Cairns

If you're wondering what to do in Cairns, you'll soon be impressed as it is one of Queensland, Australia's most popular tourism hot spots. The tropical climate in Cairns ensures you will have great weather to enjoy all the adventure activities the region is famous for. As a gateway for people wanting to visit the Great Barrier Reef and Far North Queensland, Cairns serves as a wonderful springboard to other cities in Australia as well as being a lovely city and region in itself! Its proximity to the Coral Sea is another gift that travellers are also easily able to take advantage of!

Stay on land to relax at the beaches and in your holiday accommodation, or take a trip out to the magical Great Barrier Reef for snorkeling, scuba diving and scenic boat cruises. This coral reef is one of the world’s largest reefs with heritage listing and is one of the seven wonders of the natural world. A Daintree or Kuranda experience is also a must, with many eco adventure activities taking place inside the Daintree. If you’re looking for what to do in Cairns, have a look through our catalogue of products below and book your experience today. In addition, if you're looking for information on what to do in Queensland as a whole, as well as a guide on Cairns itineraries to make the most of short stays, be sure to check out our information pages!

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Useful Information for Cairns

Useful Information

Useful Cairns Information
We don't want you to run into any trouble on your trip, so here is some information to help your holiday run smoothly.

Phone Numbers

  • Emergency (Police, Fire & Ambulance): 000
  • International: +61

Accommodation

Situated in tropical North Queensland, Cairns is home to some of Australia's best holiday resorts. Whether you're looking for cheap Cairns hotels or luxury resorts you will find what you're looking for at Quickbeds.

Weather

Cairns has only two seasons, wet and dry. The wet season starts in November and continues up to May. During the wet season Cairns experiences frequent rains and can become quite balmy, with temperatures rising up to 30C/86F. The Dry season starts in June and goes on until October, with warm sunny days and cooler nights with the temperature varying between 29C/84F to 11C/51F.

Sun/Surf safety

Australia has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world so it can be tempting to throw caution to the wind. Always play it safe by swimming between the red and yellow flags in beaches that are patrolled by lifeguards. Protect your skin from sun damage by following the simple Slip, Slop and Slap rule- Slip on a shirt, Slop on some sunscreen and Slap on a hat.

Money

ATMs are easily found in the city of Cairns. Most places accept the major credit cards, American Express, MasterCard, Diners Club and Visa. However, some of the smaller restaurants and shops may only accept cash. Currency converters can be found in the city of Cairns, the airport and the banks.

  • Bank of Queensland
    Address: 17-19A Spence St, Cairns
    Phone: (07) 4048 0530

  • Currency Services Australia
    Address: 14 Spence Street, Cairns
    Phone: (07) 4041 0070

  • Bendigo Bank
    Address: 53 Lake Street, Cairns
    Phone: (07) 4041 5291

GST

A 10% Goods and Services Tax is added to most items that you purchase and is included in the display price. For visitors to Australia, the GST of goods over $300 purchased within 30 days of leaving Australia and packed into your hand luggage is refundable at the airport. Consult Customs for more information.

Tipping

Tipping is not expected in Australia. However, if you experience really good service and want to show your appreciation, 10% of the bill is an acceptable amount for a tip.

Time Zone

The Standard time zone in Cairns is GMT +10.

Bars

The minimum age for the purchase and consumption of alcohol is 18. Minors will not be permitted to enter a bar if not accompanied by an adult.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited at indoor public places and cigarettes will not be sold to minors.

Medical Services

  • Cairns Base Hospital
    Address: Esplanade, Cairns North
    Phone: (07) 4050 6333

  • Cairns Private hospital
    Address: 1 Upward Street, Cairns
    Phone: (07) 4052 5200

  • Cairns Day Surgery
    Address: 156-160 Grafton Street, Cairns
    Phone: (07) 4051 5454

  • Royal Flying Doctor Service
    Address: 1 Junction Street, Edge Hill
    Phone: (07)3860 1100

Visitor Information Centres

  • Cairns Tourist Information Centre
    Address: Esplanade, Cairns