If you want a camping experience that feels a little different, Etty Bay delivers in a big way.
Just south of Innisfail in Far North Queensland, Etty Bay Cabins & Caravan Park is a relaxed beachfront caravan park known for one thing above all else — cassowaries. #wherethecassowariesroam
And not in a “you might see one if you’re lucky” kind of way. You will absolutely see one.
This was actually a dream of my husband, Warren, to see one up close — which is why I booked this place.
Cassowaries are one of the largest birds in the world and look like something straight out of the dinosaur age. Bright blue neck, helmet-like casque on its head, fluffy black hair like feathers and powerful legs that demand respect.
At Etty Bay, they wander straight through the caravan park and along the beach. One even came and popped its head over Warren’s workstation to check out what he was up to.
No barriers. No enclosures. Just you and them sharing the same space. Incredible.
It’s one of the few places in Australia where you can see them this close, in the wild.
The caravan park itself is simple but hard to beat.
• Absolute beachfront sites
• Shaded by palm trees
• Easy access for caravans
• Clean, well-maintained facilities including toilets, showers and laundry
You wake up to the sound of the ocean. It’s heaven.
As incredible as it is, this isn’t a zoo.
Cassowaries are wild animals and can be dangerous if approached or fed.
Keep your distance, secure your food (we had inadvertently dropped a mushroom at breakfast — a cassowary found it!) and enjoy the experience without putting yourself in harm’s way. Watching them move through the campground naturally is what makes this place special.
Etty Bay isn’t about luxury or packed itineraries. It’s a quiet, simple place to slow down and unwind.
It’s about parking up by the beach and experiencing something you won’t get anywhere else.
Camping with cassowaries is definitely one of those once-in-a-lifetime things you won’t ever forget.
Lani Day
Lani and Warren are currently travelling through Far North Queensland in their camper, discovering unique stays and falling in love with the region along the way.
Recent Post:
Categories:
Tags:
Key Industry Partners
