Wangetti Beach: One of the Best Beaches Near Cairns
Table of Contents
Planning a visit to Wangetti Beach in Tropical North Queensland? Hopefully you’ll find my post on visiting this Queensland beach an informative read. Here is what to expect in the form of a table of contents.
1. Introduction
2. Where is Wangetti Beach?
3. History of Wangetti Beach
4. Things To Do At Wangetti Beach
5. Wangetti Beach Accommodation
6. How to Get to Wangetti Beach
7. Other Beaches in the Area
8. FAQs
Hopefully after you have read this post you’ll become inspired to visit the place!
Wangetti Beach is one of the many beaches you can visit near Cairns in Tropical Far North Queensland
Introduction
Wangetti Beach is a gem of a beach on the coast of Far North Queensland in Australia.
Comprising a secluded stretch of sand, it is a bit of a hidden gem offering a peaceful and relaxing getaway from the crowds of Cairns.
With its beautiful 4km stretch of golden sand and calm waters, it’s a great spot for relaxing on the beach or taking a dip in the ocean. It is also surrounded by lush rainforest, which gives it a tropical feel.
In this post, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about visiting Wangetti Beach. So keep on reading to find out things like its history, how to get there, what to do there and where you can stay near it.
Where is Wangetti Beach?
Wangetti is one of the many beaches you can visit near Cairns in Tropical Far North Queensland.
It is situated about a 30 minute drive north of Cairns and lies between Ellis Beach to the south and Port Douglas to the north.
Today, Wangetti Beach remains a popular destination for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
History of Wangetti Beach
Wangetti Beach has a rich history that dates back thousands of years.
The area was traditionally home to the Wangetti people, an Indigenous tribe that lived in the region for generations before European settlement. They had a deep connection to the land and the sea, relying on both fishing and hunting for their livelihood.
With the arrival of Europeans in the 19th century, the traditional way of life for the Wangetti people was disrupted. The area was used for logging and the timber was transported by boat to Cairns.
In the early 20th century, the area was also used for farming, with sugarcane and other crops grown in the region. It remained a largely off the radar of travellers until the 1970s when it became a popular destination for surfers and hippies who set up camp along the beach. The area quickly became known for its relaxed and laid-back vibe, attracting travellers from all over the world.
Today, the beach at Wangetti remains a popular destination for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. While the beach at Wangetti has changed over the years, specifically with more development and tourism, it still holds a special place in the hearts of locals.
Wangetti Beach Things to do:
Things To Do At Wangetti Beach
Wangetti Beach is an ideal destination for those wanting a fun day on the sand. Here are a selection of the top things to do whilst you are there:
Swimming: The waters at Wangetti are generally calm, making it a great spot for swimming outside of stinger season – which runs from November to May. However, there are no lifeguards on duty, so it’s important to be cautious when swimming.
Surfing: Wangetti is a popular spot for surfing, with waves that are ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers.
Wangetti Beach Fishing: The beach is a great spot for fishing, with plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish, including bream, whiting and flathead.
Beachcombing: With its secluded location, Wangetti is an ideal spot for beachcombing. You may find shells, sea glass and other treasures washed up on the shore.
Hiking: There are several hiking trails that lead from the beach into the surrounding rainforest. These trails offer stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding mountains.
Wildlife Watching: The area around Wangetti is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, dolphins and birds. Keep an eye out for these animals during your visit.
Wangetti Beach Accommodation
As a secluded destination, Wangetti Beach Accommodation is quite limited. However, there are several nearby options that offer easy access to the beach.
These include the Thala Beach Nature Reserve in Oak Beach, which offers eco-friendly bungalows set among the rainforest and the Kewarra Beach Resort and Spa, which offers luxury accommodation just a short drive from Wangetti.
Similarly, there is plenty of accommodation available in Palm Cove, Port Douglas and Cairns. They include everything from luxury five-star hotels to Air BnB and backpackers’ digs.
How to Get to Wangetti Beach
The beach is located about 40 kilometres north of Cairns in Tropical North Queensland, making it easily accessible by car. Simply follow the Captain Cook Highway north from Cairns until you reach Wangetti. There is also a public bus that runs between Cairns and Port Douglas, with a stop at Wangetti.
Distance from Wangetti Beach to:
Other Beaches in the Area
Other beaches you can visit in the area include Trinity Beach and Palm Cove both of which are a short driving distance away.
You can also go from Wangetti Beach to Port Douglas if you fancy a change of scene, or even Cape Tribulation if you fancy a further drive.
FAQs
How Far Is Wangetti Beach from Cairns?
Wangetti is situated about 41 km north of Cairns. The drive from the CBD takes about 40 minutes along the Captain Cook Highway and National Route 1.
How Far is Wangetti Beach to Port Douglas?
Separated by a distance of 26 km, it will take you about 26 minutes to drive from Wangetti Beach to Port Douglas along the Captain Cook Highway and State Route 44.
How Long is Wangetti Beach?
The beach at Wangetti about 4 km in length. It runs between Slip and Red Cliff Points in a virtually straight stretch of coastline. You'll find a car parks book-ending the beach, though nothing in the way of facilities.
Can you swim at Wangetti Beach?
Swimming is possible at Wangetti due to the water being pretty calm. That said you are strongly advised not to do it during the stinger season - between November to May. The beach is also not patrolled by lifeguards and Wangetti Beach crocodiles have occasionally been spotted on it. So you should always exercise caution if you do intend to enter the water.
