Cairns

Day 1

Spend the first day exploring the cafes and shops of the wharf district. Later in the day stroll along the harborfront esplanade and watch the sunset. 

Day 2

Head to Kuranda Rainforest Region and enjoy a guided tour of the forest and through the village. Later, enjoy a ride on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway over the forest canopy and take in some breathtaking panoramic views.

Day 3

For the third day, head on a tour to Green Island, which is a part of the Great Barrier Reef. Cruise across the reefs and later also indulge in activities such as kayaking and snorkelling around the island. You can head back to the mainland at the end of the day or choose to spend a night on the island.

1. Palm Cove

Palm Cove is the best neighbourhood in Cairns for first-time visitors. With plenty of open spaces and easy access to beaches, it is an ideal area of the city to live in for those who love to spend the days outside under the sun. Most tours to the Great Barrier Reef also begin here, so it is a better choice for those who are looking to head to the reef area. 

2. Central Business District

The Central Business District, or the CBD, is the central neighbourhood of Cairns and is where the only appreciable nightlife scene exists. One can expect some great bars and clubs to choose from. There are also some fantastic museums and art galleries in this neighbourhood for cultural aficionados.

3. Kuranda

A separate town outside Cairns, it is connected to the larger city by the scenic railway line. Kuranda is the gateway to the northern Australian rainforest region, and for those who wish to explore the dense treelines, this is where to stay. Tourists can partake in guided tours on land and even on amphibious vehicles and also learn about the culture of the native Aboriginals.

4. Trinity Beach

A beachside neighbourhood in northern Cairns, this area is a great place for families to stay as it is calmer than the rest of the city. Swimming is generally safe, and there are many tour operators here which specialise in family activities and experiences.

• Some time in November or December is the annual coral spawning, where the coral reef reproduction takes place with millions of eggs and sperm released into the water together. Observers of this phenomenon have likened it to a ‘psychedelic snowstorm’ with rainbow colours forming on the sea surface.
• Due to the tropical climate, items such as medicines, cosmetics, perfumes need to be kept in the fridge, as room temperature is often above 30 degrees Celsius.
• The largest moth in Australia, the Hercules moth, can be found in Cairns
• The Cassowary, considered the world’s most dangerous bird, can be found in Cairns
• Cairns is the only Australian city close to 2 UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest