Jump off point for two major Australian attractions, the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest Area, ringed on three sides by rainforest covered ranges and by the Coral Sea on the fourth, Cairns is a great place to visit and, scenically, is one of the most appealing cities in Australia.

The centre of Cairns is a relatively compact area. On the waterfront is the Pier Marketplace, which has an extensive range of boutique shops, souvenir shops and restaurants. On the weekends the mud markets are held, selling lots of local arts and crafts. Also in the Pier is Undersea World, a walk through aquarium which is open daily. A boardwalk setting - an afternoon/evening breeze - a cool beer - watching the reef boats returning with smiling happy people.

Back from the waterfront is City Place, a pedestrian mall at the crossing of Shields and Lake Streets. The legendary Woolshed night spot is located just two doors from City Place in Shields Street; this is where you will receive your free nightly meal courtesy of Castaway's Backpackers.

Weather

Cairns has a typical TROPICAL climate. Between April and September we enjoy slightly cooler temperatures. October however is a popular month with lovely warm weather and clear skies.

November and particularly December are when it is a good idea to spend the entire day diving on the reef or swimming in a waterfall. It is hot at this time of year but excellent visibility for diving. Even during our green season there is no need to rug up. The rain is like a warm shower.

When the green season (also known as the wet season) will start and for how long it will last each year is a bit uncertain. In terms of rainfall statistics, the rain on average is heaviest in Jan, Feb and Mar with Dec and Apr being "shoulder season" for rainfall. That said, it can be sunny for weeks during the Wet Season. On the other hand, in Cairns, we can get a half a metre of rainfall in a day or two. Rain during the Wet is often torrential. There is also a slight risk of cyclones during the Wet Season. When the rain starts it can rain for days or for minutes. It is a time of year that everybody looks forward to because green tree frogs are everywhere. The wildlife in general sings a chorus every night, and the gardens and forests get a well needed drink. White water rafting a day or two after (or during) heavy rain is always an extra special thrill. During the wet the rainforest is far lusher and teeming with noisy life.

Many travellers love the green season because it is so different to anything they have ever experienced.

Clothing

Casual lightweight clothing is suitable for the Tropical North Queensland climate, with something a little more ‘dressy' for the evening. The region is blessed with warm weather most of the year, so a swimsuit, sunscreen and hat are an essential addition to the holiday wardrobe. Pack comfortable shoes for walking, and a light sweater for winter evenings.

Swimming

You can swim in Tropical North Queensland all year round. The 'traditional' swimming season runs between April and October. Between November and March Tropical North Queensland is home to the box jellyfish, so special swimming enclosures are erected at popular beaches to protect swimmers. Seawater temperatures range from 23 degrees Celsius in July to 29 degrees Celsius in February

Remember: When swimming in Australia it is recommended you swim at beaches patrolled by Lifesavers and to swim between the flags. When in the sun apply a good quality sunscreen, wear a hat and avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of water!

Walking Trails

3 kms north of Cairns are the Flecker Botanical Gardens, on Collins Ave which have a lovely variety of native flora and fauna. Across the road from the Gardens is Centenary Lakes, which can be found by following a boardwalk through the rainforest. For a longer hike you can visit the Whitfield Enviromental Park (next door to the Botanical Gardens) which has two walking tracks, both of which give great views of the coast and city. A closer walking trail is along the length of the Esplanade, where you can also spot many of the water birds who make the mangroves their home.