Cairns is famous all over the world for being the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. It is also the gateway to the ancient and spectacular Daintree Rainforest. With thousands of rare and endemic species to be found both on land and underwater, this truly is a nature lover’s paradise. Cairns is a fantastic base for all sorts of adventures. And when you finish your day, happy and tired, there are some excellent restaurant options to fill your belly at. Or, if you just want to enjoy the beautiful tropical sunshine, a day on the esplanade can’t be beaten.
Cairns’ best adventures
Great Barrier Reef
Snorkeling or diving of the Great Barrier Reef is an absolute bucket list experience. Containing 10% of the world’s coral reefs and a wonder of the natural world, this underwater wonderland is a haven for over 1500 types of fish. Divers Den offers day trips to two less visited sites on the outer barrier reef, where the coral is healthy and vibrant. Unfortunately the parts of the reef closest to the city have been negatively affected by the number of visitors to the sites. Prices start at $163 for snorkelers or $197 for divers for 3 sessions, giving you 5 hours on the reef.
OceanQuest Liveaboard
If you have a little more time, consider joining an overnight trip, in order to head out to the more remote parts of the reef, avoiding the crowds and increasing the variety of life you will see. OceanQuest is Divers Den’s liveaboard vessel, and they offer some unique experiences only available when you stay on the water. Night diving, for example, is always a great way to see the nocturnal marine life. Divers Den also offer a Fluoro Night Dive, with UV lights which show off the spectacular bioflourescent properties of the coral, in a stunning display you’ll never forget. Snorkelers can enjoy the Sharks in the Dark experience. Lying on your belly on a platform on the back of the boat which is lowered just enough for your goggles to submerge, witness schools of inquisitive reef sharks swim right up to the boat. The lights cast from the boat into the water attract the gentle creatures without disrupting their normal lifestyle by feeding them. Liveaboard prices start from USD $393 for snorkelers and $443 for diving packages with up to 4 dives a day and all meals included. If you’re interested in the Open Water Course, it is the same price to do it on day trips as it is to do it on an overnight liveaboard! I honestly cannot recommend this experience enough!
Daintree Rainforest
This is the oldest rainforest in the world. It is one of the most complex ecosystems on earth, with plants and animals found nowhere else. Search for the colourful but aggressive cassowary, the rare tree kangaroo, and the majestic kauri tree, the largest tropical tree in the world. Witness roaring waterfalls and cool off in gushing streams. Stop off at Cape tribulation, the remote point where you can view the rainforest meeting the sea. There are a few ecolodges scattered throughout the lush forest, if you prefer to immerse yourself in nature overnight. For day trips, I recommend Uncle Brian’s Tours.
Daintree River
One of Daintree’s best known inhabitants is the mighty saltwater crocodile. Australia is often joked about for having the most animals that want to eat you – and this one actually does. Experience the thrill of spotting the world’s largest reptile on a Daintree River cruise. Many Daintree Rainforest day trips include a short crocodile cruise, for the best way to combine these two experiences.
Cairns Aquarium
Cairns Aquarium offers an immersive experience of the underwater world without the need to get wet. With 15,000 species of marine animals, the aquarium showcases species endemic to North Queensland. The deep reef exhibition mimics the coral reef drop offs at the edge of the great barrier reef, where the tropical waters meet the open ocean and a huge range of marine can be seen. Walk through the underwater tunnel where graceful rays and sharks glide over your head, and learn about the ongoing turtle rehabilitation efforts. Opt for the aquarium by twilight tour to witness the nocturnal creatures emerge. This is when many of the larger marine species become more active. The two hour guided tour give you the chance to see reef life by day and night, and includes after hours entry to the aquarium, meaning you avoid the crowds.
Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
Despite being one of the world’s premier spots for snorkeling and diving, Cairns itself does not actually have a beach. This is probably best, as during the months of November to March the coastal waters are filled with venomous box jellyfish. They stay close to the land, so if you’re heading out on a Great Barrier Reef trip during these months you’ll be safe, don’t worry! Instead of a beach, Cairns waterfront promenade has a large saltwater lagoon. Surrounded by sandy manmade beaches and timber decking, with lifeguards on duty and no stingers, this swimming spot is a safe and enjoyable substitution for a real beach. Locals will often head here for a picnic or barbecue, while kids frolic in the water play areas. It’s a great spot for a relaxing afternoon in the sun.
Rusty’s Markets
On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays head to Rusty’s Markets for a lively and colourful shopping environment. Originally a small collection of around 10 grocery stalls, the market today is a three day event with over 180 vendors. From exotic fruit and vegetables to locally sourced dairy, meats and breads, the food selection here is mouthwatering. The bustling marketplace is also home to clothing, jewellery and other speciality stalls. As an alternative, Cairns Night Markets is open every day from 4.30pm, with a similar variety of products and a food court for late night drinks and snacks. But if you’re around on a weekend, Rusty’s is a much more enjoyable market experience!
Kuranda Scenic Railway
Kuranda is a picturesque mountain village northwest of Cairns. The village itself has quaint markets and beautiful gardens and rainforest walks, but the highlight of the visit is actually the method of getting there. Kuranda scenic railway runs from coastal Cairns up into the hills, past waterfalls and ravines, though rainforest and national parks, on one of the most spectacular rail routes in the world. The journey takes around two hours, and you’ll be gazing out of the window in awe the entire time. There are two stops of 20 minutes along the way with boardwalks and viewpoints to enjoy. There is also a cable car option, which can be done instead of or as well as the train. The Skyrail gives a fantastic opportunity to view the very tops of the trees, offering a unique perspective of the pristine jungle below. Take the railway one way and the cable car the other for an all-encompassing experience of the region’s landscapes and ecosystems.
Where to eat
Apex Milk Bar
Apex Milk Bar is the place to go for good old Aussie pub food. Burgers, fish and chips and milkshakes are their bread and butter, but you can feast on pizza, hotdogs and seafood. Check their Facebook page for the deal of the day, and head over to their new Manunda location to chill in their garden and feast on their great value deliciousness.
Ganbaranba
This unassuming little restaurant is a celebrated hotspot for ramen and gyoza for those in the know. With friendly service and hearty portions, your stomach will thank you for a visit here. The tea is bottomless and the ramen refills are $1.50. What more could you want?
Prawn Star
If you’re a seafood lover, definitely don’t skip Prawn Star. A unique dining experience, this is less of a restaurant and more of a collection of boats that you can hang out on the back of. The fare is fresh fish and seafood delivered from straight from the trawler to your plate. The menu is small, and as the name suggests the prawns are the highlight, but there is also salmon sashimi and oysters on offer. It’s simple yet delicious. During the day it is not too busy, but at night the boats are packed and the atmosphere under the strung up fairy lights is lively.
“Cairns, Australia: the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef” was originally published on Wanderdash (follow me @rosroundtheworld)
Booking Resources
Hotels: Booking.com is my go-to anywhere in the world, and in Australia it’s definitely the place with the widest selection and best prices.
Hostels: Hostelworld is always the best site for hostels, and many are also on booking.com.
Tours: Check both viator and getyourguide for a huge range of tours to suit everyone!
Buses: Greyhound is the main company for intercity buses, and they offer flexible multi journey passes, perfect for the East Coast backpacking route.
Car hire: For car hire I always use localrent.com, but in Australia I’d recommend a campervan for the bucket list Aussie roadtrip. Jucy or Wicked Campers for backpacker budget, Britz or Maui for more space and luxury.
Flights: For finding the best routes, Kiwi is my favourite tool to search multiple airports at once. To find the best prices, I use google flights or skyscanner.
Insurance: It’s always a good idea to have insurance. I recommend safetywing for full coverage.
eSim: Local sims are easy to set up in Australia, at any supermarket or convenience store. If you want to be connected immediately, consider an esim for your first few days. I recommend airalo.
Consultation: For expert advice and planning assistance, get in touch! I have travelled Australia extensively and can provide personalised recommendations, as well as great deals, 24/7 customer service, and financial protection. Contact me here.
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