Sights

Although Cairns is a nice city to explore, most people use it as the operation base from which to explore the surroundings. Plenty of boats set off for the nearby islands where you can explore the impressive facets of the Great Barrier Reef (whether you're diving, snorkling or looking through the glass-floor of a vessel). Another common choice is to visit Townsville with its impressive Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Cairns offers a fine collection of museums and galleries. Besides that, there are some old areas that are worth your time, such as the Trinity Warf.