There’s a lot to love about... NORTH QUEENSLAND
Venture north to check out all that tropical Cairns has to offer
With two UNESCO World Heritage sites at its doorstep, it’s easy to see why Cairns has long been a favourite destination for nature lovers. But the natural wonders are far from the only reasons to pay this tropical North Queensland destination a visit.
If it’s been a while since your last trip to Cairns, you may be surprised to see how much has changed in the last few years.
From trendy bars and restaurants to exciting new attractions and tours, there are countless ways to make the most of your tropical getaway.
WINE & DINE
There are plenty of places to indulge your culinary senses, all within a short stroll along Cairns Esplanade.
Ochre Restaurant is a popular destination overlooking the water that offers delicious modern Australian meals with a heavy focus on native ingredients such as wattle seed and Davidson plum.
For a special treat, head to Tamarind – the Reef Hotel Casino’s award-winning restaurant with a coveted Chef Hat Award. The seasonal dishes are exquisite and the service is impeccable.
Make sure you also squeeze in a trip to Rusty’s – Cairns’ beloved markets packed with 180 stallholders offering colourful fruits and vegies as far as the eye can see. There’s also a smorgasbord of international treats such as tasty Thai papaya salad, comforting currywurst and refreshing coconut bowls filled with yoghurt and fresh fruits.
There’s no shortage of options to enjoy a drink in Cairns, either. Try handcrafted beers at Coral Sea Brewing Co’s delightfully fun Tiki-themed tap room, delicious gins at the trendy Wolf Lane Distillery or top-notch cocktails at Crystalbrook Riley’s rooftop bar Rocco.
EXPLORE
A trip to Cairns wouldn’t be complete without taking a peek at the world’s largest coral reef.
Passions of Paradise is a family-owned business that is passionate about helping people get up close and personal with the Great Barrier Reef’s stunning corals and sea life.
The full-day tours offer snorkellers and scuba divers of all experience levels the chance to discover two of its 26 private outer reef sites.
The friendly crew are always on hand to take people through their first diving adventure or guide scuba divers around the breathtaking sights of pink, purple and green corals of every shape and size.
ADVENTURE
For an adrenaline rush with minimal exertion and skill required, try Cairns Adventure Groups’ tubing tour. Taking on rapids while lying on an inflatable doughnut may sound like a fool’s errand, but this two-hour trip through a river 30 minutes south of Cairns is surprisingly peaceful for the most part, interspersed with thrilling moments as you splash and spin your way through the small rapids.
DON’T MISS
The Mandingalbay Ancient Indigenous Eco Tours offer a fascinating insight into the Mandingalbay Yidinji indigenous culture – the traditional owners who have been living amongst the Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest for thousands of years. Take a relaxing river cruise through the wetlands across Trinity Inlet to arrive in the rainforest where local Indigenous guides will walk you through the cultural traditions and natural resources the Mandingalbay Yidinji used to live off the land.