Cairns
Destination guide
Tropical North Queensland
Cairns and Tropical North Queensland
Your guide to where to stay, eat and the must-see highlights. From the world’s oldest rainforest to a buzzing culinary scene and natural highlights galore.
10 undiscovered Cairns highlights that most visitors miss
From natural rock waterslides to historic castles, this tropical spot’s lesser-known experiences can be as rewarding as the big ticket ones.
- by Angela Saurine
Cairns must-do highlights in three days
From serene river dips to Zumba on a lagoon, this 72-hour itinerary packs in some surprisingly fun experiences.
- by Angela Saurine
20 things that will surprise first-time visitors to Cairns
As the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is one of Australia’s best-known tourist destinations. But there are many misconceptions about this holiday favourite.
- by Angela Saurine
The best places to stay in Cairns
A $600 million investment has transformed this Far North Queensland gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
- by Angela Saurine
The best places to eat and drink in Cairns and Tropical North Queensland
The “rainforest to the reef” mantra is one you’ll hear repeatedly during your time in Queensland’s tropical north.
- by Angela Saurine
The best times to visit Cairns and Tropical North Queensland
There’s never a bad time to holiday in this region. But there is one important factor to consider when venturing to this part of the world: stinger season.
- by Angela Saurine
Airport review: Cairns T2 Domestic Terminal
Thanks to a $55 million terminal upgrade, Cairn's bright and breezy terminal instantly connects visitors with Tropical North Queensland.
- by Kerry van der Jagt
Cairns Indigenous experience tour: A must-do in Australia's tropical playground
I always try to connect to a place by doing something local and, hopefully, memorable.
- by Lee Tulloch
Cairns, Queensland, places to eat: Six of the best
Great food in Cairns isn't just about the seafood.
- by Tim Richards