After crossing the Alexandra Range visitors encounter the first bit of ‘civilization’ north of the Daintree River at Cow Bay. Cow Bay, located halfway between the Daintree River and Cape Tribulation, offers great beach and rainforest experiences.

Where does the name ‘Cow Bay’ come from?

Cow Bay is not a township but a place name derived from the farming of cattle in the area in the early days. The other idea is that Cow Bay is named after the dugongs (sea cows) which come to feed on the seagrass beds in the bay. Cow Bay had a colorful past of farming, logging and grazing. Today tourism is the main industry and sustainability is the main aim of the local community.

Local businesses

Local businesses offer various types of accommodation - resort style, backpacker, holiday houses, apartments, B&Bs and camping. There are home-made ice-creams, restaurants, cafés, art and craft, rainforest tours, tea growing, an air strip, horse riding and the RACQ depot. There is a local petrol station with an IGA supermarket and the post office.

Cow Bay is home to the world renowned Daintree Discovery Centre. Most businesses are small business which are locally owned and operated. Visitors therefore have the opportunity to interact with the locals as they experience a dynamic rainforest environment.

Cow Bay Beach

The turn off to Cow Bay Beach is at Buchanan Creek Road. On the way you can observe the hills of the Alexandra Range (on the right) with its dark rainforest vegetation. Watch for birds, butterflies and cassowaries in this area. The three secluded bays of Cow Bay Beach are perfect for relaxing, swimming and snorkeling on the inshore reefs and also fishing and beach walking. There are always shady spots on these beaches. Guided sea kayaking can be booked locally at Crocodylus Village.

Rainforest

You can experience the rainforest by visiting the Jindalba boardwalk, by doing the self-guided walk at Crocodylus Village Resort or by walking the rainforest walkway and climbing the canopy tower at Daintree Discovery Centre.

Thornton Beach

Driving north past the war memorial, over Hutchinson Creek (which is great for swimming), Alexandra Bay State School is on the right. The landscape changes from cleared land to reforested areas, to fruit orchards and tea farming. The local supermarket is well stocked and is the only fuel station north of the Daintree River.