Things To Do
in Cairns
Cairns is a tropical city in Far North Queensland that sits where lush rainforests meet the sparkling waters of the Coral Sea. It serves as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, ancient jungles, and impressive waterfalls. The city exudes a laid-back, outdoorsy vibe with a growing scene for food, culture, and adventure.
Indigenous heritage and a thriving tourist economy shape a welcoming destination built for exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a scenic boat ride from Cairns to the Great Barrier Reef, soaking in the stunning ocean views. Upon arrival, don your snorkeling gear and dive into the crystal-clear waters, discovering a vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful fish and corals. Enjoy a guided snorkeling tour to learn about the diverse marine life that inhabits this UNESCO World Heritage site.
After a delicious lunch served on the boat, continue your exploration of the reef, perhaps opting for a scuba diving experience to see even more of its wonders. Take some time to relax on the sun deck or participate in educational talks about reef conservation. Capture unforgettable memories with underwater photography as you swim alongside majestic sea turtles.
Return to Cairns in the early evening and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Esplanade, taking in the stunning sunset over the water. Treat yourself to dinner at a waterfront restaurant, where you can savor fresh seafood and local specialties. Conclude your day with a nightcap at one of the many vibrant bars, soaking in the lively atmosphere of this tropical city.
Take the scenic Kuranda Scenic Railway through lush rainforests and picturesque landscapes to reach the charming village of Kuranda. As you arrive, explore the local markets filled with unique handicrafts and indigenous art, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture. Don’t miss a visit to the Kuranda Koala Gardens, where you can meet koalas and kangaroos up close.
After lunch at a local café, ride the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway back down, gliding above the treetops for breathtaking views of the rainforest canopy. Pause at the various stations along the way to appreciate the beauty of waterfalls and flora. Capture the stunning landscapes for your travel album as you descend back into the valley.
Return to Cairns and unwind at the Esplanade Lagoon, a perfect spot for relaxation after a day of adventure. Enjoy a picnic dinner on the grass while watching the sunset paint the sky in vibrant hues. If you’re in the mood for some nightlife, explore local pubs or live music venues nearby.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $40-70 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $7-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree rainforest
- Year-round tropical climate and abundant outdoor activities
- Strong local cuisine and waterfront dining
- Compact city center with walkable areas and great public transport links
- High humidity in the wet season can feel exhausting
- Peak-season crowds around reef trips and markets
- Some longer day trips require car hire or guided tours
- Limited high-end nightlife compared to bigger Australian cities
Places to Visit in Cairns
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour shots along the palm-lined boardwalk with mountain silhouettes and the harbor glow.
Lush tropical plant life, winding paths, and waterfall features provide colorful, vibrant frames.
Short to moderate hike offering sweeping panoramic views of the city, ocean, and surrounding rainforest.
Spectacular rainforest scenery and cascading waterfalls, especially dramatic after rainfall.
Natural swimming holes with forested surroundings—great for long exposure and nature photography.
Ships, yachts, and coastal light against palm-lined horizons—excellent sunset compositions.
Food in Cairns
Cairns Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh reef barramundi grilled or pan-seared, served with citrus herbs and a light sauce, commonly found in waterfront restaurants.
Must-Try!
Spicy, garlic-forward prawns cooked in coconut milk, a coastal favorite at markets and seafood venues.
A traditional Australian bread, enjoyed warm with butter or golden syrup at cafes and pubs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open-air market offering tropical fruits, fresh seafood, ready-to-eat snacks, and local treats.
Evening market with handicrafts, casual eats, and dessert stalls along the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly 'G’day' or 'Hello' with a smile is common; using 'Mate' in casual conversation is widely understood.
Show respect for Indigenous culture and sites; ask for permission when taking photos of people or sacred places; listen to local etiquette when visiting cultural centers.
Respect wildlife and avoid feeding animals; dispose of rubbish properly; leave nature as you found it.
Safety
Tipping in Cairns
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Australia; many people tip around 5–10% for good service if no service charge is included, but it’s not expected in casual venues.
Cash, EFTPOS, and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some remote venues may have limited payment options.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Nov–Mar is hot and highly humid with a tropical downpour pattern (the wet season). Expect afternoon storms, higher insect activity, and occasional cyclones. Sunscreen and light, breathable clothing are essential; stay hydrated and aware of jellyfish in coastal waters during certain months.
Apr–May brings a gradual easing of humidity and rainfall as the wet season winds down; comfortable conditions for outdoor activities and reef trips.
Jun–Aug offers cooler, dry days with clear skies and pleasant sea temperatures; ideal for outdoor hiking and snorkeling with fewer rain disruptions.
Sep–Nov sees warming temperatures and increasing humidity; great for wildlife spotting and preparing for the upcoming wet season.
Cairns at Night
Hiking in Cairns
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular rainforest hike that delivers sweeping views of Cairns and the coastline; some sections are steep but well-marked.
Short trails leading to natural swimming holes set in a lush forest; ideal for a refreshing break after a hike.
A serene forest walk near the Daintree, offering lush scenery and chances to learn about local Indigenous culture.
A scenic drive and short hikes around picturesque waterfalls in the Atherton Tablelands.
Extended rainforest hikes with rich biodiversity and challenging gradients for experienced hikers.
Airports
How to reach Cairns by plane.
Main international and domestic gateway to the region, located about 7–12 kilometers from the city center. Regular flights connect Cairns with Australian capital cities and international destinations; ground transport includes airport shuttles, taxis, and buses.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large and diverse mix from Australia and around the world, supporting a vibrant service and hospitality sector.
Families, retirees, and young professionals who enjoy outdoor living and tropical lifestyle.
Connections to the region’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage are visible in art, culture centers, and guided tours.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular spectator sport with local clubs and seasonal fixtures; fans enjoy live matches and social events in pubs and stadiums.
Played during the southern hemisphere summer; local clubs and regional matches draw families and enthusiasts.
Strong community leagues and professional-style matches; widely attended by locals and visitors alike.
Given the tropical climate, swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities are common year-round.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cairns.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Cairns restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for salads, roasted vegetables, grains, and vegetable-forward mains. Don’t hesitate to ask for custom vegetarian dishes.
Many venues can accommodate vegan diets; seek plant-based mains, fresh fruit, and salads. Confirm dairy-free options and cross-contamination practices when needed.
Gluten-free choices are commonly available; ask about GF pastas, sauces, and cross-contact policies in kitchens.