Situated in the northeast of Australia, Cairns acts as the gateway to this tropical region. International airlines such as Qantas, Cathay Pacific (seasonal) and Singapore airlines offer regular flights into Cairns, with more airlines soon to follow. Popular beach destinations such as Port Douglas and Palm Cove lie within easy reach of Cairns.

When?

In terms of seasonality, the Australian winter (May-September) is the best time if time to visit if you’re looking for the driest weather and comfortable temperatures; a typical winter’s day would see temperatures in the mid 20s.

Where do I start? The Great Barrier Reef is on many people’s bucket list and trips out to the reef run daily from Port Douglas and Cairns, allowing visitors to snorkel or try their first dive in the world’s largest coral reef. Silversonic offer a fantastic day trip out to the reef, with the option to choose an introductory or certified dive if desired.

Heading inland, the Atherton Tablelands are just one example of the many natural wonders in Northern Queensland. A perfect way to experience this area is to embark on a sunrise hot air balloon adventure, where you’ll rise above the hills and be rewarded with the most outstanding views. The area around the tablelands is full off awe-inspiring scenery, such as waterfalls and lakes that have formed in volcanic craters. Wildlife is also rich here, with the chance to spot the prehistoric cassowary or the adorable platypus. Pair this area up with a few nights in the stunning Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat for the perfect addition to your North Queensland itinerary.

An honourable mention to Cape Tribulation and the Daintree Rainforest, which is an incredible part of the state, and you certainly wouldn’t want to miss it. Cape Tribulation is the only place on earth where two Unesco World Heritage sites meet (the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest). Rich wildlife is the main highlight here, from an abundance of crocodiles and the chance to spot a cassowary and tree kangaroos if you’re lucky!

Port Douglas stole my heart. It’s a perfect beach town with excellent dining, day trips, four miles of golden sand and an array of hotels and apartments available. The Peninsula Boutique hotel is a real standout, situated just seconds from the beach and a short stroll into the town centre. It really felt like a home away from home and is the perfect place to chill out in the evenings after exhilarating reef days; the views over Four Mile Beach are unmatched from their ocean facing rooms!

Allow at least five days in Tropical North Queensland if possible. Get your reef day and other day tours booked in early to avoid disappointment, but do allow yourself some free time to explore the town and beach. If you can only spare a few days in this region, you might consider staying in Cairns, particularly if you’re going to be busy on day trips throughout your time here. Although Cairns doesn’t have a beach, the marina is very pleasant and there are plenty of local attractions, such as Kuranda.

For more inspiration take a look at our Australia Holidays pages.