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There really isn’t much to see in downtown Cairns. To enjoy it, you have to go out to the islands, but this always requires paying a high price, and there aren’t many options in terms of timing. I would instead recommend staying briefly at a resort on one of the islands and then returning. Kuranda and the other rainforests were more developed as tourist attractions than I expected. Everywhere you go, you have to pay an entrance fee, and the shops all felt the same without any unique character.

The esplanade and the Cairns museum were great for the fascinating history of the town. The beautiful beaches at Palm Cove and Yorkeys Knob and the stunning waterfalls, lakes and Rainforest of the hinterland. The botanic gardens were wonderful.

Plenty to see in and about Cairns. This was our base and with our own vehicle it was very easy to get around. We took the Sky Rail to Kuranda and returned by train to Freshwater Station and it was a most enjoyable experience. The train only runs twice a day therefore if wishing to return this way, then it pays to book in advance as train seats are limited. The Pier has an array of waterfront venues to choose from offering a variety of food. Most cafes and restaurants have a Menu on display outside the venue. There is even a Brewery further down near the Cruise Terminal. The decor and now the digital fish flooring is definitely worth a visit to the Casino. Good food opportunities here too! Centenary Lakes/Botanic Gardens, Copperlode Dam along with the Crystal Cascades at Redlynch and the Red Beret Hotel are must visits.

The foreshore is beautifully done by the Council with a public swimming Pool the area feels safe and lots of nice restaurants. Close to the Marina where you can catch boats to the Islands. Enjoyed Green Island this time, many choices of things to do. Cairns Art Gallery is situated in a beautiful heritage building and worth a visit. Recommend Rocco roof top bar and Miss Chief. I'm coming back.

such a chill town with loads to do. Snorkelling on Fitzroy island, Kuranda scenic train and skyrail, loads of waterfalls nearby for hiking and swimming, big free public pool on the esplanade, lovely coffee shops, bars and restaurants, live music. liveaboard scuba diving with Divers Den out on the reef was phenomenol. Weather was amazing, warm all year round. loads of great hostels to choose from (I stayed in like 6 different places).

Cairns is lively and very touristy its ok Be prepared to be disappointed Mossman Gorge dont bother very controlled and you are not allowed to really walk they are not happy as it is through an indigenous community You are strongly encouraged to pay $15 to take a bus to the gorge In addition most of the areas visited are conveniently closed to the public for supposed your safety and repairs taking many months Examples Lake Placid Barron Gorge I grew up here came back to visit it is no longer free to walk around your own country The islands such as fitzroy not bad but again very crowded Its worth a look but be prepared to find it too crowded and commercial