BEST JETTIES IN FNQ
See iconic features of coast
WHETHER it’s going for a sunset stroll, throwing a line in or simply sitting and enjoying the scenery, the Far North’s coastline is dotted with jetties and piers, providing the perfect spots to drink in the place where the sea meets the coast.
If you are looking for the best marine structures in the region, look no further than those listed below:
PALM COVE JETTY
This is a stunning place to drop a line, and the fishing is particularly good here for diehard anglers. The narrow channel between Double Island and Palm Cove is a haven for fish migrating from cool southern waters to the warm northern waters. Head to the jetty at the northern end of Williams Esplanade and grab a spot to try to catch school mackerel, barramundi, giant trevally, queenfish and the occasional shark.
THE PIER, CAIRNS
This may be a pier in name only these days, consisting of a large complex filled with boutique shops and a gym. It’s the exterior that’s the real attraction here: pull up a seat at one of the many bars and restaurants lining the complex – some of which are among the best in Cairns – and enjoy superb views overlooking the Cairns Marina, which attracts everything from superyachts to jetskis.
COOKTOWN JETTY
This jetty may have made headlines in recent months, due to the dangerous tendencies of a massive Queensland groper lurking among the pylons to bite children, but it’s still one of the most actionpacked jetties in the Far North. There’s a lot going on here, whether it’s the denizens of the deep that seem to leap on to lines, or the seemingly constant marine traffic of prawn trawlers and yachts pulling in to unload or refuel.
LUCINDA JETTY
While this jetty may be off limits to the general public, it’s still a remarkable structure to view from Lucinda’s shoreline. This is one of the most impressive marine structures in the Far North, and in fact, it’s a recordbreaker. At 5.76km long – yes, kilometres – this is the longest service jetty in the southern hemisphere. It enables the township to receive the largest ships used in the raw sugar trade. The jetty is so long, whales have been spotted breaching right next to it.
CARDWELL JETTY
If you are looking for a jetty with good chances of spotting a crocodile, this is the jetty to go to. Crocs, sea turtles, and even dugongs are quite often seen in the waters around Cardwell’s jetty. But regardless, this is a picturesque wharf for strolling along and taking in the magnificent views of Hinchinbrook Island, Australia’s largest island national park.