Discover Cairns's Wonders

Located in Far North Queensland, the city of Cairns is considered to be the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Once a swampy bog, Cairns is now a tourist hot spot with plenty of restaurants, resorts and a vibrant nightlife. Though coastal, there is no beach access in Cairns, but don't be deterred! The Esplanade Lagoon more than makes up for that fact.

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Description

The city’s landmark is the Esplanade, which fringes the shoreline for 2 kilometres and provides a place for locals and visitors to walk, cycle, lounge by the lagoon and generally enjoy the sun. The focal point of the city, the Esplanade is always alive with various musical and cultural events and is also home to many fine restaurants and bars. Just north from the Esplanade is the city's urban centre, with plenty of shopping and eating opportunities and many of the city’s cultural and entertainment attractions. Dotted around this area, particularly along Wharf Street, you will find a number of older and historical buildings with their signature wide verandas and porches. Outside of the Central District, the suburb of Edgehill is home to the Tanks Centre, a lively local arts space, the Flecker Botanic Gardens and the Whitfield Range Environmental Park. While for those looking to hit the beach, there is a bus service running to some spectacular stretches of sand about 15 minutes north of the city. The Northern Beaches consist of a number of beach communities extending north along the coast. As a rule, each beach suburb is at the end of a spur road extending from the Captain Cook Highway, so you can get there relatively fast yet not be bothered by traffic noise once you're there.

Useful information

Population:

160,000

Currency:

Australian Dollar (AUD) $1 = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

000 (Police, Fire & Ambulance)

Opening Hours:

Generally, stores & shopping centres are open 7 days a week. Late night shopping on Thursday nights until 9pm, Sunday 4pm–5pm. Closed only on Christmas Day.

Do & See

Cairns Art Gallery

Housed in a restored 1936 landmark heritage building, Cairns Art Gallery is the region's leading gallery, featuring historical and contemporary art made by national and international artists. There is also a permanent collection, showcasing unique history and living cultures of Far North Queensland. Gift shop and cafe are quite pleasant.

Cairns Botanic Gardens

Learn about Aboriginal plant use and marvel at the flora and fauna at this tropical oasis of 38 hectares of native Australian gardens. The Cairns Botanic Gardens area is divided into four distinct areas: Flecker Gardens, Centenary Lakes, Mount Whitfield Conservation Park and Tanks Art Centre.

Cairns Golf Club

Located only five minutes from the city centre, the 18-hole course is set in tropical surroundings with lovely views and a rich bird life to enjoy while playing. There is also a driving range on site.

Cairns Museum & Historical Society

The Cairns Museum houses an exhibition about the city's past starting with the Aboriginal and Islander beginnings and continuing to early timber, mining and agricultural industries. Staff are friendly and there will be to volunteers guide you.

Daintree Rainforest

Experience the splendour of this World Heritage listed rainforest, this is the oldest tropical rainforest and a home to diverse and unique animals, plants and fungi. At around 1,200 square kilometres the Daintree is the largest continuous area of tropical rainforest on the Australian continent. A beautiful place for birdwatching and swimming, suntanning on calm beaches. Enjoy the wonder of nature while finding inner peace.

Great Barrier Reef

No trip to Cairns would be complete without a day spent exploring the Great Barrier Reef. Composed of roughly 3,000 individual reefs, nearly 900 islands and coral cays, and home to an unparalleled array of marine life, Australia's Great Barrier Reef is one of the richest and most complex natural ecosystems on Earth. Whether you're a diver, snorkeler, or nature lover, there are plenty of reasons to include this natural world wonder in your Australia travel itinerary.

Green Island

Tropical and magical, Green Island is a unique part of the Great Barrier Reef, making it a perfect spot for a half-day or full day tour. There are plenty of options to snorkel, parasail, dive and swim in the clear ocean waters. Explore the Green Island National Park or just relax on the white sandy beach. Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises will take you to this small, beautiful island

Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Board the famous Kuranda Scenic Rail for a breathtaking journey on one of the world’s most scenic operational rail journeys to the charming town of Kuranda and a return journey by cable car across the canopy of the rainforest. With the cable car, you will get amazing birds-eye views so make sure not to forget your camera.

Dining

Bayleaf Balinese Restaurant

Bayleaf serves authentic flavours of the Balinese cuisine such as assorted seafood braised in yellow coconut milk and balinese lamb stew with cardamom and coriander. The restaurant is part of the Bay Village Tropical Retreat & Apartments and an excellent place to come for brunch, lunch or dinner.

Bellocale

Discover the tantalising fusion of Italian cuisine and fresh, locally-caught seafood at Bellocale, a family-owned gem in Cairns. Relish in mouth-watering dishes like blue swimmer crab ravioli, pappardelle bugs and their must-try seafood linguine. This buzzing, modern venue offers an inviting atmosphere, with its open layout and warm service. Accommodating for kids and special dietary requirements, Bellocale consistently delivers top-notch flavours, from the chilli prawn linguine to their indulgent "death by chocolate" dessert. Pair your meal with a refreshing Italian beer or a well-balanced martini, and experience the personal touch of the owner's active involvement in the restaurant's daily operations.

Bushfire Flame Grill

Bushfire Flame Grill invites you to a real Australian BBQ. The beef comes from Australia’s outback throughout Queensland and Northern Territory. The staff circles around the restaurant and carves sizzling-hot roasted meats directly onto your plate. If you think that you have tasted good Aussie BBQ before — you better think again.

Cock & Bull

There are many reasons to have dinner here, the first and foremost is that this is where the locals go – and they should know. Boasting two kitchens (where they make traditional pub fare), a tropical garden, pool tables, multiple big screen televisions and ever smiling staff, Cock & Bull has reason to be proud.

Ganbaranba

For authentic Japanese ramen, look no further than Ganbaranda, the go-to spot for traditional ramen soups and gyoza in Cairns for over a decade. This bustling, compact restaurant offers a variety of classic ramen dishes, all featuring perfectly cooked noodles in a rich pork broth, as well as a dedicated veggie menu with delectable tofu puffs. With a reputation for being one of the best ramen spots in Australia, Ganbaranda serves up generous portions, tasty broths, and friendly service in a casual setting.

L'Unico Trattoria Italiano

Talk about a fantastic setting! Have a seat on the veranda that is enveloped by palm trees and offers an amazing ocean view. The restaurant is located on the beachfront of beautiful Trinity Beach (20 km north of Cairns) and is a great place where to enjoy upscale Italian fare. Try the char-grilled vegetables with goat cheese or spaghetti with seafood.

Ochre Restaurant

Ochre restaurant is a contemporary styled restaurant, located on the waterfront. It brings an adventurous approach to native food and offers fresh local seafood, bush food, game such as crocodile and kangaroo including other regional Australian cuisine.

Rattle n Hum Cairns

Rattle n Hum offers a laid back atmosphere and a friendly crowd sharing communal tables and watching sports on huge screens. From the menu you can choose everything from pizza to burgers, steak, chicken and fresh seafood. The portions are big and the food is tasty — the perfect Aussie pub experience.

Cafés

Annee's Caphê Sua Da

Located in the heart of Cairns, Annee's Caphê is a cute and quirky Vietnamese Coffee shop where they use Vietnamese brewing process to create a smooth cup if iced coffee. The owner, Annee, is a lady who believes in giving a personable and memorable service to every guests.

Blackbird Espresso

Passionate about their coffee, the team at Blackbird Espresso for sure knows how to consistently make silky smooth coffee. Due to the popularity among locals and tourist alike, they have opened another store at 205 Newell Street, Bungalow.

Coast Roast Coffee

Coast Roast Coffee has two convenient locations in Cairns and is an excellent value for money as well with hot drinks, roasted coffee and helpful staff. From the menu you can pick everything from panini, bagels and scones to croissants, muffins, cakes and tarts.

Cruze Coffee

Cruze Coffee, just a 10-minute walk from the Esplanade, is where the skilled barista customise the perfect cup of coffee according to your taste — you choose the beans and the roast. Quality, freshness and friendly service are some of the key elements at this popular coffee shop. The strongest coffee drink they have is called The Godfather 2. Be careful with that one!

Meldrum's Bakery Cafe

It's always pie o'clock at Meldrum's. Here you will find all types of pies, including gluten free options, and it is all served by the friendly and helpful staff. Can get quite busy, but worth a visit.

Pantry 15

Combined retail store and a unique health food cafe, Pantry 15 is all about choosing a healthy lifestyle. Fresh juices, smoothies, coconut ice-cream and high quality breakfast and lunch meals are all prepared without dairy, grains, sugar or preservatives. Pantry 15 is part of a fast growing network with several locations across Australia and for sure deserves a visit.

Perrotta’s at the Gallery

Lively and stylish, Perrotta’s boasts a mix of fresh local produce and upscale bites. The coffee is superb, and do your best to leave some room for one of its divine desserts. Located only metres away from the CBD and the Esplanade lagoon, with an outdoor seating area that lets you sit down and take a break while watching people go about their busy day.

The Lillipad Cafe

A favourite among the locals, The Lillipad Cafe is excellent for lunch — you get a huge plate for super cheap, and it's always delicious! It is extra recommended if you are looking for organic, vegetarian and healthy food. On the menu you will find classics such as eggs Benedict and French crepes.

Bars & Nightlife

Cock & Bull

After a fun-filled day, Cock & Bull welcomes you to have a nice meal, shoot some pool and enjoy a couple of cold ones. This English tavern is popular among the locals and welcomes you with a relaxed country feeling. Check out the tropical beer garden, a great place to mingle with friends.

Gilligan’s

Gilligan’s is a renowned party venue, maybe the biggest one in Cairns. Popular among locals and backpackers alike. The back deck by the pool shows off some of Cairns most popular live bands including local and international DJs.

P.J. O'Brien

Great atmosphere, live music and excellent drinks. P.J. O'Brien is an Irish pub full of tourists, locals and backpackers, all of them having a good time, enjoying Guinness and sea shanties. Live party bands on the weekends, lady’s nights on Tuesdays, wild west on Wednesdays — the fun never ends.

Salt House

Salt House is a cool, funky bar with an amazing view of the marina in Cairns. Enjoy a drink at the outdoor cocktail bar among the tranquil ponds and fire features. If the hunger kicks in, just head over to the large restaurant area. Four days a week they invite both local and visiting bands.

The Downunder Bar

The Downunder Bar boasts delicious pub food, drinks and free pool tables. This is the place to start your night out or just enjoy a beer with some friends. Check out their website to see what's on.

The Pier Bar

The Pier Bar is a great place to down a few beers while watching the sunset from the deck. Simply awesome! Be prepared though, because as the night passes, the crowd grows, and you better be ready for a night of chatting with some friendly locals while listening to live music.

The Reef Hotel Casino

This five-star hotel is not only a fine casino with several bars and restaurants but it is also a great entertainment destination that offers live music, shows and much more. The casino provides a wide variety of table games and over 500 gaming machines. Enjoy a fun evening out at this huge entertainment complex.

Shopping

Cairns Central

For that air-conditioned shopping mall experience, head to Cairns Central which has 180 speciality shops and department stores. The centre has served the locals region since 1997. Besides offering fashion store for men, women and kids, they have restaurants and a supermarket too. Myer, Target, Coles are also located here.

DFO Cairns

Located just outside the city centre, DFO Cairns is a popular shopping centre among the fashionistas who are looking for that perfect outfit without the big price tag. This outlet boasts over 100 Australian and international brands that offers discounted top-quality clothing, accessories and homeware. Brands such as Ralph Lauren, Guess, Oroton and Quicksilver are all located here.

Doongal Aboriginal Art

Hosting a stunning collection of local Aboriginal Rainforest Art including artwork from Central Australian Aboriginal artists in a beautiful environment. The knowledgeable staff will help you to pick that authentic art or artefacts to bring back home, making it as a perfect gift or souvenir.

Night Markets on The Esplanade

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Far North Queenslands, the night market in Cairns is the perfect place to head for when looking for handmade local gifts and souvenirs. Find a bargain at any of the 130 stalls that are selling everything from opals to pearls, silver, clothing, t-shirts and crafts or just grab a bite to eat at the food court while enjoying the hustle and bustle of the market.

Orchid Plaza

With an ideal location in the heart of Cairns CBD, Orchid Plaza is a great shopping destination with two levels of food and fashion. Have a cup of coffee or buy the perfect outfit at this light and airy centre, also a great place to find a wide range of gifts and souvenirs to bring back home.

Port Douglas Markets

Held every Sunday on the waterfront at Anzac Park, Port Douglas Markets is not only a must-do due to their amazing products, but also because of its beautiful view over the Coral Sea and the breathtaking mountain ranges. Browse 100 stalls selling locally produced foods, arts, crafts, jewellery, handmade furniture and toys. The perfect place to spend a Sunday morning!

Rusty's Markets

One of the most famous and successful markets in Australia, so be sure to save some time and money for Rusty’s Market. At this vibrant and colourful market (with 180 stalls) you can pick up some of the region’s finest food, exotic fruit, vegetables, flowers and sumptuous delicatessens. Beside food, there are stalls selling bric-a-brac including clothing and jewellery... and much more!

Smithfield Centre

Situated in the heart of the Northern Beaches of Cairns, just 15 km north of Cairns International Airport, Smithfield Centre provides an extensive range of shops for men and women including footwear and major stores like Coles, Woolworths, Dan Murphy's and Kmart. There are cafes and restaurants, including a food court. With over 110 retailers, you will definitely find what you are looking for.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Cairns is during the winter months of June to August. You will experience pleasant temperatures, calm winds and a low chance of rain. Experience the abundance of outdoor activities Cairns has to offer and explore the city on foot or by bike.

Passport/Visa

Unless you are a New Zealand citizen granted visa exemption on arrival (in most cases), you will need to obtain a visa prior to visiting Australia. Citizens of all European Union countries, as well as Andorra, Norway, Iceland, San Marino, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, and Vatican City are eligible for an eVisitor visa, which can be applied for online. For citizens of the United States, Canada, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Brunei, South Korea and Malaysia, the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) entry permit is available, which can be applied for online and grants holders the right to enter Australia an unlimited amount of times for stays of no longer than 3 months per visit. Citizens of all other world countries (with the exception of Somalia) are also able to apply for a visitor visa online. For more information, visit the official website of the Australian government's department of home affairs.

Cairns Airport (CNS)

Cairns Airport is located 7 kilometres from Cairns CBD. There are Uber and 1300 Ride Share pickup points outside both terminals. Free taxi telephones are located in the arrival halls or just head over to the taxi ranks that are immediately outside the terminal. Pre-book or just turn up, the taxis and shuttles are always available. The Exemplar Coaches and Limousines company offers scheduled connections between Cairns Airport and Port Douglas, Cairns CBD and Palm Cove. You can book your seat online or by phone.

Public Transport

TransLink operates throughout the city, running from the northern beaches to the southern suburbs via the CBD. Daily, weekly and monthly passes are available as a series of zonal tickets, allowing unlimited travel in defined areas. There are also private bus lines that operate in areas like Port Douglas, Mossman, Kuranda, the Atherton Tablelands and Mission Beach. You can either buy a Go Card or just paper tickets. Go Cards can be bought online, at 7-Eleven stores and selected retailers including busway stations. The paper tickets can be purchased on the bus, from a ticket office at train stations or from fare machines.

Taxi

Uber, Didi and the local 1300 Rideshare apps operate in Cairns. Alternatively, you can just hail a taxi or head over to a taxi rank.

Electricity

Australia operates on a 230/240V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency. The country uses Type I power plugs, which feature two flat pins forming a 'V' shape, along with a grounding pin. This standard is also commonly used in New Zealand, Argentina, China, and several Pacific island nations. Remember to pack a universal adapter if your devices use a different plug type to ensure hassle-free charging.

Pharmacy

Ramsay Pharmacy is located next door to the 24hr Medical Centre in the city centre. Open seven days a week all year round.

Post

There are several Australia Post offices located all over the town, where you can buy stamps and send mail and packages. Cairns Central Post Office is located on Sheridan Street.

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