Tinaroo Dam Cairns, Australia

Tropical North Queensland is not renowned for its natural lakes. The mountainous countryside means we have thousands of creeks and rivers, but lakes are a little hard to come by. So a few years back, we made one.

Tinaroo Dam has been used as a principle source of irrigation for farmers on the Atherton Tablelands for over 50 years. It also provides a small amount of hydroelectric power. But we are interested in it's value as a recreational facility.

Tinaroo Dam Cairns, Australia

Visitors and locals in Tropical North Queensland use Tinaroo for everything you could imagine a large lake might facilitate.

  • Swimming
  • Camping
  • Fishing
  • Water skiing
  • Sailing
  • Fishing
  • Wind Surfing
  • Hiking
  • House boating
  • Fishing

You may have noticed that fishing is a prominent activity at Lake Tinaroo. In fact, this lake is regarded as the best Barramundi fishing in the world. The barra here cannot breed because the water is only fresh. (Barramundi need a salt and fresh water environment to breed) Therefore, the lake is stocked annually with baby barra that grow into monsters bigger than anywhere else in the world. The world's biggest barra's have been caught here by keen anglers – visit the local store and see all the photos on the wall of proud fishers wrestling with their fish that are bigger than their boats.

But aside from fishing, Tinaroo is wonderful for family activities like picnics on the bank. The climate is cooler than in Cairns, and the nights can be very chilly during winter so make sure you bring a jumper if you're staying overnight.

The Edge at Lake Tinaroo Holiday House

The Edge Holiday House on the watersedge of Lake Tinaroo is a popular holiday accommodation for couples and family groups up to 14 guests.  Lake Tinaroo is a perfect destination for water activites including water skiing, paddle boards and kayaks.  Ensure to book early for this popular holiday house.

The Canopy Rainforest Treehouses

Surround yourself in the tropical rainforest fo the Atherton Tablelands at the Canopy Rainforest Treehouses.  Each timber tree house boasts views of the surrounding rainforests and sounds of the local wildlife. 

Jabiru Safari Lodge Atherton Tablelands

Experience the wildlife and natural beauty of the Atherton Tablelands in these luxury tented safari cabins complete with private ensuite and fan.  Choose from all inclusive stays, or bed and breakfast specials to suit your experience.

Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat

Set on 230 acres of private rainforest Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat feaures private Tree houses complete with self contained facilities, luxury Spa Bath, Fireplace and private balcony to soak up the stunning views.  Explore the local walking tracks & waterfalls or enjoy a dip in the pool after a morning of birdwatching - so much, or so little to do.

Mt Quincan Crater Retreat

Located 4 minutes from Yungaburra on Cairns' Atherton Tablelands, these private cabins are nestled amongst the treetops of the local rainforest.  Fully self contained and boasting a wood firplace, double spa and private balcony these luxury retreats allow you to enjoy the views from every angle.  Enjoy bird watching, wildlife spotting, and exploring the local crater lakes and waterfalls - a great base to explore the Atherton Tablelands.

Best Value Accommodation Deals in Cairns