Tropical North Queensland Holidays - Destinations - Cairns

Latitude 16 55 09

Cairns, the gateway to Tropical North Queensland, has changed dramatically over the last few years and is an ideal base for exploring and enjoying the wonders of this diverse region. Voted Australia's most liveable regional city, Cairns is a vibrant sophisticated city offering the quaintness of a resort town exuding a wonderful ambiance, which is all about relaxation and enjoying the tropical lifestyle.

It is the pulsing heart of the Tropical North. Surrounded by a hinterland rich in natural beauty, the city offers a lively contrast of restaurants, shopping, entertainment and sporting events.

The newly developed Esplanade is a focal point of the city, a delightful meeting place that appeals to all ages. The swimming lagoon adds a new dimension to Cairns. The Esplanade is the place to be seen.

Rich in history with almost a century of architecture, Cairns combines a unique blend of traditional hi-set Queenslanders with modern hi-rise buildings. Much of the accommodation is within walking distance to restaurants, cafes, bars, shops, theatres, galleries, nightclubs and the glass-domed Reef Hotel Casino.

You will enjoy the cosmopolitan feel of the city and the diversity on offer. With over 600 sea, air and land tours departing daily from the city, Cairns has an endless supply of activities or if its relishing the resort experience and soaking up the sun, Cairns offers a superb range of accommodation from luxurious hotels to boutique accommodation.

What to see

• See the reef - don't wait any longer to marvel at the underwater spectacle of the Great Barrier Reef, book a day trip with one of the many reef tours, which depart from Cairns every day.
• Check out quality local artworks at the Cairns Regional Gallery and privately owned galleries dotted around the city.
• Stroll - or jog - along the Esplanade promenade and watch the spoonbills and pelicans.
• Admire the whimsical tropical plants at the Flecker Botanic Gardens with delightful exotic names like 'chocolate beehive ginger' and 'hanging lobster claw heliconia'.
• Browse in the funky stalls at the Cairns Night Markets.
• Hire a boat (it comes with tackle supplied) and spend an afternoon fishing in the estuary.
• Buy local fruits and goodies at Rusty's Markets on Sheridan Street.
• Take an evening dinner cruise on the harbour and get a fresh perspective on our tropical city.
• Visit an island beach - Green and Fitzroy Islands are only a short trip away on a high-speed catamaran.
• Be adventurous and go rafting on one of our rivers - don't forget your camera!
• Book a day tour and see the region's attractions from the comfort of a luxury coach or 4WD.

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