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Cairns Pocket Guide

Images Of Cairns

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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In The Guide

  • Cheap Eats Find out what restaurants are best value for money and what are the local specialties.
  • Don't Miss A list of the best local attractions and places worth visiting whilst in Cairns.
  • Budget Tips Insider tips on how to save money or what to do when you don't have any!
  • A day in Cairns... Only have one day to spare? We give you our ultimate day in Cairns.

Cairns City Reviews

  • 70%

    Cadenzafresnel

    Extreme holiday

    Cairns is where you go when you want to do crazy things in a pretty setting. I sky dived, bungee jumped, rafting at Tully rapids and went to the barrier reef. The city of cairns itself is a bit of a tacky souvenir town, full of trinkets, and plenty of bars for night time. I wouldn't go there for culture, but the barrier reef is wonderful even if you are not into the other activities.

    Insider Tip:If you have the luxury of time, try to book when the weather is nice, as bad weather can make visiting the reef not only severely vomit inducing, but also affects the variety of species you will encounter. Also if you are prone to sickness, the top advice is to take travel sickness pills frequently days before your trip and during to guarantee an enjoyable trip.

  • 80%

    daveyheard3330

    good place to be

    I was here for several days and would say it's a great place to stay. The staff are outstanding at helping to make your stay the best it can be by helping to book tours or give advice about what to do for free/low cost around the area. everyone here was pretty chilled out and there are a few cool nights put on for guests.

  • 80%

    lenahaegglund4316

    Cairns

    Cairns is all about the Great Barrier Reef. BEautiful little city with a nice lagoon and atmosphere. Very tropical which can mean rainy and warm. It's nice that the distances within the city are walkable.

    Insider Tip:Go snorkelling and/or diving the reef- it is one of the most amazing experiences ever.

  • 80%

    grant_churchill7405

    We Love Cairns

    As the title suggests, we love Cairns! There are loads of trips and activities to do, go up the river and see some crocs, head out to the reef (or fly over it), skydive, lie around the lagoon and walk along the esplanade.

    Insider Tip:Stay at Caravella backpackers, great value for money. And pick your activities wisely, as they are all so pricey.

  • 60%

    veralu

    Cairns

    It's better to visit Cairns in winter time if you want to dive in reef or take the hot air balloon. It's pity I cannot finish these two activities this time due to the bad weather in summer time.

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