Speewah
Speewah is a SUB AREA in Brisbane, Queensland.
Speewah is a tiny farming and residential locality on the Atherton Tableland, just a 20-minute drive from Cairns. Despite its small population, it offers a peaceful rural escape with lush green hills, rolling pasture, and a handful of country cottages. The area is ideal for travellers seeking authentic outback-tinged experiences without the crowds. Nearby Lake Morris (the Copperlode Dam) provides excellent fishing, kayaking, and picnic spots. Speewah itself has a general store and a pub, but most amenities are in nearby Kuranda or Cairns. The landscape is dotted with macadamia and avocado orchards, and the climate is noticeably cooler than the coastal lowlands, making it a refreshing retreat. Hiking trails through rainforest remnants, birdwatching, and farm stays are among the draws. The community is tight-knit and welcoming, with a slow pace of life. For those wanting to combine easy access to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest with a quiet base, Speewah is a hidden gem. Don't expect nightlife; instead, enjoy star-filled skies and sounds of nature.
Best time to visit Speewah
April to October (dry season) offers mild temperatures (20-28°C), low humidity, and clear skies. Ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. November to March is wet season with heavy rain and higher humidity, but the landscape is lush and waterfalls are spectacular. Avoid if you dislike constant showers.
October
NowTypical for October
- Weather
- Warm, 20-29°C, dry
Travel notes
- Crowds
- Low
- Prices
- Low
Last dry month; warm days
Know before you go
Getting there
Cairns Airport
International
25 km away
Getting around
Stay connected
WiFi speed
15 Mbps
Mobile data
Good
WiFi
Available at some accommodations and the pub
Local SIM
Buy a Telstra SIM at Cairns Airport or supermarket
Stay safe
Overall
9/10Very low crime. Main risks are road accidents and wildlife.
Night safety
8/10Very low crime. Main risks are road accidents and wildlife.
Transport
8/10Scam risk
2/10Entry and health
Health information
Culture
Local customs
Costs and practicals
Cost level
Meals
Hotels
Local transport
Cost notes
Timezone
Local time 15:49
More facts
Population
841
Type
Suburb

