Set against the sparkling waters of the Coral Sea and nestled along the scenic Cassowary Coast, Cardwell is one of North Queensland’s most charming coastal towns. Perfectly positioned midway between Cairns and Townsville, this relaxed seaside haven was established in 1864 and holds the distinction of being the first port settlement north of Bowen on the Queensland coast. These days, Cardwell serves as the gateway to Hinchinbrook Island and offers visitors a rare mix of natural beauty, heritage charm, and laid-back tropical lifestyle.
History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Cardwell Bush Telegraph Heritage Centre, housed in the original 1870 telegraph and post office building. The museum offers a fascinating look at the town’s telecommunication legacy and early frontier life. Just a short stroll away, the Cardwell Jetty delivers sweeping views across the sea to the rugged, mist-shrouded peaks of Hinchinbrook Island—Australia’s largest island national park.
For nature lovers, the region is brimming with opportunity. The nearby Girringun National Park is home to the spectacular Wallaman Falls—Australia’s highest permanent single-drop waterfall—plunging 268 metres into the rainforest below. Meanwhile, the Hinchinbrook Channel is a haven for boating, fishing, and wildlife encounters, with dugongs, turtles, and saltwater crocodiles often spotted in its pristine waters.
At the heart of this tropical paradise lies a standout accommodation business opportunity with serious versatility. Spanning a generous 2.75-acre parcel, this established caravan park caters to a broad and loyal customer base—think sun-seeking tourists, grey nomads, family holidaymakers, and budget-conscious backpackers. Its diverse accommodation offering includes well-appointed motel rooms, ensuite cabins, budget-friendly cabins, and backpacker dorms, providing something for every style of traveller. Add to that a collection of shady powered sites perfect for caravanners and campers chasing that classic North Queensland camping experience, and you’ve got a rare, multi-stream business with strong earning potential and appeal that stretches far beyond the high season.
The park boasts a full suite of guest amenities, including a tropical saltwater swimming pool, a modern amenities block, a well-equipped camp kitchen, and undercover BBQ areas. And Island views? They are simply breathtaking. Located just a short stroll to the town centre and beachfront—it’s a picture-perfect setting that keeps visitors coming back.
Currently operating under management, the business is ready for a new owner to step in and build on its strong foundations. With a reported 16 percent return on investment based on 2024 financials—and projections suggesting even stronger performance in 2025—it’s a rare find in an increasingly popular coastal tourism market. The sale is motivated by personal reasons, giving savvy investors or hands-on operators a compelling chance to acquire a thriving business at an attractive price point.
Craig Clark, Director and Business Broker at CRE Brokers, says the opportunity is not one to overlook: “This is a rare chance to acquire a well-established, high-performing accommodation business in one of Queensland's most picturesque coastal towns. The combination of diverse accommodation options, strong financial returns, growth potential and the property's prime location makes it an attractive investment for those looking to enter or expand within the tourism sector.”
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