Cairns Visitor Guide – Reef, Rainforest and Local Tips

Cairns Visitor Guide Welcome to Cairns come explore our beautiful city with us.

Cairns is where your tropical holiday truly begins a sun-soaked city framed by ocean, rainforest, and warm Far North Queensland hospitality.
Whether you’re here to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, wander lush rainforest trails, or simply enjoy good food and sunshine by the water, Cairns welcomes you with open arms.

This friendly guide is designed to help visitors feel at home and discover the very best of our beautiful region.

Why Cairns is Loved by Travellers from Around the World

Cairns has a tropical rhythm all its own relaxed yet vibrant, full of colour, nature, and smiles.

Visitors fall in love with:

The laid-back coastal atmosphere
Sunrises framed by palm trees
The safe, sparkling Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
Easy access to islands, reef tours, waterfalls and wildlife
A welcoming city centre full of cafés, markets and friendly locals

It’s the perfect base for exploring the two incredible World Heritage areas that meet here: the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest.

Great Barrier Reef Adventures

Cairns is the heart of the Great Barrier Reef the starting point for unforgettable reef experiences for every type of traveller.

Here, you can:

Snorkel above colourful coral gardens
Spend a day on Green Island or Fitzroy Island
Join a liveaboard and wake up on the reef
Try your first ever scuba dive
Drift over coral from a glass-bottom boat
Explore semi-submarines and underwater observatories
Meet turtles, clownfish, giant clams and more

The reef inspires wonder in everyone, from first-timers to experienced divers.

Rainforest, Waterfalls and Wildlife

Just beyond the city, you’ll find green valleys, ancient forest, and some of Australia’s most spectacular waterfalls.

Top experiences include:

Kuranda via the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway or Scenic Railway
Barron Gorge and its dramatic lookout
Atherton Tablelands crater lakes, waterfalls and local produce
Wildlife encounters with tree kangaroos, butterflies and rainforest birds
The Cairns Botanic Gardens, a peaceful tropical haven

Cairns is one of the only places in the world where you can explore reef and rainforest in the same day.

Food, Coffee and Local Favourites

Cairns has a wonderful food culture shaped by tropical produce, local talent, and friendly service.

Visitors love:

Rusty’s Markets fresh fruit, spices, juices and artisan treats
Perrotta’s at the Gallery a beloved Cairns café
The lively Esplanade dining precinct
Fresh seafood and waterfront restaurants
Local roasteries and great coffee

Whether you’re after brunch, fine dining, or a picnic overlooking the water, Cairns has something delicious waiting for you.

Things to Do in Cairns

Here’s a quick guide to Cairns highlights:

Swim in the Cairns Lagoon
Walk or cycle the Esplanade boardwalk
Explore Green Island or Fitzroy Island
Join a Great Barrier Reef day tour
Enjoy a scenic helicopter flight
Ride the Skyrail or Kuranda Scenic Railway
Wander the Cairns Botanic Gardens
Discover waterfalls in the Atherton Tablelands
Visit Cairns Koalas and Creatures

There’s something to excite every kind of traveller.

Need Help Planning Your Visit to Cairns?

Planning your holiday and not sure where to begin?
You’re in good hands.

You can call, email or live chat with our friendly local team, and we’ll help you choose the best tours, islands, wildlife experiences, and must-see attractions personalised to your interests.

Whether you’re travelling with kids, seeking adventure, or planning a relaxing escape, we’ll make it easy.

Call us – talk to a friendly Cairns local
Email us – perfect for tailored itinerary planning
Chat with Matilda, our AI Cairns travel guide – quick answers while you browse
Or drop into our office, open 7 days a week

We’re here to help you have the best possible Cairns holiday.

Drop In and Say Hello — Our Office is Open 7 Days

If you’re already in Cairns, feel free to pop into our office for friendly, face-to-face help.
We love meeting travellers and helping them plan unforgettable reef and rainforest adventures.

Whether you want honest advice, last-minute tour ideas, or simply someone to point you in the right direction, we’re always happy to assist.

Come and say hello the door is always open.

First time in Cairns? Reef Experience departs Cairns Marina daily for a full day on the Outer Reef, with a free scuba dive included alongside snorkelling, a marine biologist on board and a buffet lunch — from $290 per person, including the fuel levy. Book your reef day →