Cairns holidays and package deals

Things to do in Cairns

From the Great Barrier Reef to the Daintree Rainforest, some of Tropical North Queensland's most memorable experiences are within easy reach of Cairns. Spend your days snorkelling colourful reefs, exploring tropical islands, journeying through ancient rainforest or discovering waterfalls and mountain landscapes.

Explore the Great Barrier Reef

A Cairns holiday wouldn't be complete without experiencing the Great Barrier Reef. Reef tours depart from Cairns, with options ranging from snorkelling and diving trips to catamaran cruises, reef pontoons, glass-bottom boats and scenic flights. Whether you're an experienced diver or prefer to stay above the water, there are plenty of ways to experience the world's largest coral reef system.

Visit Fitzroy Island or Green Island

Swap the mainland for a tropical island escape with a trip to Fitzroy Island or Green Island. Both are within easy reach of Cairns and offer opportunities to experience the Great Barrier Reef, with beaches, rainforest and activities including snorkelling and glass-bottom boat tours.

Discover the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation

Venture north to the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation, where two World Heritage-listed natural wonders – the Wet Tropics rainforest and Great Barrier Reef – meet. Explore rainforest walks, discover freshwater swimming holes or join a guided experience to learn more about the landscape and its cultural significance.

Take a trip to Kuranda

Journey through World Heritage-listed rainforest to the mountain village of Kuranda. Ride the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway through Barron Gorge National Park or glide above the rainforest canopy on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Many visitors combine the two experiences for a full-day trip from Cairns.

Explore the Atherton Tablelands

Head inland to the Atherton Tablelands for waterfalls, rainforest, hiking and locally grown produce. Explore the region's towns and natural attractions, follow its waterfall trails or take to the skies on a hot-air balloon ride.

Experience Cairns itself

There's plenty to do without leaving the city. Cool off at Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, explore the Cairns Botanic Gardens, visit Cairns Aquarium, browse Rusty's Markets or wind down with a sunset cruise.

Discover more of the best things to do in Cairns and top Cairns attractions.

Where to stay in Cairns

Where you stay can shape your Cairns holiday, with everything from convenient city accommodation to beachfront resorts and island stays. Choose your base depending on whether you want to be close to reef departures and dining, spend your days by the beach or settle into a more relaxed tropical escape.

Cairns CBD and Esplanade

Stay in Cairns CBD or around the Esplanade for easy access to restaurants, nightlife, Cairns Esplanade Lagoon and departures for Great Barrier Reef tours. Its central location makes it a convenient choice for first-time visitors and travellers who want to explore without relying heavily on a car.

Palm Cove

Around 30 minutes north of Cairns, Palm Cove offers a slower-paced tropical stay with a palm-fringed beach, resorts, spas and waterfront dining. It's a popular choice for couples and families looking to combine relaxation with easy access to the wider Cairns region.

Port Douglas

Further north, Port Douglas combines resort-style accommodation with a relaxed village atmosphere. Its location between the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest makes it a popular base for travellers looking to experience both while enjoying a laid-back tropical stay.

Fitzroy Island and Green Island

For a stay surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef, consider heading offshore. Fitzroy Island combines rainforest, walking trails and fringing reef experiences, while Green Island offers rainforest, sandy beaches and easy reef access.

Read our complete guide to where to stay in Cairns to find the right base for your holiday.

When is the best time to visit Cairns?

Cairns is a year-round tropical destination, but the best time to visit depends on the type of holiday you're planning. April, May and October offer a particularly good combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds and conditions suited to reef trips, rainforest adventures and outdoor activities.

Cairns dry season

The dry season runs from May to October, bringing warm days, lower humidity and generally less rainfall. It's a popular time for snorkelling, reef and island trips, hiking and exploring the Daintree Rainforest and surrounding Wet Tropics.

Cairns wet season

From November to April, Cairns enters its wet season. Expect hotter, more humid conditions and tropical showers, with the additional rainfall transforming the Daintree Rainforest, waterfalls and surrounding landscapes into a lush green environment.

Cairns' tropical climate means warm temperatures throughout the year, so the best time for your holiday will ultimately depend on the experiences you have planned.

For more detailed information, read our guides to the best time to visit Cairns and Cairns climate and weather.

Where to eat and drink in Cairns

Cairns' food scene draws on the flavours and produce of Tropical North Queensland, from locally grown tropical fruit and coffee to fresh seafood. You'll find everything from casual cafés and fresh food markets to waterfront restaurants, bars and resort dining.

Cairns CBD and Esplanade

The Cairns CBD, Esplanade and marina offer plenty of places to eat and drink within easy reach of central accommodation. Enjoy casual cafés during the day before exploring the city's restaurants, bars and waterfront dining in the evening.

Cairns markets and local produce

For a taste of Tropical North Queensland's fresh produce, visit Rusty's Markets in the Cairns CBD. Tropical fruit and vegetables feature alongside a range of food stalls and other local produce.

Palm Cove and Port Douglas

Head north and you'll find established dining scenes in both Palm Cove and Port Douglas. Palm Cove combines beachfront dining with a relaxed resort atmosphere, while Port Douglas offers a broad choice of restaurants and cafés around Macrossan Street and the waterfront.

Wherever you base yourself, eating and drinking in Cairns and Tropical North Queensland is an easy way to experience the region's produce and relaxed tropical lifestyle.

Getting around Cairns

Cairns itself is compact and easy to explore, while many of Tropical North Queensland's best-known experiences are spread across the surrounding region. The best way to get around will depend on where you're staying and what you want to see.

Walking

If you're staying in Cairns CBD or around the Esplanade, many restaurants, shops and city attractions are within walking distance. The marina and departure points for many Great Barrier Reef trips are also conveniently located near the city centre.

Public transport

Local bus services connect Cairns with surrounding suburbs and the Northern Beaches, including Palm Cove. Public transport can be useful for shorter trips, although options become more limited when exploring further beyond Cairns.

Tours and transfers

Many popular Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest and Kuranda experiences can be booked with organised transport or transfers. This makes it possible to experience much of the region without hiring a car.

Car hire

Hiring a car gives you greater flexibility if you want to explore Tropical North Queensland at your own pace. A car is particularly useful for visiting the Northern Beaches, Atherton Tablelands and destinations further beyond Cairns.

Ferries

Ferries and catamarans connect Cairns with nearby Great Barrier Reef islands including Fitzroy Island and Green Island, making island day trips easy to incorporate into your holiday.

Read our getting around Cairns guide for more information on transport options during your stay.