Areas of Interest in Cairns

The redeveloped Esplande is the focal point of Cairn running alongside the harbour with endless shops and restaurants.  The boardwalk, which runs parallel to the Esplanade, is also magnificent.  The best viewing point especially popular with bird watchers is between Florence Street and Minnie Street.  Each day from 5pm the Night Markets take place on the Esplande featuring everything from jewellery and crafts to various fashions.  There is also an international food court and it runs until around 10pm.

The Flecker Botanic Gardens is a reminder that this rapidly developing city was once covered by tropical rainforest.  The gardens feature ferns, orchids and plenty of palms.  Also across Collins Avenue there is a boardwalk through the peaceful Centenary Lakes.  The Mountfield Conservation Park offers the best views of the city and ocean, as well as the chance of spotting a tree kangaroo.

For a piece of culture the St Monica's Cathedral's stained glass windows record the earth's history and are claimed to be the largest themed windows in the world. Situated on Abbott Street the red brick exterior almost does not give the beautiful interior justice.

Eating Out in Cairns

The Boardwalk Café serves huge Aussie breakfasts for a great price all day long.  Along the boardwalk there are also plenty of seafood and Italian restaurants to choose from.

For lunch and snacks there are numerous fast food choices along the busy Esplanade.  Along Sheilds Street there also plenty of sit down spots to choose from.  The Stumbling Goat serves quality food for a reasonable price and the lunch specials are recommended.

Red Ochre Grill is the place to visit for an exotic twist.  Situated on Sheilds Street the restaurant uses traditional fresh herbs, berries and spices with it's modern menu of dishes including chargrilled kangaroo with sweet potato fritters.

Night Life in Cairns

Amongst the busy night time action The Lagoon Lounge situated above Mangostin's restaurant offers marvellous views over the sea.  Further away from the tourist trail for something refreshing visit Tides which is part of the Shangri La Hotel complex.  The elegant venue serves excellent cocktails.

The Woolshed has a great Australian atmosphere in it's woolshed themed interior with wooden décor.  As well as serving budget meals and reasonably priced drinks, the entertainment varies to suit all tastes.  Although a popular spot with international backpackers it also attracts many local residents.  The Mad Cow Tavern also located on the primary entertainment strip is one of the most popular and yet unique night spots.  The Mad Cow Tavern also attracts a lot of locals giving it a great Aussie party atmosphere.

Local Information

The tourist office comes under the name of 'Tourism Tropical North Queensland's Discovery Centre.'  It can be found along the Esplanade.  Tourist should be aware of unofficial information kiosks displaying the international 'i' information sign as many are just glorified travel agents there to make sales.

Further Afield From Cairns

A shuttle bus runs from all the main hotels and hostels in Cairns up to Caravonica around 15 kilometres north.  The Tjapukai Cultural Park situated here is Australia's first Aboriginal tourist attraction.  It presents a continuous performance of theatre, dance and art tracing through history.  The Skyrail cableway with it's sailing gondolas is also in Caravonica.  The 7.5 kilometre ride sweeps across rainforest covered uplands to the small town of Kuranda.