Exploring the Natural Wonders of Cairns: A Solo Adventure

Waterfalls and Whispers of the Past

Today was all about immersing myself in the lush landscapes south of Cairns, chasing waterfalls, and listening to the whispers of ancient legends. It was a day of natural beauty, a touch of history, and a whole lot of serenity. I was eager to explore Josephine Falls and Babinda Boulders, two spots renowned for their beauty and unique stories.

My day started with a hearty breakfast at Little Sister Restaurant & Cocktail Bar. The modern Asian cuisine was a delightful change of pace, and I savored every bite of my meal while enjoying the views of the Cairns Esplanade. The butter chicken came highly recommended, and it certainly didn't disappoint! Fuelled up and ready for the day, I set off on my adventure.

The drive to Josephine Falls was scenic, with glimpses of Queensland's highest peak, Mount Bartle Frere. The falls are located within Wooroonooran National Park, a place the local Aboriginal people maintain a close spiritual connection with. The walk to the falls was an easy 700-meter stroll through the rainforest. The canopy provided a cool respite from the tropical sun, and the sounds of the forest were incredibly soothing.

Reaching Josephine Falls, I was immediately struck by its beauty. The water cascaded down the rocks into a clear pool below. It's easy to see why this spot is so popular. The falls are fed by the rains falling on Bartle Frere, creating a refreshing swimming hole. I took a dip, enjoying the cool water and the natural rock slide. I made sure to stay within the designated swimming area, as the top section of the falls is off-limits due to safety concerns. The area is known for occasional flash flooding, and it's crucial to heed the warnings.


Explore the enchanting Josephine Falls in Queensland, where stunning waterfalls meet lush rainforest, offering a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventurers.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

After a refreshing swim, I continued my journey to Babinda Boulders. This site is another natural wonder with a fascinating, albeit tragic, history. The Babinda Boulders, also known as Devil's Pool, is a series of large granite rocks along Babinda Creek. The area is beautiful, but it's also known for its dangerous currents and underwater caves. Since 1916, there have been 21 recorded deaths at the site, mostly young men and women who ventured too close to the deceptive currents.

The local Aboriginal people, the Yindinji, have a legend associated with the Boulders. It tells the story of Oolana, a young woman who, forbidden to be with her lover Dyga, threw herself into the waters. Her spirit is said to guard the boulders, and her cries can still be heard. It's a poignant story that adds a layer of mystery to the already stunning location.

Walking around Babinda Boulders, I was struck by the power and beauty of nature. The creek flowed swiftly between the rocks, creating a series of small waterfalls and pools. The lush rainforest surrounded the area, adding to the sense of tranquility. I made sure to stay on the designated paths and heed the warning signs. It was a sobering reminder of the importance of respecting nature and being aware of the dangers.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Babinda Boulders, a natural wonder in Queensland, perfect for hiking, swimming, and nature photography.

For lunch, I treated myself to Flynn's Italian by Crystalbrook. The restaurant is known for its modern Italian cuisine and communal dining experience. I opted for the homemade gnocchi veal ragout, and it was absolutely divine. The flavors were rich and comforting, and the atmosphere was lively and inviting. It was the perfect spot to relax and refuel after a day of exploring.

In the afternoon, I decided to do a little shopping at Makin' Whoopee Gift Shop. This quirky shop is a treasure trove of locally made gifts, jewelry, and artworks. I picked up a few souvenirs for Olivia and Thando, wanting to bring a piece of Cairns back to them. It's always a joy to support local businesses and find unique items that tell a story.


Explore Makin' Whoopee Gift Shop in Cairns City for unique Australian gifts, handmade treasures, and a delightful shopping experience.

As the sun began to set, I headed to Bushfire Flame Grill for dinner. This Brazilian-inspired restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat churrasco experience. The meats were slow-roasted to perfection and served at the table on skewers. It was a carnivore's delight, and I savored every bite. The atmosphere was festive and lively, making it a perfect way to end the day.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Bushfire Flame Grill in Cairns – a family-friendly restaurant serving exceptional barbecue cuisine.

Tomorrow, I'm planning a trip to Barron Gorge National Park and the Kuranda Scenic Railway. I'm looking forward to exploring more of Cairns' natural beauty and experiencing the thrill of the railway. I'll be sure to grab breakfast at Lemoncello's Cairns before heading out.

Today was a reminder of the beauty and power of nature. Josephine Falls and Babinda Boulders are two must-see destinations for anyone visiting Cairns. Just remember to respect the environment and heed the warnings. As I reflect on the day, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this incredible region. I'm also reminded of the importance of sharing these experiences with my family. I can't wait to tell Olivia and Thando all about my adventures and show them the souvenirs I picked up.

The trip is slowly coming to an end, but I am excited for the last couple of days here in Cairns. I am also looking forward to getting back home to my family, and sharing my experiences with them. I hope that this trip has inspired them to explore the world and appreciate the beauty of nature.

Until tomorrow!