20 Surprising Things about Cairns that Will Amaze First-Time Visitors

Are you ready to discover the hidden surprises of Cairns?

Cairns, known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, is a popular tourist destination in Australia. However, there are many aspects of this city that may surprise first-time visitors. Here are 20 things you should know before you go.

If you’re expecting pristine tropical beaches in Cairns, think again. Instead, you’ll be greeted by vast expanses of brown tidal mudflats along Trinity Bay. But don’t worry, the sandy beaches you desire can still be found in the north of the city.

Looking for a unique drink experience? Head to Fiestas Cairns, a bar exclusively dedicated to watermelon-inspired cocktails. From watermelon spritz to watermelon mimosa, you’ll find a refreshing selection to quench your thirst.

While Cairns has a tropical climate and can be hot and humid, it’s important to pack a warm jacket or jumper for the cooler evenings. The mean minimum temperature in July hovers around 17°C, but don’t fret, the daytime maximum temperature is still perfect for swimming and outdoor activities.

Crocs may not be the only creatures to watch out for in Cairns. Cassowaries, large flightless birds, can also pose a threat if provoked or if they’re protecting their chicks. It’s best to admire them from a safe distance in their natural habitat.

During stinger season, which lasts from October/November to May/June, it’s essential to wear a stinger suit before entering the ocean. These suits protect against venomous box jellyfish and Irukandji jellyfish. They might make you feel like a seal, but safety comes first.

While the man-made lagoon on Cairns Esplanade is a popular spot for a swim, the locals prefer cooling off in the region’s freshwater waterholes and waterfalls. Crystal Cascades and Fairy Falls, just a short drive from the city, offer a refreshing alternative to the beach.

Coconut trees may seem harmless, but in Cairns, they can be a potential hazard. To ensure the safety of tourists, arborists regularly remove coconuts from trees along Cairns Esplanade. So you can relax under the coconut trees without worrying about a falling coconut.

Did you know there’s a castle in Cairns? Paronella Park is home to a 1930s castle surrounded by beautiful gardens and lush rainforest. Take a step back in time and explore this unique attraction.

While Cairns is popular among backpackers, it offers much more than just budget accommodations and adventure activities. Fine-dining restaurants, luxurious hotels, and family-friendly attractions like Muddy’s Playground cater to a variety of travelers.

When exploring Cairns, don’t be surprised if your tour guide comes from a different country. With a large number of working holidaymakers in the area, your guide could be from Brazil, Japan, Belgium, or any of the many eligible countries.

Cairns is the only place in Australia where two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Wet Tropics rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, sit side by side. Experience the unique convergence of these natural wonders.

Cairns is a cacophony of sounds, thanks to its diverse wildlife. From bush-stone curlews with their haunting calls to spectacled flying-foxes and rain whistling frogs, you’re guaranteed to hear nature in full chorus.

Dwarf minke whales are a rare and unique sight, and Cairns is the only place in the world where you can swim alongside these majestic creatures. Book a multi-day boat tour in June or July for an unforgettable experience.

Contrary to some headlines, the Great Barrier Reef is not dead. While climate change poses challenges to the reef, it is still thriving. In fact, the Australian Institute of Marine Science reported the highest amount of hard coral cover in decades in the central and northern regions of the reef.

Cairns Airport is conveniently located just six kilometers north of the city center, allowing for a quick and easy arrival. Thanks to aviation pioneer Tom McDonald, who built a runway on a nearby saltpan in the 1920s, travelers can start enjoying their Cairns adventure in no time.

For those who love train travel, Cairns is not out of reach. The Spirit of Queensland offers a scenic train journey from Brisbane to Cairns, covering a distance of 1681 kilometers. Once in Cairns, the Savannahlander railmotor provides an excellent way to explore the region.

When it comes to Aboriginal art, Cairns offers a different style compared to the well-known dot paintings found in Central and Western Australia. Local Indigenous artists create unique ceramic sculptures, ghost-net sculptures, and lino-cut prints. And not all boomerangs are designed to come back, with over 30 different types used in hunting various animals in Queensland.

Cairns embraces its multicultural population, which is reflected in its diverse cuisine. From Vietnamese pho and Indonesian nasi goreng to Indian tandoori chicken tikka, you can embark on a culinary journey in this tropical city. Don’t miss the Chinese New Year celebrations, featuring authentic yum cha and traditional lion and dragon dances.

Mount Bartle Frere, Queensland’s tallest mountain, is a hidden gem near Cairns. While not as tall as Mount Kosciuszko, the views from the summit are equally breathtaking. Only experienced and fit bushwalkers should attempt the challenging hike.

Cairns prides itself on being an inclusive destination, offering adventure activities for everyone. Even people in wheelchairs can experience the thrill of bungy jumping at Skypark by AJ Hackett. Other accessible attractions include Quicksilver Cruises’ water-powered lift hoist and boardwalks along the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Kuranda Scenic Railway.

• Cairns is known for its brown tidal mudflats, not tropical beaches.
• There’s a bar dedicated entirely to watermelon-inspired cocktails.
• Despite its tropical climate, Cairns can get chilly.
• Cassowaries, not just crocs, can pose a threat.
• Stinger suits are necessary during stinger season.
• Locals prefer swimming in freshwater waterholes.
• Coconut trees in Cairns are regularly ‘de-nutted’ for safety.
• You can visit a castle at Paronella Park.
• Cairns has attractions for all demographics, not just backpackers.
• Tour guides in Cairns may come from various countries.
• Cairns is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• The city is filled with diverse and noisy wildlife.
• You can swim with dwarf minke whales only in Cairns.
• The Great Barrier Reef is still alive and worth visiting.
• Cairns Airport is conveniently located near the city center.
• You can reach Cairns and explore the region by train.
• Aboriginal art in Cairns differs from dot paintings and boomerangs don’t always come back.
• Cairns offers a wide range of multicultural cuisine.
• Mount Bartle Frere is Queensland’s highest mountain.
• Cairns is an inclusive destination with accessible adventure activities.

Cairns is a city full of surprises, from its unique landscapes to its diverse wildlife. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Cairns has something to offer every traveler. So pack your bags and get ready to be amazed!