Destinations > Queensland > Cairns

Cairns

Cairns is a hugely popular backpackers' destination with around 40 hostels in the city and a great backpacker-oriented nightlife scene. Although it's a very touristy city, Cairns also has a relaxed and laid-back ambience and it is a fun place to visit.

Many travellers are disappointed with Cairns as there are no worthwhile attractions in the city centre and the closest beaches are in the northern suburbs, but there is now a big new lagoon on the Esplanade.

Cairns is a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding area and it is within easy reach of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, rainforest and the vast wilderness of Cape York Peninsula.

Practical Information

INFORMATION CENTRES & USEFUL ADDRESSES

Cairns Visitor Centre

51 The Esplanade, Cairns

Tel (07) 4051 3588

Website www.tnq.org.au

Open 8.30am-6.30pm daily

Queensland Parks & Wildlife Centre

10 McLeod Street, Cairns

Tel (07) 4046 6600

Open Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm

INTERNET ACCESS

Global Gossip

125 Abbott Street, Cairns

Tel (07) 4031 6411

Website www.globalgossip.com.au

Open 8.30am-11pm daily

Inbox Cafe

119 Abbott Street, Cairns

Tel (07) 4041 4677

Website www.inboxcafe.com.au

Travellers Contact Point

13 Shields Street, Cairns

Tel (07) 4041 4677

Website www.travellers.com.au

Open 7am-midnight daily