Cairns, Australia

The Gateway to Queensland’s Tropical North

Cairns is the gateway to many of northern Australia’s natural attractions. Suit up and head offshore to explore the incredible world beneath the waves at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Great Barrier Reef. Filled with incredible beaches, coral reefs, and turquoise blue waters, you can swim, snorkel, dive, and enjoy a living masterpiece that is so big it can be seen from outer space.

Head inland to another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Daintree Rainforest, the planet’s oldest surviving tropical rainforest. Or the tranquil village of Kuranda—which is home to colorful parrots, butterflies, platypus, and fresh water crocodiles—just a short, scenic railway journey from Cairns. If you’re looking to get higher, head to the cool, yet still tropical Atherton Tablelands, a mountain retreat with rolling plateaus averaging 700 meters above sea level.

But even though Cairns is so close to so many fantastic attractions, don’t be so quick to be on your way once you arrive. The city’s relaxed ambience, and year-round tropical climate means it’s a destination in its own right.