AQI
10
Average Nightly Rate : 5600
Cairns, Queensland, Australia

Cairns, Queensland, Australia

About the Cairns

Cairns, a vibrant city in Tropical North Queensland, is the gateway to Australia's Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning natural beauty, and adventure activities, Cairns offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. From exploring the underwater wonders of the reef to immersing yourself in the ancient rainforest, Cairns is a destination that will leave you breathless.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Cairns is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this period, the weather is sunny and dry, with pleasant temperatures and lower humidity. This is also the stinger season, so it's important to swim in netted areas or wear a stinger suit when swimming in the ocean.

Trip Duration

3 days 5-7 days
A minimum of 3-5 days is recommended to explore Cairns and its surrounding attractions. This allows time for a Great Barrier Reef tour, a rainforest excursion, and other activities. For a more comprehensive experience, consider a longer stay of 7-10 days.

Place To Visit

Cairns
Cairns

Popularity

Daintree Rainforest
Daintree Rainforest
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

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Popularity

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park
Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Cairns Botanic Gardens.
Cairns Botanic Gardens.
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Josephine Falls
Josephine Falls
★★★★★

4.8

Popularity

Fitzroy Island - Cairns
Fitzroy Island - Cairns

Popularity

Michaelmas Cay
Michaelmas Cay
★★★★★

4.8

Popularity

Places to Eat

Prawn Star
Prawn Star
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

Ochre Restaurant
Ochre Restaurant
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

Dundees on the Waterfront
Dundees on the Waterfront
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

Nu Nu Restaurant
Nu Nu Restaurant
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

Caffiend
Caffiend
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

The Raw Prawn
The Raw Prawn
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

Waterbar & Grill Steakhouse
Waterbar & Grill Steakhouse
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Tha Fish
Tha Fish
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

The Gillies Cafe & Bar - Barbagallo's Delicatessen
The Gillies Cafe & Bar - Barbagallo's Delicatessen
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

Little Loco
Little Loco

Popularity

Accommodation

Pullman Reef Hotel Casino
Pullman Reef Hotel Casino
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

Hilton Cairns
Hilton Cairns
★★★★★

4.2

Popularity

Crystalbrook Riley
Crystalbrook Riley
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
★★★★★

4.1

Popularity

Cairns Colonial Club Resort
Cairns Colonial Club Resort
★★★★★

4.1

Popularity

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
★★★★★

4.2

Popularity

Park Regis City Quays
Park Regis City Quays
★★★★

3.9

Popularity

Bay Village Tropical Retreat
Bay Village Tropical Retreat
★★★★

3.7

Popularity

Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns
Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns
★★★★

3.9

Popularity

How to Reach

Air

Cairns Airport (CNS) is an international airport with direct flights from major Australian cities and international destinations. Domestic airlines include Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar.

Bus

You can also reach Cairns by bus, but these options are considerably longer.

Train

You can also reach Cairns by train (The Spirit of Queensland), but these options are considerably longer.

Important Notes

Stinger Season: Be aware of marine stingers during the stinger season (October to May). Swim in netted areas or wear a stinger suit when swimming in the ocean.
Sun Protection: Protect yourself from the strong Australian sun by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially during the wet season. Use insect repellent.
Currency: The currency in Australia is the Australian dollar (AUD).
Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Australia, but it is appreciated for exceptional service.

Nearby Destinations

Port Douglas

Port Douglas

A charming coastal town with beautiful beaches and access to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.

Distance : 59 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.5

Popularity Score : 4.6

Must Visit : Four Mile Beach, Wildlife Habitat, Sunday Markets.

Palm Cove

Palm Cove

A picturesque beachside village with palm-fringed beaches and upscale resorts.

Distance : 22 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.4

Popularity Score : 4.5

Must Visit : Palm Cove Beach, enjoy a spa treatment, dine at a beachfront restaurant.

Tablelands Regional

Tablelands Regional

A fertile plateau with waterfalls, crater lakes and rainforest.

Distance : 48 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.4

Popularity Score : 4.5

Must Visit : Millaa Millaa Falls, Lake Barrine, Curtain Fig Tree

Mission Beach

Mission Beach

A scenic coastal town with long stretches of beautiful beach. It is renowned as the best place in Australia to spot cassowaries in the wild.

Distance : 109 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.3

Popularity Score : 4.4

Must Visit : Mission Beach, Paronella Park, Dunk Island

Babinda Boulders

Babinda Boulders

A natural scenic area where the river flows around and between large boulders.

Distance : 51 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.3

Popularity Score : 4.4

Must Visit : Devils Pool, The Boulders, Rotary Park

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to get to the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns?
The best way to get to the Great Barrier Reef is by joining a boat tour or cruise from Cairns Marlin Marina. Numerous operators offer a variety of tours, catering to different interests and budgets.
Is it safe to swim in the ocean in Cairns?
It is generally safe to swim in the ocean in Cairns, but it's important to be aware of marine stingers, especially during the stinger season (October to May). Swim in netted areas or wear a stinger suit for protection.
What are the best things to do in Cairns for families?
Cairns offers many family-friendly activities, including snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef, riding the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail, visiting the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, and exploring the Cairns Botanic Gardens.
How much does it cost to visit Cairns?
The cost of visiting Cairns can vary depending on your budget and travel style. Accommodation, tours, and activities can range from budget-friendly to luxurious options. It's best to plan your budget in advance and book tours and accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
Do I need a visa to visit Australia?
Most international visitors need a visa to enter Australia. Check the requirements based on your nationality before you travel. You can find information and apply for a visa on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.

Location Map

Coordinates: Latitude -16.9209, Longitude 145.7781 (Cairns, Queensland, Australia)