Things to do in Cairns

Planning your trip to Cairns

Best time to visit

The cooler, drier months, roughly May to October, are the most comfortable and popular for reef trips. The wetter, hotter months bring humidity, and marine stingers can be present in the water roughly from late in the year into autumn, so follow local swimming advice.

How many days you need

Three to four days covers a Great Barrier Reef day trip, a rainforest day and time at the waterfront lagoon. Add time if you want to explore further north or up onto the tablelands.

Getting around

The center is compact and walkable, and most tours include pickup. A rental car is useful for the rainforest and coastal drives. Sea swimming is limited by the tides and by marine stingers, so many people use the public lagoon on the esplanade.

What to skip

The cheapest-looking reef tour is not always the best fit. Compare where the boat goes, how big the group is, how long you get in the water and what gear is included, not just the headline price.