Yorkeys Knob
QLD 4878 • Rest of QLD
About Yorkeys Knob
Yorkeys Knob is a coastal suburb of Cairns in Far North Queensland, situated approximately 16 km north of the Cairns CBD along the Captain Cook Highway. The suburb had a population of 2,794 at the 2021 census and is characterised by its relaxed beachside atmosphere, with the distinctive 60-metre rocky headland (the 'Knob') forming a landmark at Yorkeys Point. The area is predominantly low-lying residential land nestled between the Coral Sea to the east and the wetlands of the surrounding cane fields to the west. Its demographics skew toward permanent residents seeking a quieter lifestyle away from Cairns' tourist centre, alongside a mix of retirees and families.
Yorkeys Knob is best known for its beautiful beach and the calm waters of Half Moon Bay, which is popular for swimming, paddleboarding, and boating. The suburb has a small marina, a boat ramp, and the Yorkeys Knob Boating Club, making it a hub for recreational fishing and water sports. Local amenities include a convenience store, café, and primary school, while larger shopping facilities are available at Smithfield shopping centre, a short drive south. The suburb appeals to those seeking an authentic tropical beach lifestyle, and it remains a popular day-trip destination for Cairns residents.
Yorkeys Knob falls under postcode 4878 and is governed by Cairns Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Barron River electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Bus Services
- 112 — Smithfield Shopping Centre (connection to Cairns City via Route 120) ~20 min to Smithfield, ~45 min to Cairns City
- 113 — Cairns City direct ~35 min
Commute to Cairns CBD
🛣️ Serviced by Sunbus seven days a week. The 112 runs hourly connecting to Smithfield, where passengers transfer to the 120 for Cairns City.
Very walkable within the beachside village centre, but most daily errands require a car or bus to Smithfield for supermarkets and services.
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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Kamerunga Road
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61 Machan Street
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O'Brien Road
Housing 2021 Census
20 state housing + 7 community housing dwellings (ABS 2021 Census)
Educational Institution Attending 2021 Census
School Sector Breakdown
Demographics
Population Growth
Gender Distribution (Census 2021)
Income Comparison
Country of Birth 2021 Census
Top Countries of Birth (excl. Australia)
- 1. England 168
- 2. New Zealand 96
- 3. Scotland 34
- 4. Philippines 32
- 5. Papua New Guinea 28
- 6. Germany 22
- 7. Canada 16
- 8. South Africa 16
- 9. Japan 13
- 10. South Korea 11
Ancestry 2021 Census
Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)