Cairns

Cairns is the main city in Tropical North Queensland and is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. The city is serviced by both domestic and international flights so it is common to see many different nationalities wandering the city. The city itself is a vibrant city and is surrounded by both mountains of rainforests and the Coral Sea. The style of architecture of the city is colonial Queensland, which is white buildings with verandahs raised off the ground, to allow the cool air to pass through.

There are no beaches in Cairns as it is a port city, but there is the gorgeous oceanfront Esplanade with a promenade and saltwater swimming pool. This is the main attraction of the city. Also, along The Esplanade can be found numerous restaurants with water views where it is possible to experience alfresco dining. As well, there are many bars and hotels along this stretch.

While in Cairns visit the Reef Casino to view the unusual rainforest simulation. Also, make sure to visit the Regional Gallery to see Indigenous art exhibitions. There are the night markets where it is possible to try a variety of different foods as well as shop for those last minute souvenirs that you need.

From the port you can head out to the Great Barrier Reef on a day trip, an overnight dive boat or even a three or four day cruise. You can sail, kayak, snorkel or dive. As well you can take flightseeing trips out over the reef, popular for those with limited time.

Cairns is also a paradise for adventure lovers. You can do everything from sky diving, to ballooning, bungee jumping to white water rafting. Or perhaps horseback riding or ATV’s are more your thing.

If you want something a bit more sedate then take the SkyRail through the Rainforest up to Kuranda where you can visit a Butterfly Sanctuary, the Rainforest Sanctuary or explore the markets with lots of local handicrafts. For something different you can take the steam train back to the bottom. Once there why not explore the Tjapukai Aboriginal Culture Park, as well as enjoy their nightly entertainment show.

Twenty minutes north of Cairns you have the smaller enclaves of Palm Cove, Trinity Beach, Holloways Beach and Kewarra. Each of these are located on beautiful white sand beaches and are often where travelers stay who want the beach experience.

A one hour flight from Cairns is the gorgeous island resort of Lizard Island, a 5-star island right at the edge of the reef. Low key and great for relaxing it is also a mecca for fishermen. Two hours south of Cairns you have the two islands of Dunk and Bedarra, which you can get to by bus and boat, or a short small plane ride.

To the west of Cairns are the Atherton Tablelands, with beautiful lakes, waterfalls and where the weather is cooler. Much of the produce for the Cairns area comes from up there, and it is a fun place to explore by car.