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Get InspiredOceaniaAustraliaQueenslandCairns

Cairns

Queensland, Australia
City·Tropical, Vibrant, Tourist Friendly
Cairns
Photo by Tim Pearson from Google Places
Cairns
Photo by worldwatch from Google Places
Cairns
Photo by Graham Hammond from Google Places
Cairns
Photo by Yongqian He from Google Places
Cairns
Photo by Yongqian He from Google Places
Cairns
Photo by Tim Pearson from Google Places
Cairns
Photo by worldwatch from Google Places
Cairns
Photo by Graham Hammond from Google Places
Cairns
Photo by Yongqian He from Google Places
Cairns
Photo by Yongqian He from Google Places

Cairns is a dynamic city located on the tropical northeast coast of Queensland, Australia. It is renowned for its access to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. The city offers a vibrant tourism scene with a variety of adventure activities, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. Cairns has a rich history, having been founded in 1876 during the gold rush era, and later serving as a key location during World War II. Today, it boasts a diverse economy that includes tourism, healthcare, education, and major industries like aviation and marine services. Visitors can enjoy the city's bustling cruise ship terminals and explore its cultural and historical sites.

Cairns is a dynamic city located on the tropical northeast coast of Queensland, Australia. It is renowned for its access to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. The city offers a vibrant tourism scene with a variety of adventure activities, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. Cairns has a rich history, having been founded in 1876 during the gold rush era, and later serving as a key location during World War II. Today, it boasts a diverse economy that includes tourism, healthcare, education, and major industries like aviation and marine services. Visitors can enjoy the city's bustling cruise ship terminals and explore its cultural and historical sites.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.

  • Access to the Daintree Rainforest.

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.

  • Major regional city with diverse economy.

  • Popular cruise ship destination.

Before you go: Cairns essentials

  • Close access to the Great Barrier Reef, ideal for diving and snorkeling.

  • Rich cultural heritage with several museums and historical sites.

  • Beautiful natural surroundings with walking trails and picnic spots.

Getting Around

Cairns has a reliable public transport system including buses and taxis, making it easy to explore the city and surrounding areas.

Local Cuisine

Try the local seafood and tropical fruits, which are a highlight of Cairns' culinary offerings.

Best For

Nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Currency

AUD $

Average Cost

$100-$200 p/day

Languages Spoken

English

Weather

Cairns has a tropical climate, so be prepared for hot and humid conditions, especially in summer.

Tourist Attractions

Book tours in advance to popular sites like the Great Barrier Reef to secure your spot.

Safety

While generally safe, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings and secure your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas.

Best time to visit Cairns

April-June, September-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring in Cairns is warm and pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the Great Barrier Reef.

Best Season

Summer

Summers are hot and humid, with the possibility of tropical storms, but it's a great time for water activities.

Best Season

Fall

Fall offers mild temperatures and fewer tourists, perfect for exploring the rainforest and other natural attractions.

Winter

Winters are mild and dry, providing excellent conditions for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.

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Location

Cairns, Queensland, Australia

Where to stay in Cairns

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

4.2(1,8 K)
Cairns City, Queensland
Polished, Convenient, Relaxed
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Oaks Cairns Hotel

4.2(368)
Cairns City, Queensland
Modern, Central, Scenic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

4.3(2,9 K)
Cairns City, Queensland
Classic, Breezy, Central
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Grand Hotel Cairns

4.1(753)
Cairns City, Queensland
Laid Back, Lively, Unpretentious
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Pacific Hotel Cairns

4.0(1,1 K)
Cairns City, Queensland
Professional, Central, Comfortable
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Hilton Cairns

4.2(2,4 K)
Cairns City, Queensland
Polished, Scenic, Professional
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Pullman Cairns International

4.3(2,5 K)
Cairns City, Queensland
Polished, Professional, Central

Food & drink in Cairns

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Place
Place
Place
Place

Muddy's Cafe

4.4(3,5 K)
Cairns City, Queensland
Lively, Scenic, Casual
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Bagus Cafe

4.6(806)
Cairns City, Queensland
Casual, Warm, No Frills
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Bang & Grind, The Esplanade

4.3(577)
Cairns City, Queensland
Buzzy, Friendly, Coastal Casual
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Lillipad Cafe

4.5(1,1 K)
Cairns City, Queensland
Casual, Buzzy, Welcoming
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Rayyan Cafe

4.7(113)
Cairns City, Queensland
Friendly, Casual, Welcoming
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Pete & Paulz Breakfast Bar

4.6(565)
Cairns City, Queensland
Friendly, Casual, Buzzy
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

The Backyard

4.1(827)
Cairns City, Queensland
Relaxed, Waterfront, Welcoming
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Salt House

4.3(5,4 K)
Cairns City, Queensland
Chic, Breezy, Sophisticated

Things to do in Cairns

2 Day Daintree Rainforest and Chillagoe Outback Tour
From $312

2 Day Daintree Rainforest and Chillagoe Outback Tour

5.0(5)
Duration: 48h
Cairns & the Tropical North
Cairns Half Day Tour a Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Experience
From $129

Cairns Half Day Tour a Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Experience

4.8(506)
Duration: 4h
Cairns & the Tropical North
Croc Spotting Jetski Experience in Cairns City
From $160

Croc Spotting Jetski Experience in Cairns City

4.5(4)
Duration: 1h
Cairns & the Tropical North
Cairns Hop on Hop Off
From $33

Cairns Hop on Hop Off

Duration: 1h
Cairns & the Tropical North
Cairns Trinity Inlet Sightseeing Cruise
From $46

Cairns Trinity Inlet Sightseeing Cruise

4.9(30)
Duration: 1h 15min
Cairns & the Tropical North
Two Islands, One Day - Fitzroy and Green Islands From Cairns
From $143

Two Islands, One Day - Fitzroy and Green Islands From Cairns

4.3(7)
Duration: 8h 30min
Cairns & the Tropical North
Outer Reef Odyssey - 40 minute Reef Scenic Flight
From $427

Outer Reef Odyssey - 40 minute Reef Scenic Flight

4.9(81)
Duration: 40 min
Cairns & the Tropical North
Cairns Great Barrier Reef Snorkel and Flight Adventure
From $284

Cairns Great Barrier Reef Snorkel and Flight Adventure

5.0(2)
Duration: 6h
Cairns & the Tropical North
Explore on Viator

Attractions in Cairns

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Place
Place
Place
Place

Cairns Aquarium

4.6(7,1 K)
Cairns City, Queensland
Educational, Immersive, Well Maintained
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Place
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Place

Cairns Night Markets

4.0(8,4 K)
Cairns City, Queensland
Bustling, Casual, Tourist Friendly
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Place
Place
Place
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Munro Martin Parklands

4.6(525)
Cairns City, Queensland
Lush, Scenic, Multi Purpose
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Cairns Waterfalls

5.0(622)
Cairns City, Queensland
Adventurous, Professional, Scenic
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Cairns Museum

4.5(674)
Cairns City, Queensland
Informative, Relaxed, Breezy
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

4.7(6,1 K)
Cairns City, Queensland
Lively, Scenic, Relaxed

Natural & historic sites near Cairns

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Clump Mountain National Park

Protected Area · Quiet, Rugged, Undisturbed
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Crater Lakes National Park

Protected Area · Tranquil, Lush, Refreshing, Scenic
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Curtain Fig National Park

Protected Area · Peaceful, Natural, Educational, Serene
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Daintree National Park

Protected Area · Ancient, Lush, Serene, Wild
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Place
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Danbulla National Park

Protected Area · Serene, Natural, Expansive
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Place
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Davies Creek National Park

Protected Area · Rugged, Natural, Quiet, Remote
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Mount Lewis National Park

Protected Area · Remote, Untouched, Rugged, Peaceful
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Ella Bay National Park

Protected Area · Serene, Rugged, Untouched