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What's in Cairns?

Local facilities and activities in and around Cairns

Cairns is blessed not only with an abundance of nature-based activities which visitors and locals can enjoy, but state of the art facilities which rival those of bigger cities. Whilst the region is synonymous with the two major tourist hotspots (The Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics), Cairns also has so much more to offer locals, ensuring family and friends have plenty of indoor and outdoor opportunities to catch up or explore.

10 Cairns quick facts and quirks

  • One of the busiest airports in Australia
  • 15th largest city in Australia
  • 500km + off-road paths for exploring our big nature on bike or foot
  • 79% tree coverage - largest urban tree canopy of any Australian city
  • 180+ cafes in the Cairns 4870 postcode
  • Biggest stock of coconut palms maintained and de-nutted by an Australian council
  • 72 languages other than English spoken in our homes
  • Queensland’s highest mountain is in Cairns – Mt Bartle Frere, at 1611m
  • Cairns is on the edge of the world's oldest rainforest - the 80 million-year old Wet Tropics and beside the Great Barrier Reef with its hundreds coral reefs and deserted islands
  • Cairns is also at the start of one of Australia's most picturesque drives - the winding coastal road to Port Douglas and Mossman, and close to the quaint villages and food bowl of the Atherton Tablelands and Mareeba.

rainforest hike

Cultural and Performing Arts Scene

Cairns is home to several exceptional cultural venues:

Nature & Outdoor Adventures

Cairns’ natural beauty is unrivalled:

  • The Cairns Botanic Gardens, a tropical paradise with free guided tours, walking tracks, and stunning plant exhibitions.
  • Popular hiking tracks such as the ‘red’, ‘blue’, ‘yellow’, and ‘green’ arrows through Mount Whitfield Conservation Park, offering spectacular views.
  • Mountain biking enthusiasts will love the world-renowned 700km trail network, home to major events like the Mountain Bike World Cups and UCI World Championships.
  • A wealth of waterfalls like Crystal Cascades, Babinda Boulders, and Barron Falls—perfect for cooling off and enjoying nature.

Cyclists along the Esplanade

Markets & Local Attractions

Cairns boasts vibrant markets, from night markets to weekend market spots in Holloway’s Beach, Woree, Palm Cove, and more. Don’t miss Rusty’s Markets for fresh produce, or head up to the Atherton Tablelands for unique finds.

For those seeking air-conditioned comfort, check out the regular indoor markets at Mount Sheridan and Smithfield shopping centres.

If you’re on Facebook, you’ll find a list of markets here.

Libraries

Cairns’ libraries are a perfect spot to relax and immerse yourself in the world of books and knowledge. While digital media continues to grow in popularity, there’s something special about the experience of reading a physical book or browsing through printed materials. For those who prefer digital content, Cairns libraries offer a range of eBooks, eMagazines, and eMovies.

The libraries also host regular events for all ages, including book and film clubs, movement classes for children, and Conversation Corner for adults to share stories and engage in discussions. Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore new ideas, Cairns’ libraries offer a welcoming and enriching space for everyone. Find out more about the local libraries and their offerings. Find out more about libraries in Cairns.

Community Spaces & Clubs

Cairns offers plenty of social venues to relax, catch up, or enjoy family-friendly activities:

  • Cairns RSL, with stunning views over the Coral Sea, perfect for a casual meal or a drink with friends.
  • Local sports clubs such as Cazaly's AFL stadium, Brothers Leagues Club, and seven bowls clubs around the region.

Whether you're in the mood for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or community connections, Cairns offers endless opportunities to explore and enjoy.