Stay and play – Innisfail, Queensland
Enjoying prime position at the junction of the North and South Johnstone rivers, and within a whisker of the coast, this heritage-rich Far North Queensland town is a true gem.
Where is it?
Innisfail is 90km south of Cairns (1hr 10min drive) or 50km north of Mission Beach (45min drive).
Why go?
Innisfail enjoys the best of all worlds. It has the simplest of access to inviting waterways, is surrounded by a sea of lush greenery, and boasts a warm tropical climate. Additionally, this vibrant town has a cluster of colourful art deco buildings that increases its charm.
The essentials – Innisfail things to do
Warrina Lakes
This picturesque 50ha park is crammed with all-ages appeal. It features a lily-covered lake, pockets of rainforest, wetlands, and various walkways to admire these scenic surrounds. There are BBQs and a playground, too, and the Innisfail Mini Rail runs train rides here on the second Sunday of each month.
Art Deco trail
Innisfail has one of the largest collections of art deco buildings in Australia and wandering around town to admire these striking structures is a must. Take a self-guided walk: maps are available from regional information centres or online.
Australian Sugar Heritage Centre
The sugar industry has long been a vital business for Innisfail and its surrounds. This top attraction in neighbouring Mourilyan retraces this extensive past in fascinating detail and has plenty of machinery and other artefacts to gaze at along the way.
Etty Bay
The bay’s long stretch of gorgeous golden sand is flanked by rainforest and reliably frequented by the iconic southern cassowary. These waters suit myriad activity, including swimming, surfing, boating, and fishing. You’ll likely capture an almighty sunset or sunrise here, too.
Must-visit attractions near Innisfail
Wooroonooran National Park
Part of the Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Area, Wooroonooran hoards a stash of treasure. While mammoth, some of its best features are within comfortable reach of Innisfail. These include the acclaimed Mamu Tropical Skywalk with an elevated walkway; and glorious Josephine Falls and its accompanying swimming hole.
The more adventurous can tackle a climb to the summit of Queensland's highest mountain, Mt Bartle Frere.
Distance: Varies between attractions but Mamu Tropical Skywalk and Josephine Falls are both roughly 30km inland from Innisfail.
Paronella Park
A visit to this multiple award-winning attraction is a magical experience. Its main feature are ruins of a historical castle spotted within beautiful gardens and close to scenic Mena Creek Falls. It’s all fringed by expansive rainforest that only adds to its mystique.
Distance: 20km southwest of Innisfail.
Random fact
Innisfail was known as Geraldton until 1911 when it was changed to avoid confusion with the Western Australian coastal city of the same name.
Innisfail accommodation
BIG4 Innisfail Mango Tree Tourist Park
Park type: Classic.
With a position close to the town centre, this pretty park is an excellent option when looking for accommodation in Innisfail. There’s plenty of lush greenery that’s synonymous with the wider area – including landscaped gardens – which helps to create a relaxing atmosphere.
Family-owned BIG4 Innisfail has a variety of cabin accommodation alongside caravan and camping sites, and its facilities include a swimming pool and large camp kitchen. A scenic riverside walkway connects the park to the town centre, just 2km away.
Book your Innisfail break with BIG4 now. Start by clicking or tapping the graphic below.