What to know before you go

Where is Cairns & Great Barrier Reef

Commonly called Tropical North Queensland, this spectacular region stretches all the way to the tip of Cape York. It includes its adventure-filled hub Cairns, the UNESCO-listed Wet Tropics Rainforest, the Great Barrier Reef, stunning coastline and islands, the outback of the Gulf Savannah, Cape York Peninsula, and even the remote Torres Strait Islands. It’s one of Australia’s most unique and culturally rich destinations.

What is Cairns & Great Barrier Reef known for?

Tropical beauty, two World Heritage-listed sites (the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics Rainforest), and deep connections to Indigenous culture, with some of the oldest living stories on Earth.

What’s the climate like?

It’s tropical here, so expect warm temps year-round, with ‘wet’ and ‘dry’ seasons:

• Summer (Dec–Feb): Lush, warm and full of life. Waterfalls are at their peak and tropical fruits like mangoes and lychees are ripe for the picking.
• Autumn (Mar–May): Things begin to dry out but stay beautifully green. A quieter time to visit with warm water for snorkelling and fewer crowds.
• Winter (Jun–Aug): Dry season brings blue skies and perfect weather for reef and rainforest exploring. It’s also the best time to see dwarf minke whales!
• Spring (Sep–Nov): Warm weather and coral spawning events on the reef.

When is the best time to visit Cairns & Great Barrier Reef?

The dry season (May to October) is peak time for sunny skies, reef adventures and exploring the rainforest. Visit during shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and cheaper prices.

Cairns’ calendar is stacked with events like Cairns Indigenous Art Fair, Port Douglas Carnivale, Crankworx mountain biking competition, and Ironman. See what’s on.

What can I do in Cairns & Great Barrier Reef

Adventure is the name of the game! Head out to the Great Barrier Reef, walk through the ancient Daintree, dive into waterfalls, or get your adrenaline pumping with bungy jumping, white water rafting or mountain biking. Dive deeper into culture with Indigenous art workshops, rainforest storytelling, and guided walks. Check out some of the most popular tours here.

Are there good beaches in Cairns?

Yes! While there’s no patrolled beach in the city itself (swim in the lagoon instead), nearby Ellis Beach is a local favourite, and Mission Beach (south of Cairns) offers 14km of unspoiled coastline. If you’re island-bound, Nudey Beach on Fitzroy Island is regularly rated one of Australia’s best. Always check safety signage, especially during marine stinger season.

Where should I stay – Cairns or Port Douglas?

Both are great bases. Cairns is more urban with easy access to reef tours and adventure activities, while Port Douglas offers a more relaxed, upmarket beachside vibe closer to the Daintree (and still plenty of reef tour options).

What can I do with kids in Cairns?

Rainforests, waterfalls and wildlife are the ultimate outdoor playground. Ride the Skyrail, meet crocs at Hartley’s, explore the fantasy-like ruins of Paronella Park, or get wet with jetboats and snorkelling trips. Top picks for families.

Where can I eat in Cairns?

The region is bursting with tropical produce and fresh seafood. Sample prawns straight from the boat, sip local brews in Cairns' laneway bars and waterfront breweries, or dine in style in Port Douglas. Food lovers should also check out the Atherton Tablelands and Daintree food trails for local cheese, coffee, fruit, ice cream and more.

• Where to eat in Cairns
• Best restaurants in Port Douglas

How do I visit the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns?

You can snorkel, dive or sail the reef from hubs like Cairns and Port Douglas. Choose a pontoon day trip, cruise to Green Island or Fitzroy Island, or visit quieter spots like the Frankland Islands. Cape Tribulation is also a great launchpad for reef tours with Ocean Safari.

How do I see the Daintree?

Drive or join a guided day tour to experience the magic of this ancient rainforest. Don’t miss Mossman Gorge, the Daintree Discovery Centre, or a stop at Daintree Ice Cream Company. Indigenous-led experiences will help you understand its deep cultural roots. Want to stay longer? Treehouses and eco lodges await. Plan your Daintree visit here.

Can I travel here without a car?

Absolutely. Many tours and activities offer pick-up from central Cairns or Port Douglas, and the ferry to islands like Fitzroy or Green departs right from town. For more flexibility, hire a car and explore at your own pace.

Are there scenic drives?

Whether you have one day or a week, Cairns has a scenic drive for you.

• Great Barrier Reef Drive: One of Australia’s best, winding along the coast from Cairns to Cape Trib.
• Waterfall Circuit (Atherton Tablelands): Perfect for wild swimmers and nature lovers.
• Cairns to Cooktown: Mix rainforest, reef and history in one drive.
• Cairns to Undara: Explore ancient lava tubes in the Savannah outback.
• Savannah Way: One epic adventure across northern Australia.
• Cape York 4WD Track: Australia’s ultimate off-road trip to the tip of the continent.

What can I do if it rains in Cairns?

Jump into a rainforest walk (it’s extra magical in the rain), visit Cairns Aquarium, explore Rusty’s Markets or get your heart pumping with white water rafting. You’re going to get wet anyway! Rainy day ideas.