Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
recommended
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
1 800 m
Frequently asked questions
Holloways Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity moderate, average temperature +26.0°C, warms up to +29.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Holloways Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.3 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Holloways Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. It is recommended to bring aqua shoes — parts of the bottom have rocks or corals. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Holloways Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — medium. Beach length — 1 800 metres.
Holloways Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in May, June. It ends in October. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Holloways Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as moderate. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — high. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Holloways Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: crocodiles, Irukandji jellyfish, box jellyfish. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Holloways Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, kids playground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Holloways Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Holloways Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Holloways Beach Cafe, The Beach House, Yorkeys Knob Boating Club. Cuisines available: Australian, Seafood. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Holloways Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Hat, Towel, Swimsuit, Stinger suit (in season), Water, Cash.
Holloways Beach: when is the best time to swim?
Best to swim in the dry season (May–October) when there are no stingers. During stinger season (November–May) swim only inside the net. Morning water is calmer.
Holloways Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
During stinger season (November–May) swim only inside the stinger net. Beware of crocodiles in river mouths. Do not leave litter.
Holloways Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children thanks to the stinger net, seasonal lifeguards and calm water. Suitable for relaxed holidays, beach walks and birdwatching. Not suitable for surfers or wild-beach lovers.
Holloways Beach: what makes this beach unique?
The stinger net operating from November to May makes it one of the few safe swimming spots in North Queensland during jellyfish season. The beach is part of a nature reserve with mangroves and rich birdlife.
Holloways Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Stinger net (November–May), Lifeguards in season, Long beach (1.8 km), Calm water, Palm trees and tropical atmosphere, Playground and parks, Free parking, Less crowded than other Cairns beaches. Cons: Crocodile and jellyfish risk, Swimming only in net enclosure (November–May), Airport noise, Murky water in wet season, Limited infrastructure, Distance from Cairns city centre (10 km).
Holloways Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Barr Creek Mangroves, Yorkeys Knob, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Palm Cove. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Holloways Beach: how do I get to the city of Cairns?
The beach is located near the city of Cairns. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Cairns.