Map Of Cairns Area

Introduction

Cairns is a beautiful city located in far north Queensland, Australia. It is famous for its tropical climate, beaches, and the Great Barrier Reef. Cairns is a popular tourist destination and attracts millions of visitors each year. If you are planning a trip to Cairns, this travel guide will help you explore the best of the city.

Top Attractions

The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and is the largest coral reef in the world. It is located off the coast of Cairns and is a must-visit attraction for every traveler. You can take a scenic flight, go snorkeling or diving, or take a boat tour to explore the reef.

Kuranda Scenic Railway

The Kuranda Scenic Railway is a historic railway that takes you through the stunning rainforest and waterfalls of Kuranda. The journey is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery.

Hidden Gems

If you want to explore the lesser-known attractions of Cairns, check out these hidden gems:

Crystal Cascades

Crystal Cascades is a stunning waterfall located in the Redlynch Valley. It is a popular swimming spot among locals and is surrounded by lush rainforest.

Barron Gorge National Park

Barron Gorge National Park is a beautiful park located just outside of Cairns. It is home to several walking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife. It is a great place to explore if you want to get away from the city.

Food Scene

Cairns has a diverse food scene and offers a range of international and local cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include seafood, tropical fruits, and Australian beef.

The Esplanade Market

The Esplanade Market is a local market that offers a range of food stalls. You can find everything from fresh seafood to Asian street food here.

Cairns Night Markets

The Cairns Night Markets are open every day and offer a range of food options. You can find everything from pizza to sushi here.

Budget-Friendly Tips

If you are traveling on a budget, here are some tips to help you save money:

Take public transport

Public transport is affordable and reliable in Cairns. You can take the bus or train to explore the city.

Visit free attractions

There are several free attractions in Cairns, including the Cairns Botanic Gardens and the Cairns Regional Gallery.

Outdoor Adventures

Cairns is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best outdoor adventures you can experience:

White Water Rafting

Cairns is home to several rivers that offer white water rafting. It is a thrilling adventure and a great way to explore the surrounding scenery.

Skydiving

Skydiving is a popular activity in Cairns and offers a unique perspective of the Great Barrier Reef.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you are traveling with kids, here are some family-friendly activities to check out:

Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

The Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park is a great place to learn about the indigenous culture of Australia. You can watch traditional dance performances and learn about the history of the Aboriginal people.

Cairns Aquarium

The Cairns Aquarium is a great place to explore the marine life of the Great Barrier Reef. It is home to over 15,000 marine animals and offers a range of interactive exhibits.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you want to explore the lesser-known attractions of Cairns, here are some off-the-beaten-path experiences to check out:

The Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome

The Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome is a unique attraction that offers a range of activities, including zip-lining and wildlife encounters.

The Cairns Art Gallery

The Cairns Art Gallery is a great place to explore the local art scene. It showcases contemporary art from local and international artists.

Natural Wonders

Cairns is home to several natural wonders, including the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Here are some other natural wonders you can explore:

Mossman Gorge

Mossman Gorge is a beautiful gorge located in the Daintree Rainforest. It is a great place to explore the local flora and fauna.

Green Island

Green Island is a small island located off the coast of Cairns. It is home to a range of marine life and offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.

Vibrant Nightlife

Cairns has a vibrant nightlife scene and offers a range of bars and nightclubs. Here are some of the best places to check out:

The Woolshed

The Woolshed is a popular nightclub that attracts a young crowd. It offers a range of music and entertainment options.

Gilligan’s

Gilligan’s is a popular backpacker hostel that offers a range of nightlife options. It has several bars and a nightclub.

Local Markets

Cairns is home to several local markets that offer a range of food, souvenirs, and handicrafts. Here are some of the best markets to check out:

Rusty’s Market

Rusty’s Market is a popular weekend market that offers a range of fresh produce and food stalls. It is a great place to buy local fruits and vegetables.

Cairns Night Markets

The Cairns Night Markets are open every day and offer a range of souvenirs and handicrafts. You can find everything from jewelry to artwork here.

Beaches and Mountains

Cairns is home to several beautiful beaches and mountains. Here are some of the best places to explore:

Palm Cove

Palm Cove is a beautiful beach located just outside of Cairns. It is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Kuranda

Kuranda is a small town located in the mountains outside of Cairns. It is home to several walking trails and offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery.

Cultural Immersion

If you want to learn about the local culture of Cairns, here are some cultural immersion experiences to check out:

The Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

The Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park is a great place to learn about the indigenous culture of Australia. You can watch traditional dance performances and learn about the history of the Aboriginal people.

Cairns Regional Gallery

The Cairns Regional Gallery is a great place to explore the local art scene. It showcases contemporary art from local and international artists.

Art and Music Scene

Cairns has a vibrant art and music scene and offers a range of cultural events throughout the year. Here are some of the best places to check out:

The Tanks Arts Centre

The Tanks Arts Centre is a popular cultural hub that offers a range of music, theater, and art events. It is a great place to experience the local culture of Cairns.

The Cairns Festival

The Cairns Festival is an annual event that celebrates the local art and music scene. It offers a range of events, including live music, theater, and art exhibitions.

Walking Tours

Walking tours are a great way to explore the city and learn about its history and culture. Here are some of the best walking tours to check out:

The Cairns Historical Society Walking Tour

The Cairns Historical Society Walking Tour is a great way to learn about the history of Cairns. It takes you through the historic buildings and landmarks of the city.

The Cairns Esplanade Walking Tour

The Cairns Esplanade Walking Tour is a great way to explore the waterfront of Cairns. It takes you through the local parks and attractions of the city.

Architectural Marvels

Cairns is home to several architectural marvels that showcase the local history and culture. Here are some of the best places to explore:

The Cairns Post Office

The Cairns Post Office is a historic building that showcases the local architecture of the city. It is a great place to take photos and learn about the history of Cairns.

The Cairns Courthouse

The Cairns Courthouse is a beautiful building located in the heart of Cairns. It