Cairns is 17 degrees south of the Equator.

• A true tropical paradise with world unique environment.
• Same parallel as Tahiti and Fiji.
• Two World Heritage listed areas, the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics Rainforests.
• Cairns provides access to genuine outback and Australian adventure experiences.
• Caters for people of all ages and nationalities.
• Population - 120,000.

Lifestyle

Cairns is the gateway to Australia's tropical north.

• Modern and colourful city with international facilities.
• Lifestyle is relaxed and unhurried with wide diversity of accommodation, attractions and activities throughout the region.
• Friendly people.
• South Pacific location with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.

Climate

Cairns boasts a superb tropical climate all year round.  This helpful chart details our marvellous weather.

A GREAT CLIMATE - SUMMER ALL YEAR ROUND

Great Barrier Reef

Cairns is the closest departure point to the Great Barrier Reef.  The reef is accessible from Cairns, Port Douglas, Palm Cove and Mission Beach.

• by fast catamarans, wavepiercer, luxury sailing catamarans and yachts.
• by seaplane, air charter and helicopter.
• extended island and Cape York cruises.

World Heritage Rainforests

• The region boasts some of the richest rainforest in the world covering 900,000 hectares.
• The region's tropical rainforests are protected under World Heritage listing.  Best known - World Heritage rainforests around Mossman, Daintree, Cape Tribulation, Mission Beach and Atherton Tablelands.
• Easily accessible to visitors by four wheel drive vehicle, luxury coach, scenic flights or river cruises.

Adventure Options

Over 160 quality day tours available including:

Shopping

General shopping hours for the city centre are as follows:

Markets