Cairns Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Cairns
Our guide on where to stay in Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
Cairns Central Business District is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Esplanade Lagoon and Cairns Marlin Marina.
Cairns North
The beaches and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Cairns North. A stop by Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland or Cairns North Beach might round out your trip.
Edge Hill
You'll enjoy the museums and parks in Edge Hill. You might want to make time for a stop at Centenary Lakes Botanic Gardens or Tanks Arts Centre.
Parramatta Park
Parramatta Park is noteworthy for its shopping, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Cazaly's Stadium and Barlow Park.
Palm Cove
Palm Cove is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Palm Cove Beach and Vie Spa Palm Cove, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Cairns.
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
"Loved the Shangrila, only stayed one night before flight but would definitely come back and stay longer. Bed really comfy, great size room and bathroom. Great pool too."
Reviewed on 23 June 2026
Cairns Colonial Club Resort
"Microwa"
Reviewed on 21 June 2026
Pacific Hotel Cairns
"The staff were very helpful with accommodating my arrival on an early flight. A lovely big and light room!"
Reviewed on 24 June 2026
Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort
"excellent!"
Reviewed on 22 June 2026
Mantra Trilogy
"For a few extra dollars I can something much nicer and quieter"
Reviewed on 23 June 2026
Coral Sands Resort
"Clean room . Lovely pool."
Reviewed on 19 June 2026
Popular places to visit
Cairns Esplanade
Soak up the city’s relaxed atmosphere and admire the sunset over the Coral Sea as you wander along this popular walkway.
Palm Cove Beach
Located in between the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, this palm tree-lined beach is an idyllic spot to take it easy or begin an adventure.
Esplanade Lagoon
Relax after a day of sightseeing or cool down from the summer heat in this fresh-water lagoon, one of Cairns’ best city attractions.
Cairns Marlin Marina
Enjoy views of the harbour and and unwind with al-fresco dining, entertainment and shopping beside the bay.
Cairns Central Shopping Centre
During your visit to Tropical North Waterfront, you can do some window-shopping at Cairns Central Shopping Centre. Discover the spectacular coral reefs in this walkable area or enjoy its local tours.
Cairns Night Markets
During your trip to Tropical North Waterfront, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Cairns Night Markets. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area or seek out the local tours.
Activities
Kuranda Koala Gardens and Birdworld Admission Tickets
Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail Tour
Army Duck Tour of the Rainforest
Big Cat Green Island - Half-Day Great Barrier Reef Cruise
Full-Day Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise & Snorkeling Tour
Other places like Cairns
- Cairns Esplanade
- Reef Fleet Terminal
- Palm Cove Beach
- Esplanade Lagoon
- Cairns Marlin Marina
- Cairns Night Markets
- Clifton Beach
- Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Station
- Smithfield Shopping Centre
- Cairns Convention Centre
- Yorkeys Knob Beach
- Cairns Base Hospital
- Crystal Cascades
- Australian Armour and Artillery Museum
- Cairns Performing Arts Centre
- Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland
- Half Moon Bay Golf Course
- James Cook University
- Muddy's Playground
- Clifton Village Shopping Centre
- Cairns Golf Club
