Things to Do
We are delighted to have you make our caravan park your base to explore what we have to offer in our historic Cooktown. Peninsula Caravan Park is ideally located to give you easy access to all Cookstown’s iconic attractions, and what the region has to offer.
Cooktown, Queensland, offers a variety of attractions that showcase its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Here are the popular things to see and do in and around Cooktown that offer a glimpse into the towns unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Cooktown is known as the gateway to Cape York, making it the perfect place to stop, relax and get ready before heading north on your Cape adventure.
Bird Watching
Boating
Boat Ramp
Bush Walking
Cycling Track in Area
Fishing
Fossicking
Golf Nearby
Historical Sites in Area
Lawn Bowls Nearby
Photographic Sites in Area
Scenic Drives in Area
Swimimming Nearby
Tennis Court Nearby
Finch Bay
Start at Finch Bay and do the beautiful scenic walking track to Cherry Tree Bay. Great views over the Coral Sea. Another great walk, that is if you are up to it, is Mount Cook. It is 431 meters above sea level and features a steep challenging 6km return walking track, that leads to the summit. Great views of Cooktown, The Endeavor River and the Coal Sea.
River Bend Cruise
Book in a “River Bend Cruise” and enjoy the serenity of cruising up the Endeavor River exploring a maze of smaller creeks and after dark spotlighting to see the mangroves at night, all while enjoying a supplied gourmet cheese platter to accompany your drink of choice (BYO).
Grassy Hill Lookout
Grassy Hill lookout & Lighthouse is where in 1771 Captain James Cook ascended the hill to survey a safe passage through the reefs after his HMS Endeavor was damaged after hitting the rocks on the inner reef. Grassy Hill is a great place to bring a picnic or cheese platter and enjoy the views of the Coral Sea and watch the afternoon sunset over the Endeavor River
Cooktown Museum
Just a minute to town center, our park is close to all must-see sites like the Cooktown Museum (formerly James Cook Museum), which is one of Far North Qld most treasured cultural landmarks. Located in a beautifully restored 1889 former convent, the museum offers a fascinating glimpses of Cooktown’s rich layered culture.
Cooktown Botanic Gardens
Botanic Gardens is one of my favorite places to visit. Easy access to walking pathways. It is one of Queensland’s oldest Botanic gardens with beautiful, lush tropical plants. Then head over to the Natures Powers House (which is in Botanic Garden). Wonderful Café, great food and enjoy a cup of tea with an assortment of beautiful cakes, then have a wander through the Vera Scarth- Johnson Flora Gallery.
Waalmbal Birri Heritage & Culture Centre
Our Heritage & Culture Centre “Waalmbal Birri” is in the main street of Cooktown. The Centre shows the rich indigenous history of Cooktown and surrounding areas, especially the Guugu Yimithirr people. It shows the period of exchange between Captain Cook and his crew. The centre shows traditional artifacts and Interactive displays.
Cooktown Cemetery
Cooktown Cemetery is one of Queensland most historical burial sites. From Pioneers, gold miners, missionaries and sailors are amongst some that are buried here. The Chinese Shrine and graves, a large Chinese community who came in the Gold Rush Era to Cooktown and Palmer River area. Japanese and Malay sections for the seafarers and pearlers who frequented that region. The cemetery reflects on the town the vibrant and diverse population of the time. And of course, Indigenous graves of our regions Traditional Owners.
Keating lagoon
The Keating Lagoon is just 3 minutes south of Cooktown. There are heaps of native birds and a great place for Bird Watchers. No dogs allowed.
Cooktown Golf Course
Cooktown Golf Course is a public 9-hole course situated 5 km south of Cooktown, on Quarantine Bay. The golf course has a license bar; golf shop and equipment hire. Open daily at 7.30am. The natural beauty of this Golf course is a must for all golf enthusiasts and holiday makers alike.
Cooktown Bowls Club
Cooktown Bowling Club has one of the best views in town. The club is located on the main street along the Endeavor River. It has a world class shade cover, thus enabling year-round day and night bowls.