Map Of Cairns City

Introduction

Cairns is a picturesque city located in the tropical far north of Queensland, Australia. The city is known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and the Great Barrier Reef, which is a natural wonder of the world. Cairns is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world. This travel guide will help you plan your trip to Cairns and explore the best attractions, hidden gems, food scene, and outdoor adventures that the city has to offer.

Top Attractions

The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cairns. It is the world’s largest coral reef system and is home to a diverse range of marine life. Visitors can take a boat tour, snorkel, or scuba dive to explore the reef and see the colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures.

Kuranda Scenic Railway

The Kuranda Scenic Railway is a historic railway that runs through the rainforest from Cairns to the village of Kuranda. The train journey offers stunning views of the rainforest and waterfalls, and visitors can explore the village of Kuranda, which has a vibrant arts and crafts scene.

Hidden Gems

Crystal Cascades

Crystal Cascades is a hidden gem located on the outskirts of Cairns. It is a series of cascading waterfalls and natural swimming holes surrounded by lush rainforest. Visitors can swim, picnic, and relax in this tranquil setting.

Josephine Falls

Josephine Falls is another hidden gem located in the Wooroonooran National Park. It is a series of cascading waterfalls and natural pools that are perfect for swimming and cooling off on a hot day.

Food Scene

Rusty’s Market

Rusty’s Market is a local market that sells fresh produce, seafood, and tropical fruits. It is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and is a great place to sample local cuisine and pick up some souvenirs.

Cairns Night Markets

The Cairns Night Markets are open every day of the week and offer a range of food stalls, souvenir shops, and live music. Visitors can try local delicacies such as kangaroo kebabs and crocodile burgers.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Walking Tours

Cairns has a range of free walking tours that are led by local volunteers. These tours offer a great way to explore the city and learn about its history and culture.

Public Transport

Cairns has a reliable public transport system that includes buses and the Sunbus network. Visitors can purchase a day pass or a weekly pass to save money on transport costs.

Outdoor Adventures

White Water Rafting

The Tully River is a popular spot for white water rafting. Visitors can take a guided tour and experience the thrill of rafting down the rapids.

Barron Gorge National Park

Barron Gorge National Park is located just outside of Cairns and offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife spotting.

Family-Friendly Activities

Cairns Aquarium

The Cairns Aquarium is a great place to take the kids and learn about the marine life that inhabits the Great Barrier Reef. The aquarium offers interactive exhibits and live shows.

Muddy’s Playground

Muddy’s Playground is a popular spot for families. It is a water park and playground that is designed for kids of all ages.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Paronella Park

Paronella Park is a historic site located in the rainforest outside of Cairns. It features a castle, gardens, and a waterfall, and is a popular spot for wedding photos.

Daintree Rainforest

The Daintree Rainforest is a World Heritage site and is one of the oldest rainforests in the world. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and visitors can take guided tours to learn about the indigenous culture and history of the region.

Natural Wonders

Mossman Gorge

Mossman Gorge is located in the Daintree Rainforest and is a popular spot for hiking and swimming. Visitors can explore the crystal-clear waters and lush rainforest.

Babinda Boulders

The Babinda Boulders are a series of large rocks and natural swimming holes located in the Wooroonooran National Park. Visitors can hike, swim, and picnic in this beautiful natural setting.

Vibrant Nightlife

The Woolshed

The Woolshed is a popular spot for backpackers and offers a range of live music, DJ sets, and drink specials. It is a great place to meet other travelers and experience the nightlife of Cairns.

Gilligan’s

Gilligan’s is a large hostel that features a range of bars, clubs, and restaurants. It is a popular spot for backpackers and offers a range of activities such as pool parties and trivia nights.

Local Markets

Port Douglas Markets

The Port Douglas Markets are held every Sunday and offer a range of local produce, arts and crafts, and souvenirs. Visitors can sample local delicacies and pick up some unique gifts.

Esplanade Market

The Esplanade Market is held every Saturday and offers a range of handmade crafts, jewelry, and art. It is a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts.

Beaches and Mountains

Palm Cove Beach

Palm Cove Beach is a stunning stretch of sand located just outside of Cairns. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Kuranda Range

The Kuranda Range is a mountain range that offers stunning views of the rainforest and coastline. Visitors can take a scenic drive or hike to explore the area.

Cultural Immersion

Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

The Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the indigenous culture and history of the region. Visitors can watch traditional dances, take guided tours, and learn about the Dreamtime stories.

Cairns Art Gallery

The Cairns Art Gallery features a range of contemporary art exhibitions and installations. It is a great place to learn about the local art scene and immerse yourself in the culture of Cairns.

Walking Tours

Cairns Esplanade

The Cairns Esplanade is a scenic boardwalk that runs along the waterfront. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the views of the ocean and marina.

Cairns Botanic Gardens

The Cairns Botanic Gardens are a beautiful park that features a range of tropical plants and flowers. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the gardens on their own.

Architectural Marvels

Cairns City Library

The Cairns City Library is a modern architectural marvel that features a range of sustainable design features such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems. Visitors can explore the library and learn about the sustainable design principles that were used in its construction.

The Pier

The Pier is a stunning architectural landmark that features a range of restaurants, bars, and shops. Visitors can enjoy the views of the marina and ocean while dining or shopping.

Historical Sites

Cairns Museum

The Cairns Museum is located in a heritage-listed building and features a range of exhibits and artifacts that showcase the history of Cairns. Visitors can learn about the indigenous culture, early settlers, and the development of the city.

St Monica’s Cathedral

St Monica’s Cathedral is a stunning Gothic Revival cathedral that features stained-glass windows and intricate stonework. Visitors can attend mass or admire the architecture.

Biking Routes

Esplanade Cycle Path

The Esplanade Cycle Path is a scenic route that runs along the waterfront and offers stunning views of the ocean and marina. Visitors can rent bikes and explore the area at their own pace.

Smithfield Mountain Bike Park

The Smithfield Mountain Bike Park is a popular spot for mountain bikers. It features a range of trails and obstacles that cater to all skill levels.

Wellness Retreats

Green Island Resort

The Green Island Resort is a luxury resort located on a tropical island just off the coast of