A tropical city in far north Queensland and gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, with the Esplanade boardwalk and free swimming lagoon, plus abundant tropical fruit and seafood.
Clear, dry weather — the best time for reef trips and the rainforest. source
Weather: The May–October dry season is best; November–April is the hot, wet season, with cyclones and marine stingers. source
Times to avoid: November–April brings stingers; swim only inside netted areas, or use the free city lagoon. source
Weather varies from year to year; check the forecast before you go.
Don't miss in Cairns
Cairns Aquarium Showcases the rivers and reefs of tropical north Queensland. source
Rusty’s Markets About 180 stalls of tropical fruit like rambutan, dragon fruit and mangosteen. source
Great Barrier Reef Reef boats leave from the city terminal for snorkelling and diving. source
Where to stay in Cairns
Esplanade / City
A walk to the boardwalk, lagoon and reef-tour terminal.
Northern Beaches
Quieter beach villages such as Palm Cove, for a resort stay.
What to eat in Cairns
Barramundi — Tropical white fish, often the local “fish of the day”
Mud Crab — Big tropical mangrove crab
Tropical Fruit — Mangoes, rambutan, dragon fruit and more from local farms
Cairns tips and things to watch out for
Cairns travel tips
City buses cost 50 cents a trip with two hours of transfers; from 23 November, route 100 links the airport and city for 50 cents too. source
Good to know in Australia
In Sydney you can tap on and off public transport with a bank card or phone. Check the operator’s guidance in other cities. source
Tipping is not expected; leave one only for great service. source
Watch out for in Australia
At patrolled beaches, swim between the red and yellow flags and follow local signs and lifeguard advice. source
General advice for the whole country. Check official government travel advice for entry rules and safety before you go.
Restaurant prices for Cairns are still being collected. The estimate also uses some official meal and transit prices checked in other cities in Australia.
Cairns attraction & theme park tickets
Official sellers’ prices for one adult admission. Select attractions in the calculator to add them to your budget.