Bus
Driving
Clifton Beach to Tully
Updated: 27 May 2026
Tully is located about 175 kilometers south of Clifton Beach. The journey follows the Bruce Highway through the heart of the sugar cane belt. You will pass through Babinda and Innisfail before reaching the town famous for its record-breaking rainfall. The drive takes roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes. Bus services are available from Cairns for those who prefer not to drive.
Total Distance: 175 km driving distance; 155 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the fastest method, taking just over two hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most economical choice for this distance.
Compare Clifton Beach to Tully Routes
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Direct
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Direct
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|---|---|---|
| Duration | 3 hours | 2 hours 15 mins |
| Avg Price | $40-$65 | $35-$55 fuel |
| Operator | Greyhound Australia | N/A |
| Route | Cairns to Tully via Bruce Highway. | Bruce Highway (A1) south. |
| Tip | Buses drop off at the main highway stop near the town. | Take a photo with the Golden Gumboot in the town center. |
Travel Tips
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Rainfall AwarenessTully is very wet; always pack a high-quality raincoat regardless of the season.
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Rafting BookingBook your white-water rafting adventure in advance as spots fill up quickly.
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Highway SafetyThe Bruce Highway has many heavy trucks; maintain a safe following distance.
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Local ProduceBuy fresh bananas from roadside stalls; Tully is the banana capital of Australia.
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FootwearWear sturdy shoes if you plan on hiking Mount Tyson.
Safety Tips
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Hiking SafetyTell someone your plans before heading up Mount Tyson and carry a PLB if possible.
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Water SafetyOnly swim in designated areas in the Tully River due to strong currents.
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Road HazardsWatch for agricultural machinery on the road during harvest season.
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Emergency ServicesThe local hospital is equipped for emergencies, but keep your insurance details handy.
People Also Ask
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Why is Tully famous?It is famous for being the wettest town in Australia and for its banana production.
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Is there a train to Tully?No, the Spirit of Queensland does not stop in Tully.
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How long is the drive?It takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes from Clifton Beach.
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Can I go rafting?Yes, the Tully River is world-renowned for white-water rafting.
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Is it safe to swim in the river?Only in designated areas; be aware of potential hazards like submerged logs.
Quick Info
- From Clifton Beach, Queensland, Australia
- To Tully, Queensland, Australia
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
June to August for the driest weather.
Things to Do in Tully
1
The Golden Gumboot
A massive 7.9-meter tall statue representing the town's record for the highest annual rainfall in Australia.
2
Tully Gorge National Park
Offers spectacular rainforest scenery and white-water rafting opportunities on the Tully River.
3
Mount Tyson
A challenging hike that rewards you with incredible views over the sugar cane fields and the coast.
4
Sugar Mill Tour
Learn about the local sugar industry, which is the backbone of the Tully economy.
Tags
Clifton Beach to Tully
Tully travel
Bruce Highway
North Queensland transport
Tully Golden Gumboot
Cairns to Tully
Queensland road trip
Tully bus
