Airlie Beach: Cedar Creek Falls & Northerlies Beach Day Trip

If you’re planning a trip to Queensland’s stunning Airlie Beach and want to experience a perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and local flavor, this Cedar Creek Falls & Northerlies Beach Day Trip comes highly recommended. With a solid 4.6 out of 5 rating based on over 100 reviews, it’s clear that travelers find value in this well-rounded adventure.

What we love about this tour is how it balances outdoor activity with comfort — you get to swim in natural rockpools, stroll through lush tropical vegetation, and enjoy a long, leisurely lunch with unbeatable views. Plus, the guides are praised for their local knowledge and friendly manner, making the day both educational and fun. The only caveat? The waterfalls are seasonal, so depending on weather and rainfall, the falls might not be flowing when you visit.

This trip suits those who appreciate authentic nature experiences, want a relaxed pace, and value good company. If you’re after a day that’s both invigorating and restful, and you don’t mind a few hours on a bus, this tour could be just what you need.

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Key Points

Beautiful scenery from waterfalls, rockpools, and scenic views of the Whitsundays
Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights
Relaxed pace with time for swimming, walking, and chilling at Northerlies Beach
Value for money with inclusions like lunch, park fees, and snacks
Eco-conscious company certified as Climate Action Leaders
Limited physical effort needed, suitable for most travelers except those with mobility issues

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour offers a compact yet immersive day exploring some of Airlie Beach’s most captivating natural spots. Starting at the Red Cat Adventures shop, you’ll hop on a comfortable vehicle that takes you to Cedar Creek, about a 30-40 minute drive away. The journey itself offers glimpses of the lush Queensland landscape, setting a perfect tone for the outdoor activities ahead.

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Cedar Creek Falls and Rockpools

Once at Cedar Creek, you’re greeted with the chance to swim in the natural rockpools, surrounded by tropical flora, including white cedar trees and Alexandra palms. Reviewers frequently mention the scenic beauty and the chance to see wild orchids and colorful butterflies, which makes this part of the tour feel like stepping into a botanical paradise.

The hike to the top of Cedar Creek Falls is described as relaxed and manageable, with some reviewers noting that the waterfall may not be running if drier weather has set in. Still, even without the cascading water, the pool remains inviting for a swim. One guest shared, “Even if it wasn’t season for the falls, it was still a nice visit,” highlighting the flexibility of the experience.

Wildlife and Nature

Beyond the swimming, the guides are praised for their local expertise, pointing out native bird species and sharing interesting tidbits about the flora. Travelers often remark on how friendly and informative guides like Donna and Jenny make the trip more memorable. They also appreciate being shown sites not listed in the itinerary, adding a personalized touch.

Scenic Hike and Relaxation

The hike up the falls provides gentle exercise and stunning outlooks over the surrounding forest and water. Afterward, most guests choose to relax and take photos of the lush landscape, often remarking on the refreshing and peaceful atmosphere.

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Northerlies Beach Bar and Lunch

After the outdoor adventure, you’ll head to Northerlies Beach Bar, renowned for its spectacular views of the Whitsundays and Coral Sea. The venue is described as spacious and family-friendly, with a dedicated kids menu and friendly staff. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, enjoy a long, leisurely lunch, and perhaps a cold drink or two.

Guests frequently mention the delicious food and tapas-style offerings, which enhance the laid-back vibe. One reviewer wrote, “The lunch at Northerlies was excellent,” emphasizing the high quality of the cuisine. The outdoor seating area offers uninterrupted views of the sea, adding to the relaxing experience.

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Final Touches

The tour wraps up after a 5-hour adventure, leaving you with plenty of time to reflect on the day, share photos, or simply enjoy the sea breeze. It’s a well-organized experience, with many reviewers noting the smooth logistics and friendly guides as highlights.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $105 per person, this experience feels like a decent deal considering all that’s included: park fees, a meal and drinks, snacks, and transportation. It’s especially commendable that the company is certified Climate Action Leaders, meaning they prioritize sustainable practices, which might matter to environmentally conscious travelers.

The inclusion of lunch and drinks means you don’t have to worry about extra expenses, and the small group size (usually just a handful of travelers) ensures a more personal, flexible experience. Reviewers consistently mention the thoughtfulness of the guides and the quality of the food, which elevates this beyond a simple sightseeing trip.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is best suited for nature lovers who want a relaxed day out without strenuous physical activity. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an authentic experience that combines scenic beauty with good food and company.

If you’re after a more adventurous or physically challenging experience, you might find this trip too laid-back. Conversely, if you prefer guided outdoor activities with local insights, this tour will delight you.

Practical Details

Duration: 5 hours, usually in the morning
Price: $105 per person, with meal and drinks included
Meeting Point: Red Cat Adventures Shop
Transport: Comfortable vehicle to Cedar Creek and Northerlies Beach
Group Size: Typically small, personalized groups
Accessibility: Not suitable for children under 2 or those with mobility issues or in wheelchairs
Language: English, with guides like Donna and Jenny providing engaging commentary

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
No, guests meet directly at the Red Cat Adventures shop, so plan accordingly.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, camera, drinks, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing. Sandals or flip-flops are not allowed.

Can I swim in the waterfalls?
Yes, you can swim in the rockpools at Cedar Creek, but note that the waterfall may not be flowing if it’s dry season.

How long is the hike?
The hike up Cedar Creek Falls is described as relaxed and manageable, with no strenuous difficulty reported.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers park fees, fuel costs, a morning snack, water, and a meal with basic alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks.

Are there options for vegetarians or special diets?
While specific dietary options aren’t detailed, the lunch is served at Northerlies Beach Bar, known for its variety, so special requests might be accommodated if informed in advance.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, with a kids menu and a relaxed pace, it suits families with children over 2, but it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

Wrapping Up

This Cedar Creek Falls and Northerlies Beach Day Trip offers a genuine slice of Queensland’s natural beauty, combined with comfortable amenities and friendly guides. It’s a wonderful choice for travelers who want to see lush waterfalls, spot native wildlife, and enjoy a laid-back day by the sea, all at a reasonable price.

Whether you’re after a scenic escape, a foodie experience, or simply some time to unwind amid tropical surroundings, this tour ticks many boxes. Its small-group vibe and eco-conscious approach make it a responsible choice for travelers hoping to enjoy the best of Airlie Beach’s outdoors without sacrificing comfort.

If you’re visiting Airlie Beach and crave authentic, nature-centered experiences with a friendly touch, this tour should definitely be on your list. Just remember, the waterfalls’ flow depends on the season, so check ahead if witnessing the cascades is your priority.