Palm Cove Beach
BREAKING NEWS
PALM COVE IS STILL FAR NORTH QUEENSLANDS CLEANEST BEACH!
On Monday November 26th, 2007 Palm Cove was awarded with the title of the Cleanest Beach in Far North Queensland and the Litter Prevention Award! With the hard work of local community members, businesses and travellers this environmental achievement was made possible. To win the Clean Beach Challenge it takes far more than just a tidy beachfront. Geographical, environmental, cultural and economical considerations are all measured when judging Keep Australia Beautiful’s Cleanest Beach and Litter Prevention Award; proactivity of local participants as well as the efficiency and effectiveness in which they use the resources to maintain their beach in immaculate condition is evaluated.
Environmental protection, litter prevention, resource management, youth initiatives, visitor friendliness and community partnerships and action are some of the key features that have seen Palm Cove Beach excel over other beaches in Far North Queensland. Not only does this tremendous community effort create a visually attractive beach for the enjoyment of visitors and locals but it also reduces vandalism through youth participation, increases interaction among various groups, promotes public awareness and education, maintains pleasant and attractive beaches, protects the environment, improves resource management, increases pride and moral, improves health standards, promotes tourism and prevents litter.
The announcement of Palm Cove’s success at this year’s Cleanest Beach Awards is great news for locals who cherish this lovely 2km strip of sand and also for the visitors who travel from all over Australia and the world to stay at Palm Cove. It is comforting to know that the destination you have selected for a holiday has been recognized for its cleanliness, environmental concern, friendly locals and remarkable spirit.
The social and environmental concern shown by everyone who participated in the maintenance and cleanliness of Palm Cove Beach is to be commended. It is because of these people the popularity, beauty and sustainability of Palm Cove Beach can be continuously enjoyed year after year.
The path to becoming one of Australia’s most popular wedding destinations was an easy one for Palm Cove, having won accolades from across Australia for its cleanliness and friendly, relaxed attitude. Artists and photographers are attracted to Palm Cove, and enjoy capturing its beauty.
The beach is extremely well maintained by residents and local government authorities, and it continues to impress visitors with its pristine standard.
Palm Cove is the northernmost beach in a trilogy of beaches including Trinity Beach, Kewarra Beach and Clifton Beach.
With a sprinkling of islands on the horizon and a romantic jetty, Palm Cove is both alluring and charming, and many consider it an idyllic Queensland holiday spot in its own right.
The resort village effortlessly blends relaxation and sophistication with its palm-fringed streets and massive but majestic Melaleuca trees overhanging the rooftops of trendy spas, international class resorts and casual holiday homes.
Visitors will be amazed that the waters off Palm Cove’s beach remain warm and inviting all year long, and that the soft sand is a pleasure to get between one’s toes.
The awards won affirm Palm Cove’s status as the premier beach in Tropical North Queensland. Palm Cove has been recently named “The Spa Capital of Australia”, boasting world-class spas. We have included below some interesting and unusual things about the beach at Palm Cove.
Beach Attractions
Melaleuca trees
Gigantic and ancient Melaleuca trees shade almost the entire length of Palm Cove. These native Australian trees are over 500 years old and infuse unique character to the cove. Buildings in the area are built around the trees according to strict rules that enforce their preservation.
Rock Formations
At the northern end of the beach are rock formations. Notice how the rocks have been shaped by the constant southeasterly swell. Walking on these rocks is permitted, but wearing shoes is advisable because the tips of the rocks are very sharp.
Pipis
These tiny creatures are fascinating and can keep children occupied for hours. Pipis are small, shelled sea animals similar to mussels that are found on the area of beach where the water laps at the sand. They are approximately the size of an Australian ten-cent coin and can be used for fishing bait or made into a seafood meal if you are very hungry and haven’t caught any fish. At Palm Cove, the most pipis are found at the southern end of the beach in front of the Angsana Resort.
Mangrove Creek
A small mangrove creek is located at the northern end of the beach at the dog exercise area. During some high tides seawater will form a small canal between the ocean and the mangroves to create a small billabong. Don’t bother swimming or fishing in this water — crocodiles are present. Even though no crocodiles have been seen for many years, visitors are advised to refrain from entering the water. A series of small tracks lead through the mangroves and it is safe to explore this unique type of forest.
Hiking Track
Among the rocks at the far northern end of Palm Cove is a rough track that winds between the rocks. After a short distance the track disappears as rocks take over the landscape, but if you keep travelling for approximately 200 metres along the rocks, you will soon reach a small private beach interspersed with large boulders. It is surrounded by a steep hill and there is no other access except than via boat. Be careful on the slippery rocks if rain has fallen or if the tide has washed over the rocks.
Dune Revegetation
A fence has been erected along the dune area of Palm Cove to prevent people from walking through the dune. This area is very important for the prevention of erosion so it is vital not to walk on these plants or remove them. Special types of grasses, creepers, shrubs and trees are found on frontal dunes. Some of the grasses and creepers trap sand blown from the beach so that the dune grows wider and higher. Established plants prevent the dune being blown away by strong winds.
Dog exercise area
On the northern side of the Palm Cove jetty is an area of beach reserved for dog walking. In this zone, dogs are permitted to run free under owner supervision.
Stinger Net
During the warmer months (November to May) it is important to swim inside the stinger net enclosures as they are the only safe swimming zone at the beach. The nets are constructed of a robust floating tube that defines the swimming area. Hanging from this floating tube is 25mm square mesh that descends to the ocean floor and is weighed down by chain. The stinger nets are designed to prevent large box jellyfish and large segments of box jellyfish tentacles from entering the enclosure.
General Palm Cove Beach Safety Information
- Do not swim if you are unsure of your ability to handle the sea conditions
- Do not swim for at least 20 minutes after eating
- Do not swim when under the influence of alcohol
- Do not swim at night
- Always swim with a buddy — keep an eye on each other
- Never run, jump or dive into shallow waters at the beach
Friendly Advice
We are happy to assist you with any facet of your Palm Cove holiday, so if you require further information on Palm Cove’s location, please contact us.