What is interesting about 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.


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).


Why do people love 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.


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 it too cold to swim in Cairns in July?

Cairns' Great Barrier Reef water temperature varies throughout the year, from a comfortable 29 degrees in summer (December – February) to 22 degrees in winter (June – August).


What is the best month to visit Cairns?

We recommend getting there in the shoulder months of April and May and September and October. The weather is amazing at these times and you'll be beating the dry season crowds!


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 the water warm in Cairns?

In summer, the average sea temperature at Cairns' northern beaches ranges from 28.9 - 29.4°C (84 - 84.9°F), dipping slightly in winter to 23.8 - 24.5°C (74.8 - 76.1°F).


Can you walk around Cairns?

Cairns is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of walking tracks and trails that showcase the stunning natural beauty of the region.


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.


Can you swim in Cairns?

Yes you can swim in Cairns beaches, however it can be very dangerous between the months of November – May. Most locals would recommend swimming in freshwater lagoons, lakes and waterfalls to avoid crocodiles, jellyfish and other dangerous animals in the sea.