Animal Encounter Airlie Beach

"Dawn's Embrace: Driftwood Tours' Sunrise Encounter with Kangaroos and Wallabies at
Cape Hillsborough" Stepinto the enchanting realm of Cape Hillsborough with Driftwood Tours, where the
first light of day unveils a magical encounter with native Australian wildlife.
Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience as we witness the sunrise alongside
Kangaroos and Wallabies on the pristine shores of Cape Hillsborough. Let
nature's spectacle unfold in a symphony of colours, wildlife, and the tranquillity
of dawn.

1.The Awakening: Sunrise on Cape Hillsborough's Beach As the dawn
sky transforms into a canvas of pastel hues, we'll gather on the shores of Cape
Hillsborough to witness the first light of day. The gentle waves, expansive
beach and the promise of a new beginning set the stage for a mesmerizing
sunrise that bathes the landscape in a warm, ethereal glow.

2.Wildlife Encounter: Kangaroos and Wallabies on the Beach As the first
rays of sunlight touch the shores, watch in awe as Kangaroos and Wallabies
emerge from the surrounding forest to greet the day and feed on the beach. Our
experienced guides will share insights into the behaviour and habitats of these
iconic marsupials, providing a deeper understanding of their daily routines and
the significance of Cape Hillsborough as their dawn sanctuary.
3.Capture the Moment: Photography Tips and Tricks Ensure you
capture every magical moment with our photography tips. From silhouettes
against the sunrise to close-ups of the curious Kangaroos and Wallabies, our
guides will assist you in immortalizing this unique wildlife encounter. These
photographs will become cherished memories of your unforgettable morning at
Cape Hillsborough.
4.Nature's Harmony: Coastal Flora and Fauna While
Kangaroos and Wallabies take centre stage, Cape Hillsborough offers a rich
tapestry of coastal flora and fauna. From unique plant species to birdlife, our
guides will provide insights on a bushwalk to a spectacular lookout into the
diverse ecosystem that thrives in this pristine coastal environment. A world
renowned geological wonder scatters the beach and surrounding hills and you
enjoy strolling along the fascinating volcanic rocks.
5.Unwind and Reflect: Breakfast on the Beach After the
sunrise spectacle and wildlife encounter, we invite you to unwind and reflect
with breakfast. Enjoy a delicious meal as you absorb the tranquillity of the
morning, surrounded by the beauty of Cape Hillsborough.
Join Driftwood Tours for a Sunrise Encounter like no other, where the first
light of day brings Kangaroos and Wallabies to the shores of Cape Hillsborough.
This enchanting experience is a celebration of dawn, wildlife, and the
unspoiled beauty of one of Australia's most iconic coastal settings.

WINNER-GOLD Best New Tour Business 2023 Whitsunday Tourism Awards.
Minimum 3 people Weather permitting

Operates- February to November

Discover the Raw Heart of the Whitsundays: Outback Heritage Trail
Get ready for an unforgettable day as we take you beyond the palm-fringed beaches and turquoise waters of the Whitsundays, deep into the untamed west—where history, rugged landscapes, and outback character collide in the most unexpected way. 85km inland from the coastal charm of Bowen lies Collinsville, a historic mining town tucked beneath the dramatic Clarke Range and known as the “Heart of the Outback.” This region is rich in stories—from ancient Indigenous pathways to the gritty determination of early pioneers—and it’s all waiting to be uncovered on our immersive Outback Heritage Trail.

Your day kicks off at 7am from Airlie Beach as we head to Bowen for a scenic stop at Horseshoe Bay and Flagstaff Hill. Breathe in the ocean air before we leave the coastline behind and watch the scenery shift dramatically—fields of fruit and vegetables give way to rugged ridgelines, wide open skies, and a landscape that feels worlds away from the islands. This is the Whitsundays like you've never seen it—raw, real, and absolutely unforgettable. As we make our way toward Collinsville, your guide—an enthusiastic storyteller with a passion for regional history—shares tales of the Birri people and the coal-fuelled development that turned this outpost into a hub of industry and resilience. Keep your eyes peeled—we often pass coal trains hauling their heavy load from one of the three operating mines nearby.

Once in Collinsville, enjoy morning tea at a lookout with sweeping views of the Clarke Ranges. Then, dive headfirst into the region’s rich heritage at the Coalface Experience , an interactive museum that vividly brings to life the tough, transformative mining history of the area. A short drive takes us to Scottville, a once-bustling mining hub where a retired miner guides you through the remnants of a working mine—sharing gripping, personal stories that you won’t find in any guidebook. From there, it’s on to the local kangaroo sanctuary, where you’ll meet an inspiring wildlife carer and help feed injured and orphaned roos. A truly heartwarming experience.

With appetites growing, we’ll head to a classic country pub for a hearty lunch—country hospitality at its finest. And if conditions allow, we’ll take a detour to the legendary Bowen River Hotel , built in 1861. This rustic relic of the frontier era is steeped in history—and maybe even haunted, so keep an eye out for the hotel’s ghostly guests
On the way back, we’ll make one last stop at the iconic Big Mango before cruising down the coast to Airlie Beach.
This is no ordinary tour. It’s a journey for history lovers, outback explorers, and curious travelers looking for something truly different in the Whitsundays. Wild landscapes, unforgettable stories, and authentic country encounters—this is a day trip that leaves a lasting impression.