Cairns, Australia Travel Guide

Discover Cairns, the vibrant city where the Great Barrier Reef meets lush rainforests, offering unparalleled adventures, cultural experiences, and tropical relaxation.

Cairns, located in tropical North Queensland, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The city is best known as the primary gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's most stunning natural wonders. The reef's vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life make it a must-visit for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Besides the reef, Cairns offers lush rainforests, picturesque waterfalls, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes it an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration. The city's Esplanade is a hub of activity, featuring a beautiful lagoon, perfect for a refreshing swim, and lush parklands ideal for picnics and leisurely strolls. Don’t miss the vibrant night markets where you can find local crafts, souvenirs, and a variety of delicious street food. For a dose of culture, visit the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park to learn about the rich heritage of the indigenous people of the region. Adventure is never far away in Cairns. Take a skyrail or scenic railway to the charming village of Kuranda, nestled in the rainforest, where you can explore local markets, wildlife sanctuaries, and take in breathtaking views. For thrill-seekers, options abound from white-water rafting on the Tully River to bungee jumping and skydiving. The nearby Daintree Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers unique wildlife experiences, guided walks, and the chance to spot rare species in their natural habitat.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cairns.

Book your Great Barrier Reef tours in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure you get the best spots.
The best time to visit Cairns is during the dry season from May to October when the weather is warm and rainfall is minimal.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring plenty of water when exploring the rainforests and national parks.
Take advantage of the free public swimming lagoon on the Esplanade to cool off from the tropical heat.
Visit the local markets early in the morning for the freshest produce and unique handmade crafts.

Neighbourhoods in Cairns

Palm Cove

Cairns City

Port Douglas

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Cairns

Explore Cairns: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Cairns

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Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Soar above the lush landscapes of Queensland's Daintree Rainforest on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, an unforgettable natural adventure.

4.7

Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

Discover the beauty of Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, a tropical paradise perfect for relaxation and family fun in the heart of Cairns City.

4.7

Hartley's Crocodile Adventures

Discover Australia's unique wildlife at Hartley's Crocodile Adventures, where thrilling encounters and natural beauty await every visitor.

4.7

Cairns Botanic Gardens

Explore Cairns Botanic Gardens, a tropical haven with diverse flora, serene trails, and vibrant wildlife in the heart of Queensland's lush landscape.

4.7

Best landmarks in Cairns

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Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Explore the majestic beauty of Queensland's rainforest from above with Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, an unforgettable aerial adventure.

4.7

Cairns Night Markets

Discover the lively Cairns Night Markets, where you can indulge in local cuisine, shop for unique crafts, and enjoy nightly entertainment in a vibrant setting.

4.0

Cairns Aquarium

Explore the vibrant underwater worlds of the Great Barrier Reef at the Cairns Aquarium, a premier tourist attraction in Cairns, Australia.

4.6

Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

Experience the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, a free tropical swimming paradise featuring sandy beaches and lush landscapes for relaxation and fun.

4.7

Best restaurants in Cairns

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Salt House

Experience modern Australian cuisine with breathtaking marina views at Salt House in Cairns - a must-visit culinary gem.

4.3

Dundees on the Waterfront

Experience exquisite seafood and Australian cuisine with stunning waterfront views at Dundees on the Waterfront in Cairns.

4.5

Indian Brothers Restaurant

Experience authentic Indian flavors at Indian Brothers Restaurant in Cairns – where every meal is a culinary journey through India.

4.5

Villa Romana

Savor authentic Italian cuisine with breathtaking waterfront views at Villa Romana in Cairns.

4.1

Best bars in Cairns

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Salt House

Experience exquisite modern Australian cuisine and stunning marina views at Salt House, Cairns' premier dining and nightlife destination.

4.3

Cock & Bull

Discover Cock & Bull, a lively pub and steakhouse in Cairns North, where delicious meals and a vibrant atmosphere await tourists exploring Queensland.

4.3

Rattle n Hum Cairns

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering grill dishes at Rattle n Hum Cairns, a top dining destination on the Esplanade.

4.1

P.J.O'Brien's Irish Pub

Discover the heart of Irish culture in Cairns at P.J.O'Brien's, a lively pub offering traditional cuisine, local brews, and live music.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Cairns

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Qantas Club Cairns

Experience the ultimate travel lounge at Qantas Club Cairns, where relaxation meets premium amenities for discerning travelers.

4.1

The Downunder Bar

Discover The Downunder Bar: Cairns' vibrant nightlife hub with karaoke, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.

4.3

The Cotton Club

Experience Cairns' nightlife at The Cotton Club, a dynamic venue featuring a bar, restaurant, and disco club atmosphere perfect for tourists.

4.3

The Woolshed

Dive into Cairns' nightlife at The Woolshed, where vibrant music and energetic vibes create unforgettable moments.

3.7

Best shops in Cairns

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Cairns Central Shopping Centre

Discover the vibrant shopping scene at Cairns Central Shopping Centre, featuring over 200 stores and diverse dining options in the heart of Queensland.

4.3

The Pier, Cairns

Discover the perfect blend of shopping, dining, and stunning views at The Pier in Cairns - a vibrant destination for all!

4.2

Rusty's Markets

Discover the heart of Cairns at Rusty's Markets, where local produce, artisan goods, and vibrant culture come together in a bustling atmosphere.

4.5

Myer Cairns

Explore Myer Cairns for an exceptional shopping experience, featuring fashion, homewares, and unique gifts in the heart of Queensland.

4.1

Explore Cairns on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Cairns, mapped for you.

Cairns Essentials

Cairns is accessible via Cairns Airport (CNS), which is the main gateway to the region. The airport services both domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or hire a car to reach the city center, which is approximately 7 kilometers away. Several airlines operate daily flights to Cairns from major Australian cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth.
Cairns has a variety of transportation options. The local Sunbus network provides an extensive bus service around the city and to nearby suburbs. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also readily available. For exploring the surrounding areas, including the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, renting a car or booking a tour with a local operator is recommended. Bicycles are a popular choice for getting around the city and can be rented from several locations.
The official currency in Cairns is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, and most major banks have branches in the city. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting remote areas or smaller establishments that may not accept card payments.
Cairns is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas such as some parts of Westcourt and Manoora. Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places like markets and public transport. Be cautious of wildlife, particularly in rural areas and near water bodies.
In case of emergency, dial 000 for police, fire, or ambulance services. Cairns Base Hospital provides comprehensive medical services and is located near the city center. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and outdoor activities. For marine stinger incidents or other marine-related emergencies, seek immediate assistance from lifeguards or local authorities.
Fashion: Do dress in light, breathable clothing due to the tropical climate. Avoid overly revealing attire when visiting cultural or religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't play loud music or eat on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly 'hello.' A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood and tropical fruits. Don't litter; always dispose of your waste properly.
To experience Cairns like a local, visit Rusty's Markets for fresh produce and local delicacies. Take a stroll along the Cairns Esplanade and enjoy the free public swimming lagoon. Engage with locals at community events and festivals, which are often held throughout the year. For a unique and local dining experience, try the seafood at the Cairns Night Markets. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the nearby Atherton Tablelands and its charming small towns and natural attractions.

When is the best time to visit Cairns?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Cairns

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Cairns. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloG'day
  [g'day]
- GoodbyeCatch ya later
  [catch ya later]
- YesYeah
  [yeah]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomeNo worries
  [no worries]
- Thank youCheers
  [cheers]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry mate
  [sorry mate]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [how's it going]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [good. you]
- Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [you speak English]
- I don't understandI'm lost mate
  [I'm lost mate]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I have a squiz at the menu?
  [can I have a squiz at the menu]
- I don't eat meatI'm vego
  [I'm vego]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I pay now?
  [can I pay now]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Piss off!
  [piss off]
- Call the Police!Ring the cops!
  [ring the cops]
- Call a doctor!Get the doc!
  [get the doc]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm crook
  [I'm crook]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna grab...
  [I wanna grab]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just browsing]
- How much is it?How much?
  [how much]
- That's too expensiveToo dear
  [too dear]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do me a better price?
  [can you do me a better price]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [what's the time]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [it's one]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [half ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [mornin]
- AfternoonArvo
  [arvo]
- EveningEvenin'
  [evenin]
- YesterdayYesty
  [yesty]
- TodayToday
  [today]
- TomorrowTomorra
  [tomorra]
- 1One
  [one]
- 2Two
  [two]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [where's the]
- What's the address?What's the addy?
  [what's the addy]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [can you show me (on the map)]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [when's the next (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to ....)]

History of Cairns

Long before European settlers arrived, the region now known as Cairns was home to the Yidinji and Djabugay Aboriginal people. These Indigenous Australians have lived in the area for thousands of years, maintaining a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional practices, art, and oral histories. Their deep connection to the land and sea is evident in the many sacred sites and stories passed down through generations.
In 1770, Captain James Cook sailed up the eastern coast of Australia and made his first recorded contact with the Aboriginal people in the region. His ship, the Endeavour, nearly ran aground on the Great Barrier Reef, which lies just off the coast of Cairns. Cook's exploration marked the beginning of European awareness of the area's strategic and natural significance.
Cairns was officially founded in 1876, named after the then-Governor of Queensland, Sir William Wellington Cairns. The town was initially established to serve miners heading for the Hodgkinson River goldfield, but its growth was slow due to the challenging tropical climate and dense rainforest. The discovery of tin and subsequent development of the sugar cane industry in the late 19th century spurred further growth and development.
The sugar cane industry played a pivotal role in the development of Cairns. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, large plantations and mills were established, attracting workers from around the world, including South Pacific Islanders, Chinese, and Europeans. This influx of diverse cultures significantly shaped the social fabric of Cairns, contributing to its multicultural identity.
During World War II, Cairns became a crucial base for the Allied forces in the Pacific Theatre. The city's strategic location made it an ideal staging point for military operations, and it hosted thousands of troops, including American and Australian soldiers. The war brought significant infrastructure development, including the expansion of the Cairns Airport and the construction of military facilities, some of which are still in use today.
The latter half of the 20th century saw Cairns transform into a major tourist destination, largely due to its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. The construction of the Cairns International Airport in 1984 further cemented its status as a gateway to Tropical North Queensland. Today, millions of visitors flock to Cairns annually to experience its natural wonders, vibrant culture, and adventure activities.
Cairns is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals and events celebrating its diverse heritage. The Cairns Indigenous Art Fair, held annually, showcases the rich cultural traditions and contemporary art of the region's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Other notable events include the Cairns Festival, which features a mix of music, art, and performances, reflecting the city’s dynamic and inclusive spirit.