Family Adventure on Hinchinbrook Island: Exploring Australia's Natural Gem

A Day of Queensland Wonders

Today was a day of exploring the natural beauty and quirky attractions around Hinchinbrook Island. From chasing waterfalls to encountering giant crustaceans, it was an adventure that truly captured the spirit of this unique region. I’m excited to share our experiences as we continue to immerse ourselves in the wonders of Australia.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Vista Hinchinbrook in Cardwell. The continental buffet was a delightful spread of fresh pastries, fruits, and juices. What made it even more special was the stunning view of the mountains and the sea from the breakfast area. It’s moments like these, surrounded by natural beauty, that make me appreciate our decision to travel as a family. It reminded me of mornings back in Finland, though instead of snow-covered forests, we had a tropical paradise before us. The friendly hosts made us feel right at home. Maximilian even managed to practice his German with them, which was a fun cultural exchange.

After breakfast, we set off to Attie Creek Falls, located in Girringun National Park. The drive itself was scenic, winding through lush landscapes that reminded me of the Finnish countryside, albeit with more vibrant, tropical flora. The walk from the car park to the falls was a relatively easy 700 meters. Sofia, with her boundless energy, practically skipped ahead, eager to discover what awaited us. The waterfall, though seasonal, was beautiful, cascading into a calm pool that beckoned us for a swim. The water was refreshingly cool, a welcome respite from the tropical heat. While Sofia splashed around with Maximilian, I took some time to simply soak in the serene atmosphere. It’s moments like these that remind me why we chose this adventure – to connect with nature and each other.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Attie Creek Falls, a serene oasis nestled in Cardwell, Queensland, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The best journeys are those that lead us not only to new places, but also to new perspectives.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to The Big Mud Crab in Lucinda. This quirky roadside attraction is exactly what it sounds like: a giant statue of a mud crab. It was a fun, if brief, stop, and Sofia was absolutely thrilled to pose for photos with the enormous crustacean. It might seem like a simple thing, but these kinds of lighthearted moments are what make family travel so memorable. We learned that Lucinda is known for its mud crabs, and Maximilian, ever the adventurous foodie, declared that we had to try some before we left.


Explore The Big Mud Crab in Cardwell, Queensland - a unique tourist attraction celebrating local marine life and coastal beauty.

For lunch, we headed to the Marine Hotel, also in Lucinda. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, and the menu offered a variety of options. I opted for the Patagonia Squid Salad, while Maximilian chose the Free-Range Beef Burger. Sofia, of course, went for the classic fish and chips. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. It was the perfect way to refuel after our morning adventures. As we ate, we chatted about our plans for the rest of the trip, excitement bubbling in Sofia’s voice as she anticipated what tomorrow would bring.


Experience stunning coastal views and vibrant pub culture at Marine Hotel in Cardwell - your gateway to relaxation and local flavors.

In the evening, we found ourselves at Lucinda Cove Resort, where we had dinner and enjoyed a relaxing drink at the bar. The resort is nestled on the southern edge of the Hinchinbrook Channel, offering breathtaking views that captivated us both day and night. For dinner, we decided to try the local Australian cuisine, and the restaurant offered vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options to accommodate everyone. The staff were friendly and accommodating, making us feel right at home. After dinner, we settled in at the bar, sipping on refreshing cocktails while Sofia enjoyed a mocktail. There was even live music, which added to the vibrant atmosphere.


Discover tranquility at Lucinda Cove Resort - where coastal beauty meets comfort in Queensland's stunning landscape.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on our experiences. Hinchinbrook Island had already offered us so much in terms of natural beauty and unique attractions. From the cascading waters of Attie Creek Falls to the quirky charm of The Big Mud Crab, every moment was filled with wonder and discovery. And tomorrow, we are planning to explore Eva Island and do some hiking. I’m particularly excited about Hinchinbrook Hiking, as I’ve heard the trails offer stunning views of the island. We might also stop by Friendly Grocer Cardwell to replenish our supplies for the coming days. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this incredible journey and the opportunity to share it with my family. It's these shared experiences that weave the fabric of our family story, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

The Hinchinbrook Festival of Events is running, and Christmas celebrations are already underway in Hinchinbrook. It seems the community is really embracing the festive spirit, and there are various activities planned in the coming weeks. Perhaps we’ll find time to participate in some of these events as we continue our exploration of the region. The Seniors Morning Tea and the Lucinda Christmas Carols sound particularly appealing.