Coast run " even if you can't afford the prices, looking is free " ( excerpt  from Peter Thoeming " 50 Top Rides of Australia # 2 ) Heading North from Cairns, past the airport, you're more or less in suburbia until Smithfield, where the road forks with Highway 1 turning off towards Kuranda. Continuing straight ahead, the countryside begins to replace the built environment and you can really start to enjoy the Captain Cook Highway.

The road stays Inland for a while, passing turnoffs to the various resort beaches, like Trinity Beach and Palm Cove. But once past Buchan Point the Road begins to hug the coastline, and continues that way for about 40 kilometres. It's still up and down in places, but generally it's right by the sparkling water of Trinity Bay. The most interesting stop along this stretch is probably Hartley's creek Crocodile Farm. There you can get a close look at the kind of reptiles which would be only too keen to make your acquaintance in some of the creeks and rivers of FNQ.

The road, which is fast and well surveyed, unfortunately does not have as many overtaking possibilities as it might; so be careful and don't get impatient. If you really find someone in front of you to slow, pull over and let them get well ahead while you enjoy the view for a while.I know that sounds a bit soft but its better to spend some time looking at postcard scenery than hospital walls - especially when your on holidays. Past Pebbly Beach the road turns inland again. Now it's flanked by Cane fields, which is always a bit different because you cant see much except the cane growing right by the road; depending on the season, of course.

You might like to take the Port Douglas turnoff and have a look at the playground of the rich and famous. Even if you can't afford the prices, looking is free. A lot of the Boat Tours to the Great Barrier Reef leave from here too. Further up the road, at the end of the Captain Cook Highway, is Mossman. Situated below Mt Demi, Mossman has the Gorge to the West and all of Daintree National Park to the North; as well as a couple of popular beaches to the east. It's a great spot with lots to do. ( Thank you Peter ) his book is invaluable to any motorcycle traveller.

FEATURES NOT TO MISS: Mossman Gorge is situated 5 minutes into the mountain range near the township. Entering through a small winding bitumen track taking you past the Aboriginal Mission and some seriously large Mango Trees head straight to the National Park visitor centre. There, ditch your Helmet and find your swimmers ( bathers, togs, budgie smugglers, boardie's, bikini or whatever ) and get ready for a refreshingly cold dip. It's about a 800 metre walk up to the suspension bridge but don't worry: rainforest is cool like a natural airconditioning system. Even in our hottest weather you can still wear your Jacket and survive.

FEATURES NOT TO MISS: Daintree Run ~ for all the great riding you have just done the road conditions, width, sweeping bends and lack of traffic ( all types ) make this little run through Wonga Beach an absolute blast for checking the accelleration and performance of your chosen stallion in relative safety. Distance approx 15 k Get yourself a fresh brew in the little Daintree township as a well deserved reward...... I also usually have a cigarette to calm the adrenalin.

FEATURES NOT TO MISS: Daintree River Cruise ~ Depart hourly and go for about 40 minutes spotting crocs in the wild, assorted birdlife and mangrove estuaries.      COST  $20 Daintree Accommodation ~ Overnight in Daintree for approx $60 - $100 per couple. Jungle Surfing Canopy Tour ~ new and exciting way to view the tropical old growth rainforest in Cape Tribulation.Fly with the birds and glide through and above the rainforest canopy along a series of flying fox cables or zip lines. Stand and wonder at the many levels of the ancient forest on viewing platforms high in the towering trees. Photograph and enjoy spectacular views over extensive rainforest canopy out to gleaming sandy cays and reefs in the azure Coral Sea

FEATURES NOT TO MISS: Lunch in Port Douglas ~ take advantage of Port's diverse range of Restaurants, Cafe's and the 2 famous Pubs offering inexpensive counter meals. Watch the Tourists and locals alike enjoy the great weather and relaxed atmosphere port has to offer. Sundays is Market day, and normally has live entertainment playing in the afternoon at the corner hotel and the yacht club. FOR OVERNIGHTERS: Daintree River Fishing ~ Full Day $150 Quality tackle and Bait supplied. Lure and Fly Fishing Charters available Palm Cove Sea Kayaking ~ Half day $70 per adult Accommodation ~ a variety of accommodation can be organised for Port Douglas and Daintree.

Finally.... the beauty of coming home from Port Douglas is that you now know what to expect and should enjoy the corners and the scenery a whole lot better. The road has extremely bold and acurate sighage indicators with corner speed suggestions on all the dangerous stuff. THIS road has a split personality. Weekends on the Ocean Road is a haven for local bikers. Harley Riders, Jap Bike Riders, as well as all the Euro and German stuff. Ellis Beach Pub and Deli is a mecca for displaying bike's and organising your ride. If thats not your thing then as a holiday maker with free time........ avoid it all. We cater for early starts on week days.; zero traffic, no local rider pressure and attractions with small crowds. ENJOY

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