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

Paradise Found: Eva Island and the Trails of Hinchinbrook

Today was a day of serene beauty and invigorating hikes, a perfect blend of what Hinchinbrook Island has to offer. With the family in tow, we set out to explore Eva Island and delve deeper into the island's famed hiking trails. It's days like these that remind me why we chose this adventure, trading the comfort of hotels for the embrace of nature.


Discover Eva Island: Untouched beauty, diverse wildlife, and serene hiking in Queensland's Hinchinbrook National Park.

Our day began with a simple breakfast amidst the Hinchinbrook Island National Park. There’s something incredibly grounding about starting the day surrounded by nothing but the sounds of nature. We savored our muesli and coffee, a quick and easy meal to fuel our adventures. Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, double-checked our supplies, while Sofia chattered excitedly about the birds she could spot flitting through the trees. I made a mental note to add binoculars to our list of forgotten essentials; it would have certainly enhanced Sofia's birdwatching experience.

With breakfast done, we packed up our gear and set off for Eva Island. Reaching the island requires a boat trip from either Cardwell or Lucinda, offering scenic views of the surrounding waters. As we approached Eva Island, its pristine beauty unfolded before us – verdant rainforests cascading down to secluded white sandy beaches, all embraced by crystal-clear waters. It's no wonder this island is part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. The exceptional reef ecosystem development and evolutionary history are palpable.

We spent a good portion of the morning exploring Eva Island, hiking its trails, and discovering hidden coves. The trails offered breathtaking viewpoints, each turn revealing new perspectives of the island's stunning vistas. Sofia was particularly thrilled, her little legs carrying her with surprising speed as she chased butterflies and pointed out interesting rock formations. Maximilian and I took turns carrying her when the terrain became too challenging, a testament to our teamwork and the shared joy of experiencing nature together.

Sometimes, the most scenic roads in life are the detours you didn't mean to take.

After our Eva Island adventure, we made our way back to the mainland for lunch at Cardwell @ the Beach. The restaurant features indoor, outdoor, and poolside dining, offering a relaxed and family-friendly environment. The food was delicious, featuring fresh, seasonal produce. We opted for a table by the pool, where Sofia could splash her feet while we enjoyed our meal. Maximilian and I shared a seafood platter, savoring the flavors of the ocean, while Sofia devoured a plate of fish and chips. The restaurant's location, just minutes from the beach, supermarket, and other facilities, made it a convenient stop.


Experience coastal charm at Cardwell @ the Beach – your perfect blend of dining, lodging, and leisure in beautiful Queensland.

Following our satisfying lunch, we decided to stock up on some essentials at Friendly Grocer Cardwell. This supermarket is a local gem, offering fresh produce, local specialties, and everyday essentials. It was open from 7 AM to 7 PM, making it convenient for us to grab what we needed. We picked up some snacks for our hikes, water, and a few treats for Sofia. The friendly staff were helpful, providing recommendations on local products and making our shopping experience pleasant. As someone who values sustainable living, I appreciated the store’s focus on fresh, local ingredients.


Explore the vibrant flavors of Queensland at Friendly Grocer Cardwell, your local supermarket for fresh produce and groceries.

The afternoon was dedicated to exploring more of Hinchinbrook’s famed hiking trails. While the Thorsborne Trail is the most well-known, we opted for a shorter, family-friendly route. The island offers a variety of walks and hikes for all skill levels, and we chose one that would allow us to enjoy the scenery without pushing Sofia too hard. We meandered through lush rainforest, crossed crystal-clear creeks, and admired the diverse flora and fauna. Hinchinbrook’s diverse habitats, from cloud-capped mountains to mangrove forests, are truly remarkable.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Lucinda Point Hotel Motel for dinner. This Aussie pub is located in the sleepy town of Lucinda, serving lunch and dinner seven days a week. The hotel has a restaurant, a bar, accommodation, and even a bottle shop. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, perfect for a family dinner. Maximilian and I enjoyed a couple of cold beers while Sofia played in the outdoor area. For dinner, we ordered classic pub fare – a burger for Maximilian, a steak for me, and chicken nuggets for Sofia. The Lucinda Point Hotel Motel is family-owned and operated, adding to its charm and authenticity.


Discover culinary delights and refreshing beverages at Lucinda Point Hotel Motel - your go-to destination for relaxation in Queensland's coastal paradise.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much we had packed in – from exploring Eva Island to hiking through rainforests and enjoying local cuisine. Hinchinbrook Island truly offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As we settled into our campsite for the night, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this opportunity to connect with nature and create lasting memories with my family. I was glad we remembered the insect repellent because it really came in handy as the sun went down.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Agnes Island and McClellands Lookout. We'll also try out Wild Local for breakfast, Terry and Mamiko's for lunch, and Marine Hotel for dinner. And perhaps Maximilian and I will sneak away for a drink at Hotel Hinchinbrook.

“The best view comes after the hardest climb.” I think I’ll keep that in mind as we continue our adventure.

For now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of exploration and discovery on this incredible island.