Cairns Holidays

Things to do in Cairns

Cairns is an ideal destination for outdoor and family-themed holidays, offering a range of activities such as theatre, shopping centres, and recreational areas. Visitors can enjoy leisurely experiences, including Cairns skydiving and rafting, while also finding numerous gyms for fitness enthusiasts. This vibrant city combines adventure and relaxation, making it a perfect getaway for tourists looking to explore its unique offerings.

Shopping

Cairns Central Shopping Centre is a vibrant hub with entertainment and family-friendly options. For a unique experience, visit Cairns Night Markets, perfect for local crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, check out Kite Rite Australia, which offers a selection of Australian-made gifts.

Recreation

Muddy's Playground is a vibrant outdoor space perfect for families, offering a variety of play equipment and shaded areas to relax. For golf enthusiasts, Half Moon Bay Golf Course presents a scenic 18-hole course surrounded by stunning landscapes, while Cazaly's Stadium hosts exhilarating sports events, creating a lively atmosphere.

Adventure

The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Station offers breathtaking views as you glide above the lush rainforest canopy, immersing yourself in nature's beauty. At Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome, experience the thrill of ziplining through treetops while encountering native wildlife. Finally, Sugarworld Waterpark promises fun-filled water slides and attractions for the entire family.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Cairns by catching a show at the Cairns Convention Centre or the Cairns Performing Arts Centre, both offering a blend of culture and entertainment. For an intimate atmosphere, Jute Theatre is perfect, providing a unique setting for a memorable evening out.

Find the best attractions in Cairns

Cairns offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences for families and city explorers alike. Key attractions include the stunning beaches, the vibrant esplanade, and the refreshing lagoon. Visitors can also discover the Cairns Aquarium, stroll through the picturesque Cairns Botanic Gardens, delve into local history at the Cairns Museum, and enjoy the lively atmosphere at the Heart of Cairns. This destination promises a memorable beach experience amidst its rich natural beauty.

• Cairns Esplanade: This vibrant esplanade is perfect for a romantic stroll or a family picnic, featuring lush parklands, a stunning lagoon, and breathtaking ocean views. It's a hub for outdoor activities, offering walking paths, playgrounds, and open spaces to relax and enjoy the tropical atmosphere.
• Cairns Marlin Marina: An adventure lover's paradise, this bustling marina is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy a variety of water sports, boat tours, and exciting fishing trips. Surrounded by cafes and shops, it's an ideal spot to soak up the beach vibes and watch the boats come in.
• Kewarra Beach: A serene escape, Kewarra Beach offers soft sands and clear waters, perfect for sunbathing or swimming. The tranquil atmosphere makes it an excellent location for relaxation, while scenic views invite you to explore the coastline.

Best time to go to Cairns

The best time to visit Cairns can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Cairns falls in January and February. February has slightly low visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather. The coolest average temperature in Cairns falls in July, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
April	76.5°F (24.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	70.3°F (21.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	69.3°F (20.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	69.6°F (20.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	72.7°F (22.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	75.7°F (24.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cairns

Cairns is a budget-friendly destination for tourists, offering free attractions such as the Cairns Esplanade, Palm Cove Beach, and the Esplanade Lagoon. To save on transport, consider using buses or hiring a bike. For accommodation, visit during the cheaper months of February to March and November, and book your stay about a month in advance. Wednesdays are the least expensive for stays, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s tools to find deals, including package options that combine hotels and flights for additional savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Cairns are February to March and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Cairns about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Cairns is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Cairns is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Cairns hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.