A tropical oasis of adventure and discovery
From its iconic rainforest-filled landscape to its picturesque beaches, this city provides something for everyone looking to uncover all that it has to offer.
At first glance, Cairns may appear as nothing more than another beach town along Australia’s eastern coast. But look closer and you will discover hidden gems tucked away in each corner of this vibrant destination; offering everything from breathtaking natural beauty to fascinating cultural attractions. Whether you are seeking out adrenaline fuelled adventures or simply looking for some rest and relaxation on your travels, Cairns is sure to have something for you.
From snorkeling The Great Barrier Reef’s colorful coral gardens to exploring the many art galleries scattered throughout the city center – there really is no limit when it comes to discovering what Cairns has in store.
What To Do In Cairns
With its world-renowned tropical rainforest full of exotic wildlife – there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences to be had in this paradise corner of Queensland.
If you’re looking for an adventure off the beaten path, take a dip in one of many swimming holes accompanied by waterfalls. Or if you prefer marine life encounters over land sightseeing – why not try snorkeling at The Great Barrier Reef? Take a cruise along the coastline with majestic views guaranteed!
And when it comes to relaxation after all these activities – what could be better than lounging around underneath palm trees? Enjoy laidback vibes while sipping delicious cocktails made from local ingredients. After all, nothing quite beats spending quality time with family and friends under the crystal clear sky of Cairns.
Where To Stay In Cairns
The beauty of Cairns lies in its easy access to everything you need – fun activities, delicious restaurants, beautiful beaches, unique stores – all within reach! But it’s what comes after hours that really makes this destination special. With a plethora of accommodation options available, finding somewhere to stay won’t be hard.
From luxury beach resorts to cozy guesthouses, camping spots and backpackers hostels – whatever experience you’re looking for can be found here. Whether it’s on land or sea there are plenty of places to rest your head. So why not settle down for the night with a view overlooking the Coral Sea! From budget-friendly short-term rentals through to long vacation stays – Cairns has something for everyone.
Take advantage of all the area offers by choosing the perfect place to call home during your visit. And make sure you take time out to relax and soak up the atmosphere as you explore this tropical paradise at your own pace.
Best Beaches In Cairns
Cairns is a paradise of sun, sand and surf. With its incredible beaches, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to finding the perfect spot to relax in the sunshine! Did you know that Cairns has over 150km of coastline? That’s an impressive amount of beachfront real estate!
Let me tell you about some of my favourite spots along this amazing stretch – all great places to visit if you’re looking for fun in the sun.
First up is Trinity Beach, arguably one of the most beautiful destinations in Far North Queensland. The white sands are lined with plenty of shady palm trees and there’s also a playground nearby so little ones can enjoy too.
The Palm Cove Esplanade offers unbeatable views across tranquil turquoise waters. Take a relaxing stroll along the boardwalk or bring out your inner artist and capture stunning sunset shots from here – just make sure your phone battery is charged! Of course, there’s also lots of swimming opportunities here as well as excellent fish and chips shops close by.
No trip would be complete without visiting Four Mile Beach on Port Douglas. This picturesque destination boasts crystal clear waters perfect for snorkelling and paddling around in kayaks. It’s also conveniently located near cafes, bars and restaurants – making it ideal for those days when you want to kick back after a day at the beach.
Great Restaurants In Cairns
Cairns is a paradise for foodies! It’s like being in an all-you-can-eat buffet: there are so many delicious options, it can be hard to decide what to eat first. From classic Aussie dishes to international flavors, the restaurants of Cairns offer something for every taste and budget.
You’ll find some of the best seafood in Australia at one of the amazing seaside eateries. Or if you’re after something exotic, why not try one of the traditional Japanese or Indian places? There are also plenty of great cafes that serve up healthy meals, as well as cozy pubs with succulent steaks and burgers. No matter where you go, you won’t be disappointed – each restaurant has its own unique atmosphere and charm.
When hunger strikes in Cairns, don’t settle for anything less than extraordinary! With so many mouthwatering cuisines available, your dining experience will always be unforgettable. Whether you choose to dine al fresco along the waterfront or enjoy a romantic dinner by candlelight in town – prepare yourself for an epicurean adventure that will tantalize all your senses!
Shopping In Cairns
Did you know that Cairns is the 4th most visited city in Australia? This bustling city has so much to offer, and shopping is no exception. Whether you’re looking for some souvenirs or want to treat yourself with a special purchase, there are plenty of options in this vibrant town.
Head over to The Pier Shopping Centre – it’s one of the largest centres in the area, offering an array of shops ranging from clothing stores like H&M and Cotton On, home decor outlets, accessories stalls, jewellery stores and more. There are also several eateries here too if you need a break after all your retail therapy!
If antiques float your boat then make sure not to miss out on Rusty’s Markets; they have heaps of vintage items including clothes, furniture and other collectibles. And don’t forget about Night Markets either – they take place every Wednesday night at 5 pm near Four Mile Beach. Here vendors sell their wares such as locally-made arts & crafts pieces plus yummy foodie treats which makes it great for those who fancy something unique!
Whatever type of shopping experience takes your fancy, Cairns will be able to provide it – just make sure you bring enough cash (or card) with ya!
Popular Tours In Cairns
A list of must-see attractions is a guided walk through the lush Daintree Rainforest. Here, you’ll be able to marvel at some of nature’s most wondrous creatures as you take in the stunning sights, sounds and smells of one of Australia’s oldest ecosystems. Plus, with experienced guides available for hire who know all about local wildlife and plants, it couldn’t be more educational.
Next up is an array of exciting activities such as snorkelling along the Great Barrier Reef or sky diving over Mission Beach. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation (or both!), there’s something here to suit everyone’s taste and budgets. With plenty of reputable tour operators offering packages tailored just for your needs, organising your dream trip will be a breeze.
Local Attractions In Cairns
If you’re looking for an exciting afternoon out, why not take a trip to The Esplanade? This waterfront promenade offers great views over Trinity Bay as well as plenty of cafes, restaurants and shops. You can also enjoy safe swimming, kayaking or taking part in one of their many activities such as the Lagoon Pool or Night Markets. If that doesn’t interest you then try your luck at the nearby casino or catch a show at Centre of Contemporary Arts.
Looking for more natural attractions? Then head on down to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures and experience close encounters with crocodiles, koalas and other native animals from Australia’s Tropical North. Explore exotic gardens, join educational talks by zookeepers, board a boat cruise around mangrove-lined waterways, witness feeding demonstrations – it really is a must-see attraction when visiting Cairns!
Tips For Visiting Cairns
Be prepared for the heat – it can get pretty hot during the day so it’s important to bring proper clothing and plenty of water with you. Also, make sure to plan ahead when deciding on activities – there are lots of things to do in Cairns but they tend to book up quickly.
Don’t forget to go exploring! As mentioned before, Cairns is bursting with natural beauty – take a leisurely stroll through its lush gardens or explore the rainforest trails nearby. There are countless hidden gems to discover and enjoy here. You won’t regret taking some time away from the tourist attractions and discovering what lies beneath the surface in this amazing part of Australia.
History Of Cairns
This fascinating city has been around since the late-1800s and there are plenty of stories to tell about its past. Captain James Cook, a British explorer and navigator, is famous for discovering and mapping Australia’s east coast, including the area that is now Cairns in Far North Queensland. Cook sailed along the coast in 1770 and named several landmarks, including Trinity Bay (which is now the location of Cairns). He also made several observations about the indigenous people and the natural environment in the region, which aided in the eventual European settlement – eventually leading to Cairns being established as a port for exporting sugar cane from Far North Queensland by 1888. That same year marked the start of construction on what would become one of Australia’s largest railway stations – The Great Northern Railway – which connected Cairns with points further south like Townsville & Brisbane.
Fast forward several decades, and during World War II Cairns became an important military base due to its close proximity to Singapore & Japan. Afterward, it continued growing rapidly in population size thanks largely to immigration from Europe & Asia. Eventually, those new settlers helped establish many iconic landmarks throughout town; including the picturesque Esplanade Boardwalk along the coastline – which is still enjoyed by visitors today!
So there you have it folks: A brief look at how this amazing region went from a quiet outpost in rural Queensland over 200 years ago to one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations.
Weather In Cairns
The weather in this tropical paradise is something special – an asset for visitors from all over the world! Here are four reasons why:
1) With sunshine almost year-round, it’s easy to plan activities regardless of when you visit. Whether your preference is swimming or sunbathing, there’s no shortage of opportunity here.
2) If rain does fall during your stay don’t worry; it usually passes quickly so you won’t miss out on any fun activities.
3) For outdoor enthusiasts who like variety, Cairns offers plenty in terms of climates. From balmy evenings to warm days with cool breezes, there really is something for everyone!
A great destination for travellers seeking adventure and relaxation alike, Cairns has been blessed with a unique combination of seasons and climates which make it ideal for soaking up some much needed R&R after a long day exploring this beautiful part of Queensland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Cairns?
The best months are between April and November. During these months, temperatures range from comfortable 25-30 degrees Celsius during the day with cooler nights which makes outdoor activities even more enjoyable. You’ll also get the chance to see turtles hatching on Green Island or take part in whale watching excursions as they migrate through the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park – truly an unforgettable experience!
During this period, visitors can also enjoy strolling around local markets like Rusty’s Markets for unique souvenirs and delicious local produce. The Esplanade Lagoon Pool is always bustling with activity too, so bring your swimmers and make sure you cool off from all that exploring! And don’t forget about nightlife either; there’s plenty of bars along Grafton Street for locals and tourists alike where you can have a few drinks with friends old and new.
What Is The Cost Of Living In Cairns?
A stay in Cairns can be quite budget friendly for those who are smart about their spending habits. Eating out or ordering takeaway food often proves relatively inexpensive too; a meal from local restaurants will typically run between $15–20 depending on the type of cuisine desired.
However, some parts of daily life may come as somewhat of a surprise when it comes to costs. Groceries tend to be more expensive than most other cities in Australia due to its remote location; items that people usually take for granted such as milk, bread, eggs, etc., might set you back more.
What Is The Public Transportation System Like In Cairns?
The Sunbus – Cairns’ local bus service. Operating since 2004, their fleet services most areas in and around the city limits seven days a week. Fares are cheap too; for under $5 you can easily hop onto one of these convenient chariots, passing through some of the area’s most scenic spots along the way. Whether you’re visiting or living in Cairns, this reliable form of transport will take you wherever your heart desires.
If you’re looking for something more luxurious (or perhaps faster!) then why not try out one of Cairns’ iconic heritage trams? With routes running along both sides of The Esplanade and up into Palm Cove, they offer stunning views while transporting tourists safely between destinations at no extra cost! Their historic charm adds an extra layer of flavor to any visit, making them well worth checking out for those seeking something special during their stay.
So come on down to Cairns! You’ll find our public transportation system like nothing else in Australia – providing a safe and efficient way to explore all we have to offer without breaking the bank. Whether by bus or tram, there are plenty of ways to experience this beautiful northern paradise at your own pace.
What Is The Nightlife Like In Cairns?
The bar scene in Cairns is one of many highlights, particulary during the ‘Tourist Season’. From waterfront bars to bustling pubs and clubs, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for a laid-back evening out, take a stroll along the esplanade and enjoy some drinks al fresco style – it doesn’t get any better than this! For those who are keen on dancing the night away, there are plenty of venues offering DJ sets and themed nights guaranteed to make your heart beat faster.
Are There Any Special Events Or Festivals In Cairns?
The annual Cairns Festival which celebrates Indigenous culture, to the iconic Ironman event that attracts athletes from all around the world, there’s always something exciting happening in this city. You can find music concerts held by international artists or local talent at the Esplanade park – a great spot for an evening out on the town. And if you’re up for it, why not take part in one of the many sporting activities such as tennis tournaments or dragon boat races taking place along the waterfront?
Cairns also has its very own Mardi Gras parade every year where colourful costumes and vibrant floats line the streets – definitely not to be missed! If you’re looking for something more relaxed then check out the markets held throughout town featuring fresh produce, handcrafted goods, arts and crafts
Cairns is a great place to visit any time of year. With its warm climate, natural beauty, and vibrant nightlife there truly is something for everyone in Cairns. From the bustling city center with its shops and restaurants to the stunning beaches, rainforest hikes and cultural events there’s plenty to explore and enjoy here.
From relaxing beach days to wild nights out on the town – no matter what your interests may be you won’t be disappointed by all that Cairns has to offer.