On the Bruce Highway, 200 km south of Cairns. The small coastal town where you catch the boat for Hinchinbrook Island. There are also interesting cruises around the island. Cardwell has been here for more than 150 years, making it one of the oldest towns in Queensland. Nothing much has happened here during this period, a tradition which looks set to continue for quite some time.

South of town, the Bruce Highway has some spectacular views out towards Hinchinbrook Island.