Cairns Australia - Your Ultimate Guide to the Best of Tropical North Queensland
Welcome to Cairns – Australia’s Tropical Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef
Plan your dream tropical holiday with the best tours, local tips, and unforgettable experiences.
Plan your trip
A trip to Cairns wouldn’t be complete without experiencing Cairns most iconic attractions, famous destinations, and exciting tours. Book in advance so you don’t miss out.
About Cairns
- Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef: Cairns is the ideal base for exploring the world’s largest coral reef system, with easy access to unforgettable snorkelling, diving, and reef tours.
- Lush Rainforest Adventures: Discover the wonders of the nearby Daintree Rainforest, where ancient trees, unique wildlife, and scenic trails offer an immersive nature experience.
- Cairns Esplanade Lagoon: Relax and unwind at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, a beautiful waterfront area perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying scenic views.
- Thrilling Outdoor Activities: Cairns is a hub for adventure seekers, offering everything from white-water rafting and zip-lining to bungee jumping and skydiving.
- Rich Indigenous Culture: Learn about the area’s rich Indigenous heritage with cultural tours, art galleries, and authentic experiences with local Aboriginal guides.
- World-Class Dining and Nightlife: From fresh seafood to vibrant markets and lively bars, Cairns has a thriving food and nightlife scene to enjoy after a day of adventure.
- Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail: Take a scenic journey through the rainforest by train or cableway to the village of Kuranda, known for its arts, crafts, and wildlife encounters.
- Spectacular Waterfalls: Discover beautiful waterfalls like Barron Falls and Crystal Cascades, just a short drive from Cairns, perfect for a refreshing day trip.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Cairns offers a range of family-friendly attractions, including the Cairns Aquarium, Butterfly Sanctuary, and kid-friendly tours on the reef.
- Easy Access to Tropical Islands: With day trips to islands like Green Island and Fitzroy Island, Cairns offers an ideal starting point for tropical island adventures on the Great Barrier Reef.
Get inspired watch the video
Discover Cairns. We look forward to showing you our beautiful city.
Over a million visitors are drawn to Cairns each year, eager to experience the unparalleled beauty of Australia’s most iconic natural wonders—the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. These world-renowned attractions offer a breathtaking blend of vibrant marine life and ancient rainforest ecosystems, making Cairns the ultimate destination for nature lovers and adventurers. But the magic of Cairns doesn’t stop there. Beyond the reef and rainforest, a wealth of hidden gems is waiting to be discovered—from scenic coastal drives and idyllic islands to cultural experiences that connect you with the region’s rich heritage.
Need Answers Quickly? We’re Here to Help!
Our search tool is the quickest way to find your desired answers when you need information quickly (on the top right-hand side of every page). If you’d like more personalised assistance, you can contact us live during business hours seven days a week, email us, or call us. Our friendly team is always happy to help you plan your visit to Cairns and make your trip unforgettable.
Whether planning your first visit or returning to uncover more of what this tropical paradise offers, our virtual visitor information centre guides you. Explore itineraries tailored to every type of traveller, get insider tips on the best times to visit, and discover the many ways you can immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Cairns. Join us online to start planning your adventure, and let Cairns inspire you to explore, relax, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
The Cairns Esplanade is the city’s lively waterfront, lined with various bars, restaurants, and a popular swimming lagoon that offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. Just northwest of Cairns, the Daintree National Park awaits, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by mountainous rainforests, dramatic gorges, and pristine beaches—a natural wonderland that invites exploration.
With a population of approximately 150,041, Cairns is a city that perfectly blends urban energy with the tranquillity of its natural surroundings. The tropical climate, with average temperatures ranging from a warm 29.4°C (85°F) during the day to a comfortable 21.0°C (70°F) at night, makes it an ideal destination year-round. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Cair
Your comprehensive resource for exploring the stunning city of Cairns and its surrounding natural wonders. Nestled in Tropical North Queensland, Cairns is the gateway to the world’s most spectacular UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Whether planning an adventurous holiday or a relaxing getaway, CairnsAustralia.com is here to help you make the most of your visit.
Get inspired for the best things to see and do.
Explore Cairns City
Cairns is a vibrant city brimming with life and activity. With its tropical climate, a bustling marina, and an array of dining and shopping options, it offers something for everyone. Stroll along the picturesque Cairns Esplanade, dip in the lagoon, or explore the lively night markets. The city is also a hub for adventure, with numerous tours and activities catering to thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
FAQ: What to Do in Cairns
What is the best time to visit Cairns?
The best time to visit Cairns is during the dry season (May to October), when the weather is warm, sunny, and less humid. This is also the best time for snorkelling and diving on the Great Barrier Reef, as water visibility is at its best. The wet season (November to April) brings higher temperatures, tropical rain, and the chance to see the rainforest in full bloom.
What are the must-do activities in Cairns?
Cairns is the gateway to some of Australia’s most famous natural wonders! Must-do activities include Exploring the Great Barrier Reef – Snorkel, scuba dive, or take a scenic cruise to one of the world’s most spectacular marine ecosystems. Visiting the Daintree Rainforest – Walk among ancient trees, spot cassowaries, and cruise the Daintree River looking for crocodiles. Taking the Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail – A breathtaking journey through rainforest-covered mountains and waterfalls. Relaxing at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon – A safe and scenic swimming spot with ocean views. Chasing waterfalls in the Atherton Tablelands – Visit Millaa Millaa Falls, Josephine Falls, and Babinda Boulders for a refreshing dip.
Can you swim at the beaches in Cairns?
Yes, but with caution! Cairns does not have a traditional beach, but nearby beaches like Palm Cove, Trinity Beach, and Ellis Beach are great for swimming. During stinger season (November to May), some beaches have stinger nets to protect swimmers from marine stingers (jellyfish). Always follow safety signs and lifeguard advice. For a safe, year-round swimming option, the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is a fantastic alternative.
How do I get to the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns?
Cairns is the main departure point for Great Barrier Reef tours. You can reach the reef by: Day tours – High-speed catamarans take visitors to outer reef locations, islands, and pontoons for snorkeling and diving. Liveaboard experiences – Multi-day reef trips allow for extended diving, snorkelling, and overnight stays on the reef. Scenic flights – Helicopter and plane tours offer a breathtaking aerial view of the reef.
Do I need a car to get around Cairns?
Not necessarily! Cairns has walkable city streets, and most tours offer hotel pick-ups. Public buses connect Cairns to nearby beaches and attractions, but if you want to explore further afield—such as the Atherton Tablelands, Port Douglas, or Cape Tribulation—renting a car is the best way to travel at your own pace.
Click here for more FAQs.
Family Fun in Cairns
Who Is CairnsAustralia.com
Owned and operated by a local family who wakes up in awe every day at the beauty of Cairns, CairnsAustralia.com is not just a travel site. It’s your guide to one of the most extraordinary places on Earth. Cairns is a treasure trove of natural wonders, uniquely positioned as the only place in the world where two World Heritage sites—the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest—sit side by side.
Explore the spectacular surroundings of Cairns with us!
Starting from Cairns, every direction promises adventure and breathtaking beauty! Whether you venture north to the ancient Daintree Rainforest, south to the historical sites, east to the magnificent Great Barrier Reef, or west to the rugged landscapes of the Atherton Tablelands, there’s something genuinely unique waiting for you.
Explore Cairns Tours by type.
Useful Information
Explore Cairns by Tour type
Explore Cairns by feature
4WD Tours Cairns
Babinda Boulders
Barron Falls
Beach
Bloomfield Track
Bungy
bus
Cave
City Tour
Cruise
Daintree River Cruise
Day Tours
Dinner Cruise
Dive Expedition
Fishing
Food
Glass Bottom Boat
Granite Gorge
Helicopter
Helmet Diving
High Ropes Course
Hiking
horse riding
Hot Air Balloon
Introductory Scuba Dive
Josephine Falls
Kayak
Lake Eacham
Lakefield National Park
Lakes
Liveaboard
Marine Biologist
MIllaa Millaa Falls
Mossman Gorge
Night Tour
Outback
Outer Great Barrier Reef
Parasailing
Paronella Park
Petting Zoo
Plane
Rainforestation
Reef Pontoon
Sailing
Scuba Diving
Semi-submarine
Skydiving
Skyrail
Snorkelling
stand up paddleboard
Sunset Cruise
swimming
The Australian Armour and Artillery Museum
Train
Underwater Observatory
Waterfalls
Water Slide
white water rafting
Wildlife
wine tasting
zoo
Reviews
The locals are so welcoming and friendly, as you will find out as you go to visit all the attractions Cairns has to offer, from a boat ride out to the Barrier Reef, or a trip to Kuranda up in the rain forest on the Sky Rail and then down river looking for crocodiles and ending your day in one of the many excellent restaurants, you are spoilt for choice. Far too many attractions to mention.
Best place for reef , I travelled 5 yrs back with family ,, superb experience , must do snorkelling, swimming and other water activities
Best place in Queensland 🙆♀️Absolutely love this place , heaps too do places to go" People too Meet"
Fantastic boardwalk & memorial area to walk around. Nicer if the tide is in.
Great spot for backpackers and families with kids. The Lagoon swimming pool is free and safe the fishing on Cairns bay is really good. Your spoilt for choice when it comes to dining but I'd try the RSL club.
Cairns Australia is tropical paradise, there is so much to see and do here, scuba dive the Great Barrier Reef, visit the Daintree Rainforest, bungee jump, skydive, hot air ballooning, snorkeling, horse riding - it really is awesome
Could hardly believe my luck when they said the free introductory scuba dive was included in the package. I ended up doing a second dive for a nominal fee. The staff are very knowledgeable and helpful and have an excellent sense of humour. There's plenty to eat and drink on-board and the chef does a brilliant job at putting together lunch.
Our Instagram
🌴✈️ New Direct Flight from Fiji to Cairns! 🇫🇯🇦🇺
Say bula to a new tropical adventure! Cairns now welcomes direct flights from Fiji, connecting two incredible island destinations. Whether you‘re coming to explore the Great Barrier Reef, discover ancient rainforests, or just soak up the sunshine—Cairns is the perfect starting point for your Aussie escape.
This new route makes it easier than ever to travel between paradise and adventure.
#CairnsAustralia #FijiToCairns #GreatBarrierReef #TropicalNorthQueensland #VisitCairns
🌙 Night at the Aquarium Cairns – A Unique After-Dark Adventure 🐠
Step into the hidden world of the Great Barrier Reef after dark with Night at the Aquarium, an exclusive guided tour at Cairns Aquarium. 🌌
Discover glowing bioluminescent corals, meet nocturnal marine predators like sharks and rays, and explore the buzzing life of the rainforest at night. 🌿🦎 This 1.5-hour tour offers a rare glimpse into the reef’s nocturnal side – and you can even upgrade to enjoy a delicious 2-course dinner surrounded by sea life. 🍽️
🎟️ Book your experience: https://cairnsaustralia.com/tours/attractions/night-at-the-aquarium-cairns/
#CairnsAustralia #NightAtTheAquarium #GreatBarrierReef #CairnsThingsToDo #Bioluminescence #FamilyFun
🌅 Rex Smeal Park Sunset Magic 🌴✨
There’s no better way to end the day than watching the sun dip below the horizon at Rex Smeal Park. 🌞🌊 With stunning views of the Coral Sea and the mountains in the background, it’s the perfect spot to relax and take in the beauty of Cairns. 🌅💛
#CairnsAustralia #RexSmealPark #SunsetViews #TropicalParadise #NatureLovers
🌿 Explore the Daintree Rainforest 🌱🌳
Step into a world of ancient beauty with a visit to the Daintree Rainforest! 🌺✨
Start at the stunning Alexandra Lookout for panoramic views, then wander through the lush Cape Tribulation Rainforest Walk 🌳👣. Don’t forget to stop by Rex Lookout on your way back for more breathtaking sights! 🏞️
Ready to embrace the beauty of nature? 🌿🌞 Book your ultimate rainforest tour with the link in the bio!
#CairnsAustralia #DaintreeRainforest #CapeTribulation #RainforestAdventure #ExploreCairns #NatureLovers #TropicalParadise
🌿 Rainforest in the Rain ☔✨
There’s something magical about the rainforest coming to life in the rain. 🌧️🌳 The fresh scent, the vibrant greens, and the peaceful sounds of nature—it’s nature’s therapy at its finest. 🌿💚
Have you explored the rainforest in the rain? Plan your adventure today! 🌏✨Link in the bio
#CairnsAustralia #TropicalRainforest #NaturesTherapy #ExploreCairns
Where two World Heritage sites collide 🌴🌊
Welcome to Cape Tribulation, a place rich in history and natural beauty. 🌿Named by Captain James Cook in 1770 after his ship, the Endeavour, struck the reef nearby, Cape Tribulation became a symbol of challenge and resilience.
Today, it’s a gateway to the world’s oldest rainforest and the stunning Great Barrier Reef.🚶♂️ Hike through ancient trails🐊 Spot wildlife in their natural habitat🏖️ Relax on unspoiled beachesFrom its historic roots to its breathtaking landscapes, Cape Tribulation is the ultimate escape.
Ready to explore? Book your trip with us with the link in the bio
#CairnsAustralia #CapeTribulation #DaintreeRainforest #GreatBarrierReef #ExploreAustralia #TropicalParadise
🌴 Palm Cove Perfection 🌊Stroll along the beach, dip your toes in the sand, and let the serene beauty of Palm Cove captivate you. The perfect spot to slow down and connect with nature. 🌞🏝️#CairnsAustralia #PalmCove #NatureEscape #TropicalBeach #UnwindInParadise
🚂 Scenic Train Rides, Rainforest Adventures, and Ocean Wonders! 🌿 Take a ride on the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway, explore the lush rainforest, and dive into the depths of the Great Barrier Reef at Cairns Aquarium. A perfect day of adventure, nature, and breathtaking sights awaits! 🦋🐠
📍 Book your tour now and experience it all! Link in the bio
🎥: @y.yuuki1030
#CairnsAustralia #KurandaScenicRailway #CairnsAquarium #TropicalAdventure
Josephine Falls holds a special place in our hearts! 💦💚 With its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking surroundings, it’s a slice of paradise in the Atherton Tablelands. 🌴✨
📸 @joehardy.01
Click the link in our bio to learn more!
#VisitAthertonTablelands #JosephineFalls #NatureEscape #TropicalNorthQLD
Hello 2025! 🎇Cairns kicked off the year with a spectacular fireworks display, lighting up the night sky and filling our hearts with joy and anticipation. 🌟 The city came alive with vibrant colors and energy as locals and visitors gathered to ring in the New Year together. 🥳 Whether you were watching from the waterfront, dining with friends, or sharing the moment with loved ones, Cairns was the place to be. Here’s to unforgettable memories, fresh starts, and endless adventures ahead in 2025! 🎆✨#CairnsNewYear #FireworksNight #CairnsVibes #CelebrateCairns #NewYearCelebration
Cairns Best Tours
Spirit of Cairns Dinner Cruise
Join Spirit of Cairns for a memorable dinner cruise that will enchant you from start to finish. As you step on board, you'll be welcomed with a...
Read more
Green Island Discovery Tour
Green Island Discovery tour A wonderful day of sightseeing with transfers, snorkelling equipment, a glass-bottom boat excursion, and up to 7 hours on the island
Read more
Uncle Brian’s Waterfall Tour
Uncle Brian’s Waterfalls Tour takes you to Cairns’ best waterfalls, rainforest pools, and wildlife spots for a fun, unforgettable adventure!
Read more
Tully River Rafting
Brace yourself for a day of non-stop excitement on Tully River! Our Tully River rafting adventure promises thrills and adrenaline in the heart of Australia's most iconic...
Read more
Great Barrier Reef Scenic Reef Flight
Our scenic reef flight is the perfect way to see Australia's Great Barrier Reef from a different perspective, see islands, reefs and sand cays
Read more
Chillagoe Caves Australian Outback Tour
This tour explores the Australian Outback from Far North Queensland. Leave Cairns in your custom-built 4WD and travel through the wetlands viewing Wallabies, Emus, and other wildlife....
Read more
Daintree Rainforest Tour
Explore the oldest living tropical rainforest in the world Daintree Rainforest, spot a crocodile on our Daintree River Cruise, enjoy our guided rainforest walk
Read more
Reef Experience
Reef Experience, Great Barrier Reef Tours departing from Cairns daily, includes bus transfers, reef levies, wetsuit snorkelling, scuba diving, breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea. Boarding for our...
Read more
Sunlover Reef Cruises – Moore Reef Pontoon 🤿
At Sunlover Reef Cruises, we're your ticket to the breathtaking beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. Dive into pristine waters, snorkel among vibrant corals, and encounter the...
Read more
Grand Kuranda
Combining the Scenic Train journey with the world famous Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Rainforestation including Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience, meet some of our Australian native animals
Read more
Cairns Reef Fishing
Cairns fishing offers wonderful fishing and wonderful table fish so join us for an exciting day fishing on the Great Barrier Reef.
Read more
Top Deck Club Reef Day Cruise ✨
Top Deck Club is the best VIP reef tour, departing daily from Cairns at 8 am this tour comes with a valet to look after your every...
Read more
Helicopter Cairns
Experience the magic of the Great Barrier Reef with Cairns 30 Minute Scenic Reef Helicopter Flight. An absolute must do when visiting Cairns.
Read more
Beyond the Range (30 mins) 🚁
Experience a thrilling 30-minute helicopter tour over Cairns, the Great Dividing Range, and iconic North Queensland landmarks.
Read more
Hot Air Balloon from Cairns 🎈
Hot Air Balloon Cairns: Enjoy the scenic flight of your lifetime! The views of the Atherton Tablelands are breathtaking.
Read more
Reef Encounter and Daintree Rainforest
Reef Encounter and Daintree rainforest package. See 2 World Heritage sites, snorkelling and scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef and explore the amazing Daintree.
BookRead more
Reef Encounter and Kuranda
Reef Encounter Great Barrier Reef Liveaboard and Kuranda Village Package. See the Great Barrier Reef, go snorkeling or diving, and experience an awesome day trip to Kuranda...
BookRead more
North Queensland Getaway
Immerse yourself in a North Queensland getaway like no other. From the rugged Outback to the pristine Great Barrier Reef and the ancient Daintree Rainforest, this adventure...
BookRead more
Top Deck Club and Daintree Rainforest
Experience two World Heritage Sites with this Top Deck Liveaboard and Rainforest package See the Great Barrier Reef in style on the luxurious Top Deck
BookRead more
Top Deck Family Reef Experience
Luxury Great Barrier Reef tours depart daily from Cairns comes with a valet who will organise the whole day for you Includes two outer barrier
BookRead more
Best of Cairns
Indulge in our luxury tours with Top Deck Club on the Great Barrier Reef, Kuranda Railway & Skyrail Gold Class and Extended Hot Air Ballooning.
BookRead more
Top Deck Club and Kuranda tour
Luxury liveaboard on the Reef and a day trip to Kuranda by train and return with Skyrail.
BookRead more
Cairns Koalas and Creatures 🐨
Experience Australian wildlife up close at Cairns Koalas & Creatures. Capture unforgettable koala photos and explore diverse habitats in Cairns.
Read more
Kuranda Koala Gardens
Kuranda Koala Gardens offers a unique opportunity to connect with Australia's iconic wildlife. From cuddling koalas to discovering nocturnal wonders, our wildlife sanctuary in the heart of...
Read moreAccommodations in Cairns
Reef Encounter
Reef Encounter offers the ultimate Great Barrier Reef experience with 2-10 day liveaboard dive trips departing from Cairns. Whether you're an avid snorkeler or a...
Reef Encounter and Daintree Rainforest
Reef Encounter and Daintree rainforest package. See 2 World Heritage sites, snorkelling and scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef and explore the amazing Daintree.
BookReef Encounter and Kuranda
Reef Encounter Great Barrier Reef Liveaboard and Kuranda Village Package. See the Great Barrier Reef, go snorkeling or diving, and experience an awesome day trip...
BookFind inspiration
Cairns Walking Tracks
Cairns Walking Tracks: A Journey Along the Cairns Esplanade Cairns offers a fantastic walking experience, especially along the scenic Cairns Esplanade. Starting at Trinity Wharf,...
Read more
Cairns the Heart of Tropical North Queensland
Cairns The Heart of Tropical North Queensland Cairns is where the rainforest meets the reef, a vibrant tropical city that offers the perfect blend of...
Read more
Summer in Tropical Cairns
Celebrate Christmas and Summer in Tropical Cairns Christmas and summer in Cairns bring unique magic, blending the festive season with the beauty of Tropical North...
Read more
Cairns best things to see and do
Explore Cairns best things to see and do Cairns is a tropical paradise and offers many things to see and do, making it the perfect...
Read more
Scuba diving in Cairns
Scuba Diving in Cairns: Dive into the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef Cairns is an adventure lover's paradise, especially for scuba diving. As the...
Read more
Cairns Top 5 Snorkel Tours
Sun, Salt, and Vitamin Sea: Top 5 Snorkel Tours in Cairns teeming with life beneath its azure surface. With nearly 3,000 reefs, 1,600 fish species,...
Read more
Exploring the Vibrant Palette of Cairns
A colourful Journey Cairns, the tropical jewel of North Queensland, is a destination that bursts with colour at every turn. From the azure waters of...
Read more
Red Arrow Cairns
Red Arrow Walking Track: Explore Cairns' Scenic Beauty The Red Arrow walking track is a popular and picturesque hiking trail in the heart of Cairns,...
Read more
Easter in Cairns
Celebrate Easter in Cairns: A Tropical Paradise for Your Holiday Getaway Welcome to Cairns, a tropical paradise located in Queensland, Australia. This city is a...
Read more