The Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest
Cairns
Cairns · Gateway to reef and rainforest
ReefRainforestDiving
Tropical Cairns is the launchpad for two natural wonders side by side — the Great Barrier Reef offshore and the ancient Daintree Rainforest inland. A relaxed esplanade lagoon and reef boats set the easy pace.
Top sightsSights
01
Great Barrier Reef
The world’s largest reef, reached by day boats.
02
Daintree Rainforest
One of the oldest rainforests on earth.
03
Kuranda Scenic Railway
A historic train through gorges to a rainforest village.
04
Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
A free saltwater lagoon on the waterfront.
05
Cape Tribulation
Where the reef meets the rainforest at the coast.
What to eatFood
Barramundi
The tropical north’s favorite fish.
Mud crab
A prized local crab served with chili or ginger.
Tropical fruit
Mangoes, lychees and other far-north produce.
Good to know
- Book reef trips to outer reefs for the clearest water.
- Wear a stinger suit in summer jellyfish season.
- The dry season (May-Oct) has the best weather.
Getting there
Cairns Airport (CNS) is minutes from the city and reef marina.
Next city
Perth