How would you describe Cairns?


How would you describe Cairns? A cairn is an impermanent human-made pile of stones. The word ?cairn? comes from a Gaelic term meaning ?heap of stones.? A search on the Internet reveals that cairns have also been referred to as ?trail ducks?; in Hawaii they are called ?ahu? and by Native Americans, ?Wa-wa-na-quas-sick? (place of many good stones).


Where do people go out in Cairns?

Find out exactly where to go in this handy nightlife guide.
  • Gilligan's. Gilligan's is the place to party. ...
  • The Attic Lounge Bar. For a luxurious nightclub feel, try The Attic. ...
  • The Woolshed. The Woolshed. ...
  • The Cotton Club. ...
  • Salt House. ...
  • Rattle 'n Hum. ...
  • Ultimate Party Bus. ...
  • The Jack.


How many days in Cairns is enough?

Honestly, a lifetime is not enough to explore and enjoy all the amazing natural wonders of Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef. But if you can't spend your life on holiday, we recommend at least three days in Cairns to discover the main attractions. If you have more time, great!


Is Cairns a small town?

While the town itself is small (fewer than 170,000 in population). It's one of the main spots in the state of Queensland and hosts more than enough activities to keep everyone happy. Go for the Great Barrier Reef and stay for everything else!


What do people like about Cairns?

There are so many reasons! From its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, to the surrounding waterfalls and rainforests, to the year-round warm weather, to the fun nightlife and laid-back vibe of the city itself, it's no surprise why people love Cairns.


What is interesting about Cairns?

The region of Cairns is home to the iconic Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest, but the city of Cairns itself is also a must-visit. You'll find brilliant cafés, bustling markets and plenty of beaches nearby.


Can you get around Cairns without a car?

Getting around Cairns can actually be very easy without a car. If you plan to stay within the city centre, you can walk, or use a bike to get around.


How expensive is Cairns?

Compared with Australia's capital cities, Cairns is a far more affordable place to buy a house, send a child to private school, use childcare and park your car! Cost-of-living estimates for Cairns come in around $1500-$2100 monthly*, far lower than capital cities and on par with other major regional centres.


Is there a lot to do in Cairns?

Cairns is the gateway to Australia's Great Barrier Reef, with most dive and snorkel tours leaving here each day taking visitors on Great Barrier Reef tours to explore this World Heritage listed reef system. Visitors can charter boats, take scenic flights in helicopters or liveaboard extended dive tours on the reef.


Is Cairns a walkable city?

Cairns City is known for sunny weather, warm winters, and for being the gateway to the tropics of Australia. The town itself is small, it's easy to walk around the entire city in a day, or jump on a shuttle or bus to get around.