave that has collapsed to form an open pit, which when filled with rainwater, creates a fresh water pool. These are the best for soaking in the Riviera Mayan sun and cooling off.
• Semi-open cenotes: as the name suggests, semi-open cenotes are mostly underground cave systems but feature a large, exposed hole in the roof where it has partially collapsed. Great for exploring and for photos, where the contrast from the light rays can be quite spectacular

Cenotes make for a perfect swimming hole on a hot day, and many are also great for snorkeling, cliff jumping, and diving.

However, just remember that many of the cenotes in Tulum have long been a spiritual place for the Mayans, where they would perform sacrifices and other rituals. These systems are also very delicate, so take care to preserve the natural environment while still enjoying these epic freshwater sinkholes.

19 Best Tulum Cenotes

After a month of exploring Tulum and its amazing cenotes, here is my round-up of the best twenty!

I've split this into two sections. The first 17 cenotes are within easy reach of Tulum pueblo, or even Playa Del Carmen (broader Quintana Roo). However, the last three are a little further out but I've included them as they are usually combined with popular day trips from Tulum like Chichen Itza.

1. Gran Cenote

The Gran Cenote (Grand Cenote) is part of the Sac-Aktun system, which is the world's largest known underwater cave system.

Gran Cenote is the most famous and arguably one of the most beautiful. It's a semi-open cenote, which features fun cave swim-throughs and partially collapsed areas.

The water here is an insane fluorescent blue that is crystal-clear. As a result, this makes for a good cenote for snorkeling, swimming, and taking vacation photos.

However, a very famous cenote, this one can get quite popular and crowded. You'll also need to wear a life jacket at this one as it's compulsory. This is a little annoying if you prefer to explore deeper in the caves, but a benefit for those who are a little less confident in the water.

To get here, you can book the triple cenote tour above, or make your way down the main road to Coba (approximately 3.1 miles from Tulum Centro).

2. Cenote Calavera

This next Yucatán Peninsula cenote is closer to the Tulum Pueblo on the main road to Coba (same as the Gran Cenote).

As a result, it's one of the closest cenotes to Tulum town, especially if you're staying in the Centro!

Its name, Cenote Calavera, literally translates to "skull cenote" in Spanish, but it also has another name too, the Temple of Doom Cenote. This comes from the ancient human skull found at the bottom of the sinkhole!

However, these days there's nothing grim about this adventure playground. This semi-open cenote offers cliff jumping, an idyllic wooden swing, and picturesque steps leading into deep, crystal clear waters.

Visitors are also free to explore the cave by swimming through the large covered cavern. If you're brave enough, you can also try to jump through the tiny collapsed entrances into the pit as you'll see in the video below.

3. Casa Cenote (Cenote Manati)

Casa Cenote is a stunning cenote that's great for swimming and snorkeling. This one is located just outside of town in a new luxury development area called Tulsayab, on the main highway towards Playa Del Carmen.

This open cenote is situated amongst beautiful, natural forest surrounds and actually links up to the ocean via an underground river. As a result, the blue waters are a mix of salt and freshwater.

The water again, is a ridiculously beautiful shade of vibrant blue, which contrasts magnificently against the lush floral greens. Just check out the drone shots I was able to capture below!

There are several spots where you can jump off into the deep end or climb up for some cliff jumping. Also, since Casa Cenote is wide and not too deep, it's one of the most popular places for scuba diving, especially for beginners or those needing a refresher!

Book: Best-rated beginner cenote dive in Mexico

4. Cenote Dos Ojos

Dos Ojos cenote is one of the most popular cenotes near Tulum, arguably my favorite of all the cave cenotes. This large cenote has two distinct sections or "eyes", (its name translates to "two eyes cenote") each offering amazing cave swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Although this one is a little stretch from town, I highly recommend making a visit. In fact, I'd say this is my favorite cenote in Mexico!

The reason is that this magical cave cenote system is incredibly picturesque. The small cracks in the cave entrance result in magical light rays piercing into stunningly clear water. Actually, it's so clear that you can see all the way down to the bottom even when standing at the edge!

Unfortunately, due to its beauty and world-renown, Cenote Dos Ojos can get a little busy. You'll also need to wear a life jacket if you're swimming, which I find really annoying!

However, I highly recommend visiting, and if you make the trip, try to get here early to beat the crowds!

Book: Cenote Dos Ojos cave diving experience (two dives)

5. Cenote Azul

Cenote Azul is one of the most popular cenotes in the entire Riviera Maya. This might be due to its alluring name, or the fact that this "L-shaped" cenote has some of the clearest water in the country!

If you're coming from Tulum, expect quite a long ride, since this one is found just outside of Puerto Aventura, and is popular with tourists making day trips from Playa del Carmen.

There are two wide pools here, each perfect for swimming. Additionally, if you bring your snorkel, you can spot abundant fish and even freshwater turtles.

6. Cenote Cristalino

Cenote Cristalino is another gorgeous cenote that is located near Playa del Carmen. As a result, if you're planning to explore the Mayan Riviera on a day trip, add this one to your list!

Not to be confused with Cenote Cristal (close to Tulum), Cristalino is more of an adventure cenote, and one of the most popular places to have a bit of fun outside of Playa. What I mean by this is that the vibe is much more active, with lots of areas for swimming, a cliff jump spot, and even a swing!

While this is mostly an open cenote, there is also a cave to explore as well, which is great if you want to get out of the sun.

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7. Cenote CarWash (Cenote Aktun Ha)

This next cenote with a rather strange name is located just a few minutes from the famous Gran Cenote (number 1), on the road to Coba. The Carwash Cenote gets its name from the fact that, since it's just off the road, locals would come here to wash their cars and motorbikes!

Thankfully, this doesn't happen anymore, and the cenote is now a pristine oasis where you can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, relaxing, and jumping off a wooden platform.

There is a slight current here, which is caused by the freshwater flowing from the underground streams of the Sak Aktun system. Also, if you ask the locals, there is a small crocodile living here. Don't worry though, he's harmless, and just a baby!

I searched for a good hour to try to find him with little luck. Let me know if you are able to spot him!

8. Cenote Escondido

This next cenote is aptly named Cenote Escondido, or "Hidden Cenote". It's located down a long and bumpy dirt road, just a few minutes from Tulum.

As the name suggests, this cenote is relatively hidden and certainly not visible from the road. In fact, you'd have a hard time even spotting it if it wasn't for the popular Cenote Cristal just across the road.

As a result, even though this spot is very close to town (on the way to Muyil Ruins) it isn't frequented by many tourists. This makes it the perfect spot to enjoy some peace and quiet.

There are several small entrances into the cenote which opens up into a large pool, which almost looks like a river. The water is crystal clear and amazing blue color.

9. Cenote El Pit

Similar to Cenote Zac Actun (number 17 below), the Pit Cenote is located within the Dos Ojos Park. This one is found just a little bit further up the road from the more famous Dos Ojos Cenote.

Popular with divers, El Pit is a roughly 10-meter wide cavern opening, which expands into a much broader cylindrical underwater cave.

If you're a fan of scuba diving and underwater photography, you'll discover some of the most magnificent rock formations here. Due to the large opening, divers can also witness amazing light rays and excellent visibility.

Tip: The Pit is also the deepest cenote in Quintana Roo, with a total depth of over 119 meters (390 feet)!

10. Cenote Yaxmuul

You probably won't find Yaxmuul featured on most roundups of cenotes near Tulum.

That's because to get here, you need to get down a fairly long dirt road near the Jungle Maya Park. In fact, most visitors don't make the trip out here independently, since the best way to reach it is to book an ATV tour. These usually include a guided experience of the cenotes.

Cenote Yaxmuul, also known as Parque De Cenotes Yax-Muul, is a series of cave cenotes with pools for swimming and snorkeling. There is also zip-lining you can do in this area as well.

11. Cenote Jardin Del Eden (Ponderosa)

The Cenote Jardin Del Eden (Garden of Eden Cenote) is a large open cenote with crystal-clear water and plenty of areas for swimming, sunbathing, and cliff jumping.

The ambiance here is fairly calm but it is good to know that it can get quite crowded in the middle of the day, especially on weekends or public holidays.

However, the natural atmosphere here is extremely beautiful, with green forest and beautiful rock formations surrounding the edge of this amazing swimming pool-style cenote.

You'll discover this cenote on the road between Playa del Carmen and Tulum.

12. Cenote Encantado

Looking for an awesome freshwater cenote right on the Tulum hotel strip? I've got just the hidden gem for you.

Cenote Encantado is a wide, open air cenote surrounded by green mangroves and forest. There's a wooden jump tower, which is one of the biggest in this roundup.

While being located very close to the hustle and bustle of the hotel zone, this place is very quiet, and you'd probably pass it if you're riding down past the famous Ven a la Luz sculpture or the Follow That Dream Sign. It's also one of the cheapest, and there usually isn't even a person at the front to take your money!

Similarly to the Car Wash Cenote, there is a resident crocodile living here! Again, this one is also harmless. You can paddle out on the kayaks resting up on the banks (free) to try to find him!

13. Cenote Cristal

As mentioned, Cenote Cristal is the second cenote on the road to Muyil Ruins and is located just opposite Cenote Escondido (the Hidden Cenote).

This is another serene and very peaceful spot where few visitors come, even though it is reachable from Tulum town by bicycle!

This cenote is a large open pool with crystal clear water and several wooden board entrances. There is a small wooden platform to jump off, as well as picnic tables and even hammocks to relax in.

If you haven't caught onto the vibe yet, this is a very chill spot. It's a great cenote to visit if you're trying to get out of the hustle-and-bustle of Tulum Centro and to recover from the likely hangover!

14. Cenote Zacil-Ha

This next cenote is not much of a tourist spot, but popular with locals, again on the road to Coba just north of Tulum. You'll find it literally right next door to the famous Car Wash cenote!

This one is quite small and roughly the size of a 20-meter swimming pool. However, it is quite deep and even features a zip-line. Additionally, you'll find a small snack bar/small restaurant right next to it where you can buy some food or even a cold cerveza!

Car Rentals in Tulum

By far, the best way to explore the Yucatan Peninsula is to rent your own car. Driving around Tulum is safe and having your own vehicle will likely save you money on transport.

However, rentals sell out quickly in the peak season. Avoid paying absurd prices & compare rentals across dealers in Tulum & Cancun on DiscoverCars well in advance.

See Rental Prices Now

15. Cenote Nicte-Ha

Cenote Nicte-Ha is another one of the small open cenotes and is located just past Cenote Dos Ojos on the road to Playa del Carmen.

This place looks exactly like what you would imagine when picturing a Quintana Roo Cenote in your head, with a small hole in the ground and crystal clear water in the middle.

You can swim here, and it's a great option if you're looking for a super quiet cenote off-the-beaten-track, especially on a road trip from Tulum to Playa.

However, if you're short of time in Tulum and looking for the absolute best cenote experience, I'd give this one a miss, simply because it is quite small.

16. Cenote Sac Actun (Cenote Pet Cemetery)

Cenote Sac Actun is named after the aforementioned Sistema Sac Actun, which is the longest underwater cave system on earth! You'll discover this underground cave cenote right near Dos Ojos, and it offers a similar experience without the crowds.

Unfortunately, the downside to visiting this cenote is that a guide is required. However, you can hire a guide at the entrance when you arrive at Dos Ojos.

If you're a lover of history and archaeology, this is a cool cenote to visit in Tulum, since it's the site where the oldest human skeleton discovered in America was found (13,000 years old).

Awesome Cenotes Worth Visiting on a Day Trip From Tulum

The next three options on this epic roundup of Tulum Cenotes are located within a day trip distance from town.

Although people don't usually make the drive out to these cenotes for the day, they're usually visited alongside unmissable Mexico attractions like Chichen Itza and the beautiful city of Valladolid.

17. Cenote Ik Kil (Near Chichen Itza)

While a little busy thanks to its close proximity to Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil is one of the most epic and fairy-tale-like cenotes in Mexico.

Picture a huge crater dropping into a huge sinkhole with an extremely deep pool at the bottom. There are vines and lush green jungle flora hanging down from the lip and reaching all the way to the water's edge.

Yes, Cenote Ik Kil is one of the most popular cenotes in Mexico, but this place is simply stunning.

Book: Chichen Itza and Ik Kil Cenote Day Trip (from Tulum)

18. Cenote Xcanche at Ek Balam Ruins

Cenote Xcanche is located right next to the famous Ek Balam Ruins, which is an archeological site that is commonly visited on a day trip from Tulum or Playa del Carmen. In fact, this cenote is often called "Cenote Ek Balam" for this reason.

This cenote is another wide, circular open cenote located within the jungle. There is a rope swing here, as well as a wooden platform that runs around its circumference.

If you're planning a visit to the Ek Balam Ruins (commonly referred to as the little brother of Chichen Itza), then it's worth making a stop here. Otherwise, I'd visit one of the cenotes closer to Tulum.

19. Cenote Suytun (Valladolid)

Ahh, the famous Instagram Cenote. Some say that if you didn't return with a photo from this cave cenote, did you even go to Mexico at all?

Cenote Suytun is located a short drive from the city of Valladolid, and similarly to Cenote Ik Kil (number 18), is a common addition to tours running to Chichen Itza from Tulum.

This cenote is located deep underground, and you'll navigate down a steep set of concrete stairs to reach it. Once you arrive, you'll discover a huge cavern with a man-made concrete path leading out into the shallow water. In terms of swimming and exploring, this probably isn't the best cenote to visit. However, it does make for a great photo spot! Just remember that there is usually a line to get "the famous shot".

Where to Stay in Tulum For Cenote Trips

Wondering about where to stay in Tulum? Generally speaking, there are two areas, Tulum Town (Pueblo), and the Tulum Hotel Zone (Tulum Beach).

Tulum Town is a laid-back town close to the ADO bus station and has loads of hotels, guest houses, hostels, restaurants, bars, and everything else you could imagine.

The Tulum Hotel Zone is located closer to the to the beach, where you'll find more high-end hotels, beach resorts, restaurants, and nightclubs. Here are the 3 top picks from both neighborhoods.

• Casa Malca - Perfect for couples searching for a luxury, private and relaxing resort. It's situated on a private beach surrounded by palm trees and offers luxury spa treatments and a large outdoor swimming pool.
• Mamasan Treehouses & Cabins - Stay in an epic tree house just 100m from South Tulum Beach! Features an epic root-top jungle bar with rooms overlooking the ocean.
• Myan Monkey - By far the best hostel for a party vibe and making lifelong friends. The perfect choice for backpackers looking for accommodation in a great location. Just a short walk to Tulum Center where you can find many restaurants and bars.

More on Booking.com

Practical Tulum Cenote Guide

I've created this huge cenote travel guide to help adventure travelers find a one-stop shop for visiting cenotes near Tulum.

Therefore, now that you're aware of all the best spots, lets dive into some recommendations, depending on what kind of activity or vibe you're chasing.

Closest Cenotes to Tulum

Feeling a bit lazy? Perhaps a bit hungover? Alright, if you're wondering which cenotes are closest to Tulum and actually worth visiting, here's your answer.

• Cenote Escondido - 2.8 miles (4.3 kilometeres)
• Cenote Cristal - 2.8 miles (4.3 kilometeres)
• Cenote Calavera - 1.9 miles (3.1 kilometers)
• Cenote Encantado - 6.5 miles (10.5 kilometers) from Pueblo. This one is much closer to the Hotel Zone if you're staying on along the Tulum beach strip.

You can technically walk to all of these cenotes, or better yet, rent a bicycle.

Best Cenotes for Snorkeling

Want to explore underwater caves, see amazing rock formations, stalagmites, stalactites, and even freshwater fish and turtles? Here are my best picks for the best snorkeling cenotes near Tulum, Mexico.

• Gran Cenote
• Cenote Escondido
• Cenote Dos Ojos
• Cenote Azul
• Cenote Car Wash
• Cenote Yaxmuul

Best Cenotes for Scuba Diving

The truth is, you can scuba dive at many of the cenotes in the Yucatan. However, the below options are going to be the best.

• Cenote Dos Ojos - experienced divers
• Cenote El Pit - experienced divers
• Cenote Calavera - experienced divers
• Casa Cenote - beginner divers
• Cenote Escondido - semi-experienced divers

Best Cenotes for Cliff Jumping

In an ideal world, if I had to pick the best cenote for cliff jumping, it'd be Cenote Ik Kil. However, jumping at this cenote is now banned as it's super high (it was actually the site of a Red Bull cliff jumping event).

These days, the bodies governing cenote tourism have taken implemented the USA's "helicopter mommy" approach to natural attractions and don't really allow cliff jumping above 3 meters anymore.

With that said, if you want to get a quick thrill and maybe practice some flips, you'll find fun little platforms and short jumps at the following cenotes near Tulum:

• Cenote Cristal
• Cenote Car Wash
• Cenote Calavera
• Cenote Cristalino
• Azul Cenote
• Jardín del Edén Cenote

Best Cenotes for Relaxing & Unwinding

Prefer to relax and avoid the crowds? The below options are going to be your best bet for the most relaxing cenotes near Tulum and the surrounding Riviera Maya.

• Cenote Cristal
• Cenote Escondido
• Cenote Encantado
• Cenote Nicte-Ha
• Cenote Car Wash

What You Shouldn't Bring to Cenotes in the Yucatan

Yes, there are also some things that you should avoid bringing. In general, I'd recommend visitors avoid bringing large bags with too many valuables. This is because only a select handful of cenotes in the Yucatan offer lockers, and you'll have to pay for the privilege of using them.

Here are some more things you shouldn't bring.

• Cameras and drones - this one is subjective, and I brought my camera to several cenotes. However, you usually have to pay to bring "professional" cameras in. Locals will deem anything larger than a GoPro as "professional". The price varies but it's generally more than the entrance ticket!
• Sunscreen and lotions - the ecosystems within the cenotes are very delicate. As a result, sunscreen and creams/insect repellant is banned from all cenotes in Mexico. Locals will enforce this rule.

Related: Best Camera Gear for Travel

Tulum Cenote FAQs

6 More Cenotes Near Tulum

Not satisfied with a huge list of 19 Tulum Cenotes? Okay, if you're looking for even more, here's another handful. I've not visited these ones personally, so I can't comment much on them!

• Cenote Choo Ha
• Cenote Xunaan ha
• Cenote Tanka
• Cenotes Casa Tortuga
• Cenote Jaguar
• Cenote Angelita

More Tulum Travel & Adventure Inspiration

I hope you've enjoyed this comprehensive travel guide to visiting the best cenotes in Tulum and the Yucatan Peninsula!

While you're here on my blog, make sure to check out some of my other detailed guides. You'll find loads more inspiration for your upcoming trip.

• 26 Awesome Things to do in Tulum Mexico - 2023 Guide
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• Where to Stay in Tulum - Ultimate 2023 Accommodation Guide

The post 19 Best Cenotes in Tulum, Mexico: Swimming, Snorkeling, & Scuba Diving appeared first on We Seek Travel.

The South Island of New Zealand is one of the world’s best and most pristine hiking destinations. Coupled with the Kiwis’ love for the outdoors means that there are hundreds, if not thousands of pristine hiking trails and tramping routes ready to be explored.

It would take a lifetime to explore all of the South Island hikes and trails. However, in this guide, I aim to outline some of the best and most famous hikes, as well as a few little-known gems.

In this list of the best hikes in South Island New Zealand, I’ve broken down different hikes into areas. This will make it easier for you to plan your trips.

Great Hikes Near Queenstown

Queenstown, affectionately known as the adventure capital of the world, is also a great base for tackling some of the country's best hikes.

I've written a separate article that includes a little more detail regarding the best hikes in Queenstown. Otherwise, you can also find hiking guides for most on this list beneath each item.

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1. Queenstown Hill

Queenstown Hill is probably the most popular sunrise and sunset hill in town.

This hike is very easy and wide and begins within walking distance of the main strip in Queenstown. Taking only 2-3 hours for the return trip with an optional short loop near the top, this is a great warm-up hike for things to come!

Since Queenstown is high on most people's New Zealand itinerary, then I've included this hike as one of the best in the South Island for the simple reason that you'll get some of the best views of town from here.

2. Tiki Trail

Starting from the Skyline Gondola just a few minutes' walk from Ferg Burger is Queenstown's Tiki Trail.

This steep, yet scenic climb through dense beech and fir forest winds up to the top of Skyline Hill, just next to Bob's Lookout.

At the top, you’ll also find the “luge” which is one of the most popular adventure activities found in Queenstown.

Tip: If you’d like to take the Gondola back down, I’d recommend booking a gondola and luge joint ticket online.

READ MORE: Best Things to Do in Queenstown, New Zealand

3. The Ben Lomond Track

Are the legs warm after climbing up the Tiki Trail? If you're up for it, then you can continue onto the Ben Lomond track, which is one of my favourite hikes in the South Island.

This track leads to the Ben Lomond summit, from which you can climb another short distance to the 1748 m peak.

From here, hikers are rewarded with the best views of Queenstown, the Remarkables, and the beautiful Lake Wakatipu below.

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4. Bob's Cove Track

From mountain summits to lakeside views, they say that Queenstown captures what New Zealand's diverse landscapes are all about.

This next scenic South Island walking track is called Bob's Cove Track.

Bob's Cove is a popular lakeside swimming and picnic area located just a short drive from Queenstown's main strip. Here, you can walk a very scenic loop, with the highlight being "Picnic Hill" whereby you'll be treated to sweeping views of Lake Wakatipu and the distant Remarkables range.

5. Moke Lake Loop

Moke Lake New Zealand is a small mountain lake located near the small suburb of Closeburn, near Queenstown. Although this lake is only a relative stone-throw away from the bustling adrenaline hub, Moke Lake is a much tamer and more secluded hiking area.

While only offering a short loop hike and a lake viewpoint hill, heading to Moke Lake is a great idea, especially if you have a camper. This is because Moke Lake has one of the best DOC campsites near Queenstown. So, if camping and hiking are on your Queenstown itinerary, don't miss Moke Lake.

6. Lake Alta Hike

The Lake Alta hike is a short track that leads from the Remarkables Ski Area and finishes at a pristine mountain lake at 1900M.

To get here, you'll need to drive up the Remarkables Ski Area access road, which is an adventure in itself!

Compared to most of the short hikes in Queenstown, I believe the Lake Alta hike to be one of the most underrated.

Tip: If you follow my guide below, I detail a relatively unknown route to a viewpoint just beside the lake for the best views of Lake Alta and Shotover Country.

7. The Routeburn Track - Epic South Island Multi-Day Tramp

The Routeburn Track is the first of the "Great Walks" featured on this list and is widely considered one of the best overnight tramps on the South Island.

This is a through-hike that can be started from either Glenorchy or the Divide in the Fjordland National Park.

Passing vast tussock plains and deep valleys and climbing through temperate rainforests to high alpine peaks, hikers are treated to the real "New Zealand experience".

Read: Routeburn Track Day Hike

NEW ZEALAND GREAT WALKS
The New Zealand Department of Conservation has categorised some hikes as "Great Walks". There 9 "premier tracks" are typically multi-day tramps in New Zealand's best hiking areas. For more information, visit the DOC website.

8. Earnslaw Burn Hike

Also departing from Glenorchy, the Earnslaw Burn hike is another amazing overnight hike (or long out-and-back day trip).

Following the Earnslaw glacial burn, the track dips and climbs along pristine beech forest for several hours before finally breaking out into a magical glacial valley.

The track leads all the way to the Earnslaw glacier, passing plunging waterfalls on each side. There are several spots that make great freedom camping spots. For this reason, the Earnslaw Burn is typically hiked on an overnight trip.

If you're looking for 2-day hikes on the South Island and staying near Queenstown or Glenorchy, go give this one a try!

Awesome South Island Hikes Near Wanaka

Second to Queenstown, Wanaka is arguably the next most popular destination for adventure travelers visiting New Zealand.

9. Roy's Peak

Known as New Zealand's most trafficked mountain, to say that the Roy's Peak track is popular would be an understatement.

However, that's not to say that its popularity is unwarranted. On a clear day, Roy's Peak rewards hikers with sweeping views of Wanaka town and lake, as well as distant Mount Aspiring.

Tip: Leave early (before sunrise) to secure a car park spot and to avoid big crowds on the trail and at the summit.

10. Rocky Mountain Summit and Diamond Lake Loop

If the Roy's Peak car park has reached max capacity and you're not too keen on queuing up for a summit photo, then the Rocky Mountain summit track is a great alternative.

Just a 10-15 minute drive from Wanaka, the Rocky Mountain summit track climbs to a very scenic viewpoint high above Wanaka Lake. Often missed by visitors to Wanaka, the view from the summit has earned it a spot on my list of best hikes in South Island New Zealand.

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11. Blue Pools in Wanaka

The Blue Pools track is located in Mount Aspiring National Park, approximately one hour's drive from Wanaka.

This easy and shot walking track leads through beautiful native forests and over two swing bridges before finishing at the Makarora River's Blue Pools.

Many visitors flock to the Blue Pools to swim in the incredibly blue glacial waters at the end of this short, yet scenic track.

Hikes Near Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

The crown jewel of New Zealand hiking areas - the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park has some of the absolute best hikes in South Island New Zealand.

From unbeatable views of Mount Cook - New Zealand's tallest mountain to moraine viewpoints looking over the country's largest glacier, this is a New Zealand hiking destination you won't want to miss.

Tip: I've also written a separate guide to hiking in Mount Cook National park hikes.

12. Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Hike

Starting off the hikes in the Mount Cook area is this unmarked and little-known viewpoint on the edge of the Tasman Glacier moraine.

To get here, you'll need to drive to the Tasman Valley, just a short stint from Mount Cook Village. The viewpoint is found about one hour's hike along the Balls Hut Track.

While this hike isn't the most scenic or challenging, it's the lookout at the end that makes it worth it!

13. Sealy Tarns Track

The next four hikes on this list all depart from near the White Horse Hill campsite, just a short drive from Mount Cook Village.

First up is the Sealy Tarns track, a steep climb that traverses over 2200 wooden steps before concluding at a set of beautiful reflective alpine ponds (tarns).

From here, views of the Hooker Valley and Aoraki/Mount Cook are pristine. If you're a keen photographer, make sure to snap some reflective photos of Aoraki in the tarns!

14. Mueller Hut Route

If this list of best South Island hikes was ordered, then the Mueller Hut Route would have to finish close to the top.

Continuing on from the Sealy Tarns track, the Mueller Route ascends further up the Sealy range to the pass.

From here, the track follows on to the Mueller Hut; one of New Zealand's many scenic alpine huts. Many people choose to stay in the hut overnight, however, it is still possible to freedom camp near the hut too!

15. Hooker Valley Track

The Hooker Valley track is often considered one of the most scenic hikes in New Zealand.

Winding up the Hooker Valley, this hike passes several swing bridges, passing moraine viewpoints and crosses the Hooker River as it makes its way to the Hooker Glacial lake at the feet of Mount Cook.

If you're looking for great views of New Zealand's tallest peak without having to commit to a strenuous hike, this is the one for you!

16. Kea Point Track

The Kea Point track is the shortest track in the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. With approximately 1-1.5 hours expected for the return trip, it's a worthwhile hike that finishes at Kea Point.

From here, there are direct views of the Mueller glacial moraine and lake, with floating icebergs regularly seen in the calm alpine waters.

17. Blue Lakes and Tasman Glacier Walk

On the way back from Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, why not go back to the Tasman Valley to check out the Blue Lakes and Tasman Glacier walk?

Of course, this can be completed at the same time as the moraine viewpoint mentioned above. However, if you're short on time or would prefer a short hike to the Tasman Glacier, then this is a great option.

Fjordland National Park Hikes & Tramps

For those chasing a real slice of Jurassic New Zealand, the Fjordlands is the place to be.

When most people think of the Fjordlands, they think of Milford Sound. The reality is that there is so much more to explore than just the regular tourist beat. Here are some of the most epic hikes in the area to get you started.

Note that due to closures resulting from recent severe flooding, some of these hikes may be closed. This is the reason why I was unable to include some great tracks which deserved a spot on this list. However, I have included them in the section at the end of this post with links to other bloggers and travel writers to help you out.

18. Kepler Track - Epic 3-4 Day South Island Hike

Another of New Zealand's "Great Walks", the Kepler Track is a 2-4 day tramp departing from Te Anau.

The great thing about the Kepler Track is that it's a loop track, which means you don't have to follow in your footsteps to return back to Te Anau.

In terms of scenery, the Kepler is one of the most amazing hikes on New Zealand's South Island. Following the largest body of fresh water in Australiasia (Lake Te Anau), the track climbs through dense native forests before entering vast tussock plains with views of snow-capped peaks in all directions.

There are several ways to tackle this track, but in my opinion, the best way is to do it anti-clockwise in three days. I've written a very detailed guide about hiking the Kepler, which you'll find in the link below.

Read: Where to Freedom Camp on the Kepler Track

19. Mount Luxmore Summit

For those who don't have time to tackle the whole thing, it's possible to lock in a long day hike up the first section of the Kepler and to summit Mount Luxmore before returning back to Te Anau.

This is a great way to see a glimpse of the Kepler without committing to a long multi-day trek. However, it's important to remember that the best views by far are experienced on day two of the Kepler track.

Another popular alternative for those low on time is to complete this day hike and stay or camp at the Luxmore Hut and walk back to Te Anau the following day.

20. Milford Track

Perhaps the most well-known and trafficked of New Zealand's Great Walks, the Milford Track is a 4-day 53.5 KM track that finishes in the magical Milford Sound.

Known as the 'finest walk in the world' the Milford Track passes several waterfalls with spectacular viewing opportunities of the fjords and Mitre Peak.

Unfortunately, I haven't written a complete guide to the Milford Track. However, you can still find useful information on the DOC website.

BOOK: Milford Sound Day Trip From Queenstown or Wanaka

21. Lake Hauroko

While Milford seems to get most of the attention, there are loads more excellent hiking areas in the Fjordlands and Southlands that are worth your time.

Lake Hauroko is a popular fishing and boating lake that also has one of the best sunset lookout hikes in the region.

This short, steep hike leads to a rocky platform overlooking the lake and snow-capped mountain ranges on either side. The great thing about this hike is that it's very lightly trafficked, which means you'll most likely have it all to yourself!

Arthur's Pass and the West Coast

Arthur's Pass, at an elevation of 740M, is a small tourist hub that has become a mecca for snowboarders, outdoor enthusiasts, and of course, hikers and trampers.

The mountain pass by the same name is only 5 kilometres from the township and is considered to be one of the most scenic roads in New Zealand.

Of course, there's so much more to see and do in Arthur's Pass than just a roadside pitstop. This includes some incredible tracks and routes that have earned their spot on this list of best hikes in South Island New Zealand.

22. Avalanche Peak

For the adventurous, the Avalanche Peak route is one of the best hikes in the area.

This one can be tackled in a loop, with both the beginning and end of the track being connected by a short stretch of highway.

Although a very steep climb that can be hazardous in winter conditions, the Avalanche Peak hike offers incredible views of the surrounding Arthur's Pass region, including tall mountain peaks and huge, plunging waterfalls.

23. Castle Hill (Kura Tawhiti)

Castle Hill is a little bit of a different hiking opportunity located near Arthur's Pass. What I mean by this is that it's more of an attraction to explore rather than a set track or route.

Kura Tawhiti is a culturally significant area consisting of hundreds of huge limestone boulders. You could easily spend hours walking around the many tracks around the boulders and admiring this geological phenomenon.

Read More: Visiting Castle Hill (Kura Tawhiti)

24. Devils Punchbowl Waterfall Track

Out of all of New Zealand's waterfalls, the Devils Punchbowl Waterfall has to be one of the most impressive.

Plunging down sheer cliffs in a beautiful native forest amphitheater, this 131-metre waterfall is a must-see Arthur's Pass attraction.

The hike to the waterfall is quite short but can be combined with the 6.8 km Arthur's Pass Walking track departing from the Devil's Punchbowl waterfall carpark.

The hiking trail to the waterfall is also a great warm-up hike before tackling some of the big routes like Avalanche Peak!

25. Roberts Point Track (Franz Josef)

Now, onto the wild West Coast. This region is home to several large glaciers including the Franz Josef glacier and the Fox Glacier.

The best hike for views of the Franz Josef glacier is the Roberts Point track. Although much longer than some of the other, quick-fix viewpoints, this track undeniably offers the best views.

Crossing several swing bridges over the Franz Josef glacial valley and climbing steadily through incredible native rainforest, this is a hike that is seriously underrated!

26. Mount Fox Summit Route

Looking for the best sunrise hike in South Island New Zealand? What about the steepest tramping route in the country? The answer is the Mount Fox route.

Seriously steep, yet seriously rewarding. This route is approximately 80% root-scrambling and 20% jaw-gaping, awe-inspiring views.

This track is a little hard to find and can be very dangerous in foggy or stormy conditions. For this reason, pick your day for the best weather and leave early to avoid afternoon fog. This will also increase your chances of clear Fox Glacier and Aoraki/Mount Cook views.

27. Lake Matheson Loop

The calm reflective waters of Lake Matheson are one of the best places in New Zealand to get views of Aoraki/Mount Cook's western face.

Located just a short drive from Fox Glacier village, the Lake Matheson Reflection Lake has a short, scenic loop hike around its circumference.

The highlight is undeniably Reflection Island, where in the right conditions, you'll be treated with Mount Cook views like in the photo below.

Tip: Visit for sunset for the best reflective shots of Mount Cook at Reflection Island.

Kaikoura and the East Coast Hikes

Now for the South Island's east coast. The north-eastern Kaikoura region is considered to be the island's wildlife capital, especially when it comes to marine creatures.

Here are the two best hikes near Kaikoura to fill in the time between whale watching and seal greeting!

28. Kaikoura Peninsula Walk

The Kaikoura Peninsula walk is a short coastal loop located just south of the Kaikoura township. This hike is popular because it allows visitors to spot dozens of basking fur seals who call this part of New Zealand home.

Guide: Where to See the Kaikoura Seal Colony

29. Mount Fyffe Summit Tramp

The Mount Fyffe summit hike is a tramping track that leads high above the Kaikoura Peninsula with views stretching from the alps to the sea.

Depending on the season, the Mount Fyffe summit route can be an overnight mission (by camping or staying at the hut), a sunny summer's hike or a snowy alpine slog.

Either way, the Mount Fyffe summit route is probably the best mountain hike near Kaikoura, and one of the best hikes in South Island New Zealand.

Hiking in the Catlins

The southeastern region of the Catlins is a kiwi hidden gem with several great hikes and even more spectacular waterfalls.

30. Catlins Short Waterfall Hikes

If you're driving around the South Island on a road trip, then I'd highly recommend dedicating at least a few days to checking out this region.

What makes this drive so great is that there are dozens of very short hikes which lead to some of the best temperate-rainforest waterfalls in New Zealand. Since the hikes to the Catlins waterfalls are all very short, I've included a list of them below rather than dedicating a section to each.

• McLean Falls
• Purakaunui Falls
• Matai Falls

READ MORE: Best Things to do on a Catlins Road Trip

31. Waipohatu Waterfall Loop

The Waipohatu Waterfall loop offers not one, but two awesome waterfalls to reward you for your efforts. This hike can also be completed in a loop that leads through the beautiful rainforest that is filled with the sounds of native birds and wildlife.

Bonus: Te Araroa Trail - Most Epic Tramp in New Zealand's South Island

For the really adventurous and dedicated hikers and trampers is the world-renowned Te Araroa trail.

This is a 3000 km route that is definitely not for the faint-hearted. Starting at Cape Reinga on the tip of the North Island and finishing in Bluff, New Zealand's southernmost point, the Te Araroa connects the entire country by a single track.

Of course, this incredible feat is a once-in-a-lifetime mission that requires an extensive dedication of time and energy. So, if you've been looking for the most challenging and longest hike in New Zealand, here it is.

Tips & Info For Hiking in South Island New Zealand

With the list out of the way, here are some useful tips to help you make the most of your South Island hiking adventures!

Best Time to Hike in South Island New Zealand

Yet another great thing about visiting New Zealand is that you can hit most regular hiking trails and tramping routes year-round!

With that said, most of these hikes will offer very different experiences between summer and winter.

Arguably the best time of year to hike in New Zealand is within the DOC "Great Walks Season" of October through to May. During this time, you'll catch both the summer season and the "shoulder seasons" of Autumn and Spring.

If you are planning on hiking in the South Island during winter, make sure that you are prepared and consult the DOC for weather and trail risks.

Tips and What to Pack

Registering Intentions for Overnight Hikes & Tramps

For many overnight hikes or long, more hazardous, tramping tracks, it's recommended to register your hiking intentions with an organisation that can track your adventures and responds if a disaster were to strike.

You can do this by stopping by registering at the nearest DOC Visitor Centre in the area you plan to hike. Alternatively, it's also possible to register online at AdventureSmart.

New Zealand Hiking Resources

Besides this blog, there are dozens of other great resources that will help you prepare and plan your hikes in the South Island. Below I've compiled a quick list of the most essential and helpful resources.

• DOC Website- This is the official NZ parks website with details on tracks, routes, and potential alerts.
• Booking.com - Best comparison website for finding accommodation in New Zealand
• CamperMate, WikiCamps and Spaceships App - Essential for finding campsites and road-trip resources near the trailheads
• MET Service - Most accurate weather information before hitting the trail
• AdventureSmart NZ - Great for registering intentions online
• Viator & GetYourGuide - For booking tours, transport and adventure experiences between your hikes.
• World Nomads - Widely considered the best and most reliable travel insurance for adventure travelers.

Best Overnight Hikes on the South Island

I've mentioned most of these, but if you haven't got much time on the South Island and finding it hard to pick the best overnight hikes, here are my top 3:

1. Routeburn Track
2. Kepler Track
3. Earnslaw Burn Track

More South Island New Zealand Hikes: The Wishlist

Unfortunately, due to flooding and then the subsequent Coronavirus closures, I was unable to include several hikes that I had planned to tackle and photograph on my recent New Zealand trip.

As a result, I feel like this list of the best hikes in South Island New Zealand is incomplete without at least mentioning the ones below.

Since I haven't personally taken these trips, I'm unable to write guides for them. Still, you'll be able to click through to other travel bloggers and writers who have to help you plan your hikes in NZ!

The Wishlist

• The Rees-Dart Track
• Isthmus Peak
• Bealey Spur Track
• Lake Marian
• Gertrude Saddle
• Heaphy Track
• Abel Tasman Coastal Track
• Key Summit Track

If you find an awesome South Island hike that you think deserves to be on this list, let other travelers know by leaving a comment below!

More South Island New Zealand Travel Guides and Blogs

I really hope that you've found this guide to the best hikes in South Island New Zealand useful for planning your trip.

For more New Zealand adventure travel guides and blogs, make sure to check out some more of my guides below.

• 12 Epic Mount Cook View Locations - Best Places to See Mount Cook
• 37 Best Things to do in Queenstown New Zealand
• 6 Incredible Hikes in Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand (2023)
• 8 Best Hikes in Queenstown and Surrounds, New Zealand
• Best Mount Cook View - Peters Lookout on the Road to Mount Cook
• Where to Stay in Queenstown New Zealand: Best Areas, Hotels & Accommodation Options

The post 31 Best Hikes in South Island New Zealand appeared first on We Seek Travel.

I think it’s fair to say that Tasmania takes the cake for being the best hiking destination in Australia. Besides the obvious fact that the nature here is incredible, what really drew me to Tasmania as a hiking destination is the diversity of the trails.

In Tassie, you can find yourself walking rugged coastal tracks, immersed in mind-blowing temperate rainforest and climbing icy mountain peaks– sometimes all on the same day!

I’ve spent several months exploring Tasmania, chasing the best hiking experiences available and photographing my adventures along the way. This Tasmanian hiking guide is a culmination of many incredible memories that I now want to share with you.

I’ve listed all of the best hiking trails in the state, including great Tasmania short walks and epic multi-day hikes and provided my stories to help you explore some of the same.

A Quick Foreword for This Ultimate Tasmania Hiking Guide

To be honest with you right off the bat, listing every single best hiking trail in Tasmania is impossible, or at least a life's mission! The truth is that there are just so many great walks and treks that there are bound to be a few I've missed here.

However, my goal is to create the best free Tasmania hiking resource you'll find online. I've personally hiked all of these trails and given my personal account to help you choose your adventures.

But, at the bottom of this post, you'll find a "hikes in Tasmania wish list" which rounds off some of the tracks and hiking trails that I've yet to hit but plan to soon. There's also a short section dedicated to helping you plan your Tasmania hiking adventures which aim to answer most of your questions.

First: The Best Tasmania Hiking Tours

While there are loads of hikes and epic bushwalks you can take on the Apple Isle, below are the top 3 organized tours you can book online.

• From Hobart: Hike in Freycinet & Wineglass Bay - explore the best beautiful coastal trails on Tassie's east coast in a single day trip.
• From Hobart: Maria Island Active Tour - awesome full day of hiking and exploring Maria Island– the best place in Tassie for wildlife spotting!
• From Launceston: Cradle Mountain Day Tour - experience alpine Tasmania on an epic full-day walking trip in Cradle Country.

This waterfall hiking trail is located near Williamsford, which is approximately two kilometres south of Rosebery in Tasmania's west.

Montezuma Falls has the crown for being Tasmania's highest permanent waterfall. This hike was one of my favourite in Tasmania, following an easy yet scenic forest track along an old mining route.

At the end, you'll be rewarded with a view directly below the sleepy, multi-tiered giant known as Montezuma Falls.

2. The Nut

• Hiking Distance: 2.9 kilometre circuit loop
• Duration: 45 minutes - 1 hour
• Elevation: 170 metres total elevation gain |
  The Nut height: 152 metres AMSL
• Difficulty: Moderate (well-maintained but a little steep)

Climbing the Nut is a right of passage for hikers in Tasmania. While perhaps not the most scenic walking trail in the state, it could be considered one of the most unique.

The Nut is located in the northern township of Stanley and is the remains of a volcanic plug. This mounded hill now sits on the edge of the island overlooking the Bass Strait. This hike is fairly easy and I'd highly recommend it if you're visiting the northern parts of Tasmania.

3. The Three Falls Circuit

• Hike Distance: 6 km loop
• Duration: 2 hours
• Elevation: Mostly flat with short sections of easy stair climbing
• Difficulty: Easy

The lower rainforest section of Mount Field National Park is truly one of Tasmania's best wet rainforests. And, easily the best way to experience all of its incredible natural scenery is to take the easy 6-kilometre loop hike known as the Three Falls Circuit.

This waterfall walk features some of Tasmania's most famous waterfalls including Russell Falls, Horseshoe Falls and Lady Barron Falls. You'll also get to check out the famous tall trees section of Mt Field National Park, making it one of the most rewarding short walks in Tasmania!

Book: Mt Field Day Trip From Hobart (top-rated in Hobart)

4. Dove Lake Circuit at Cradle Mountain

• Hiking Distance: 5.7 kilometres (loop)
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Elevation: 130 metres total elevation gain (undulating)
• Difficulty: Easy

Cradle Mountain is one of the most famous hiking areas in Tasmania, and for good reason. This scenic alpine region features some of the most iconic Tasmanian hiking trails including Cradle Mountain summit and the Overland Track.

If you're after a relatively easy day walk in Cradle Country, look no further than the Dove Lake Circuit Track. This beautiful lakeside loop circumvents the lake and ducks into dense alpine rainforest while also offering excellent views of the surrounding peaks.

How to get here: How to Get to Cradle Mountain

How to Save Money on Tassie Tours & Experiences

Looking to save some travel money on tours in Tassie?

I've partnered with Backpacker Deals to offer $5 off all tours and experiences in Tasmania using my code OLLY5 (and you don't have to be a backpacker to save).

Compare Tassie Tours

5. Bridal Veil Falls and Champagne Falls Track

• Hiking Distance: 5.2 km circuit
• Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours
• Elevation: 300 metres total elevation gain
• Difficulty: Easy-moderate

There are so many great hikes and walking tracks in Tasmania's Cradle Country. However, its popularity often means that the trails are a little crowded. If you're up for a great waterfall hike without the crowds, consider checking out the Bridal Veil Falls and Champagne Falls track.

You'll find this walk near the Lemonthyme Wilderness Retreat on the way up to Cradle Mountain. It's a little bit of a detour to get here, but let me assure you that the trip is more than worth it. Especially if you're a waterfall fan as this track offers two on the same loop track!

Stay near the trail: Lemonthyme Wilderness Retreat

6. The Mount Wellington Hikes

Mount Wellington is is one of the most well-known mountains in Tasmania. That's because this culturally significant peak sits above the capital city of Hobart. The international airport is often the first port of call for visitors to Tasmania and therefore many travellers choose to explore and stay in Hobart first.

Luckily, there are loads of different walking tracks and scenic trails at the foothills of Mount Wellington and towards the peak. Many decide to head to the famous "Springs", a starting point for several short-medium length walks.

My favourite hiking trail on Mount Wellington is one to the summit, which incorporates many of the highlight tracks into a convenient loop back to The Springs.

Book a bus instead: Wellington Bus All-Day Pass (cheapest online)

RELATED POST: 26 Awesome Things to do in Hobart

7. Leven Canyon Lookout

• Hiking Distance: 1.9 km circuit loop
• Duration: 1 hour
• Elevation: 149 metres elevation gain
• Difficulty: Easy

The Leven Canyon is located in Northern Tasmania, approximately 50 kilometres south of Devonport. This beautiful canyon lookout track is a great bang-for-time microadventure for those on a road trip in the north.

The views from the top are fantastic, and better yet, this Tasmanian hiking trail is a circuit loop, meaning you'll get more views and less doubling-back!

8. Nelson Falls Track

• Hiking Distance: 1.4 kilometres return
• Duration: 45 minutes
• Elevation: N/A
• Difficulty: Very easy

Jetting across the island state and we've arrived in the unmissable Western Wilds. The Strahan and West Coast region has a lot to offer but one of my favourite short hikes, the Nelson Falls track, just should not be missed.

Nelson Falls is located just outside of Queenstown after the the beautiful 99-bends road on the edge of Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. It's a perfect road-side stopover hike for those driving to and from Queenstown and Derwent Bridge.

The waterfall track features amazing examples of native Tasmanian temperate rainforest and the waterfall itself is in my opinion, one of the best in the sate!

The Ultimate Tasmania Travel Resource

Looking for more Tasmania travel guides & adventure inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

• - 62+ Things to do in Tasmania
• - Tasmania Waterfall Guide
• - Where to Stay in Tasmania (Best Places)

9. Hogarth Falls Track

• Hiking Distance: 2.1 kilometres return
• Duration: 45 minutes - 1 hour return
• Elevation: N/A
• Difficulty: Very easy

The Hogarth Falls hike is another notable waterfall trail in the south of Tasmania. This hike is one of the easiest day walks on this list, but considered a must-visit for those stopping by Strahan.

One great thing about this Tasmanian waterfall hike is just how easily accessible it is. Visitors will find the car park to the waterfall track just a few minutes drive from the main ferry port in Strahan. The truth is that you can even walk here from town!

10. Quamby Bluff

• Hiking Distance: 7 kilometres return
• Duration: 3-5 hours
• Elevation: Total elevation gain: 523 metres |
  Quamby Bluff height: 1227 metres
• Difficulty: Moderate - Hard

Quamby Bluff is a 1227 metre peak north of the main escarpment of Tasmania's Great Western Tiers range. It's a very prominent mountain and can be seen from the Bass Highway connecting Launceston and Devonport.

This walk is great as Quamby Bluff is also one of the easiest mountains to climb in the Great Western Tiers of Northern Tasmania. While the difficulty steps up a little on this hike compared to others on the list, it's still a very doable day walk for most!

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11. Hartz Peak Track

• Hiking Distance: 8 kilometres return (out-and-back)
• Duration: Official time: 4 hours
  My recommended time: 2.5 hours
• Elevation: 519 metres total elevation gain
  Hartz Peak: 1253 m AMSL
• Difficulty: Moderate

Hartz Peak is a beautiful mountain located in the easily-accessible Hartz Mountains National Park in the South of Tasmania. The alpine surrounds will make you feel like you are deep in uncharted Tassie wilderness but in reality, this is one of the easiest summit walks you'll find in Tasmania above 1200 metres.

Views from the top extend far beyond the Harts Range and deep into some of the most iconic mountains in Tasmania such as Precipitous Bluff and the Arthur's Ranges.

12. Arve Falls Track

• Hiking Distance: 0.8 kilometres return
• Duration: 10 minutes
• Elevation: N/A
• Difficulty: Very easy

On the way into the Hartz Mountains National Park, you'll pass the short walking track to Arve Falls, one of the quickest and easiest waterfall hikes in Tassie.

This waterfall is also one of the most unique in the sate as it sits near 1000 metres above sea level, resulting in it often being surrounded by a blanket of snow.

This quick, 10-minute easy walk is a must if you're visiting the Hartz Mountain to hike Hartz Peak.

Related: 26 Incredible Waterfalls in Tasmania

13. Bay of Fires Lodge Walk

• Hiking Distance: Varies
• Duration: 2-5 days
• Elevation: N/A
• Difficulty: Easy - Moderate

The Bay of Fires is one of the most beautiful regions in Tasmania and arguably in all of Australia. While not typically a hiking destination, in true Tassie outdoor fashion an entire array of guided lodge walks have been set up to explore the region on foot.

I've written a comprehensive guide to the Bay of Fires region which includes some recommendations for hikes and guided walking companies, so check that out if you're planning a trip here and looking to do some guided walks.

14. Pelverata Falls Track

• Hiking Distance: 6 kilometres return
• Duration: Official: 3 hours, easily completed in under 2 hours return
• Elevation: 290 metres total elevation gain
• Difficulty: Moderate

The Pelverata Falls hike offers a great opportunity to get out and explore the natural sounds of the Huon Valley. This is also a dog-friendly waterfall hike that leads to one of Tasmania's tallest waterfalls!

The track is well-maintained and generally fairly easy. At the end, you'll arrive at a steel viewing platform beneath the falls.

15. Adamsons Falls Track

• Hiking Distance: 6.8 kilometres return (from trailhead)
  Our distance: 9.8 kilometres from the Chestermans Road/Coal Hill Road fork
• Duration: 2.5 -3.5 hours return
  Our time: 2 hours 45 minutes from the Chestermans Road/Coal Hill Road fork
• Elevation: 265M total elevation gain (undulating)
  370M for us
• Difficulty: Difficult (muddy, fallen trees everywhere)

Deep in the far south of the state is the trailhead to one of my absolute favourite waterfall hikes in Tasmania. The Adamsons Falls hike is an epic adventure and definitely a waterfall that you have to earn. This hiking trail enters into Southwest National Park, one of Tasmania's most rugged and unforgiving regions.

Getting out here is also quite a challenge in itself. Unfortunately, we were limited in how far we could get our big van so we were forced to extend the walk by a few kilometres.

The track is also very overgrown, wet and cold, making navigation challenging. This, combined with the relative remoteness and lack of phone reception also adds to the danger so make sure that you are prepared if you commit to this Tasmanian hiking trail.

16. Duckhole Lake Track

• Hiking Distance: 4.4 km return
• Duration: 1-2 hours
• Elevation: Mostly flat
• Difficulty: Easy

The Duckhole Lake track is another short hiking trail in the deep south on the edge of Southwest National Park. This walk is much more pleasant and easy-going than Adamsons, Falls (although definitely not as epic!).

This mostly boarded track winds its way into the forest towards Duckhole Lake, which is actually a sinkhole that has been filled by rainwater. There are usually a few ducks swimming in this natural rainforest pool and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a platypus or two as we did.

The Duckhole Lake track and the Adamsons Falls track are great walks to check out for those visiting the Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs.

17. Cape Raoul Track

• Hiking Distance: 16.4 KM return (18 KM including a short side-trip to the Shipstern Bluff Walk)
• Duration: 3.5 - 5 hours return
• Elevation: 645 m total elevation gain (undulates)
• Difficulty: Moderate

Driving over to the wild and raw Tasman Peninsula and you'll find yourself with a plethora of epic Tasmanian coastal hiking trails. One of my personal favourites is the Cape Raoul Track, a fairly long but scenic trail leading to the often-neglected Third Cape.

The walk is a fairly long walk and begins by gently climbing up the eucalypt forest and then descending down to the long plateau reaching out to Cape Raoul. Additionally, hikers will have the option to take a short detour to a viewpoint over Shipstern Bluff, one of the most notorious big-wave surf breaks on earth!

Book: Incredible Port Arthur & Three Capes Panorama by Seaplane

18. Three Capes Track

• Hiking Distance: 44.6 km
• Duration: 2 or 3 days
• Elevation: 1853 metres total elevation gain
• Difficulty: Moderate (entry-level multi-day hiking)

The Three Capes Track is the first overnight hike in Tasmania on this list, and also one of the most popular! That's because this track has recently received an expensive overhaul with long boardwalks and awesome huts.

The Three Capes Track is located on the Tasman Peninsula and traverses scenic heathland, lush temperate rainforest and the jagged, towering coastal cliffs of Cape Pillar and Cape Hauy.

Typically, this 3-4 day walk is targeted at entry-level overnight hikers as a paid experience. However, it is also possible to complete the walk for free (besides the national park fee), by organising your own transport and camping at the several dedicated sites.

19. Collins Cap Trail

• Hiking Distance: 8.2 KM return
• Duration: 2.5 - 3 hours return
• Elevation: 660 metres total elevation gain |
  Collins Cap: 1098 metres AMSL
• Difficulty: Moderate

Collins Cap is a mountain peak located within Wellington Park, just outside of Collinsvale near Hobart. This walk is a fairly short yet steep hike finishing at Collins Cap, where you'll be rewarded with awesome views over Collinsvale, Collins Bonnet, the lush Derwent Valley and the whole Mount Wellington plateau.

There's also a very picturesque waterfall on the way up called Myrtle Gully Falls, an added bonus for this one!

20. Snug Falls Track

• Hiking Distance: 2.9 kilometres return (out-and-back)
• Duration: 40 minutes - 1 hour
• Elevation: 145 metres total elevation gain, all on the way back up
• Difficulty: Easy

The Snug Falls track is a great, short, dog-friendly waterfall hike near Snug, just 24 kilometres south of Hobart. The Snug Falls walk is fairly easy walk in Tasmania's southeast leading to the base of an awesome waterfall within a basin clearing.

Unfortunately, the waterfall wasn't flowing that well when we visited, and I've been told that this is due to it being very season-dependent. However, we still really enjoyed this track and spent a fair bit of time enjoying the serenity by the large pool.

21. Wellington Falls: Disappearing Tarn

• Hiking Distance: 20 km return (Fern Tree)
• Duration: 5-7 hours
• Elevation: 950 m total elevation gain
• Difficulty: Moderate but a long day hike

One of the longest day-hikes available on Tasmania's Mount Wellington is the Wellington Falls walk. This one follows the the Pipeline Track, Silver Falls Track and then the Milles Track all the way to an impressive waterall. Along the way, you'll experience vastly changing lanscapes including temperate rainforest, huge boulder fields and even alpine conditions.

There's also an illusive and seasonal tarn which you might be lucky enough to spot on the way up known as the Disappearing Tarn.

22. Tarkine Walks

The Tarkine, or Takanya, is Australia's largest body of temperate rainforest. It's a very wild, wet and undeniably beautiful region that is unfortunately under threat! Logging and mining companies are expanding in the region at the cost of this rich, biodiverse global treasure.

I believe that the more people that get to explore this beautiful landscape for themselves, the stronger the movement to protect it will grow. That's why I'm encouraging you, keen hikers to go and explore (respectfully), the Tarkine Rainforest.

Since Takanya is largely managed by Tasmania's Forestry industry (logging), there are not many well-known or well-established hiking trails. However, I have covered a few my comprehensive guide to the Tarkine Drive. Some of my favourites include the Trowutta Arch walk, Lake Chrisholm and the Milkshake Hills.

Book: Tassie in 3 Days - Includes West Coast (Tarkine)

23. Styx Tall Trees Walk

• Hiking Distance: 1 kilometre loop
• Duration: 20-30 minutes
• Elevation: Mostly flat
• Difficulty: Very easy

Many people visit Tasmania to witness one of the last, truly wild places on earth. A visit to the Southern Forests of Tasmania allows you a glimpse of some of the tallest and biggest trees in the Southern Hemisphere. The Styx Tall Trees Conservation offers the chance to see some of the absolute tallest eycalypt regnans!

This area is located near Maydena, approximately an hour's drive from Hobart. If you're planning a visit out to Mt Field National Park (you should), then a detour to the Styx fits in well!

24. The Fluted Cape Walk

• Hiking Distance: 7.2 km (circuit loop)
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Elevation: 345 m total elevation gain |
  315 M AMSL at the cape lookout
• Difficulty: Moderate

Bruny Island is an adventure paradise with some of the best hikes to do in Tasmania. One of the most rewarding on the island is the Fluted Cape Walk, offering excellent coastal views and abundant wildlife spotting opportunities!

The Fluted Cape track is a well-maintained loop hike that starts and finishes at the Adventure Bay car park and climbs to the top of the Fluted Cape, overlooking the dramatic Bruny Island coastline.

Book a trip to Bruny: Bruny Island Day Trip From Hobart (best in Tas)

25. Waterfall Bay, Devils Kitchen & Tasman Arch Track

• Hiking Distance: 3.4 km return
• Duration: 1 hour return
• Elevation: Mostly flat
• Difficulty: Easy

Looking for another short hike on Tasmania's Tasman Peninsula? Consider checking out the Waterfall Bay track. This scenic trail is a great easy out-and-back track passing several famous geological formations including the Tasman Arch and Devils Kitchen.

The track is wide, easy to follow and mostly flat for the duration. There are plenty of spots to spot on the track to admire incredible coastal views and the unique geological phenomena that make the Tasman coast so famous.

Book: Port Arthur Historic Site Ticket

26. Maria Island Circuit

• Hiking Distance: 50 km (including a side-trip to the Isthmus, Bishop and Clerk pinnacles & Mount Maria summit)
• Duration: 3 days
• Elevation: 1935 m total elevation gain
• Difficulty: Moderate but long, entry-level multi-day hike

Maria Island is widely known as one of Australia's best island sanctuaries. Many visitors make the trip every year to see the incredible wildlife diversity, to learn about Tasmania's convict history and to hike its epic granite and bushland peaks.

Also, since there are no cars on the island, Maria is a hiking and bushwalking paradise. The best walk available is a full traverse of the island known as the Maria Island Circuit. This was one of my personal favourite and most iconic hikes in Tasmania! Although it's fairly long, you don't have to take the full 3 days. I've written, in detail, about all the hiking options on Maria in the blog post linked below.

Alternative: Active full-day walking tour of Maria Island

27. Bishop and Clerk Track

• Hiking Distance: 11 km return to Darlington via Fossil Cliffs
• Duration: 3-5 hours
• Elevation: 630 m elevation gain
• Difficulty: Moderate (TasParks Grade 4)

Another great Tasmanian walking track on Maria Island's northern coastline is the Bishop and Clerk Track. This rewarding coastal walk leads to a series of prominent dolerite columns overlooking the Tasman Sea.

These columns got their name due to their resemblance of a hat-wearing bishop beside a clergyman.

Hikers can summit these towering columns for incredible views over Maria Island.

28. Mount Maria Summit Track

• Hiking Distance: 12.4 kilometres
• Elevation: 620 metres elevation gain
• Duration: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

The Mount Maria track is a steep climb to the highest peak on Maria Island. This track departs from a fork on the Maria Island walk and continuously climbs for 6.2 kilometres to an altitude of 720M AMSL. If you're not walking the Maria Island Circuit, it is possible to rent a bike and drop it at the fork.

Although the views are great, and the peak is higher, I believe the view from the Bishop and Clerk pinnacles are better. In saying that, you will get to see the southern end of the island and the beautiful isthmus from Mount Maria.

29. Freycinet Peninsula Circuit

• Hiking Distance: 46 km (walked in a "figure-eight" with Mount Freycinet summit & Bryans Beach track)
• Duration: 2 or 3 days
• Elevation: 1800 total elevation gain
• Difficulty: Tasmanian Parks Grade 3 (entry-level multi-day trekking)

The Freycinet Peninsula Circuit is an epic circuit track around Freycinet National Park on the East Coast of Tasmania. Here, you'll discover one of the most beautiful regions of Tasmania including white, sandy beaches to rocky mountain summits.

The circuit is great if you're looking to see the most you can during your visit. This is because it covers most of the famous trails including the Wineglass Bay lookout track, Hazards Beach track and a climb to the top of Mount Freycinet summit— the tallest peak in Freycinet.

It's possible for hikers to walk this circuit in either two or three days. We decided to walk it in two, with a rather short first day and quite a long second day. All of the main campsites are on the beaches at either Cook's Beach, Hazard's Beach or the south end of Wineglass Bay.

30. Mount Amos Summit Hike

• Hike Distance: 4 kilometres return
• Duration: 2-3 hours return
• Elevation: 434 m of elevation gain |
  Mount Amos summit: 454 m AMSL
• Difficulty: Tasmanian Parks Grade 4: rock scrambling required

Mount Amos in Freycinet National Park is widely considered to be one of Australia's best summit viewpoints. The mountain overlooks Wineglass Bay and the Freycinet Peninsula, a sweeping, Jurassic landscape that is guaranteed to leave you speechless.

While not long by any means, it does require a fair bit of rock and boulder scrambling to reach the summit. Therefore, it is best to be prepared.

I highly recommend making the extra effort to get up to Mt Amos for sunrise. This viewpoint spot was absolutely magical and ended up on the top of my personal list of best hikes in Tasmania!

2 Day Trip: Epic Wineglass Bay & Bay of Fires Trip (from Hobart, includes Mount Amos hike)

Complete Review: Staying at a private island resort in Freycinet (Picnic Island)

31. Cape Tourville Lighthouse Walk

• Hiking Distance: 600 m loop
• Duration: 15-20 minutes
• Elevation: Flat
• Difficulty: Very easy

It's a shame that Cape Tourville is often overshadowed by many of the other popular walks and lookouts in Freycinet National Park. While all are equally astonishing, visiting the Cape Tourville Lighthouse on the easternmost cape of Freycinet is a must for anyone fond of an epic lookout.

The Cape Tourville lighthouse and lookout loop is a very easy, mostly flat loop walk on a raised boardwalk. It is suitable for anyone and is wheelchair accessible.

The views from the lookout include a glimpse of Wineglass Bay, the amazing Hazards, the southern Freycinet Peninsula, Mount Freycinet, as well as a rocky outcrop abundant with seals known as "The Nuggets". 

32. The Apsley Gorge Trail

• Hiking Distance: 6 km return (out-and-back) | 8 km if rock-hopping back along the river
• Duration: 2 hours return (out and back), apparently 4-5 hours if rock-hopping
• Elevation: 315 m total elevation gain
• Difficulty: Relatively easy (Tasmania Parks Grade 2 or Grade 3 if taking the river circuit)

The Apsley Gorge Circuit is a scenic bushwalking track located within the Douglas-Apsley National Park, just outside of Bicheno. It's one of the few walking tracks in the park and is a great choice if you're looking for a swim and to enjoy the serenity and crystal clear waters of the Apsley River.

This circuit can be completed as an out-and-back hike to the gorge or as a longer and more difficult circuit walk.

Unfortunately, due to recent flooding, the full circuit was impossible when I visited. Regardless, I had a great time on the shorter section and the views were still more than worth the low effort out here.

33. The Evercreech Falls & White Knights Walk

Evercreech Forest Reserve is an incredibly underrated forest area in North Eastern Tasmania offering two scenic rainforest walks and great opportunities for free camping.

Both loops are short but very picturesque, showcasing the very best of the natural beauty of the region. The Evercreech Falls loop is a little longer and wraps around the creek to the base of a small rainforest waterfall.

The second trail, the "White Knights of Evercreech" features five of Australia's largest White Gums, or Manna Gums (Eucalyptus viminalis). They stand over 90 metres tall and some of the thicker ones are over 300 years.

34. Halls Falls Trail

• Hiking Distance: 2.5 km return
• Duration: 1 - 1.5 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

The Halls Falls trail features a set of multiple cascading waterfalls located on the Groom River near Pyengana in the East of Tasmania. This short waterfall circuit leads to several viewing points of the waterfalls, as well as a rock-pool area and a historic, 19th-century weir.

The track is mostly an in-and-out trail but you will have the option of taking a loop back to the car park from about halfway to the falls. The surrounding nature here is a little drier than what you might in the surrounding region. There is a good mix of Aussie eucalypts and temperate rainforest myrtle trees and tall man ferns along the length of the track.

35. Saint Columba Falls Track

• Hiking Distance: 1.2 km return
• Hike Duration: 20-30 minutes return
• Elevation: Mostly Flat
• Difficulty: Easy

St Columba is considered one of Tasmania's tallest permanent waterfalls. It's an absolutely magnificent sight and definitely should be added to your list of must-do walks in Tasmania. The walking track down to its base is an easy, short rainforest stroll surrounded by tree ferns and temperate rainforest flora.

At the end, you'll find a steel viewing platform providing the best view of the waterfall. When we visited, it was absolutely roaring and it was impossible to even stand on the platform a testament to just how wild this waterfall is!

36: Federation Peak

• Hiking Distance: Official: 40 km
  Recorded to Berchevaise Plateau return: 64.92 KM
• Duration: 2-5 days
• Elevation: Total elevation gain roughly 1800 m
  Federation Peak: 1274 m AMSL
• Difficulty: Very Difficult, experience mandatory;
  Tas Parks: T5 level - wilderness track

This final hike on this list of epic trails in Tasmania is not for the faint of heart! Federation Peak is the iconic Tasmanian spire mountain located deep in the Southwest National Park wilderness. Nicknamed Feddy or Fedder, this 1274 metre peak is nowhere near the tallest mountain in Tasmania but holds the fiercest reputation.

Usually attempted over 2-5 days, we tried in 3 in the midst of Winter and were unsuccessful at the summit due to icy, wild conditions. We were very well prepared for the hike but the unfortunate truth for us was that weather is king out here!

If you're an experienced bushwalker looking for a real mental and physical challenge, this is one of the best you'll get in Tasmania.

More Guided Tasmania Hiking Tours

I'm a huge fan of independent, raw adventures. All of the hikes on this list were completed independently with our own transport. However, for those that would prefer to learn more about the regions they're hiking in and be led by some of the best walking guides in Australia, then Tassie is an excellent place to book guided walks.

Below I've linked to some of the most reputable and best guided walk tours in Tasmania. You can book all of these online and the inclusions are listed on the booking page.

• Freycinet Peninsula 4-day Guided Walk with Freycinet Experience Walk
• 4-Day Tasmania Walking Tour (Bay of Fires, Freycinet, Bruny Island, Port Arthur)
• Maria Island Active Walking Tour
• Mount Wellington, Mount Field (Day Trip)

More Hikes in Tasmania: The Wishlist

Obviously, hitting every single hiking trail in Tasmania is just not possible unless you dedicate an entire lifetime to the pursuit! I compiled this comprehensive Tasmanian hiking guide after my first trip to the Apple Isle and I'll definitely be back to tick off some that I didn't have time for.

Below is a list of a few more epic Tasmanian hikes that are on my wish list! Each have links to corresponding guides by other bloggers and outdoor writers.

• Mt Murchison
• The Overland Track
• South Coast Track
• Walls of Jerusalem
• Mount Roland
• Cradle Mountain Summit
• Frenchman's Cap
• Mount Ossa
• Mount Anne
• The Arthur's Traverse (West & East)
• The Great Tasmanian Traverse

How to Get to the Trailheads: Best Way to Get Around in Tasmania

Having your own car to explore the beautiful island of Tasmania is by far the best way to get around. If you're fortunate enough to drive in on the Spirit of Tasmania car ferry, then that is definitely the best way to go. Otherwise, I really recommend renting a car. That's because many of these Tassie hiking trails are remote and public transport is very limited.

However, if you haven't yet had a looked for a rental, then you might be in shock! Tasmania is the most expensive place to rent a car in Australia. In fact, I haven't seen prices that crazy anywhere else in the world after many years of travelling full-time.

With that said, there. area few ways to get a good deal. Below I've linked to the best resources to use to rent a car in Tasmania to save you some coin.

• RentalCars.com – a rental car comparison site. Great way to compare rates and availability across companies.
• Spaceships Vans – this one’s for the backpackers and budget travellers. One of the most affordable camper van options in Australia. I’ve had great experiences with them in New Zealand and Australia and always recommend them.

READ ABOUT OUR ADVENTURES: The Van Journal in Tasmania

Best Areas to Visit in Tasmania For Hiking and Bushwalking

Initially, a lot of people misjudge just how big Tasmania is! It's a mecca for adventure and of course, there are so many different regions offering different experiences for hikers.

Below is a list of different parks and regions featured in this Tasmania hiking guide. If you're planning a trip to Tasmania, make sure to check out my list of the best areas to stay to get better deals on accommodation in each region.

• The North (and Northwest)
  - Mount Roland, Leven Canyon, Arthur River, The Tarkine, Arthur-Pieman
• East Coast
  - Mount William National Park, Bay of Fires, Freycinet National Park, Douglas Apsley National Park
• Tasman Peninsula
• Maria Island
• South Tasmania
  - Southwest National Park, Bruny Island, Mount Wellington, Mount Field, Hartz Mountains
• Central Tasmania
  - Central Plateau, Cradle Mountain, Walls of Jerusalem National Park
• West Coast
  - Franklin Gordon Wild Rivers, Granite Tor, West Coast Range, Mount Murchison

About the Tasmanian National Park Fee

Unlike many other Australian states, visiting a Tasmanian National Park requires a paid permit. Visitors usually purchase these online or at any of the NP Visitor Centres throughout Tasmania.

National Parks Pass Cost:

• 24-hours: $40 per vehicle/$20 per person
• Holiday Passes – up to 2 months: $80 per vehicle/$40 per person
• Annual Pass all parks: $90 per vehicle (up to eight people)

These passes are valid for entry to all of Tasmania’s parks and the receipt must be displayed in your vehicle. If you are spending a fair bit of time in Tassie, then I recommend picking up the Annual pass as it covers your vehicle and up to eight people in your party.

More Tasmania Travel, Hiking and Adventure Guides

That wraps up this comprehensive Tasmania hiking guide featuring 36 Must-do Hikes in Tasmania! If you enjoyed this free hiking resource, make sure to check out some of my other guides, featuring more hiking trails, waterfalls, adventures and all-around great travel inspiration.

Also, I do my best to regularly update the information for these Tasmanian hiking trails and the independent guides for each. However, as you might expect this is quite a task!

If you find something that needs updating or if you have some suggestions or feedback, please leave a comment or reach out to me!

Tasmania Story: Why You Need to go Hiking!

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• Visiting The Neck Lookout on Bruny Island, Tasmania

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