Cairns – A Tropical Paradise
Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef is a unique environment, renowned nationally and internationally as a premier tourism destination. The region attracts more than 2 million domestic and international visitors each year.
Whether exploring the botanic gardens, bush walking through rainforest, lazing by the lagoon, zipping along a flying fox or soaking up local, national and international musicians and stage performances, Cairns provides something for all tastes.
Interactive Google Map – Click for Directions
Things to Do in Cairns
For a full list of activities and tourist information, you can visit the official website of the Cairns Regional Council.
Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
The 4800sqm Cairns Esplanade Lagoon free and open to the public from 6am-9pm daily except Wednesday when it is closed until midday for maintenance.
Cycling and Walking
Cairns has an extensive network of walking paths, bike tracks and cycleways.
Heritage drives and trails
Enjoy our scenic region by road or foot via our heritage drives and trails.
Botanic Gardens conservatory
Council’s purpose-built conservatory in the Cairns Botanic Gardens houses palms, bromeliads, cycads, aquatic plants, orchids, carnivorous plants and more.
Beaches & Foreshores
The Cairns region has some of the most beautiful coastline in Queensland.
Parks & Forests
Visit one of the many local parks, explore the Daintree forest and more…
The Great Barrier Reef
The iconic Great Barrier Reef is blessed with the breathtaking beauty of the world’s largest coral reef.
Location – Frequently Asked Questions
How far from Cascade Gardens is the Convention Centre?
We are just 10 minutes by taxi to the centre and if you wish to walk you would be there in 15 minutes. It’s a pleasant walk along the esplanade boardwalk and lagoon swimming pool.
Why is this location so good?
We are only a 5 minute walk to the middle of the city centre to all the restaurants, Lagoon Pool, Reef terminal for all our reef trips.
Cairns Aquarium is right on our door step and Woolworths super market is in Lake street only two blocks away for all your grocery needs.
We are only one street back from the beautiful Esplanade boardwalk and Muddies Play Ground for family bookings and enjoying the local café with ocean views.
A quick stroll along the board walk brings you right into all the many attractions, night markets, a variety of restaurants, Rusty fresh local grown produce and local craft markets.
We are also just far enough away to not be effected by the hustle & bustle or the noise of the night clubs.
How far is Cascade Gardens from the Esplanade Boardwalk?
We are just a 2 minute walk to the Esplanade. We are only one street back from the ocean front.
How far from Cairns Casino?
The Casino is adjacent to the Convention Centre therefore the travel times and options will be the same for both venues.
How far is Cairns Central Shopping Centre?
Cairns Central is about a 20 mins Walk and to travel by car 5 minutes away.
What are the best tours to do when holidaying in Cairns?
As each family and guests has different requirements this is another reason to chat with us once you have arrived and we can help tailor the activities to your requirements .
Our local knowledge will help you to make sure you have booked the best tours to ensure you have the best experience
How close is the beach and how do I get there?
Cairns is surrounded by beautiful beaches. A 15 minute drive or by local bus and you are sitting on the long stretch of beach at Palm Cove or Trinity beach. Both beaches are famous for their beautiful tropical surroundings and peaceful lifestyle.
Transport – from the Cairns airport to Cascade Gardens
FNQ Airport Shuttle Bus – Call 0432488783 or visit www.cairnsairportshuttle.com.au
Cairns Taxis – call 131000. Taxis will be waiting to bring you from the airport to Cascade Gardens.