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

Mainland Adventures and Island Views

Today was a delightful mix of stunning vistas and local culinary experiences. We started our day near the tranquil shores of Hinchinbrook, ventured up to a panoramic lookout, and savored the flavors of the region in local restaurants. It’s amazing how much you can pack into a single day when you're surrounded by such natural beauty and charming communities.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Lucinda Cove Resort. The resort is nestled right on the Hinchinbrook Channel, offering stunning views of the water and the island. We opted for the continental breakfast, which included a selection of cereals, toast, and spreads. It was a simple yet satisfying way to start our day, and Sofia particularly enjoyed the novelty of toasting her own bread. The resort itself seemed lovely, with a pool and waterfront BBQ areas that I'm sure would be great in the warmer months.


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

After breakfast, we packed up our camping gear at Zoe Bay Campgrounds and headed towards Cardwell Lookout. The drive itself was quite scenic, winding through the Cardwell Forest Drive with glimpses of pine plantations. As we ascended, the views became increasingly breathtaking. The lookout is easily accessible and offers panoramic views of Cardwell, the Coral Sea, and, of course, the majestic Hinchinbrook Island.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Zoe Bay Campgrounds, where nature meets adventure in Queensland's stunning Hinchinbrook National Park.

The short walk to the top was a bit steep, but definitely worth the effort. From the summit, we could see Oyster Point, Rockingham Bay, and even the Family Group Islands. Maximilian, ever the photographer, was in his element, snapping photos from every angle. Sofia was fascinated by the vastness of the ocean and kept pointing out different islands. It was a perfect family moment, appreciating the grandeur of nature together.

Sometimes, the most breathtaking views come after a bit of a climb.

After soaking in the views at Cardwell Lookout, we drove to Ingham for a bit of shopping and lunch. Our first stop was Prices Plus Ingham, a local store where we picked up a few essentials. I was hoping to find a waterproof jacket since I had forgotten ours, but no luck. However, we did manage to grab an extra memory card for the camera, something we definitely needed with all the photos Maximilian was taking.


Breathtaking coastal views await at Cardwell Lookout, offering a tranquil escape into Queensland's natural beauty and panoramic vistas.

For lunch, we decided to try Vista Hinchinbrook, located a short drive from Ingham. The drive up to the aparthotel offered stunning views of the Hinchinbrook Channel. We enjoyed a relaxed lunch at their outdoor dining area, taking in the panoramic views. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was incredibly peaceful. Maximilian and I enjoyed the local tea, while Sofia was happy with her sandwich. It was a welcome break from our camping adventures, and we all felt refreshed and ready for the rest of the day.


Explore Prices Plus Ingham for an extensive selection of goods at fantastic prices, perfect for tourists seeking unique souvenirs and essentials.

After lunch, we headed back towards Ingham for our final stop of the day: dinner at Hotel Hinchinbrook. This hotel has a long history, dating back to 1925, and is a landmark in Ingham. We chose to dine at the Bistro, which had a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. The menu was extensive, with daily specials and a la carte options. Maximilian opted for a succulent steak, while I chose the seafood pasta. Sofia, of course, went for the classic chicken nuggets. The food was hearty and satisfying, and the service was friendly and efficient.


Discover serenity at Vista Hinchinbrook - a charming bed & breakfast surrounded by Queensland's stunning landscapes.

As we ate, we learned about the hotel's colorful past, including its legendary nightclub and the huge boat suspended from the ceiling. It was fascinating to hear the stories and feel the history of this iconic establishment. It’s these little discoveries that make traveling so rewarding.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our adventures. From the breathtaking views at Cardwell Lookout to the delicious meals at Lucinda Cove Resort, Vista Hinchinbrook and Hotel Hinchinbrook, it was a day filled with memorable experiences. We were grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful region and to share these moments as a family. The Christmas decorations were already up in Ingham, adding a festive touch to our travels.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Girringun National Park and Djiru National Park, continuing our exploration of the region's natural beauty. I’m particularly excited about hiking through the rainforest and discovering more of Australia's unique flora and fauna. We might stop by Terry and Mamiko's for breakfast before heading out, and end the day with dinner at Lucinda Point Hotel Motel. And perhaps Maximilian and I can sneak off to Vista Hinchinbrook's bar for a nightcap.

As I sit here writing, I can't help but feel grateful for these experiences. Traveling with family can be challenging at times, but it's also incredibly rewarding. Seeing the world through Sofia's eyes and sharing these adventures with Maximilian makes it all worthwhile. And who knows what tomorrow will bring? That's the beauty of travel – the unexpected discoveries and the unforgettable moments that stay with you long after you've returned home.

It's been a full day here on Hinchinbrook Island! I am so looking forward to sharing more of our adventures with you all!

With love,
Aino