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Cairns (pronounced ‘cans’) has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a boggy swamp and rollicking goldfields port. As the number-one base for Far North Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef, today Cairns heaves under the weight of an ever-growing number of resorts, tour agencies, souvenir shops, backpacker bars and reef boats. This is a tourist town, and unashamedly so – luxury hotel development in 2018 and an increasingly busy cruise-ship port suggest it's only growing busier.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Cairns Botanic Gardens

These gorgeous gardens are an explosion of greenery and rainforest plants. Highlights include a section devoted to Aboriginal plant use, the Gondwana…

Cairns Esplanade, Boardwalk & Lagoon

Sunseekers and fun-lovers flock to Cairns Esplanade's spectacular swimming lagoon on the city’s reclaimed foreshore. The artificial, sandy-edged, 4800-sq…

Cairns Aquarium

Cairns' multi-million-dollar aquarium is well worth a visit for its vast and gorgeously presented range of marine life, the Great Barrier Reef in…

Take your knowledge to new depths at this fun, informative centre, where marine experts explain how to identify specific species of fish and coral, and…

Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

Managed by the area’s original custodians, this award-winning cultural extravaganza tells the story of creation using giant holograms and actors. There's…

St Monica's Cathedral

Cairns' main Catholic church is famous for its themed stained-glass windows, the largest of their type in the world. There are 24 windows depicting the…

Babinda Boulders

Babinda Boulders is a natural gorge where a photogenic creek rushes between 4m-high granite rocks. It’s croc-free, but waters can turn treacherous after…

Captain Cook Statue

You won't be able to miss this mammoth statue, one of Australia's most controversial 'Big Things'. Looming over the city's main road since 1972, the 10m…

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About Cairns

Welcome to Cairns, a tropical paradise located in the heart of Far North Queensland, Australia. With its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse range of activities, Cairns is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Australia.

Cairns is blessed with an abundance of natural wonders that will leave you breathless. Explore the iconic Great Barrier Reef – a UNESCO World Heritage site – and dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs and exotic marine life. Snorkel alongside colourful fish, swim with graceful sea turtles or embark on a thrilling scuba diving adventure to explore underwater caves and shipwrecks.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, head inland to explore the ancient rainforests of Daintree National Park. Immerse yourself in this lush green oasis where dense foliage envelops you in its cool embrace. Take a guided tour through Mossman Gorge and learn about the cultural significance of this sacred Indigenous site. Marvel at towering trees as you traverse suspension bridges or take an exhilarating zip line ride through the canopy.

Back in Cairns city centre, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and discover its unique blend of cultures. Stroll along The Esplanade – a picturesque waterfront promenade lined with palm trees – where you can relax on sandy beaches or enjoy al fresco dining at one of the many waterfront restaurants offering fresh seafood delights.

Adventure seekers will be spoilt for choice with an array of thrilling activities available around Cairns. Conquer your fears by bungee jumping from AJ Hackett’s famous tower overlooking stunning rainforest vistas or dare to go white water rafting along the tumultuous Tully River. For a unique perspective, take to the skies in a hot air balloon and witness the sun rise over the lush landscape of Cairns.

As night falls, Cairns comes alive with vibrant nightlife and delicious culinary experiences. Explore the bustling night markets and indulge in fresh tropical fruits, local delicacies and handcrafted souvenirs. Treat yourself to a sumptuous seafood feast at one of the waterfront restaurants or immerse yourself in a multicultural dining experience with an abundance of cuisines from around the world.

Cairns is also a gateway to exploring various nearby attractions. Embark on an unforgettable journey through Kuranda – known as “the village in the rainforest” – where you can ride on one of Australia’s most scenic railway lines or glide above treetops aboard Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Discover hidden waterfalls along Barron Gorge National Park or immerse yourself in wildlife encounters at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures.

Things to do in Cairns & The Great Barrier Reef

Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef

Cairns serves as the ultimate starting point for exploring the awe-inspiring Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed natural wonder. Dive or snorkel among the vibrant coral gardens and discover the abundant marine life that calls the reef home. Embark on a scenic helicopter flight for a bird's-eye view of this magnificent ecosystem or set sail on a luxurious catamaran for an unforgettable day on the water.

Ancient Rainforests and Natural Wonders

Experience the ancient beauty of the Daintree Rainforest, the world's oldest living rainforest, located just north of Cairns. Wander through the verdant landscape, discover pristine waterfalls, and encounter unique wildlife such as the elusive cassowary. For a breathtaking experience, venture to the Atherton Tablelands, where rolling hills, lush forests, and serene crater lakes create a mesmerizing backdrop.

Rich Aboriginal Culture and History

Cairns offers tourists a rich and immersive journey into the Aboriginal culture and history of Australia. Known as the ancestral home of the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji people, the region's Indigenous heritage can be explored through various activities such as guided tours, cultural performances, and interactive experiences. You can delve deep into the Aboriginal way of life, learning about traditional bush foods, ancient customs, and spiritual beliefs, while also appreciating the remarkable artistry found in Indigenous artwork, crafts, and storytelling. Truly, a trip to Cairns offers an enlightening peek into one of the world's oldest living cultures, fostering a deeper understanding and respect for its people and their timeless traditions.

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

Cairns is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Embark on adrenaline-pumping activities such as white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and skydiving. Explore the lush rainforests on a guided hike or take to the skies in a hot air balloon for a panoramic view of the stunning landscapes.

Dining and Nightlife

Cairns offers an enticing culinary scene, with an array of restaurants, cafes, and bars catering to diverse tastes. Sample the region's fresh seafood and local produce, or explore the vibrant night markets for a taste of international cuisine. As the sun sets, Cairns' lively nightlife comes alive, with bustling bars, clubs, and live music venues offering endless entertainment.

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The ideal time to visit Cairns is during the dry season, which typically lasts from June to October, offering warm temperatures and lower humidity.

Cairns has a public bus system, and taxis and ride-sharing services are available throughout the city. Car rentals are an option for those who prefer more flexibility while exploring the region.

Some must-see attractions in Cairns include the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and the Atherton Tablelands.

Popular day trips from Cairns include visiting the picturesque village of Kuranda, exploring Port Douglas, discovering the stunning Mossman Gorge, and venturing into the lush hinterland of the Atherton Tablelands.

Cairns hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair, Cairns Festival, and the Great Barrier Reef Marathon Festival.

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Queensland Traveller acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters, culture and community. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and future.

Cairns Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Getting to Australia is on a lot of travel bucket lists. When you make it there, one of the must-do activities is seeing the Great Barrier Reef. The best place for having this incredible experience is Cairns in Tropical North Queensland.

Cairns is very different from Australia’s southern cities of Sydney and Melbourne. Check out this guide for everything you need to know before you plan your trip. We explain the best way to see the Great Barrier Reef,  day trips from Cairns , where to stay, and the best time to go.

Getting to Cairns

If you travel to Cairns from outside of Australia, there are limited options for flying straight to Cairns from overseas. Direct flights to Cairns are from Singapore, Japan, and Auckland in New Zealand.

Most travelers will get to Cairns from within Australia. There are frequent direct flights from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide. If you have a trip to Uluru on your itinerary when you visit Australia, there are also direct flights between there and Cairns.

Internal flights around Australia can be expensive. It is worth having flights to Cairns booked in advance to get the cheapest fares.

If you have the time, you could also drive to Cairns. It is a great way to see more of Australia but remember, Australia is big! The drive from Sydney to Cairns is over 1600 miles. Even if you go from Brisbane, which is in the same state as Cairns, you are still looking at a drive of 1100 miles.  

Weather in Cairns

Cairns has two distinct seasons. December to April is the wet or monsoon season. Expect high humidity, temperatures in the 90s, and periods of heavy rain. There is also no breeze. If you are not used to the conditions, they are uncomfortable.

May to September is a far more pleasant time of year. There is virtually no rain, and the humidity is lower thanks to seasonal trade winds. The average daytime temperature is a balmy 80 degrees.

Best Time to Visit Cairns

Given the contrast between the wet and dry seasons, you might think May to October is the best time to visit Cairns. As a rule, this is the case. Not only is the weather beautiful, but you also do not have to worry about marine stingers that are around in the wet season.

However, if your only option is to visit Cairns in the wet season, don’t worry. It is the best time to see the many waterfalls in the area. The lack of wind also makes going to the Great Barrier Reef a much calmer experience. The visibility on the outer reef is also excellent at this time of year.

Do You Need a Car in Cairns?

One of the great things about Cairns is that you can access many of the best attractions by day tours that pick you up from your accommodation.

Most of the Great Barrier Reef cruises leave from the Cairns Marina, close to the main accommodation precinct in Cairns.

However, hiring a car will let you see more of the region and do things in your own time. If you are staying in Cairns for a week or more, it is worth having a car for at least some of the time. There is a lot to do in nearby towns like  Port Douglas  and Mission Beach.

Many car rental agencies are based at Cairns Airport, making pick-up and drop-off very convenient.

How Long Do You Need in Cairns?

Cairns is best known as an access point to explore the incredible Great Barrier Reef and the ancient and beautiful Daintree Rainforest. If seeing these are your priority, allow 3 or 4 days to see them, maybe sneak in a trip to the rainforest village of Kuranda with its markets and wildlife and relax by the Lagoon Pool in the center of Cairns.

For a more complete experience, allow a week or more. You will have the time to try white water rafting in Tully, go crocodile spotting on the Daintree River, or spend a day at relaxed Mission Beach and spot a cassowary. You can also see less well-known spots like the swimming holes at Mossman Gorge and Behana Gorge.

Who Will Enjoy Cairns?

Cairns has something for everyone. The diversity of attractions will appeal to all sorts of travelers.

There is a big backpacker scene in Cairns. Solo travelers will have a fun and safe time too. Couples or honeymooners looking for an unforgettable romantic getaway can escape to tropical islands and rainforest hideaways. Traveling families have several child-friendly resorts to choose from. The rainforest cable cars, steam train rides, wildlife parks, and rock pools will keep kids entertained for days.

Is Cairns a Safe Place to Visit?

You should feel safe moving around attractions, restaurants, and cafes in Cairns. Greater risks to visitors come from the environment. From November to May, you should wear a stinger suit in the ocean for protection against jellyfish. These are provided by tour operators when you go to the Great Barrier Reef.

Visitors should also pay attention to crocodile warning signs. Crocodiles are present in rivers and parts of the coast in North Queensland, so check where you want to swim is safe. Also, take care at swimming holes. Water levels can change quickly after rain.

Best Things to Do in Cairns

Great barrier reef.

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven wonders of the natural world and the biggest coral reef on Earth. Cairns is one of the best places in Australia to experience it.

No matter your swimming ability or confidence in the water, you can find a way to immerse yourself in this amazing underwater world from Cairns.

Island Tours

One of the most popular ways to see the Great Barrier Reef is from an Island. Cruises to  Fitzroy Island , Green Island or the Frankland Islands are popular day trips from Cairns. If you are worried about spending all day on a boat, these cruises only take 60 minutes to take you to the reef.

Because island trips let you snorkel over coral from the beach, they are ideal for less confident swimmers. The islands also have other activities like glass bottom boat tours, kayak hire, and guided snorkeling tours. On Frankland Island, you can even see the marine life from a semi-submersible.

You will still have a great reef experience from the islands. You also have a better chance of spotting a sea turtle from one of the islands than on the outer reef. There is also no shortage of colorful reef fish like the adorable orange and white striped clown fish that live in the fingers of an anemone.

Outer Reef Day Trips

The ultimate Great Barrier Reef experience is to spend the day snorkeling or diving on the outer reef. The cruise to the reef can take a couple of hours, so take a seasick tablet to be safe. There are a lot of operators, and each has several patches of reef to choose from depending on the conditions.

On the outer reef, you can see the corals and diversity of marine life the Great Barrier Reef is known for. Even though you are further from shore, you are not necessarily snorkeling in deep water. Coral bommies rise within feet of the surface, so visibility is excellent. Further from the coast, visibility is also less affected by river runoff which can be an issue around the islands in the wet season.

Most boats also cater to scuba divers. If you have never dived before, you can try an introductory dive to see what it is like to breathe underwater. Experienced divers will usually get 2 or 3 dives per trip. It is a great way to come eye to eye with reef sharks, rays, turtles, nudibranchs, and schools of colorful reef fish.

Several operators have a pontoon on the outer reef. These floating resorts get you onto the outer reef but have many benefits of an island cruise. The pontoons will also have glass bottom boats, semi-submersibles, and even water parks for the children. Pontoons are a great family option for exploring the Great Barrier Reef.

Daintree – Mossman Gorge and Cape Tribulation

Not only can you see the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns, but you can also immerse yourself in the beauty of an ancient rainforest. The world heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest starts just north of Cairns. There are a few ways you can experience it.

The easiest way to experience the Daintree is in Mossman Gorge, 75 minutes north of Cairns. Whether you drive yourself or go on a day tour from Cairns, Mossman Gorge gives you a great look at the forest on several short walks.

You can book a tour with an indigenous guide who reveals how the local Kuku Yalanji people have used the forest as a supermarket, pharmacy, and school for thousands of years. You can swim in the rock pools at Mossman Gorge. Another tour takes you snorkeling down the Mossman River through the rainforest, an incredible experience.

The heart of the Daintree Rainforest is at Cape Tribulation, 3 hours north of Cairns. From the rainforest discovery center, there are a dozen walks where you can see everything from the most delicate lichens to giant mahogany and conifers. You can walk along beaches where the rainforest meets the sand. You might even spot a cassowary, a black, red, and blue-colored relative of the emu.

There are tours to the Daintree from Cairns – it is a big day. Spending a night or two there is ideal. It is a remote location, so expect basic accommodation, you might also want to take some food. Having the extra time is the best way to appreciate the diversity and beauty of the rainforest.

Kuranda Rainforest Village

The rainforest Village of Kuranda is much closer to Cairns and easier to get to than Cape Tribulation. Getting to Kuranda is part of the fun. A cable car and a heritage steam train take you from Cairns into the rainforest to Kuranda.

A popular option is to take the cable car one way and train the other. The train leaves from the center of Cairns, and there are shuttle services between the train and cable car. Both give you great views of the forest and the impressive Baron Falls. The train stops at the falls so you can get a closer look.

You can also drive yourself to Kuranda. It is a 35-minute winding drive from Cairns. The cable car and train options are much more fun, and you can get to all the attractions in Kuranda on foot. So, what will you see there?

Kuranda is home to the Kuranda Koala Gardens, the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, and Bird World. Wildlife lovers are in for a great time. You can also take a riverboat tour on the Baron River and maybe see a crocodile. Shoppers can look around two markets full of local art, craft and produce. There are also a dozen galleries that showcase indigenous and local artists. The Rainforestation Nature Park also has a range of wildlife and cultural tours.

Kuranda is a must-do activity in Cairns. Feeding the birds at Bird World, letting butterflies land on you at the Butterfly Sanctuary, and the views from the cable car are a highlight.

Atherton Tablelands

When you are in Cairns, it is hard to miss the mountainous rainforest that forms a backdrop to the city. Kuranda is just a teaser of the attractions hidden by the forest-covered hills. To discover more, go on a guided tour of the Atherton Tablelands or a self-guided drive around the Waterfall Circuit.

The Atherton Tablelands has over a dozen beautiful waterfalls – Millaa Millaa, Zillie, and Malanda are amongst the best. You can also see the extraordinary 500-year-old Curtain Fig Tree nearby.

Swim in the crystal clear water of an extinct volcanic crater at Lake Eacham and go platypus spotting at the Yungaburra. You can explore the remarkable Paronella Park, a medieval-looking castle surrounded by lush gardens or get a bird’s eye view of the rainforest from the Mamu Tropical Skywalk.

Tours of the Atherton Tablelands will take you to most of these attractions. If you have a car, you can get to more waterfalls and stop at roadside stalls to try locally-grown peanuts and fruits.

If You Have Time

If you have transport or more than a few days to look around Cairns, here are a few more things worth checking out.

Relax at Cairns’ Northern Beaches

You will be disappointed if you want to relax on a beautiful beach in Cairns. The CBD looks out on an expansive tidal mud flat dotted with a few mangroves. But there are lovely beaches just north of Cairns.

Make your way to Trinity Beach or Palm Cove. Both are less than 30 minutes from the Cairns CBD and have white sand fringed with palm trees. They are stunning spots with plenty of cafes and eating options.

Unwind at Port Douglas

If you want that tropical North Australian vibe on a smaller scale than Cairns, try Port Douglas, 65 minutes north of Cairns. It has a super relaxed vibe, and the local beach, 4 Mile Beach, is stunning. You can get to the reef from Port Douglas, and you are also closer to the Daintree Rainforest. There are accommodation options, and the restaurants and cafes are fantastic. It is a great option if you want Cairns-Lite.

Mellow Out at Mission Beach

Just under 2 hours south of Cairns, Mission Beach is where you go if Port Douglas is still too busy for you. Even if you visit Mission Beach for the day, the drive down is spectacular, passing by the idyllic Babinda Boulders Falls and swimming hole and Queensland’s tallest peak Mount Bartle Frere. You can stop at Etty Bay and see if you spot a cassowary walking along the beach.

Mission Beach has palm-fringed beaches, rainforest walks where you could spot another cassowary, and beautiful views over tropical islands . But it is not all hammock time here. You can also go skydiving – see the reef from above before landing on the sand. Nearby, Tully offers some of the best white water rafting in Australia. 

Cairns Accommodation Options

Just as anyone will have a great time in Cairns, there is also a style of accommodation to suit all travelers. Options range from modern hotels to apartments, backpacker hostels, and caravan parks with cabins.

When you book, if you stay in Cairns, most tours will pick up from your accommodation. This is not the case if you stay in Northern Beaches just out of Cairns.

Here Are a Few Suggestions for Different Travelers:

For Backpackers – Travellers Oasis Backpackers or Mad Monkey Central

For Couples – any of the Crystalbrook Hotels but especially the Bailey for a bit of luxe, Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort, and the Reef House.

For Families – Cairns Coconut Resort – you will only see your kids when they want food or the Crystalbrook Riley for a hotel.

Natalie and Steve

Natalie and Steve manage Curious Campers, a popular Australian travel website featuring experiences, wildlife encounters and road trips for people wanting information and inspiration while travelling Australia. You can connect with Curious Campers on their Facebook group Experience Australia.

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Clifton Beach, Cairns, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

4 days in Cairns

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Dine at bustling seaside restaurants, visit a quirky mountain village, island-hop in the Great Barrier Reef and search for Aboriginal bush foods in the Daintree Rainforest – all from the coastal city of Cairns.

By Carly Spek and Amy Fraser

The must-do experiences 

• Explore the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef
• Walk beneath the vines of the incredible Daintree Rainforest
• Visit the quirky mountain village of Kuranda

Day 1: Explore Cairns

Take the time to discover the charms of Cairns , a bustling coastal city fringed by unmatched natural environments.

Where to stay in Cairns

As a major gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is a vibrant hub with plenty of choice when it comes to hotels.

Read time • 4min

Day 2: Discover the Great Barrier Reef

As a popular gateway to the Great Barrier Reef , Cairns offers plenty of opportunities to encounter the world’s most magical marine environment.

Secret islands of the Great Barrier Reef

Away from the Great Barrier Reef's better-known getaways are uninhabited lush islands, small coral cays and resorts where you can have a whole island to yourself.

Read time • 6min

Day 3: Visit Kuranda and Port Douglas

An easy day trip from Cairns, the mountain village of Kuranda will have you feeling a world away with its charming township and lush surroundings.

Guide to Kuranda

A picturesque mountain retreat surrounded by rainforest, Kuranda makes a great day trip from Cairns.

Day 4: Unwind in the Daintree Rainforest

Feel a sense of calm wash over you as you wander the shaded pathways of the Daintree Rainforest – at least 135 million years old – and visit its diversity of natural treasures.

Guide to the Daintree Rainforest

A forest so spectacular, Sir David Attenborough called it “the most extraordinary place on Earth.”

Explore more nearby

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Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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• 16 things to do on your first trip to Cairns

Tropical North QLD

If ever the statement “so much to do, so little time” rang true of a destination, Cairns would be it. With the Great Barrier Reef in its front yard and the Wet Tropics rainforest out the back, aside from your bathers, time is the best thing you can pack for a visit to Tropical North Queensland. If it’s your first time in the North Queensland capital, start with these 16 things to do in Cairns.

Visit the Great Barrier Reef

Snorkelling at Moore Reef with Sunlover Reef Cruises

First priority: ‘Seas’ the day with a visit to the Great Barrier Reef , the World Heritage-listed wonder sitting on Cairns’ doorstep.

You’ll find a marina full of tour boats to take you out to the nearby islands and outer reef, so whether you’ve only got a morning to see the Great Barrier Reef at speed, or more nights to languish on a liveaboard, you’ll find a reef tour to suit .

Go under water without getting wet at the Cairns Aquarium

Meet an abundance of underwater creatures at the aquarium

Tropical North Queensland might be full of big nature experiences but seeing all of its diverse eco-systems is damn near impossible unless your holiday has no discernible end date.

Enter the Cairns Aquarium which connects you with 16,000 species of animals across 10 different ecosystems and 71 different exhibits – while also owning the bragging rights as the only aquarium in the world to showcase wildlife from two World Heritage-listed sites.

Not only can you expect the regular behind-glass aquarium style experience, at Cairns Aquarium you can also go diving with the sharks (no experience required), or take a Marine Life Encounters tour which involves a personal guide through the aquarium including back of house and newly created turtle hospital.

Wander the Cairns Botanic Gardens

Walk through 38 hectares of lush greenery

If you’re looking for a free activity in Cairns , set your sights on the 38-hectare tropical Cairns Botanic Gardens , five minutes from the Cairns CBD.

Established in 1886, the tropical plants here are as well established as they are rare.

Seriously, the gardens are home to one of only two Amorphophallus Titanums found in Australia.

This Jurassic-looking flowering plant can grow up to 70kg, with each leaf reaching almost seven metres, making it comfortably the largest unbranched inflorescence (aka a plant where the flowers make up the branch and stem) in the world.

There are a number of guided walks you can join to explore gardens and spot wildlife.

Get active outdoors

Get active on the Esplanade

Swap the four walls of your hotel gym for something much more interactive – Cairns’ great outdoors.

Join the tide of locals who pound the 2.5km Cairns Esplanade pavement each morning for one of the most scenic workouts overlooking the Coral Sea.

Leave your sports watch at home – Cairns Regional Council has placed markers every 500m so you can easily monitor your distance.

For more fitness inspo, head to this fitness lover’s guide to Cairns .

Swim in the rainforest

Fairy falls is just 25 minutes from Cairns City

With an annual weather pattern that puts the ‘tropical’ in Tropical North Queensland, knowing where to cool off is just as important as knowing where to stay in Cairns.

For always refreshing swimming conditions, visit Stoney Creek , Crystal Cascades or Fairy Falls , nestled into the Wet Tropics Rainforest, all located around 25 minutes from Cairns CBD.

Looking for more waterfalls and waterholes? Check out 20 to chase near Cairns .

Discover Rusty’s Markets

Produce doesn't get much fresher than at Rusty's

If you thought the colours of the landscape up here were bright and bold, wait until you see the region’s local produce at Rusty’s Markets.

Rusty’s has been operating from its Grafton St location for more than 30 years, packing over 180 stalls into one city block with everything from sarongs to Vietnamese coffee, fruit and veggies to crocodile-leather bracelets.

Fresh produce is the star attraction here, drawing some of Tropical North Queensland’s most acclaimed chefs to collect their supplies, including Nick Holloway of the award-winning Nu Nu Restaurant in Palm Cove.

Go bar hopping

Wolf Lane Distillery

Playing tourist is thirsty work at the best of times, but add in a tropical climate and humidity and you’ll want to keep this list of the best bars and breweries in Cairns marked in your favourites.

You’ll find everything from speakeasy-inspired gin joints and rooftop bars overlooking the Coral Sea to breweries pouring frothies mixed from the healing waters of Mossman Gorge , all within Cairns’ city footprint.

Hit the shops

Eggplant & Poppy in Oceana Walk

Souvenirs come in all shapes and sizes in Tropical North Queensland from pocket-sized linen tea-towels to hand-painted didgeridoos.

For treasures from the tropics, hit the shops in the CBD wandering the Cairns Night Markets, Cairns Central, Oceana Walk, Grafton Streets boutiques, or one of the many local markets .

Have yourself a seafood feast

Go nautical at Prawn Star

Few destinations can cut down the food miles between trawler and table quite like Cairns.

If you’re looking for a seafood smorgasbord, check out this list of the best seafood restaurants in Cairns to treat your taste buds.

For a dinner to remember, head down to the marina and hop aboard Prawn Star , where four restored fishing trawlers, now moored and decorated in festoon lights, deliver a simple (but superb) vision: fresh seafood and cold beers.

Catch an art exhibition

Get your art fix in the CBD at Cairns Art Gallery

Tropical North Queensland plays muse to more than a few artists and has the art gallery scene to prove it.

To see how the natural environment has influenced artists, pay a visit to both the Cairns Art Gallery and Court House Gallery , which happen to be next door to each other for your convenience.

For Indigenous art, Bulmba-ja in Cairns showcases the works and stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Turn back the pages of history at the Cairns Museum

Visit Cairns Museum

If you like to get to know a city through its history, explore The Cairns Museum on Lake St in Cairns’ CBD.

Covering everything from Indigenous stories to those of the cane pioneers, the Cairns Museum shares just about every side of the Tropical North Queensland story.

This museum doesn’t just focus on Cairns’ obvious icons like the reef and rainforest, but interesting moments in time including toad plagues, mould outbursts and the impact of the 1970s hippie movement.

Explore Cairns’ best playgrounds

Muddy's Playground

When you’re travelling with little kids, knowing where the nearest playground is becomes just as important as the whereabouts of your caffeine-fix.

Tropical North Queensland has a few favourite playgrounds worth adding to your tiny traveller’s itinerary, like Muddy’s Playground , which is shaded by towering Fig Trees on the Cairns Esplanade.

This playground makes others pale in comparison with a flying fox, slides and rope bridge and onsite café, Muddy’s Café, for mum and dad.

If you want to make your playgrounds progressive, also add Fig Tree Playground aka the ultimate treehouse and Centenary Lakes home of nature-play to your holiday itinerary.

Take a dip in the Cairns Lagoon

Cool off in the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

Few public pools are as iconic as the Cairns Lagoon , with 4800 square meters of saltwater swimming space fronting the Coral Sea.

With safe swimming conditions right in the heart of the CBD, this free swimming hole draws a crowd, day and night (well, until 9pm).

Make a day out of it by packing something to throw on the free BBQs nearby, or join one of Cairns Council’s free fitness events – with everything from pilates to volleyball on the schedule.

Catch a show

Enjoy an outdoor performance at Munro Martin Parklands

There’s always something on in Cairns, but there’s only one place to get an overview of all events happening in Council-owned venues – Ticketlink .

Here you’ll find a list of what’s on at The Tanks, Munro Martin Parklands and Cairns Performing Arts Centre.

Of course if you’re looking for other events, jump across to see what’s on throughout the region here .

So much more to explore

From quirky cafes to palm-lined beaches, there’s so much to see and do in Cairns.

Keep cool in Cairns: ways to beat the summer heat

Whether you’re chasing air-conditioning or water fun, we’ve got you covered with these ways to beat the heat in Cairns.

Adrenaline-fuelled adventures near Cairns

So, you’re searching for your next adrenaline-inducing activity in Tropical North Queensland? From bungy jumping to jet boat rides, here’s some new ways to get your heart racing.

Guide to Cairns Beaches

A chain of relaxed seaside villages lay just north of Cairns, each boasting their own unique features. Find out more about each of Cairns’ beaches and which tickle your fancy.

Accessible Travel in Cairns & Palm Cove

As a region, Tropical North Queensland offers an array of experiences that will engage your senses and immerse you in its natural wonders. From the rainforest to the reef, you’re sure to find an abundance of accessible adventures for all tastes.

14 Cairns lookouts to soak up the scenery

If you like to start your holiday by getting a lay of the land, you’re in luck, because Cairns has an array of stunning lookouts. With a Coral Sea front garden and an ancient rainforest out the back, the views from these Cairns lookouts are nothing short of showstopping.

48 hours in Cairns

Some destinations, like people, are overachievers and the capital of Tropical North Queensland, Cairns, stands out for all the right reasons.  

20 waterfalls near Cairns

Mighty mountain ranges and Wet Tropics Rainforest create the optimum environment for a myriad of extraordinary waterfalls. Fall in love with these 20 waterfall wonderlands only a short drive from Cairns.

Nourish Your Soul in the Cairns Botanic Gardens

The Cairns Botanic Gardens may just be a stone’s throw away from the city, but the lush greenery and meandering rainforest paths will make you feel like you are a thousand miles away. Megan Woolfe explores this leafy haven.

10 Cafes in Cairns for great coffee

With such a vibrant foodie culture, finding the best cafes in Cairns can be overwhelming. Fuel your caffeine addiction with these local favourites for a guaranteed quality cup of coffee.

11 Best markets near Cairns

Soak up the colour and the character, the smells and the sounds clunk and clash in a cacophony of the excitement of these 11 great markets.

Ideas for a rainy day in Cairns with kids

Kids restless and suffering cabin fever? Let them release that pent-up energy by ziplining over a crocodile, exploring underwater coral gardens or venturing through the Southern Hemisphere’s largest butterfly sanctuary.

Fantastic travel deals

Save on accommodation, tours, dining and more with these deals.

Privacy Overview

Accessibility, accessibility modes, online dictionary, readable experience, visually pleasing experience, easy orientation.

Cairns & Great Barrier Reef Accessibility Statement

Accessibility Statement

• tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au
• September 10, 2024

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We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience, regardless of circumstance and ability.

To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level. These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.

This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.

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Screen-reader and keyboard navigation

Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements, alongside console screenshots of code examples:

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Disability profiles supported in our website

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• Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
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Browser and assistive technology compatibility

We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).

Notes, comments, and feedback

Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to

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Cairns travel blog — the fullest cairns guide & suggested 3 days itinerary in cairns for first-timers.

Referring to Australian tourism, travellers immediately think of big cities that have been famous for a long time such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or Perth but perhaps few visitors know today the city of Cairns also has been becoming a new tourist paradise which attracting millions of visitors every year. Cairns is a harmonious city of combination of modern, bustling beauty with unspoiled nature. Cairns also impresses visitors with its breathtaking natural landscape from poetic golden sand beaches to mangrove forests, primeval forests and spectacular mountain ranges. In particular, a World Heritage Area recognized in 1981 – Great Barrier Reef is one of the 7 new natural wonders of the world. If you’re planning a trip to Australia this summer, you definitely can’t miss Cairns. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Cairns for the first-time? Let’s check out our Cairns travel blog (Cairns blog) with the fullest Cairns travel guide (Cairns guide, Cairns tourist guide, Cairns visitor guide, Cairns Australia travel guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do and suggested Cairns itinerary 3 days to find out the answer!

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The city of Cairns is located in the north of Queensland State, Australia was established in 1876. It was named after the Governor of the state of Queensland at that time, William Wellington Cairns. Cairns about 1,700 km from Brisbane and 2,420 km from Sydney with an area of 1,687 km² and a population of nearly 280,000 people.

From Cairns, you can head straight to the tropical fertile highlands of Atherton Tablelands, riding along the Savannah Way – a route of highways and major roads in the northern Australia that linking Cairns with Broome in Western Australia or learn about the history and traditions of the indigenous inhabitants at the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. Even more wonderful, you can hiking to Australia’s northernmost point on the Cape York Peninsula.

Cairns guide: Overview of Cairns

Cairns is a small city in Far North, Queensland, Australia. The city of Cairns is very beautiful, modern, peaceful and there are so many things to do, to see, especially it has two World Heritage Areas are the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics of Queensland.

Initially, it was established to serve miners at the Hodgkinson Mineral Area. However, today Cairns has become a famous tourist city that attracts a large number of tourists around the world by countless attractive and interesting destinations. Cairns is one of the top 10 destinations for international tourists. According to Wikipedia, this is the fourth most popular destination for international visitors after Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. However, there are less domestic tourists come here because it is too far away and isolated from major Australian cities.

Cairns travel blog: When to go?

Cairns climate has two characteristic of seasons: Wet and dry. The wet season starts from December and lasts until February or March. Winter is dry and cool from April or May and usually lasts until September. October and November are considered the peak season of scuba diving and snorkeling activities because the weather conditions during this time are most ideal.

The water temperature in the coral reef areas ranging from 22 degrees Celsius (in winter) to 29 deegrees Celsius (in summer), making it suitable for most times of the year to explore these areas. The weather in the tropical rainforest is similar but the rainforest is more attractive in the blooming season. July and August are the best times to watching Minke whales and humpback whales as they migrate along the coast. November marks the annual coral spawning season, making the scenery so breathtaking that you can only see on the Discovery Channel.

Cairns Australia travel guide: Getting there

Getting to Cairns from other Australian cities you can travel by bus, train or the most convenient way is by plane. Airfares from Brisbane to Cairns ranging from AU$ 115 – AU$ 250 with low-cost carriers like Jetstar or Tiger Air. You can find cheap and affordable tickets and suitable routes on Skyscanner, Google Flights or Kayak.

Airport information

The airport is only about 7km from the city center of Cairns. So, after arriving at the airport, you can take a taxi to get to the hotel you booked in advance, traveling time about 10 minutes for AU$25.

If you do not take a taxi, you can also use the Sun Palm Shuttle express bus with the fare of AU$ 16 / adult to Cairns CBD, and AU$ 27 to the Northern Beaches and to Port Douglas.

Additionally, you can hire a transfer service in advance here , it picks you up at the airport and will drops you off at the door of your hotel.

Cairns travel blog: Getting around

The main taxi station is located at Lake Street in the city center. Call 131 008 or visit www.blackandwhitetaxis.com.au for more information. Besides, the blue Sunbus is a cheap and reliable means of transportation. These buses run to suburbs, northern beaches and Palm Cove, and also offer service to smaller towns, including Atherton Tablelands, Cooktown, Kuranda, Mission Beach and Port Douglas.

Cairns guide: What to do and where to go?

The great barrier reef.

Great Barrier Reef is one of the most tourist attractions in Cairns. It is the largest coral reefs in the world and home to a wide variety of marine life including 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for over 2,300 kilometers over an area of approximately 344,400 square kilometers. This is one of the 7 new natural wonders of the world. It is the only natural wonder the world you can see from space.

• Great Barrier Reef Cruise (GBRA)

You can reach the Great Barrier Reef in just 90 minutes to 120 minutes away from the city center of Cairns, the world’s largest coral reef. With blue and transparent water that seems to be seen at the bottom, Great Barrier will surely attract you at first sight. It is one of the most enjoyable experiences in Cairns. You can snorkeling or scuba diving to observe the diversity of coral reefs and thousands of different sea life.

On the way to the coral reef you will stop by an island called Green Island. This island has only 37 acres area but this is the only island owns the Rain Forest in which there are many kinds of birds and very rare and special trees.

Great Barrier Reef Cruises from Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island

You can book a boat tour to enjoy cool sea breeze, fresh air and watch the romantic, poetic scenery here, you can also dive into the water to see a variety of colorful corals as well as swimming with sea creatures of all kinds such as whales, stingray, dolphins, sea turtles…

From June to October, the average temperature of seawater is 26 degrees Celsius, this is a best time for you to snorkeling and watching the coral.

Dolphins and whales watching

The city of Cairns is known for its diverse marine activities and if you love to watching dolphins and whales, you’ve come to the right place. There are many tour operators operating cruising excursions and you will find a wide range of marine species here depending on the time you visit.

The Great Barrier Reef forms a spawning sanctuary for cetaceans (whales and dolphins) with 35% of the total species of whales and dolphins living in the oceans chose the reef as their home. In particular, in the period from July to September, there are over 2,000 humpback whales migrate to the city of Cairns to giving birth and raising their babies, making a round trip of over 10,000 km from the waters of Antarctic.

Kuranda Village and Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

Coming here you will have the opportunity to learn about the customs, culture and history of the first people once live in Australia. Watching them perform traditional dances, throwing boomerang – a very special weapon that hits the enemy and turns back to the pitcher.

Kuranda Day Tour from Cairns, Northern Beaches, or Port Douglas

Kuranda is a village surrounded by rainforest and one of the most attractive places to visit in Cairns. It has many great attractions such as the aviary, wildlife park and Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. Kuranda Village is a must-see place for those who love nature, peace and tranquility. Without high-rise buidlings and houses or hustle and bustle life, Kuranda was idyllic with pretty small wooden houses, green trees and red dirt roads.

Visiting Kuranda market, you will surely be attracted by the intricately crafted handicrafts, the fabrics or colorful brocade clothes characteristic of indigenous peoples.

• Grand Kuranda Experience

Another interesting experience here is you can take a scenic train through Kuranda. This is a trip by steam locomotive which passing many sights of the rainforest surrounding the village. You also can watch the rainforest by riding by Skyrail Rainforest Cableway . Or you can enjoy both on the same day by taking a train to Kuranda and a cableway ride back to Cairns.

Crystal Cascades

Crystal Cascades is a series of natural water holes (pools) on the Freshwater Creek surrounded by many rocks and magnificent waterfalls. These pools are extremely familiar to locals and recently, many tourists also started coming here and exploring. With the clear water surrounded by large rocks and water from the natural spring source that is extremely cool and pure, surely immersing in these pools will make your soul and body to be relaxed in the maximum and most wonderful way.

• Cairns Canyoning

Crystal Cascades are also known as a popular spot for cliff diving where adventure lovers often jump off the surrounding cliffs into the water below. Its highest point is known as No No Fear. However, this game is quite risky, so you should consider it carefully before trying this thrills.

Address: Redlynch Intake Rd, Lamb Range QLD 4870, Australia Hours: Open 24 hours

Daintree Rainforest

This promises to be one of the most exciting places to visit in Cairns. During your vacation, you can take a zip lining tour in the Daintree rainforest. This rainforest is one of the most beautiful attractions of Cairns. While exploring this place, you can also spotting some of the local rainforest wildlife such as koalas and kangaroos – the animals that make up the beautiful symbol of Australia.

• Cape Tribulation and Daintree Wildlife Tour

Address: 2333 Cape Tribulation Rd, Cape Tribulation QLD 4873, Australia Hours: 8:20AM–5PM

Journey to the past

The Tropical North Queensland is a region that preserves the intact green and long-standing rainforests of Australia. This place is immersed in the heritage; indigenous mysticism; cascading waterfalls and ancient pine trees. The rainforest is also home to a peaceful home to a quarter of the amphibian population, one third of mammals and freshwater fish and nearly half of the country’s bird population. A place you can not miss when coming to the North Tropical Queensland is Mossman Gorge in Daintree National Park.

Cairns Night Markets

If you want to shop in Cairns, this is definitely a must-go place. The night market in Cairns opens at 5pm and has almost everything you need: Clothes, jewelry, electronics, food … Like many other markets, the night market in Cairns city is a shopping paradise for shopaholic. It sells many typical items of local people so you can freely choose and buy souvenirs to give to friends and relatives.

Address: 54-60 Abbott St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia Hours: 10:30PM

Rusty’s Markets

In addition to the night market, you may also want to visit the Rusty market. This is one of the best places to buy fresh fruits and vegetables. Rusty Market is open on early Friday, Saturday and Sunday mornings. Actually, this is quite an interesting place because not only tropical fruits, but this market also offers a variety of foods such as Thai, Vietnamese, and Japanese with relatively cheap prices from AU$ 10 – AU$ 15.

Address: 57/89 Grafton St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia Hours: Friday: 5AM–6PM/Saturday: 5AM–6PM/Sunday: 5AM–3PM

Cairns Botanic Gardens

The Flecker Botanic Gardens was established in 1886 and has a number of rare plants. Along with the diversity of plants, there are also many species of birds living here. In addition, there are two cafes with various options for breakfast and lunch. The botanical garden is a great place to have a picnic with family and friends.

Address: 78-96 Collins Ave, Edge Hill QLD 4870, Australia Hours: 8:30AM–4PM/Saturday, Sunday: 9:30AM–2PM

Atherton Tablelands Waterfalls

Atherton Tablelands with a collection of spectacular falls located in northern Queensland, including 10 majestic waterfalls and rich tropical forests. Places to visit such as: Australia’s largest Millstream waterfall, Millaa Millaa waterfall with wonderful natural scenery, Nandroya waterfall with many unique shapes… Also, if you love to exploring the rainforests and want to challenge yourself with an exciting trekking trip, this place is the perfect choice for you.

Cape Tribulation Beach

Coming to Cairns, you will have the opportunity to freely indulge in the wild and windy beaches. So, don’t forget Cape Tribulation beach nestled in the Daintree rainforest. Currently in Cairns, there are many day trekking trips through the forest, exploring the ancient ecosystem in the oldest rainforest in the world. You will have more knowledge about flora and fauna after this exciting journey.

Snorkeling and scuba diving

With the largest coral reef system in the world including more than 3,000 coral reefs and a variety of diverse and rich corals, snorkeling or scuba diving and watching coral is an activity you cannot miss when traveling to Cairns. In Cairns, the Great Barrier Reef is listed in the list of natural wonders of the world with a diverse species of marine life, many of which are listed on the red list. Not only that, with about 900 large and small islands off the coast of Queensland, this is the ideal place for you to explore the mysterious of the ocean, watch exotic algae, seaweed, immerse yourself in cool seawater, swimming with whales and more than 1,500 species of fish, more than 100 species of sharks…

Norman Reef Scenic Helicopter Flight and Cruise Half Day Tour from Cairns

Peaceful villages

Explore the two coastal villages of Palm Cove and Port Douglas. Palm Cove is a quiet and relaxing place with ancient Melaleuca trees. You will love your ride in this tranquil and delicate setting. While Port Douglas is a tropical oasis, half an hour to the north of Cairns on a nice path through the forest and along coastline. Port Douglas is the perfect place for you to experience a peaceful atmosphere of a village, a place to recover, regain your spirits and health. Enjoying the turquoise waters of the coral reefs, crystal clear waters at Mossman Gorge or Four Mile Beach with golden sand stretches next to palm trees, surely you will be relaxed and satisfied.

Helicopter tours

Cairns is a beautiful land but have you ever thought of admiring this place from above? You can see this beautiful city from above in a helicopter. The helicopter tour will last around thirty minutes and gives you an incredible and panoramic view of everything of the city, majestic falls, rainforests and the Great Barrier Reef.

This is also one of the best ways to see the Great Barrier Reef. You will also get amazing views of Atherton Tablelands, the Daintree Rainforest and other beautiful spots in the Cairns region. You will also participate in a parachuting trip with an experienced instructor.

Great Barrier Reef Cruise and Scenic Helicopter Flight Tour [Klook Exclusive 10% Off]

Thrilling bungy jumping in the Cairns rainforest

Do you like adventure games? Then try bungy jumping in the Cairns rainforest. This will be an unforgettable experience for you. You will challenge yourself when take a bungee jumping from the top of a tower with a height of more than 50m, this is the most popular activity in Australia, do not forget to wear a helmet and fasten your seat belt to ensure safety. In addition, you can also enjoy romantic dinners or “playing hard” at the skybar at Cairns tower.

AJ Hackett offers bungy jumping service with 16 different styles, including Minjin Jungle Swing – an user-controlled set of jump equipment that allows 3 people to jump and fly through the forest at a speed of 45m / 3.5 seconds, maximum speed at 120km / h. Those who want to see can sit in the high available huts.

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Watching the vast landscape from above, enjoying the feeling of floating in the middle of the air and taking pictures of the majestic scenery… is an experience not to be missed. Skyrail Rainforest Cableway was built as a pioneer in the world in the field of environmental tourism. This service gives riders have 90 minutes (one way) or 2.5 hours (round trip) overhead to see the heritage rain forest of Cairns. You can choose to start or end your journey at Caravonica or Kuranda Village. It is better to combine the sightseeing by cable car with other ways like going by train on the Kuranda Scenic Railway for a half or full day tour.

Seeing the lava up-close-and-personal

Normally, being able to see the lava up close wouldn’t be an entertaining idea, but don’t worry, the place is completely safe! At Undara Volcanic National Park, guided tours will take you into an off volcano so you can firsthand see Undara Lava. Only 23 countries have the lava tubes and lava tubes in Undara are said to be the longest in the world.

There’s so much more fun in Undara: You can stay overnight at a tent village or a hut, enjoy a Wildlife tour at Sunset, or watch exciting events like Opera in the Outback is held once a year in October.

Lyquid Nightlife

The city of Cairns is extremely popular with young backpackers from all over the world and a great nightlife scene has popped up to serve. Among the various great spots around, Lyquid is considered the best nightclub in town. The interior is lavish with a beautiful whirlpool entrance and is a great way to meet and mingle with active travelers from around the world.

Cairns guide: Cairns itinerary 3 days, suggested on how to spend 3 days in Cairns

Day 1: the sights in cairns.

Morning: Walking, cycling or skateboarding along The Cairns Esplanade before stopping for breakfast and immerse yourself in saltwater swimming lagoon.

Afternoon: Take a tour with your guide through Cairns Flecker Botanical Garden then visit Cairns Tropical Zoo. Or get up close to crocodiles and tropical fish by boat along the mangrove waterways of nearby Trinity Bay.

Evening: Explore the Cairns Night Markets to find and buy gifts and local Aboriginal artworks. Watch the blazing red sun sink over the horizon at Marlin Marina before kicking off a seafood feast at a restaurant along the Cairns Esplanade.

Day 2: Great Barrier Reef

Taking a full day tour to Green Island, a 6,000-year-old atoll in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Snorkeling to see tropical fish through 15 hectares of colorful coral reefs. Then stop to explore the island’s white sand beaches and lush rainforests. Or you can spend the whole day on a snorkeling excursion in the Great Barrier Reef. Diving into the crystal clear waters and explore secret gardens, floating mounds and sea turtle shelters with an experienced guide.

Day 3: Kuranda Rainforest

Take the Kuranda Scenic Railway train through mountains, rainforest, waterfalls and national park to the picturesque village of Kuranda set in a tranquil rainforest. Visitors also can take a boat down the river, see butterflies, colorful parrots, platypus and freshwater crocodiles. Or hike through World Heritage-listed rainforest to the Barron Falls Observatory. Buy aboriginal antiques, handicrafts and jewelry as well as macadamia nuts and tropical juice from village market. Learn how to play a didgeridoo at Doongal Aboriginal Art and watch a famous performance at Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park.

Cairns travel blog: What to eat?

There are many signature dishes in Australia you can find in Cairns such as: Beetroot burger, grilled crocodile meat, grilled lamb, grilled kangaroo, pavlova cake..

Cairns guide: Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to..

• Pullman Reef Hotel Casino, a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $177/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .
• Hilton Cairns, a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $177/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .
• Pullman Cairns International, a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $175/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .
• Cairns Plaza Hotel, a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $89/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .
• Mantra Esplanade Cairns, a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $89/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .
• Mantra Esplanade Cairns, a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $133/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Check out top ratings and reviews hotels in Cairns on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Cairns guide: Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Cairns you can refer to

• Shared Cairns Airport Transfer (CNS) from and to Cairns, Port Douglas, Palm Cove
• Kuranda Scenic Railway Heritage Class Admission in Cairns [Klook Exclusive 10% Off]
• Cairns Highlights Half Day Tour
• Unpublished Cairns Reef Tours Full Day Green Island by Big Cat
• Cairns Aquarium General Admission Ticket
• Fitzroy Island Ferry Transfer Ticket from Cairns

Are you looking for more top things to do in Cairns: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here and Australia here .

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Cairns Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 25, 2024

Cairns is Australia’s gateway to northern Queensland. Whether you are backpacking around the region, looking to dive, want to visit the forests, or are heading deeper inland, Cairns is a worthwhile stop on everyone’s itinerary.

From here you can visit the Great Barrier Reef , the Daintree rainforest, the Atherton Tablelands, Cape Tribulation, and much more.

Cairns is a pretty typical tropical city and life here focuses on taking the time to stop and smell the roses. With so much to see, the city deserves a longer stay than most people give it.

While you don’t need a lot of time to visit Cairns, it does make for a good base of operations for day trips to the interior or further north. I suggest staying for around four days. This gives you enough time to explore the city as well as do some tours and excursions from the city.

Be sure to spend at least a few nights traveling up north if you can. There are fewer crowds, tons of beaches, more jungle, and it’s just really an under-appreciated – and visited – part of the country.

This travel guide to Cairns can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this incredible area of Australia !

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• How to Stay Safe
• Where to Stay
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• How to Get Around
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Cairns

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in cairns.

1. See the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the best places to dive in the world. It’s the largest living organism on Earth, spanning some 344,000 square kilometers (133,000 square miles) (you can actually see the reef from space). Naturally, the reef is brimming with wildlife, including giant clams, manta rays, sharks, turtles, clown fish, and more! Cairns is the most popular jumping-off point for dive trips to the reef. I was blown away by the abundant wildlife and coral. It did not disappoint! Dive trips start around 230 AUD.

2. Explore the Daintree Rainforest

While Australia is known for its arid Outback, the continent is also home to rainforests. Daintree stretches over 1,200 square kilometers (460 square miles) and is part of the largest tropical rainforest in Australia. It’s also the oldest rainforest on the planet, dating back over 120 million years. There are all kinds of day and multi-day trips available here. Most people visit on their way north to Cape Tribulation. Two-day guided trips cost around 350 AUD per person.

3. Visit Cape Tribulation

Cross the Daintree and continue up into Cape Tribulation, Cooktown, and Cape York. Few tourists make it up this way. There isn’t anything to do here except relax, enjoy nature, and swim. Skip doing a day trip and spend at least one night here instead. The stunning landscapes are worth your time and it’s just 140 kilometers (87 miles) north of Cairns.

4. Try some extreme sports

If hiking, diving, and swimming are too mundane for you, there’s always bungee jumping or sky diving. AJ Hackett, the man who created modern-day bungee jumping, has a a canyon swing here too. A 50-meter (164-foot) bungee jump costs 139 AUD while a tandem skydive from 4,500 meters (15,000 feet) over the Great Barrier Reef is around 310 AUD.

5. See the Atherton Tablelands

The Atherton Tablelands are a mix of rainforest, wetlands, and savanna. Home to wallabies and tree kangaroos, day tours here are long, (you’ll leave early and get back late), but you’ll see a ton of stunning waterfalls, including the famous Millaa Millaa Falls (which is crazy beautiful!). If you go, use Uncle Brian’s tours . Their tour packs a lot in and the drivers are funny and engaging. Day tours cost 129 AUD.

Other Things to See and Do in Cairns

1. visit the cairns wildlife dome.

This wildlife exhibit is located in a 20-meter-tall glass dome on top of the Reef Hotel Casino. The dome is host to a wide range of native animals, from lorikeets and rosellas to frogmouths and kookaburras. They also have an indoor rope course with rope ladders and bridges that let you explore the space. You can also zipline over a crocodile pond. Admission is 26 AUD.

2. Hang out by the lagoon

Spend a few hours relaxing by Cairns’ Lagoon (read: really big pool) when the weather is nice. You can’t go swimming in the water in the city because of jellyfish so the town built a giant pool. Many hostels have pools too but if you want to chill at a bigger place, the lagoon is pretty amazing — and you’ll find more locals around. It’s a good place to soak up the sun with a book. Admission is free.

3. Go white water rafting

There are two main rafting rivers that are all popular among adrenaline junkies in Cairns. In a tropical region that gets plenty of rain, the rivers always overflow, and rafting is a popular activity here. Trips include lunch and start at around 130 AUD and go up to 250 AUD depending on what river you want. There are also tubing trips down the rivers too if you want something more laid back.

4. Participate in an Aboriginal culture walk

There are many Aboriginals in the area (they’ve inhabited the region for over 5,000 years) and they have done a great job of setting up an ecotourism area to highlight their culture to visitors. You can walk with them and learn about their culture, history, plant life, herbal medicine, and even go traditional Aboriginal spearfishing. Tours last 3 hours and cost 140 AUD.

5. Try wake boarding

When you get tired of sightseeing, head to the Cairns Wake Park to try wakeboarding. Various jumps and challenges are set up to keep you entertained for a few hours. It’s 39 AUD for a one-hour pass and 54 AUD for a two-hour pass. There’s also a section where kids can play in the water on trampolines and inflatable slides (15 AUD).

6. Meander through the Botanical Gardens

Just 5 minutes from the airport, this is a lovely stop to make on your way out of Cairns. There are several paths to walk along and the garden is rich in trees, ferns, plants, and a lake. There are 50 different kinds of birds here too. Admission is free and they also offer free 60-90-minute tours on weekdays.

7. Relax at Palm Cove

This suburb of the city is around 27 kilometers (16 miles) north of Cairns and is home to a lovely stretch of beach. Come here to relax, swim, and escape the city. There’s a nice path along the water where you can stroll and lots of upscale places to eat. It makes for a good place to spend half a day when you want to relax and take in the feel of the city.

For more information on specific cities in Australia, check out these guides:

• Alice Springs Travel Guide
• Brisbane Travel Guide
• Broome Travel Guide
• Fraser Island Travel Guide
• Gold Coast Travel Guide
• Melbourne Travel Guide
• Perth Travel Guide
• Sydney Travel Guide
• Whitsunday Islands Travel Guide

How to Stay Safe in Cairns

Cairns is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel. Violent attacks are rare and people are friendly and helpful

Most incidents in Cairns tend to occur because visitors are not used to the region’s unique climate and wilderness. Be sure you have plenty of sunscreen and stay as hydrated as possible. Carry mosquito spray as there is a risk of Dengue Fever.

If you’re swimming in the ocean between November to May, only swim where there is a beach stinger net otherwise you risk getting stung by jellyfish. Always check the weather before you go out hiking as well and make sure to bring water and sunscreen. If you’re venturing out of the city, be mindful of wildlife, especially snakes and spiders. If you’re bitten, seek immediate care.

Solo female travelers are generally safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.). Consult other solo female travel blogs for specific advice.

If you’re worried about travel scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here . There aren’t many here though.

If you experience an emergency, dial 000 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Where to Stay in Cairns

Cairns has a plenty of hostels to help you visit on a budget. Here are my favorite places to stay:

• Bounce Cairns
• Gilligan’s Backpacker Hotel & Resort Cairns
• Mad Monkey Backpackers

Cairns Travel Costs

Accommodation

• Hostel Dorms – 25-35 AUD per night
• Hostel private rooms – 50-110 AUD per night
• Budget hotels – 100-150 AUD per night
• Airbnb private rooms – 50-150 AUD per night
• Airbnb apartments – 150 AUD per night (double or triple if you don’t book early)
• Campsite – 10 AUD per night
• Pre-made sandwiches – 15 AUD
• Sit-down restaurants – 20-60 AUD
• Casual take-out places – 20-30 AUD
• Fast food (think McDonald’s) – 15 AUD
• Beer – 7-8 AUD
• Cappuccino/latte- 5 AUD
• Bottled water – 3 AUD
• Groceries for a week – 70-90 AUD

Cairns Suggested Budgets

Backpacker – 70 aud per day.

On a backpacker budget, you’ll be staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all your meals, and taking the bus to get around. You’ll need to limit your drinking and stick to mostly free activities like hiking and enjoying the pool. If you plan on drinking, add 10-20 AUD to your daily budget.

Midrange – 200 AUD Per Day

On a mid-range budget, you’ll be able to stay in an Airbnb or private hostel room. You can eat out at cheaper restaurants for most meals, enjoy a few drinks at the bar, take the occasional taxi, and do a couple of paid activities like visiting the Great Barrier Reef or going bungee jumping.

Upscale – 400 AUD Per Day

On a “luxury” budget, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, rent a car to get around, drink more, and do as many activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Cairns Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

The best way to save money in Carins is to avoid taking lots of expensive tours and trips. If you do that, you’ll save a ton. But that’s part of the draw of visiting so here are some other ways to save in Cairns:

Bring a water bottle – The tap water in Cairns is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and lower your plastic use. Lifestraw makes durable water bottles with built-in filters to ensure your water is always safe and clean.

Buy a package deal – There is a lot to see and do in the area — at the expense of your budget. Consider booking tours and excursions together with one company as that can often get you a slight discount. Many hostels also have deals so ask them too!

Eat cheap – Eating out can be very expensive, however, there are a lot of sandwich shops around that can keep your costs down. Avoid the sit-down restaurants, and instead, grab a sandwich or pack a lunch for a picnic.

Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find a Couchsurfing host to host you during your visit. This way, you not only have a free place to stay, but you’ll have a local host that can share their insider tips and advice.

Drink goon (box wine) – Goon is infamous on the Australian backpacker hostel trail. This cheap box of wine is the best way to drink, get a buzz, and save a lot of money at the same time.

Cook your own meals – Eating out is not cheap so the best way to reduce your costs is to cook as many meals as possible. It’s not glamorous, but it’s cheap!

Work for your room – Many hostels offer travelers the chance to work for their accommodation. In exchange for a few hours a day of cleaning, you get a free bed. Commitments vary but most hostels ask you to stay for at least a week.

Save money on rideshares – Uber is cheaper than taxis and is the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to wait for a bus or pay for a taxi.

How to Get Around in Cairns

Public transportation – Cairns has reliable public bus system run by Translink that can take you just about anywhere you need to go. A single zone fare starts at 2.40 AUD and goes up from there. A daily single-zone pass starts at 4.80 AUD.

To save money, get a Go Card. It’s an electronic pre-paid ticket that saves you around 30% on each ticket. You’ll need to load it with 20 AUD but you’ll easily use that if you’re here for a few days.

Bike rental – Cairns has an excellent network of cycling paths, with some of the most popular routes being the Esplanade, Centenary Lakes, and the Botanic Gardens. Some of the hostels rent out bicycles, or you can rent from Cairns Scooter & Bicycle Hire. Rentals start from 25 AUD per day.

Taxis – Taxis are expensive so I would avoid them. Prices start at 2.90 AUD and go up by 2.30 AUD per kilometer. Skip them if you can!

Ridesharing – Ridesharing apps are available here and are a bit cheaper than taxis.

Car rental – You don’t need a car to navigate Cairns, but if you want to get off the tourist trail or travel north, having a car rental is ideal. You can find rentals for around 60 AUD per day for a week-long rental. For the best rental car prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Cairns

Cairns’ location in North Queensland makes for hot, humid summers and dry, mild winters. The average daily high in the winter is 26°C (88°F) and 31°C (79°F) in the summer, making Queensland a great place to visit year-round.

Summer (December-February) is the wettest time of year, and average temperatures are between 75-89°F (25-31°C). This is also the busiest time of the year since Australian summer is when most people visit the country.

It’s still nice and warm in autumn (March-May), and the rain lets up in April, making this a nice time to visit as well.

If your primary goal is to visit the Great Barrier Reef, spring (September-November) is the best time to visit. The reef really comes to life in November during the annual coral spawning.

To beat the crowds, aim for the shoulder season (April-May or September-October). There will be fewer people and lower prices.

Cairns Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. Just enter your departure and arrival destinations and it will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost. It’s one of the best transportation websites out there!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Cairns Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Cairns travel and continue planning your trip:

Diving the Great Barrier Reef

The 7 Best Hostels in Australia

How to Get Around Australia on the Cheap

Photo credits: 1 – Tourism Australia , 5 – AJ Hackett

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Kate Abroad

4 Days in Cairns Itinerary + Travel Guide 2024

Visiting Cairns in far north Queensland is a highlight of travelling in Australia . With 4 days in Cairns, you’ll see the Great Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef system in the world, relax in paradise on a gorgeous tropical island, explore the regional city of Cairns, and experience Australia’s unique and ancient rainforests.

Cairns has a lot to offer visitors who venture to the far north of the country.   

While Cairns is best known as the gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, if you travel inland, you’ll find lush green forests with plunging waterfalls, deep gorges and crocodile-infested rivers.

You can fill 4 days in Cairns with exciting, adventurous activities or you can simply relax on the beach at beautiful Palm Cove or escape to the  stunning tropical islands of the Great Barrier Reef   just offshore in the Coral Sea.

In this 4 day Cairns itinerary, you’ll see the best sights and the most beautiful scenery that the area has to offer.  I’ve also included some alternative activity suggestions to help you tailor the trip to your interests.

Things to do in Cairns in 4 days

• Explore the city of Cairns
• Stroll along the Cairns Esplanade & Lagoon
• Visit the Cairns Botanical Gardens
• Relax at Palm Cove Beach
• Discover Cairns Museum
• Visit the Cairns Aquarium
• Shop at the Cairns Night market
• Get an adrenaline fix at the Cairns Wildlife Dome
• Relax on gorgeous Green Island
• Catch the ferry to stunning Fitzroy Island
• Snorkel in the Falkland Islands
• Snorkel or dive on the outer Great Barrier Reef
• Visit Port Douglas
• Visit Kuranda village on the Skyrail Cableway & Scenic Railway.
• Explore Mossman Gorge and the Daintree Rainforest
• Take a Crocodile cruise on the Daintree River

Cairns 4 day itinerary

Day 1 in cairns – exploring cairns city.

If you enjoy walking you can explore Cairns on foot, stroll around the waterfront and along the  Cairns Esplanade , stop for a swim at the Esplanade  Lagoon , and watch the helicopters taking off from the helipad and the ferries coming and going from the  Marlin Wharf.

Stop for a coffee or a bite to eat at one of the restaurants on the waterfront, then choose from the following attractions to fill the rest of the day:

Cairns Aquarium

Visit the Cairns Aquarium to discover the marine ecosystems and habitats of Tropical North Queensland and see the beautiful array of underwater wildlife from colourful fish to reef sharks and manta rays.

Cairns Botanic Gardens

The Cairns Botanic Gardens is a delight to visit in the leafy suburb of Edge Hill.

The displays of tropical plants are the best in Australia, and you can stroll through the gardens under a lush green canopy, along butterfly-lined pathways and relax amongst the beautiful tropical greenery.

Cairns Museum

At the Cairns Museum, the history and culture of Cairns City are on display, and you’ll discover what it’s like to live in the tropics with coral reefs, sugarcane fields and rainforests on the doorstep. You’ll learn about how the area was settled and the history of the railways in the area.

Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome

At Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome , you’ll find a wildlife park with activities for more adventurous travellers.

Enjoy the thrill of a zipline, a power jump, rope and climbing courses with spectacular views from the top of the dome. In the wildlife park, you can get up close and personal with the native Australian wildlife.

Cairns Night Market

Open from 4:30 pm every night, the Cairns Night Market is a fun place to shop for souvenirs and grab a bite to eat.

Located on Abbott Street, the night market has around 70 stalls, a food court and a selection of restaurants.

Day 2 in Cairns – Great Barrier Reef outer reef trip

No 4 day Cairns itinerary is complete without a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Great Barrier Reef.

On an outer reef day trip , you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel or scuba dive in some of the best spots on the reef and enjoy the beautiful underwater world of colourful fish and coral and a variety of sea creatures.

Endangered sea turtles live on the reef along with sharks, rays, giant clams and much more.

Day 3 in Cairns – Rainforest Visit

Kuranda skyrail cableway and scenic railway.

On day 3 of your 4 days in Cairns, it’s time to travel inland to the UNESCO World Heritage rainforest just outside Cairns.

Ride the scenic  Skyrail   Cableway   to Kuranda and travel above the rainforest canopy enjoying the dramatic scenery of  Barron Gorge.  

Stop off along the way to see spectacular  waterfalls  and explore the village of  Kuranda.

There are lots of shops and markets to enjoy at Kuranda village and, after a leisurely lunch and a rainforest walk, ride back to Cairns on the  Scenic Railway . 

Along the way, you’ll learn about the history of the area and the difficulties of building a railway track through the thick rainforests of Barron Gorge.

The Daintree Rainforest & Mossman Gorge

Alternatively, you can join a day tour to The Daintree Rainforest and visit the gorgeous  Mossman Gorge , see  crocodiles in their natural habitat on the  Daintree River  and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery of  Cape Tribulation  where the rainforest meets the reef.

A remote wilderness area that lies around 100 kilometres north of Cairns, much of the  wild and beautiful Daintree Rainforest   is inaccessible but it is possible to visit this protected wilderness area on a day trip from Cairns.

Day 4 in Cairns – Tropical Island Day Trip

Visiting a tropical island paradise on the Great Barrier Reef is one of the best things to do in Cairns. Several gorgeous islands lie just offshore and are fabulous to visit for a day (or several days) of snorkelling, swimming, sunbathing and exploring.

You can meet Cassius the crocodile on  Green Island  or learn more about endangered sea turtles at the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre on  Fitzroy Island .

Both  Green Island & Fitzroy Island  are easy to reach by ferry from the Cairns waterfront and you can snorkel from the beach, swim with turtles and enjoy the incredible underwater world of the Reef on both these lovely islands.

The Falklands Islands are also easily accessible from Cairns. If you can stay more than 4 days in Cairns, why not visit more than one of these beautiful tropical islands?

How to get to Cairns

Flying into cairns.

Because of the long distances involved in travelling to Cairns, the easiest way to get there is to fly.

Cairns has an International Airport with daily flights to capital cities and popular locations around Australia and overseas.

Driving to Cairns

Cairns is around 1,700 kilometres from Brisbane and around 2,400 kilometres from Sydney so it’s a long trip by car that will take several days.

If you want to explore the area by car, the easiest way, with only 4 days in Cairns, is to travel by air and hire a car at the airport when you arrive.

Getting to Cairns by Train

Travelling overland by train is a comfortable way to reach Cairns and The Spirit of Queensland connects Cairns with Brisbane. The trip takes 24 hours by train with connections in Brisbane to other states and cities throughout Australia. 

TIP: Consider stopping off en route and exploring other places in Queensland before starting this Cairns 4 day itinerary. 

Getting to Cairns by Bus

Greyhound and Premier buses are the cheapest way to travel to Cairns and around Australia. Regular coach services connect Cairns with Brisbane and the trip takes around 29 hours by bus. You can check times and prices on BusBud.

Best time to visit Cairns

The best time of year to spend 4 days in Cairns is from June to October. It’s the dry season and it’s the best time for swimming and snorkelling because there are no stingers in the water.

But the shoulder seasons in April/May and September/October can also be a good time to go because there are cheaper flights and fewer tourists.

The tropical climate in Cairns brings dry weather in winter with the wet season during the summer months.

But the winter weather in Cairns is typically warm and sunny with highs of 26°C (79°F), and lows of 18°C (64°F). And the water temperature in winter is a balmy 25°C (77°F), perfect for swimming and snorkelling.  

The summer months from December to February are hot and wet with high humidity. Summer is also stinger season and, although swimming is possible if you wear a lycra stinger suit, it’s best to stay out of the water in summer to avoid the dangerous Irukandji jellyfish.

Where to stay in Cairns

Cairns has a wide selection of accommodation for all budgets and here are a few suggestions for where to stay.

Luxury  – The Hilton Hotel in Cairns  is a 5-star hotel right in the centre of town. This hotel is located on the waterfront, close to attractions and a selection of dining options. The location of this popular luxury hotel near the Esplanade and the ferry wharf is unbeatable.

Mid-Range  – The Coral Tree Inn is a good mid-range choice in Cairns city centre and gets exceptional reviews. It’s friendly, quiet, clean, and a 15-minute walk to the waterfront

Budget  – YHA Cairns Central has a great location in the heart of Cairns near shops, cafes and restaurants. This friendly hostel has comfortable common areas, a pool, and a BBQ area. 

In short: 4 days in Cairns

There are so many fun things to do in Far North Queensland and 4 days in Cairns is enough time to experience the highlights of the city and the surrounding area, snorkel or dive on the Great Barrier Reef, spend a day on a tropical island and discover the beautiful rainforests.

Cairns has something for everyone along with all the services you need for a comfortable holiday.

I loved visiting Cairns in Far North Queensland, and I think you’ll enjoy this Cairns 4 day itinerary.  

This article was written by  Linda from Muy Linda Travels . Linda is a travel blogger and teacher from Australia. She loves to travel solo and over the years she’s visited around 50 countries on 5 different continents.

Australia Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Find awesome day tours on Viator and Get Your Guide
• Save on Sydney attractions with a Go City Pass
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your Australian dollars with a Wise currency card

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Home » Oceania » Australia » Cairns

Backpacking Cairns Travel Guide (2024)

Cairns is one of the most popular places in Australia for both backpacker and natives alike. Few other Australian destinations can compete with the sheer amount of adventure that Cairns offers!

Sandwiched between the idyllic Atherton Tablelands, rugged Daintree, and otherworldly Great Barrier Reef, there’s something to do in every direction.

Go waterfall hunting in Atherton; hunt for the exotic cassowary in the Daintree; go skydiving over the Great Barrier Reef! All of this and much more is possible if you go backpacking in Cairns.

As an Australian city, Cairns isn’t a cheap destination. If you go out every night, spend money on tours without checking prices/shopping around, and eat out every day, you’ll run through your budget faster than you can say kangaroo.

If you’re going to be backpacking around Cairns, you’re going to have to be a smart broke backpacker, equipped with the right sort of tools…

But never fear: Cairns can be affordable! We have written this budget travel guide for Cairns, so that you can save a buck or two.

In addition to itineraries, nightlife suggestions, transportation advice, and more, everything you need to know about traveling in Cairns is covered in this guide; read on, and you’ll be more than prepared to go backpacking in Cairns affordably.

How Much does Backpacking Cairns Cost?

Backpacker accommodation in cairns, top things to do in cairns, backpacking cairns 4 day itinerary, backpacking cairns travel tips and city guide.

• Buy Us a Coffee!

If there’s one thing that Queensland, Australia has going for it, it’s that it is affordable! No more $10 beers and ridiculously overpriced hostel beds. Cairns can be very cheap, perhaps the cheapest place you can visit while backpacking Australia !

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

The average daily budget for Cairns will be about $45-$60 per day. This will get you a dorm bed, grocery money, a bit of wine, and extra spending money for activities. With the right spending habits, the cost of travel in Cairns can be even less, though you’ll have to be a dedicated Broke Backpacker to do this.

Accommodation is notably inexpensive in Cairns; even apartments and AirBnBs will be affordable for shoestring backpackers. Food prices are manageable, so long as you cook at home much more frequently than eat at restaurants. The cheapest accommodation options are (and will always be) Cairns hostels . They’re affordable but still offer quite a lot of bang for your buck.

Since there are so many travelers in Cairns, there are many, many backpacker bars that offer special deals. As such, Cairns will be one of the cheapest places to party in Australia!

The greatest expenses in Cairns will be the organized activities e.g. the Great Barrier Reef and skydiving. Pick and choose which activities you must do. To save money, shop around and find the best deal. Some companies, specifically those that go to the Reef, offer discounted rates at the last second to fill up surplus seats.

Below is a breakdown of the average costs of travel in Cairns.

Cairns Daily Budget Breakdown

Hostel Dormitory:  $15-$20

Basic room for two:  $100

AirBnB/temp apartment:  $80

Average cost of public transport:  $3

City-Airport transfer:  $15-$30

Sandwich:  $7-$9

Beer at a bar:  $5-$8

Coffee:  $3-$4

Bottle of wine from the market:  $2-$8

Dinner for two:  $35-$45

Cairns Budget Backpacking Tips

There are plenty of ways to save cash while traveling! With the proper spending habits, Cairns can be cheap; just follow the tips in this travel guide!

Below is a list of tips for backpacking in Cairns on a budget. Follow these words of advice and you’ll find that your dollar goes much further.

• Always pre-fade before going out : Buying full-priced drinks at the bar is a great way to waste your money. Instead, buy booze at the store and drink with your friends at the hostel/their house/the park/anywhere besides the actual bar. Drink lots of store-bought wine; it’s freakin’ cheaper than water sometimes!
• Cook at home as often as possible : One of the most proven ways to save money; buying your own groceries and cooking at home will save you heaps of cash.
• Eat/drink during happy hour : Many bars and cafes offer drink and meal specials during the quieter hours of the day (4pm-6pm). Some of these deals can be quite affordable; even the locals use them!
• Get a job : Whether or not you have a working holiday visa there are plenty of opportunities to find backpack jobs in Cairns. Many hostels will give you a free bed in exchange for a few hours of labor.
• Do free shit : There are a ton of attractions in Cairns that don’t charge you any sort of entrance fee! None of these are dull or boring either. Check out any of these free things to do in Cairns while visiting.

Why You Should Travel to Cairns with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

This town is practically run by backpackers looking to stay near the Great Barrier Reef and there are heaps of hostels in Cairns! In the alleys, on top of the bars, between the cafes, everywhere you look there is a backpacker lodge.

The hostels in Cairns can be dirt cheap but they can also be very mangy, practically third world at times. Be aware of how much you are willing to pay for and what you’re getting yourself into. Depending on where you’re staying in Cairns , the prices of accommodations can vary slightly too

Many hostels offer discounts to long-term inhabitants. These deals usually cater backpackers with a working holiday visa. Staying at a hostel for a long period of time could be an awesome experience as everyone really gets to know each other, and the camaraderie is really fantastic.

Other working holidayers opt to stay in an apartment. Since Cairns is so much cheaper than most Australian cities, many backpackers can actually afford their own room or even a flat with their paycheck.

Check the local classifieds, like Gumtree , or check your hostel’s bulletin board – many backpackers start in a hostel and end up moving into their own place.

To save the most money, you can, of course, reach out to potential hosts via couchsurfing. Australians are an extremely hospitable bunch and love to host unsuspecting visitors. Be sure to follow all the usual courtesies and rules of staying with a stranger though.

The Best Places to Stay in Cairns

Are you wondering  which is the best part of Cairns to stay in?  Well, let me give you a few suggestions.

Esplanade is the area running alongside Cairns North and the CBD, on the waterfront. It’s right in the centre of all the action, with the coffee shops, bars and market of town all within easy reach.

Parramatta Park

Just west of the city centre is Parramatta Park. And when we say ‘just west’ we mean it’s about 500m from the edge of Parramatta Park to the waterfront on the other side of the CBD. So, very close.

The City Centre

The CBD is a bustling part of town that sits on the waterfront and right on the ferry port. Due to Cairns’s status as the endpoint for many backpackers’ road-tripping adventures, this town is a hub for travelers from all over the globe.

Cairns North

With Cairns being rated the second most hipster city in Australia, based on a calculation around coffee shops, tattoo stores and vegan restaurants, anywhere you stay is bound to be pretty cool.

Trinity Beach

This suburb is a short 15-minute drive from Cairns International Airport. It’s not right in the smaller township of Cairns but is still within the city limits.

Want to save money on accommodation?

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1. Dive at the Great Barrier Reef

One of the greatest sights in the entire world; the Great Barrier Reef is must-do while backpacking in Cairns! You can take an outer Great Barrier Reef day tour with qualified PADI professionals to give you an introduction to scuba diving and snorkelling. More experienced divers are also welcomed and allowed to go further and deeper into the reef. A fully licensed bar and buffet-style lunch awaits both experienced and inexperienced divers onboard too!

2. Chase waterfalls in the Atherton Tablelands

Queensland’s own Arcadia! Go looking for paradisiacal waterfalls and then chill at local winery afterwards.

3. Go skydiving

Cairns has some of the cheapest skydiving rates in Australia! For the curious, this is no better time to try out this thrilling activity. Plus, you’ll get unbeatable views of the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest with one of Australia’s most well-known skydive centres.

4. Have a wild night at the bars in Cairns

The nightlife in Cairns can get pretty crazy sometimes. Join the thirsty travelers and set aside a night for debauchery!

5. Visit the Daintree Rainforest

The oldest rainforest in the world deserves your attention. Go for a walk in the woods and look out for local wildlife.

6. Roadtrip to Cape Tribulation

After you’ve seen the Daintree, keep heading north to see some of the best beaches in Australia!

7. Go bungee jumping in the jungle

Bungee jumping is another relatively affordable activity in Cairns that is very popular with backpackers. The drops are some of the most impressive in Australia as well.

8. Catch the Kuranda Express

Ride the train for a relaxing afternoon and a chance to stare at impressive landscapes and engineering.

9. Chill at the Esplanade and grill

If you’re feeling crook from the night out before, just lounge by the artificial lagoon by the esplanade. There are plenty of grills around for a communal BBQ as well.

10. Explore Fitzroy Island

Fitzroy is a gem of an island not to far away from Cairns. Catch the ferry and wandering around here!

Looking for a little inspiration? Well here’s a sample itinerary for spending 4 days in Cairns! Give it a look and use it for yourself if you like.

Day 1 in Cairns: The Town

Day 1 in Cairns is a pretty easy day – just go for a walk about and relax wherever you see fit. If you’re feeling hungry, check out one of the many respectable restaurants around town. Thirsty maybe? There are plenty of watering holes to wet your whistle.

There are only a couple of attractions worthy of visiting in Cairns proper. The Esplanade Markets are nice both day and night. North you’ll find the City Botanic Gardens and Mt Whitfield , which are both lovely. Even farther north are Cairn’s only proper beaches at Palm Cove , Clifton , Holloways , Trinity , and Kewara .

One of my favorite things to do in Cairns is walk to the artificial Lagoon and kick back. Lots of people hang out here and the energy is awesome. Get a BBQ going and shoot the shit with whoever you meet.

This is also a good day to go on a tour that is not already mentioned in the following itineraries. Some activities might include skydiving, bungee jumping, a tour to Fitzroy Island , and the Kuranda Express .

Day 2 in Cairns: The Tablelands

Fun fact: Herbal Essence shot several commercials at the Atherton Tablelands. Why you might ask? Because it’s a paradise on Earth! With dozens of waterfalls, lush forests, and picturesque mountains, the Atherton Tablelands is one of the best places to visit in Cairns’ region.

Many tour companies offer organized day trips to the Atherton Tablelands, though the best way to experience this region is with a private car. There is a lot to see and do, and you’ll really appreciate the freedom of exploration that comes with your own vehicle!

The waterfalls are Atherton Tablelands’ biggest draw. These are among the most beautiful natural attractions in not only Cairns but all of Queensland.

Some of the most picturesque falls are Millanda , Zillie , Nandroya , Tchupala , and Millstream , among many, many others. Of great fame is Millaa Millaa Falls , which where herbal essence shot those commercials.

One of the best things to do in Atherton Tablelands is to go shopping for local produce and craft products. The Atherton Tablelands is a rich agricultural area and there are lots of little businesses around offering farm-to-table goods.

Wineries, chocolateries, and dairy farms are among a few of the places you can visit. Be sure to check out the famous Curtain Fig Tree while you’re driving around as well.

Day 3 in Cairns: The Daintree

The Daintree is the oldest known forest on the planet. This jungle is a really rad looking place and totally worth a day trip if not for the forest itself than for the amazing beaches and mountains that it hides.

Like the Atherton Tablelands, you can book an organized tour to see the Daintree but again I highly recommend owning your own vehicle. If you’re self-driving, note that some of the roads in the Daintree are unsealed and that you’ll need a 4×4 for these. Washouts and road closures are also very common in the Daintree.

On the drive to The Daintree from Cairns, you’ll pass by Port Douglas and Mossman Gorge . Port Douglas is a resort village (with a beach!) that is a great alternative to Cairns if you find the latter to be too hectic. I stayed in Port Douglas at Dougie’s Backpackers and really enjoyed my stay.

Mossman Gorge is an ecotourism destination that is popular for its swimming holes and canopies walks.

To get to The Daintree proper, you’ll have to cross the Daintree River via a ferry. Outside of flooding season, this river isn’t too large or swift and the trip is short.

Upon crossing the river, head straight to the Daintree Discovery Center . Around the center there are some great walks that offer glimpses of the jungle. Many of these walks give you the opportunity to see the elusive cassowary in its natural habitat. Honestly, these fuckers hang by the road more than the woods – I saw four of them while driving my car.

While exploring The Daintree, try and make it to Cape Tribulation . This cape has one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Queensland, and it is a personal favorite of mine. The Cape is also the end of the road for most passenger vehicles.

Day 4 in Cairns: The Great Barrier Reef

For many, the Great Barrier Reef is the reason to visit Cairns in the first place. As one of the largest, grandest, and most impressive ecological habitats in the world, the Great Barrier Reef alone is worth the trip to Cairns. A sensitive environment as well, the Great Barrier Reef could disappear within our lifetime, thanks to climate change…

In order to visit the Great Barrier Reef, you will definitely have to go through a local tourism agency. Between Townsville , Cairns, Port Douglas, and every town in between, there are dozens of operators who offer tours to the reef.

Some offer specialized tours but most use similar itineraries. Tours range between 1 and 4 days in length, though more time could possibly be arranged.

BACKPACKER TIP : Book a tour at the last second! Many companies will sell open seats at the last second for a fraction of the price. Tours to the Great Barrier Reef are already very expensive, so getting discount could save you heaps of money.

Day tours are the most popular way to see the Great Barrier Reef. Itineraries usually begin early in the morning and involve a transfer to the local docks whereupon you sail between 2 to 4 hours depending which city you depart from – generally the further north you depart from the less time you’re sailing.

Upon arriving at the reef you will be offered snorkeling equipment or dive gear depending on what you booked as well as beverages and a small lunch.

Note that each company has different rights to where they can visit at the Reef. You may end up sharing a site with another tour but the reef is so big that you’ll barely notice the increased traffic.

The Great Barrier Reef is something to behold. A kaleidoscope of colors and menagerie of marine life, the Reef is one of the majestic places on Earth. One visit to this place and you’ll see why so many people are fighting to save it.

Off the Beaten Path in Cairns

Being Australia and all, the Outback is never too far away! With a rental car or van, those backpacking in Cairns could easily head out into the desert on what could be an epic roadtrip.

There’s even a long-distance train called the Savannahlander  that goes all the way to Forsayth , deep in the Outback from Cairns. This 4-day train runs once per week and is one of the great experiences in Australia.

Heading west along Highway 1 , the first town you’ll hit is Mareeba . Along this short 1-hour drive, you’ll see lots of scenery like Barron Gorge and Barron Falls . Those riding the Kuranda Express train will have the chance to see Stoney Falls up close as well as travel through some pretty intricate man-made passageways.

Mareeba is still a very green place – it produces much of Australia’s local coffee – but things soon dry up as you continue on your road trip.

From Mareeba, you can either continue on the 1, which swings south and eventually heads west again, or you can take a detour on the 27 or 81 . The 81 will take you to the frontier-like Cooktown on the coast and then further to the northernmost tip of Queensland.

The 27 and Highway 1 will both take you into the red-as-the-devil’s-dick Outback and will eventually converge at Normanton , which is over 700 km away. Expect all the usual Outback attractions on either of these routes: kangaroos, one-pub towns, eccentric locals, and just general fuck-all.

The 1, or the Savannah Way , will take you all the way to the Northern Territory, specifically Borroloola . From here, you can head many directions and see some of Australia’s best sites like Kakadu and the Katherine Gorge. Even further is Broome or Uluru, but both of these are still days away.

Best Walks around Cairns

Since you’ll be walking around Cairns quite a bit, I doubt that you’ll want to stay in the city for another hike. Best to get out of the city a bit and go for a bushwalk. Some of these bushwalks are among the best things to do in Cairns for free as well!

The best walks (outside but still) near Cairns:

Barron Falls (16 km round trip) – Easy access to a really epic waterfall.

Crystal Falls (2 km round trip) – Very easy hike to a popular local swimming hole.

Behana Gorge (6 km return) – A less-trafficked and more hidden version of Crystal Falls.

Fitzroy Island – A gorgeous resort island that has no roads so all you can do is walk! Requires short half-hour ferry from Cairns.

Mount Bartle Frere (6-8 hour climb) – Hike to the tops of Queensland’s highest peak! Requires an early start as the weather becomes foul in the afternoon.

Below are my best Cairns travel tips, including how to travel around Cairns, a guide to the food and drink culture, and the best time of year to visit Cairns.

Best Time of Year to Visit Cairns

Being a part of Northern Australia, Cairns is subject to typical tropical climate. There are only two distinct seasons in Cairns: a cooler, drier winter season and a wetter, hotter summer season. The locals like to refer to these seasons as the Big Dry and the Big Wet , respectively.

The summer season (December-April) in Cairns may not be an ideal time to visit. Temperatures soar to above 100 Fahrenheit regularly, which can feel even hotter with high humidity. Rain comes in torrential downpours and sometimes washes out dirt roads, thus making travel in and around the Daintree very difficult.

Most dangerous, this is also jelly season – the diabolical Box Jellyfish usually migrate towards the beaches during this time, effectively terminating any chance of swimming in the ocean.

The summer season has its benefits though. There are fewer tourists around, which means prices will be lower during this time. The rainforest, though inaccessible at times, will be very lush and beautiful in a very wild kind of way.

The dry winter season (May-November) is generally considered the best season to visit Cairns. Temperatures are pleasant, weather is reliable, and the beaches are generally free of stingers. Prices will consequently be higher during this time so be sure to keep that in mind.

Note: the Great Barrier Reef can be visited year-round. The summer months can be touch-and-go because of cyclones but these weather patterns are predictable. If your tour is postponed then just grab a beer and wait for the storm to pass. Box jellyfish do not hang out around the reef.

Get in and out of Cairns

Cairns is well connected to several major Australian cities and destinations. Those who wish to travel to Cairns have many options by land and air.

Cairns has an International Airport that offers flights to and from many Asian destinations, including but not limited to Tokyo, Singapore, Bali, and Auckland. Several domestic airlines offer flights between Cairns and every other major Australian city.

Queensland has an extensive public transportation system and there are several bus companies offering commuter rides. The grand majority of mainliner buses are very large and comfortable, and may offer services like dining and/or WiFi.

Bus Queensland is the largest company, but I personally like Greyhound Australia – the buses are frequent, modern, and there are usually special deals. You can buy special passes with Greyhound, like a Hop-on Hop-off Pass or a “Whimit Pass,” which can be convenient if you’re visiting a lot of places in Australia or Queensland.

The roads are very well maintained in Australia and are appropriate for any type of car. Regardless to whether you’re driving a semi-truck or a tuna can, your trip is going to be a smooth one.

The Bruce Highway is the major artery on the East Coast of Australia. Be careful of speed cameras while driving in Australia as they’re numerous and the tickets are expensive.

If you’re backpacking in Australia (and not just Cairns), consider hiring/buying a campervan! This method of travel in Australia is one of the most popular around, and for good reason – campervans can go most places, offer shelter, and are just plain rad.

Read the having a Campervan section of our backpacking Australia guide for more Aussie specific details.

When you’re ready to travel to Cairns, forgo buying tickets at the station and book them online instead! You can now book transport in advance for most of Asia using 12Go and doing so can really save you some stress (and maybe money, too).

It only takes 2 minutes!  Book your transport on 12Go now  and guarantee your seat easily.

How to get around Cairns

Cairns has a modern and efficient intercity public transport service, called Sunbus , which connects the city with the outer suburbs. Tickets are available either as single trips, or daily or weekly passes that range between $2-$55 depending on what zones you’re traveling in. Services usually end around 10pm at night depending on the route.

Really though the best way to get around Cairns is to just walk. The “CBD,” if it can be called that, is very small and you can easily traverse the entire boardwalk in an hour or two. There are safe bike lanes as well. Buses really only pay off when you want to make day trips outside of the city.

If you’re trying to get to the outskirts of the city and there is no public bus, then you’ll have to rely upon on your own form of transportation. If you’re going to a fairly popular place, many local tour companies offer private shuttles. At the end of the day, having your own car, be it rented or owned, is always the best option.

Consider hitchhiking around Cairns too, which is totally acceptable in Australia and a great way to save cash!

Get 15% OFF when you book through our link — and support the site you love so dearly 😉

Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

Safety in Cairns

Aside from the rare petty robbery here and there, very little goes awry in this city. Cairns one of the safest cities in the safest countries in the world. Those backpacking in Cairns should worry very little about their personal belongings or being accosted by a fellow homosapien.

Backpackers do rob each other from time to time in hostels. Most of the time it’s because everyone is just wasted and doesn’t know any better. Sometimes there’s a real shithead backpacker who thinks they can do whatever they want; don’t be this person. Lock your shit up in a locker to be on the safe side.

Outside of the hostel, be somewhat wary of walking at night. Just be sure to practice all the usual safety measures of traveling.

What you should really worried about is the local wildlife. Australia is famous for its killer critters and many of them reside in Queensland.

Be very mindful while swimming in the waters around Queensland. Several venomous animals reside in the shallows including stonefish , box jellyfish , and the blue-ring octopus . Many of these are considered the most poisonous marine animals in the world and should be treated with great severity. A sting from any of these will be excruciatingly painful and perhaps fatal.

Also be mindful of crocodiles , which like to hang out in shallow rivers and estuaries. These beasts have been known to eat humans and legends have sprung up around their appetites. Also be wary of several species of snakes, in particular, the death adder and taipan .

Travel Insurance for Cairns

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

If there’s one insurance company I trust, it’s World Nomads.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Cairns Accommodation Travel Hacks

Let’s face it, sometimes we all need to stay in a hostel. Hostels are great for meeting fellow travelers and just having space where you can do your thing at your own pace. Paying for a bed day in and day out though can add up, so stay at a hostel for a night or two and consider your other options for backpacking Cairns on a budget:

Couchsurf!: If you manage to land a Couchsurfing spot in Cairns, you will have successfully eliminated your biggest cost: accommodation. I’ll be honest with you. Couchsurfing is more popular than ever before.

Tap into your backpacker network: If you have done any sort of backpacking before, odds are you know someone who knows someone from Cairns. Australians love to go backpacking! Before you begin your Cairns backpacking trip, I suggest you put your feelers out there and ask your network of friends if they know of someone whom you can crash with for a night or two.

Where to Eat in Cairns

As one of the most popular destinations in Queensland, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants in Cairns that offer both the usual fare as well as something different. You’ll find the usual Aussie suspects here – steaks, parmies, chips, pies, etc – as well as fresh seafood, excellent produce, and a great selection of Asian foods. Cairns doesn’t disappoint foodies.

Below is a list of the best cafes and restaurants in Cairns. Note that many dinner joints in Cairns are not open for breakfast – unless otherwise indicated – and they usually offer “early bird” specials.

Early bird implies that if you get to the restaurant before the rush, which is usually around 7pm, you’ll get a discount. Inquire with a restaurant to see if they offer this.

Best Restaurants in Cairns:

Caffiend – Popular breakfast and brunch joint with some of the best coffee in Cairns.

Fusion Art Bar & Tapas – New cafe with an industrial design and relaxed vibes.

Bayleaf Balinese Restaurant – A very authentic Indonesian restaurant attached to a hotel.

C’est Bon – Fine French dining. Set three-course meals.

Salt House – Excellent views and food but more expensive.

Ochre – Real Australian, as in indigenous Aboriginal, food. One of a kind and an amazing experience.

Ganbaranba – The best ramen in Cairns!

Where to Drink in Cairns

Most of the nightlife in Cairns is centered around the main drag of Abbot Street and the Esplanade. Establishments range in style from classy to dive but, regardless, everyone is hopping at night. The backpacker bars in Cairns get particularly roudier than the rest as well!

Below is a list of some of the best backpacker bars in Cairns. To drink in Cairns on the cheap, keep an eye out for the special happy hour and backpacker deals. Sometimes you’ll see specials like “buy one get one free” or “pizza and beer combo.” Take advantage of these.

Best Bars in Cairns

The Woolshed – Bar catered specifically to backpackers. Lots of organized parties that last a very long time. Bit of a marathon this one is. Has a hostel on-site.

The Conservatory – One of the first small-scale craft bars in Cairns. Trendsetter.

Salt House – A very chique bar located right on the ocean. Great place to relax. Come here during drink specials or be ready to pay a lot.

The Jack – Another backpacker bar/hostel. More music oriented with several live performances every week.

The Pier Bar – Similar to the Salt House. More calm and relaxed than other backpacker bars.

Gilligan’s – One the largest and most notorious bars in the city. Popular among locals and travelers alike.

Three Wolves – One of the newest craft bars in Cairns. Very small and with a very large spirit selection.

Books to Read While Traveling in Cairns

Unfortunately, there aren’t too many books that deal specifically with Cairns, the city. For those who go backpacking in Cairns though, I suggest reading one of the many awesome books about Australia as a whole.

Here are some of my favorite travel reads and books set in Australia, which you should consider picking up before you begin your backpacking adventure…

• Follow the Rabbit-Proof Fence – Aboriginal siblings stolen from their families run away from their captors and begin a journey almost a thousand miles long back home. A leading account of the Stolen Generation.
• In a Sunburned Country – A quick-witted and very informative piece of travel writing from Bill Bryson. Written over the course of several trips to the Land Down Under.
• Tree of Man – A man and his wife try to make something out of nothing, as they cultivate a little patch of land in the bush.
• My Brilliant Career – The first of one of Australia’s greatest epics. Tells the tale of a young woman yearning for life and adventure in the Outback. Written by Miles Franklin when she was 16 and, at the time, considered “culturally inappropriate” by the state.
• Lonely Planet Australia –  It’s sometimes worth traveling with a guidebook. Despite Lonely Planet’s history of selling out and writing about places they haven’t been to, they’ve done a good job with Australia.

Make Money Online while Backpacking Cairns

Traveling in Cairns or Australia long-term? Keen to make some cash when you are not exploring the city? It’s no secret that you can get a holiday visa to work in Australia, which is a great way to make money and support your travels, but if you are looking for a way to make money  online  then consider teaching English!

Teaching English online  is a great way to earn a consistent income—from anywhere in the world with a good internet connection. Depending on your qualifications (or your motivation to obtain qualifications like a TEFL certificate) you can teach English remotely from your laptop, save some cash for your next adventure, and make a positive impact on the world by improving another person’s language skills!

It’s a win-win! Check out this detailed article for everything you need to know to start  teaching English online .

In addition to giving you the qualifications to teach English online,  TEFL courses  open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world. To find out more about TEFL courses and how you can teach English around the world, read my in-depth report on  teaching English abroad .

Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with  MyTEFL  (simply enter the code PACK50), to find out more, please read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad.

Whether you are keen to teach English online or looking to take your teaching game a step further by finding a job teaching English in a foreign country, getting your TEFL certificate is absolutely a step in the right direction.

Be a Responsible Backpacker in Cairns

Reduce your plastic footprint:  Perhaps the best thing you can do for our planet is to make sure you do NOT add to the plastic problem all over the world. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, the plastic ends up in landfill or in the ocean. Instead, pack a  tough travel water bottle .

Go and watch A Plastic Ocean on Netflix – it’ll change how you view the plastic problem in the world; you need to understand what we are up against. If you think it doesn’t matter, get off my fucking site.

Don’t pick up single use plastic bags, you’re a backpacker – take your daypack if you need to go to the shop or run errands.

Bear in mind, that many animal products in countries you travel through will not be ethically farmed and won’t be of the highest quality. I’m a carnivore but when I’m on the road, I only eat chicken. Mass-farming of cows etc leads to the rainforest being cut down – which is obviously a huge problem.

Need more guidance? – Check out our post on  how to be a responsible backpacker.

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You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

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Epic travel guide that you have here Ralph. Couldn’t agree more with cooking at home as it is definitely the easiest way to save money whilst in Cairns. Thanks for the great info 🙂

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The ultimate Cairns to Darwin road trip itinerary

Brian Johnston

Travel Journalist

30 October 2023

Adventure through the eastern side of the Savannah Way from Cairns to Darwin.

Starting in Tropical North Queensland and finishing in the Northern Territory’s vibrant capital, the Cairns to Darwin road trip is an epic 2600-kilometre journey of a lifetime passing through an incredibly diverse landscape.

Taking around 40 hours to drive with fascinating stops and detours along the way, the eastern half of the Savannah Way is a unique opportunity to uncover the unexpected and discover tiny townships, relax in hot springs, look around in awe at ancient gorges, and wander through stunning national parks. If you’re up for a bigger challenge and want to take on the entire Savannah Way between Cairns and Western Australia , see our guide to the western half — Darwin to Broome .

Ready to jump right in? Here’s our 14-day road trip itinerary outlining the why, what, and where of how to explore from Cairns to Darwin.

Day 1: Cairns to Undara

Distance: 260kms — around 3.5 hours

Leave early and follow the Bruce Highway south from Cairns . Turn onto Route 52 into the rainforest-clad Atherton Tablelands . Take a break at Lake Eacham and admire Little Millstream Falls near Ravenshoe.

Take in the beauty at Lake Eacham. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

You’re now on Route 1 (National Highway) all the way to Darwin . Continue west to the Undara Experience – try to arrive in time for a sunset wildlife tour. Accommodation here ranges from cabins to converted railway carriages and a campground.

Immerse yourself in the wilderness at sunset with Undara Experience. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Day 2: Undara

After yesterday’s long drive, start with a Bush Breakfast and relax in Undara Volcanic National Park where the outback begins and 164 ancient volcanoes pepper the landscape.

Refuel in the morning before exploring Undara. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Early morning is perfect for admiring the abundant birdlife before exploring the remarkable lava tubes. Finish with authentic country cooking and outback hospitality at the on-site Fettler’s Iron Pot Bistro.

Explore the remarkable lava tubes. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Day 3: Undara to Cobbold Gorge

Distance: 250kms — around 3.5 hours

Continue west and you’ll come across Talaroo Hot Springs , one of Outback Queensland’s most extraordinary geological wonders.

Don’t miss seeing Talaroo Hot Springs; a geological wonder hidden in the outback. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Its surreal landscape of pools combined with the Aboriginal hospitality of the Ewamian people is a wonderful experience. Join a guided tour to uncover the spring’s history and dip your feet in the healing water.

Take a warm dip in the healing waters. of the spring. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Make your way to Cobbold Gorge and stay the night at Gilberton Outback Retreat , where you can enjoy a little luxury at its infinity pool with a swim-up bar.

Get off-grid at Gilberton Outback Retreat. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Day 4: Cobbold Gorge

In the heart of the Gulf Savannah region, Cobbold Gorge is a true Outback Queensland destination well worth the stop. On a guided day tour, enjoy a cruise surrounded by sculpted red sandstone cliffs, walk atop its walls, and across Australia’s first fully glass bridge, exploring the geological landforms along the way. With the rest of the day to spare, go bushwalking, bird watching, kayaking, mountain biking, or even treat yourself to a helicopter flight.

Go stand-up paddleboarding at Cobbold Gorge. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Note: Cobbold Gorge is open seasonally from 1 April to 31 October – perfect for travelling in the dry season.

Day 5: Cobbold Gorge to Croydon

Distance: 230kms — around 3 hours

Back on the road again, you’ll pass through sleepy Georgetown on the Etheridge River, a former gold mining settlement. Stop in for a bite to eat and a quick visit to The TerrEstrial Centre to see the Ted Elliott Mineral Collection, a world-class exhibition of over 4500 minerals, gems, crystals, and fossils.

Visit TerrEstrial Visitor Information Centre to see the Ted Elliott Mineral Collection. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Your destination for the night is the beautifully quaint town of Croydon , which also has a gold-mining history and an interesting heritage precinct. Grab a self-guide brochure from the True Blue Visitor Centre to explore the town’s police station, jail, Sergeant’s residence, town hall, and courthouse.

Jumpstart your day by picking up info on Croydon at the True Blue Visitor Centre. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

If you prefer the great outdoors, Lake Belmore is close by for barramundi fishing and year-round recreational activities.

Have a picnic at Lake Belmore. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Day 6: Croydon to Karumba

Distance: 225kms — around 2.5 hours

The Savannah Way skirts the Gulf of Carpentaria, but this is one of a few chances to see the coast. First, pass through Mutton Hole Wetlands north of Normanton for stunning birdlife, including brolgas and black swans.

Get out on the water at Karumba. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Karumba is a great spot to charter a fishing boat. Visit the fascinating Barramundi Discovery Centre and enjoy an evening meal at Sunset Tavern where the sun meets the sea.

The  Sunset Tavern is a beautiful spot to end the day. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Day 7: Karumba to Burketown

Distance: 370kms — around 4.5 hours

It’s hard to resist pausing in Normanton for a photo at its eight-metre crocodile (relax, it’s a replica) and bright Purple Pub .

Meet Krys the Crocodile, the statue of Australia’s largest known crocodile. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Burketown on the Albert River is another terrific spot to tackle barramundi, so be sure to pack your fishing rod, or you can hire one locally. Take a sunset cruise or hot air balloon flight with Indigenous-owned Yagurli Tours .

Take in the sights of Burketown from above in a hot air balloon. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Day 8: Burketown to Seven Emu Station (NT border)

Distance: 420kms — around 7.5 hours

Whiz on out west, filling up with petrol at Hells’ Gate Roadhouse and passing over the border into the Northern Territory. Your destination is working cattle station Seven Emu Station , where the campsites overlook the Robinson River. Enjoy birdwatching, fishing for trevally and mackerel, and chatting with the Shadforth family about their traditional Garawa culture. Seven Emu Station is accessible by 4WD only. Check road conditions before visiting.

Refuel at Hell’s Gate Roadhouse on Westmoreland Road. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Detour: If you have time to spare, make a pit stop at a phenomenal outback oasis —  Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park . Stay at Adels Grove Camping Park (reopening on 14 July 2023) and explore its emerald-green waters, fossil deposit, and red sandstone walls.

Day 9: Seven Emu Station to Daly Waters

Distance: 484kms — around 8.5 hours

There’s no hiding the fact you have a long, lonely drive today, with only two towns along the way — Borroloola (where you can stock up on supplies) and Arnold with a population of about 30.

Admire stunning views of weathered sandstone pillars at Caranbirini Conservation Reserve. (Image: Tourism NT/Sean Scott)

Birdwatchers should detour to Caranbirini Conservation Reserve and keen anglers to King Ash Bay, renowned for its barramundi. Then you hit the Stuart Highway that runs from Darwin to Adelaide . Turn right and aim to stay at The Daly Waters Pub , which has a motel, cabins, budget rooms, and camping. The eccentric outback pub features bras hanging from the ceiling, and great beef-and-barramundi barbecues during the dry season.

Grab a drink at the quirky Daly Waters Pub. (Image: Tourism NT/Helen Orr)

Day 10: Daly Waters to Katherine

Distance: 280kms — around 3 hours

Heading north, pause at Larrimah, which has another historic bush pub (the highest bar in the Northern Territory), or in Mataranka , made famous in the 1908 Jeannie Gunn novel, We of the Never-Never . In adjacent Elsey National Park, you’ll find turquoise spring water pools perfect for a plunge, as well as a landscape patchworked with savannah woodland, stone country, and monsoon rainforest.

Pop into Larrimah Wayside Inn for a cold pint. (Image: Tourism NT/Sean Scott)

Overnight in Katherine or 20 minutes away at Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, where you’ll find campgrounds and the luxury Cicada Lodge .

Stay in a luxe suite at Cicada Lodge. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Day 11: Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge

You’ll want to spend the day in this series of spectacular gorges in Nitmiluk National Park and stay for sunset when the cliffs glow red. Take a river cruise, paddle a hired kayak, or take to the hiking trails.

Tour Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge on a cruise. (Image: Tourism NT/Katie Goldie)

It’s worth splashing out on a scenic flight, which offers breathtaking views over the stunning countryside. Check out Baruwei Lookout for jaw-dropping views over the ancient gorge system.

Baruwei Lookout offers breathtaking views of the spectacular gorge. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Day 12: Katherine to Litchfield National Park

As you move out the next day, Leliyn (Edith Falls) is another Nitmiluk National Park must-see where you can enjoy a swim or hike.

Take a sunrise dip at Edith Falls. (Image: Tourism NT/Mitch Cox)

Your next stops should be former gold-rush town Pine Creek and Adelaide River , famous for its jumping crocodile cruises. Finish your day in accommodation at Batchelor , gateway to Litchfield National Park, or camp in the park itself.

Spot the monster from the deep on a jumping crocodile cruise on the Adelaide River. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Day 13: Litchfield National Park

There are plenty of waterfalls and waterholes (follow safety directions and check alerts for saltwater crocodiles before swimming) in Litchfield National Park that are accessible via sealed roads: Florence Falls and Buley Rockhole are popular among both locals and visitors.

Buley Rockhole is tucked within rapid-flowing streams in Litchfield National Park. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

Head to Wangi Falls where you can take a short rainforest walk or book a scenic helicopter flight year-round. Don’t forget to stop for a photo at the peculiar-looking magnetic termite mounds along the way, which take on an orange glow at sunset.

Litchfield National Park is home to scenic Wangi Falls. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

Day 14: Litchfield National Park to Darwin

Distance: 140kms — around 1.5 hours

Your destination is in sight, but you might also consider stopping at Berry Springs Nature Park for a swim in the cooling blue-green woodland pools and Territory Wildlife Park to see the full range of outback animals, including nocturnal creatures seldom seen in the wild.

Cool off at Berry Springs Nature Park. (Image: Tourism NT)

Now you’ve arrived at Australia’s Top End, here’s our pick of the best things to see and do in and around Darwin .

Important information

• Distances are approximate (add time on for detours). Hours refer to driving time only.
• You need a 4WD as sections of the road on this route are unsealed. You could, however, do the first and last sections in a 2WD.
• Travel in the dry season (from May to October). Avoid the wet season, as roads may be impassable and you risk getting stranded.
• Keep watch on the fuel gauge as petrol stations are infrequent. Carry water and consider bringing a satellite phone as mobile reception can be patchy or non-existent.
• Don’t swim without authoritative local advice, since waterways may be inhabited by saltwater crocodiles.
• For more tips and tricks, here’s everything you need to know about driving in the Northern Territory .

Venture across the Savannah Way from Cairns to Darwin. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Written by Brian Johnston with updates by Jemma Fletcher.

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Comments (3)

Lorella Springs is a 4WD wonderland but make sure you go there before the waterholes dry out. The roads from Hells Gate and beyond are really tough so take it easy and have an extra spare tyre.

Sensational, thank you.

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