For many people, Cairns is the last stop on their journey up the East Coast of Australia. There can be no doubt that during the day it has a laid back atmosphere, making it seem like the ideal place to slow things down and take it easy for a few days. But this isn't the case. Cairns may seem a little pedestrian when compared to the rest of the manic East Coast, but don't let that fool you. Look around and you'll see streets overflowing with tour operators offering a range of activities to rival any other destination in Australia. Right on your doorstep you've got skydiving, whitewater rafting, paragliding, hiking, wakeboarding and, of course, The Great Barrier Reef - the jewel in the crown of this Northern Queensland backpacker magnet.
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Download GuideCairns is a great city to get your way out into the Great Barrier Reef. The city is actually quite small but has a lot of things to do. The lagoon is beautiful (a must see).
Insider Tip:Everything is within walking distance in this city. Things are much cheaper than Sydney in Cairns.
Cairns has a reputation as backpackers town and thats how it felt. I had a good time for one night but wouldnt stay longer than few days unless you are really into partying.
Insider Tip:Leave Cairns and go up to Daintree rainforest for unique experience
We found Cairns to be good for either partying or Diving other than that there isn't much else to do or see. However around the surrounding areas there seems to be good transport and trips to lots of other activities. personally we did a 6 day dive course with Cairns Dive center that was Awesome.
Insider Tip:Cairns Dive Center .. staff are great and very friendly. Have the best dive spots on the Reef (as quoted by another Dive company). Great Value for money..
I believe going to Cairns is only worth it if you intend to do snorkeling on the reef, as the city is not very nice. If you are not keen on snorkeling, do not waste money going there.
Insider Tip:If you have some extra money, spend it on snorkeling in Port Douglas. The reef is much better than in Cairns!!!
cairns is not what i would call a beautiful city, but it is a good place to meet nice people, go snorkling,diving, fishing..., partying and off course to chill out!!! the lagoon is fabulous and i really enjoyed my stay....
Insider Tip:tip: if you want to go snorkeling chose: ocean spirit, its very relaxing, nice stuff, good food and nice locations to snorkel if you are not the perfect snorkler!! tip: have a nice day on the lagoon, just relaxe in the shadow and listen to a guitar player: thats absolutely fabulous!!!
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