The stunning beach at Elim is home to the famous Coloured Sands, and a popular spot for Hope Vale people, many of whom have a shack here and visit at weekends to go fishing. It is also a popular camping spot, and the Elim Beach campground, is right on the water's edge with fabulous views to Cape Bedford, providing the perfect base from which to explore the area.
The mesmerising dune formations of the Coloured Sands are a 300 metre walk along the beach. Driving on the beach should NOT be undertaken in a 2wd vehicle, and only in a 4wd vehicle with extreme caution at low tide.
The drive from Hope Vale to Elim takes about an hour on a sealed road which winds through white silica sand hills, rugged escarpments and heath lands. A map can be obtained from the service station at Hope Vale, together with a camping permit which may be required. Plese note, you can not just camp anywhere on the beach, everyone is encourage to use this camping grounds and to access your permit:
Please ensure you have your own supplies with you, and check local tides and current road conditions prior to departing Cooktown.
Cape York Tourism Guide