Cairns

Cairns is the gateway to two UNESCO World Heritage sites - the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. This tropical city in Far North Queensland is where you can embark on reef cruises, walk through ancient rainforests, and take day trips to nearby islands. The warm climate attracts visitors year-round to the waterfront Esplanade, saltwater lagoon, and beaches. In Cairns, you'll encounter Aboriginal culture and savor fresh local seafood.

Exploring the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef extends just offshore from Cairns. You can join day trips to snorkel or dive among colorful coral formations and tropical fish. Glass-bottom boat tours allow you to observe underwater life without getting wet. For a broader perspective, take a scenic flight over the reef to appreciate its vast scale from above. Many tours visit outer reef sites like Agincorn Reef or Michaelmas Cay.

Venturing into the Daintree Rainforest

North of Cairns, the ancient Daintree Rainforest covers the mountains down to the coast. Take a day trip to walk under the dense canopy and spot rare wildlife like cassowaries and tree kangaroos. The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway travels above the treetops, offering panoramic views. At Mossman Gorge, you can swim in clear forest streams and learn about Aboriginal connections to the land.

Relaxing on the Cairns Esplanade

The Cairns Esplanade is a central gathering place in the city. This waterfront promenade stretches for over 2 kilometers along the shore. You'll find grassy lawns, playgrounds, exercise equipment, and volleyball courts. The 4,800-square-meter saltwater lagoon is a safe place to swim with views over the Coral Sea. On weekends, markets set up along the Esplanade selling local crafts and produce.

Taking Island Day Trips

Several tropical islands are located just off the coast from Cairns. Green Island and Fitzroy Island are reachable in under an hour by ferry. Both islands have coral beaches, walking trails, and snorkeling right off the shore. You can relax at beach bars, try water sports, or take glass-bottom boat tours. Michaelmas Cay offers a chance to see nesting seabirds on a tiny sand island.

Understanding Cairns' Climate

Cairns has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season runs from November to April, bringing high humidity and afternoon thunderstorms. During this time, underwater visibility on the reef might decrease. The dry season from May to October has clearer skies and lower humidity. Water temperatures stay warm year-round, ranging from 23°C to 29°C. August and September often have the most reliable sunny weather.

Experiencing Aboriginal Culture

You can learn about the Aboriginal peoples who have lived in the Cairns region for tens of thousands of years. At Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, you'll see traditional dance performances and try throwing a boomerang. Some tours to Mossman Gorge include guided walks with Aboriginal guides who share Dreamtime stories. Art galleries in Cairns display contemporary works by Aboriginal artists from across Far North Queensland.