Cairns is the best place to station yourself if you’re planning on visiting the Great Barrier Reef or Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest. Make no mistake though; this is a relaxed city that deserves your time. There’s plenty to do in the capital of Far North Queensland. So before you head off to dive amongst the world's largest coral reef system or discover the oldest rainforest on earth, spend a little time in this fun, touristy town that oozes Queensland charm and welcomes with open arms. Pack your board shorts and sarongs, dine on local seafood, explore bustling markets and take adventurous day trips from Cairns.
Unpack once for 6 nights in 5-star luxury at the Shangri-La The Marina Cairns. Experience an authentic welcome ‘smoking’ ceremony with our indigenous guide through Mossman Gorge. We’ll dive into Green Island on a half-day tour including a Glass Bottom Boast cruise; embark on an outback trip on a full day tour to Chillagoe Caves; relax on a cruise along the Daintree River and stroll the white sandy beaches at Cape Tribulation.
Traverse the state of Queensland through Roma, Barcaldine, Emerald, Longreach, and Cloncurry to the Gulf of Carpentaria to experience an epic Gulf sunset and Sand Island dinner. See the outback come to life, learn about the heritage of mining, discover the indigenous culture, and ride the legendary Gulflander train as touring heads through Cobbold Gorge and Undara to tropical Cairns on this journey showcasing the best of Queensland.
Fly into Cairns and ride the Kuranda Scenic Rail marveling at the ancient rainforests, dramatic gorges, and UNESCO World Heritage listed landscapes of Queensland’s tropical north. We then see the outback come to life as we traverse through the heart of the Gulf Savannah regions riding the legendary Gulflander and Savannahlander trains before an unforgettable tour of the Undara Lava Tubes in Cobbold Gorge.
With a touch over 150,000 residents, this once riotous Goldfield port is now a tourist hub connecting visitors with Far North Queensland’s iconic natural wonders.
There are so many day trips to take from Cairns; the Great Barrier Reef, Kuranda and the Skyrail, Port Douglas, Crystal Cascades, Green Island and so much more. Further afield Cairns holiday packages include the Daintree Rainforest and Atherton Tablelands. From eco-tours and Indigenous experiences to sailing and hot air ballooning, there is a Cairns tour for everyone.
During winter, conditions are perfect for heading out to the Great Barrier Reef. The water temperature is pleasant, the weather is generally calm, and there’s a chance to spot migrating whales.
Although you can visit Cairns and the rest of Far North Queensland at any time of year, winter is preferable for most. The wet season in Cairns (December to March) is very hot and humid with average daytime temperatures of around 31 degrees celsius. High rainfall at this time of year replenishes the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation making for some spectacular raging rivers and waterfalls. During the dry season (April to October), things are more temperate at around 26 degrees during the day.
Water temperatures are glorious all year round but keep in mind that from October to May it’s stinger season with box jellyfish and Irukandji active in the water. You can still dive and snorkel at this time but you’ll need a special stinger suit.
When will you be heading to Cairns? Take a look at our Cairns tours for seniors and start making your plans.
Located at the Cape York Peninsula base in Far North Queensland, Cairns has its own airport and can be reached easily from Australia’s capital cities and select international hubs. The flight from Brisbane is just 2.5 hours, while Sydney is slightly over three hours away.
Life is pretty casual in Cairns, so pack your board shorts, t-shirts and sarongs. Of course, hats are a must in this tropical outdoor lifestyle! You’ll also need appropriate SPF and a stinger suit if you plan to snorkel during jellyfish season.
While there are no actual beaches in Cairns itself, several nearby can be accessed within a short drive from the city. Trinity Beach is the most popular beach near Cairns, about 20 km north of the city centre. It is a beautiful palm-fringed beach with clear water and white sand, and it is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Other nearby beaches include Palm Cove, Yorkeys Knob, and Ellis Beach, all located within a short drive from Cairns.
It's worth noting that the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, a popular public space along the waterfront in the CBD, has a saltwater swimming lagoon that overlooks the ocean. While it's not a natural beach, it's a great spot for swimming and sunbathing without leaving the city.
Cairns is a paradise for adventure seekers! Dive into the Great Barrier Reef, explore the lush Daintree Rainforest, or take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for stunning views. If you're feeling more laid-back, stroll along the Esplanade, visit the Cairns Aquarium, or indulge in delicious local eats at Rusty's Markets. Cairns offers a perfect blend of thrill and chill.
The wet season in Cairns, known for its tropical climate, typically occurs from November to April. Expect lush green landscapes, occasional downpours, and a vibrant atmosphere. It's the perfect time for tropical vibes and spontaneous rainforest dances!
Our team is always happy to help if you have any questions about us or our tours. Fill out our form and we will get back to you soon.
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We are a Green Travel Leader. This is awarded to businesses which have consistently proven their commitment to sustainable tourism management over ten years.
As a Sustianable Tourism accredited business, we are proud to offer engaging tourism experiences that follow sound sustainability practices and environmental appreciation.
Quality Tourism accredited businesses like Fun Over 50 lead the way by offering the highest industry standards of customer service, satisfaction, reliability, and ethical practices.
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We have incorporated strategic climate change responses across all relevant levels of our planning and operations. We are working towards becoming carbon neutral.
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The Council of Australian Tour Operators represents tour operators and wholesalers. As a full CATO member, we provide authentic and original holidays with sustainable travel.
We acknowledge the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to them, their cultures, and to the elders both past and present.
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