Cairns: The Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef
Home to pristine shorelines, ancient rainforests and Australia’s wildest fauna, Cairns and the Far North is a special slice of paradise. Around 3 million tourists flock to the laid-back city from all around the world each year, drawing in family holiday makers, honeymooners, grey nomads and backpackers alike. As the gateway to adventure and the Great Barrier Reef, the region is renowned for its ability to soothe the soul. Here’s why you should #holidayherethisyear!
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS
Explore the Great Barrier Reef
The ancient and beloved Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef on the planet. Dubbed a UNESCO world heritage site, your first port of call in Cairns should definitely include a peek at the reef. The 2,300 kilometre long reef is home to an incredible array of unique and colorful marine life. With over 1,500 fish species alone, you’re bound to make friends with sea turtles, giant clams, sharks and nemo the clown fish. A large selection of reef tours from Cairns are available, catering to those who want to swim, snorkel, dive, fish or even sail the seventh natural wonder of the world.
Chow down on delicious tropical produce
If fresh tropical fruit and produce is your jam, Cairns is going to blow your mind. There’s no better place to sample a taste of the tablelands featuring pink dragonfruit, juicy mangosteens, pineapples or rich jackfruit than Rusty’s Markets. As a classic tourist icon within Cairns, the market is well-known internationally for its bustling energy, carnival atmosphere and vibrant sellers.
With over 180 stalls, the markets sell an incredible range of goods, from tropical fruit and vegetables to coffee, chocolate, bread, local dairy and freshly caught seafood. You’ll also find a range of souvenirs, unique bric-a-brac and local treasures including jewellery, clothing and antiques. The market runs from Friday to Sunday and is located on Sheridan Street in Cairns CBD.
Check out our top Cairns day trips!
Learn about Indigenous culture
Getting a glimpse into the local Indigenous culture in the Cairns region is uniquely eye-opening and the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience at the Kuranda Rainforestation provides an authentic insight. Witness the captivating storytelling through traditional performances, marvel at the impressive spear-throwing and didgeridoo demonstrations and try your hand at the art of boomerang throwing under the guidance of a skilled indigenous tribalman. It’s a great way to connect with and appreciate an ancient culture and gain knowledge of their fascinating way of living and being.
Take in the rainforest sights in style
There’s nothing like exploring the rainforest beneath the canopy, but the view from above is pretty special too. Take a trip on the Kuranda Scenic Railway which run from Cairns to the town of Kuranda, a small village nestled deep in a world-heritage listed rainforest. If you’re looking for a birds-eye view, there’s no better way to do it than the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway that offers stunning 360 degree views.
You'll find plenty of things to do in Kuranda, from boutique markets and the butterfly sanctuary, to quaint cafes and hidden gemstone museums it's a beautiful day out!
Head to the rolling mountains
You’ll find the rolling mountain plateaus of the Atherton Tablelands just a hop, skip and a jump from the rainforests. Home to exquisite clear swimming holes and waterfalls, scrumptious local dairies, coffee roasteries and tea houses, there’s also crystal grottos and gold mines to explore.
Dotted with tiny towns, the Tablelands is not heavily touristed, making it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some peace and quiet.
Peek at Australia’s wildest animals
From ancient dinosaurs to the most colourful birds on the planet, Cairns and the surrounding region boasts incredible wildlife. Head to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures for a glimpse of the infamous crocodile, or jump on a day tour to the Daintree Rainforest and take a river cruise to spot them in their natural element. Visit Etty Bay and wait for the resident cassowary to come and say hello. You never know who you might run into!
Road trip to your heart’s content
Hiring a car in Cairns can be your ticket to uncovering the region at its best. The jaw-dropping scenery makes for stunning road trips and allows you to soak the views up at your own pace. Make your way up to Port Douglas along the Captain Cook Highway, or head rural to the Kirrama Range Road - renowned for dirt roads, peace and the hum of the rainforest.
Get lost on deserted islands and cays
If you’ve been dreaming of the deserted island life, look no further than off the shores of Cairns. There are over 900 islands in the Great Barrier Reef, and most of those are uninhabited. Head down to Mission Beach and enjoy the serenity of Coombe or Dunk Island, or book a full day of deserted island goodness on Vlasoff Cay - complete with a ride in a private helicopter, a packed lunch and snorkelling equipment.
