Etty Bay Caravan Park – A Beachfront Paradise with Resident Cassowaries

Tucked away in a secluded cove on the magnificent Cassowary Coast, Etty Bay Caravan Park is one of Australia’s most unique and unforgettable destinations. This is a place where two World Heritage areas collide—the Wet Tropics Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef—creating a spectacular natural amphitheatre. The park’s absolute beachfront location is breathtaking, but it’s the famous residents that truly set it apart. Etty Bay is home to a population of wild Southern Cassowaries, and it is one of the few places in the world where you are almost guaranteed to see these magnificent, prehistoric-looking birds as they casually wander through the caravan park and along the beach.This incredible wildlife encounter, combined with the park’s tranquil, laid-back atmosphere, makes for a magical holiday experience. The park itself is a shady oasis, nestled right on the golden sands of the palm-fringed beach. The calm, protected waters are perfect for a swim, with a stinger net in place during the summer months for safe enjoyment. The on-site café is a popular spot, serving up great coffee and meals just metres from the sand. While it feels like a remote paradise, Etty Bay is just a short, scenic drive from the town of Innisfail, making it an excellent base for exploring the region’s other world-class attractions, including the enchanting Paronella Park and the Mamu Tropical Skywalk. For a holiday that combines stunning scenery, unique wildlife, and pure relaxation, Etty Bay Caravan Park is a bucket-list destination.

Etty Bay Caravan Park – QLD Location Map

Etty Bay Caravan Park & Cabins

Address: The Esplanade, Etty Bay QLD 4858
Website: ettybaycaravanpark.com.au
GPS Coordinates: -17.55867, 146.0898

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Site Details and Facilities

Location: Absolute beachfront in a secluded rainforest bay on the Cassowary Coast.
Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and motorhomes. Site sizes can be tight; booking is essential.
Road Access: Sealed but narrow and winding road down into the bay.
Site Surface: Primarily grass and sand sites.
Camping Permitted: Yes, powered and unpowered sites are available.
Maximum Overnight Stays: Caters to tourists and holidaymakers.
Facilities: Amenities block with hot showers and toilets, laundry, camp kitchen, on-site cafe/kiosk.
Picnic Tables: Yes, available for public use.
Potable Water: Yes.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent. Some reception may be found on the beach.
TV Reception: Satellite equipment (VAST) is essential for reliable reception.
Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
Drive Through Sites: No.
Rubbish Bins: Yes.
Open Fires: Prohibited.
Generator Use: Prohibited.

Activities & Essentials

Essentials to Bring: A good camera is non-negotiable! Also bring swimmers, insect repellent, and all necessary supplies as the kiosk is basic. Be aware of marine stingers during the wet season.
Pet Friendly: No. Due to the presence of cassowaries, pets are strictly not permitted.
Fishing: Good beach and rock fishing opportunities.
Short Walks: Enjoy beautiful walks along the beach and through the surrounding rainforest tracks.

Local Amenities (in nearby Innisfail, approx. 18 km)

Pubs & Restaurants

Etty Bay SLSC (Cafe): Onsite.
Crown Hotel Innisfail: Approx. 18 km
The Imperial Hotel (Innisfail): Approx. 18 km

Local Attractions

Cassowary Spotting: Onsite at the park and beach.
Etty Bay Beach: Adjacent to the park.
Paronella Park: Approx. 35 km
Innisfail Town Centre (Art Deco Walk): Approx. 18 km

Camping & Travel Resources

Nearest Caravan Parks: Several parks are located in Innisfail.
Next Free Camps: Very limited formal free camps in the immediate area.
Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available in Innisfail.
Nearest Petrol Station: Major service stations in Innisfail (approx. 18 km).
Drinking Water Resupply: Available onsite.
Public Toilets: Onsite for guests and day-trippers.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Cassowary Coast

Wet Season (Nov-Apr): Hot and very humid with a high likelihood of extremely heavy rainfall, monsoonal troughs, and cyclones. Marine stingers are present in coastal waters. Averages range from 24°C to 31°C.
Dry Season (May-Oct): The peak tourist season. Beautiful, warm, and sunny days with lower humidity and pleasant sea breezes. Ideal conditions for exploring. Average temperatures from 16°C to 28°C.