Cairns

Australia, Oceania

Cairns is a vibrant gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, known for its stunning natural beauty and adventure opportunities. Visitors can snorkel or scuba dive among vibrant coral reefs, explore the lush Daintree Rainforest, and relax on beautiful beaches. The Esplanade offers a lively atmosphere with markets and dining options, while the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway provide breathtaking views. This tropical paradise beautifully blends adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for young travelers seeking natural wonders.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

City

Vibe

Active

Airport

Cairns

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Cairns

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Snorkel at the Great Barrier Reef

Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.

Booking required
2

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Daintree Rainforest

Immerse in one of the world's oldest rainforests.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Take a scenic flight over the reef

Soar above stunning landscapes and the reef.

Booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Kuranda Village

Charming markets and wildlife experiences in the rainforest.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a cruise on the Inlet

Relax while enjoying the stunning scenery of the inlet.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Cairns Esplanade

Enjoy waterfront parks, lagoons, and recreational areas.

No booking required
7

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover Fitzroy Island

Unwind on beautiful beaches and hiking trails.

Booking required
8

Est. 6 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Go white-water rafting on the Tully River

Thrilling rapids await on this action-packed adventure.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

11 (#6 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Australian Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

English

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Roast Lamb Rules

Tender lamb roasted to perfection. (National dish)

Meat Pie

Savory pie filled with minced meat.

Vegemite on Toast

VE

Spread of yeast extract on toast.

Pavlova

V

Meringue dessert topped with fruit.

Lamingtons

V

Sponge cake coated in chocolate and coconut.

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)