Cairns Australia, is a tropical paradise known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, nature lover, or simply looking to relax, Cairns has something for everyone. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting this beautiful destination.
Best Time To Visit
The ideal time to visit Cairns is during the dry season, from May to October. During these months, you’ll enjoy pleasant temperatures, less humidity, and minimal rainfall. This is perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the Great Barrier Reef. While travel from November to May can still be enjoyed, it is both cyclone and stinger season so make sure to take extra precautions when in the area.
Getting Around
There are no public transport links from Cairns airport so many people choose to get the shuttle to get either the city or there hotel up the coast. However, depending on where you are staying and how many people are in your party it may be more time and cost effective to just head to the taxi rank. The shuttle bus starts at $22AUD per adult while we got a private taxi to Cairns centre for only $25. Look below to see if you can find a taxi that’s cost effective for you.
Cairns is well-connected once away from the airport, and one of the most budget-friendly options for getting around is the 50-cent bus system. These buses offer a convenient way to travel within the city and to nearby attractions, making it easy to explore without breaking the bank. They accept both cash and card on board and also offer $1 day passes.
Day Trips from Cairns
Green Island
One of the most popular day trips is to Green Island, a stunning coral cay just a short boat ride away. Here you can enjoy a Glass-Bottom Boat Tour and experience the underwater beauty without getting wet. The glass-bottom boat provides a unique view of the vibrant coral and marine life. My personal favourite way to experience the reef is to dive right in. With crystal-clear waters it’s a great place to swim with turtles and explore the thriving reef. Green Island also has a small flat path through the middle of the island. Where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and soak in the stunning views and tropical surroundings.
Fitzroy Island
Another must-visit destination is Fitzroy Island. This beautiful island offers a range of activities for nature enthusiasts. Get the early boat to the island to enjoy an uninterrupted swim with the range of marine life. Here we were able to enjoy swimming with turtles, a range of larger fish and I saw my first two stingrays. Please do be careful not to break the coral here though as it is in very shallow water so can be easy to stand on.
There are many walking trails on the island being a larger island than green island. The easiest one and the one that most of the guides will recommend is the relatively short and flat walk to nudey beach. Unlike the name suggests it is not a nude beach but a beautiful sandy stretch of beach that is great for swimming without to much coral in the way. If you are up for a bit of a harder hike I recently accomplished the walk to the lighthouse. This walk does need a bit of a higher fitness level. It should take about 1.5 hours round trip but does include two very steep sections of path. However the views I experienced at the top were stunning. On a clear day you can see various other coral cays including Green Island surrounded by beautiful blue water.
There is also a Turtle Rehabilitation Center on the island. Once on the island you can book tours to visit the center to learn about conservation efforts and meet the turtles being rehabilitated.
Daintree Rainforest
For those seeking adventure in nature, a day trip to the Daintree Rainforest is a must. You can explore this UNESCO World Heritage site by, the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Where you glide above the treetops for breathtaking views of the lush landscape. Experience the scenic train ride back, which offers a different perspective of the rainforest and its wildlife. I enjoyed the train ride slightly more as not only did it stop so you could admire Barron Falls. But it also felt more like you were in the rainforest as you passed through, the trees.
Look Below to see if there is a tour to suit your needs in and around Cairns.
Relaxing in Cairns
If you are looking for a more laid back day Cairns has plenty to offer:
Cairns Lagoon is a man-made lagoon located right next to Cairns Pier offering you the perfect opportunity to safely swim or sunbath.
Alternatively you can get a bus to Palm Cove, a picturesque beach known for its palm-lined shores and tranquil atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing day by the sea. With cute boutique stores and restaurants lining the set back road it’s even a great area to stay if you want something out of the city.
Cairns is a treasure trove of experiences, from stunning islands and lush rainforests to relaxing beaches. With its affordable transportation options and a variety of activities, it’s easy to see why this destination is a favorite among travelers. Plan your visit during the dry season for the best experience, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that Cairns has to offer.
If you are including Cairns as part of a longer trip around Australia make sure to check out the Oceania category of my blog linked below. To find if any of the other geourgous destinations I have had the chance to explore are on your bucket list. From the picture perfect beaches in Esperance, Western Australia to the adorable koala loving island of Magnetic Island.