THE GREAT BARRIER REEF
The Great Barrier Reef is a staggering underwater world, the largest living structure on Earth, stretching along the coast of North Queensland. It is a mosaic of coral gardens, diverse marine life, and tropical islands.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is a global icon, offering unparalleled opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and exploring the pristine beauty of the Coral Sea and its tropical island gateways.
Most Popular Attractions
Major Gateway Cities & Tours:
Cairns Esplanade: A vibrant waterfront precinct with a man-made lagoon pool, parks, and dining options.
Port Douglas: A charming, upscale coastal town and a major departure point for outer reef trips.
Townsville: The starting point for trips to the Central and Southern sections of the reef, including Magnetic Island.
Reef Fleet Terminal (Cairns): The central hub where most reef tours, ferries, and liveaboards depart.
Kuranda Scenic Railway: A historic railway journey through the rainforest and Barron Gorge National Park, often combined with the Skyrail.
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: An iconic experience gliding above the ancient tropical rainforest canopy.
Magnetic Island: A large island national park off Townsville, known for its koalas, beaches, and walking trails.
Iconic Reef Sites & Experiences:
Agincourt Reef: A pristine ribbon reef off Port Douglas, famed for its clear water and biodiversity.
Opal Reef: A popular site accessible from Cairns, known for its incredible coral gardens and reef sharks.
Ribbon Reefs: A chain of remote, linear reefs offering some of the best diving opportunities, including Cod Hole.
Cod Hole: A world-famous dive site north of Cairns where divers can interact with giant, friendly Potato Cod.
Hardy Reef: Home to the iconic Heart Reef, a naturally formed heart-shaped coral visible only by air.
Green Island: A small, accessible coral cay off Cairns, perfect for day trips with snorkeling, glass-bottom boats, and a rainforest walk.
Fitzroy Island: A continental island near Cairns, popular for hiking and its calm, sheltered beaches like Nudey Beach.
Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA): A series of underwater sculptures near Townsville and the Whitsundays, promoting reef conservation.
Coastal & Rainforest Attractions:
Daintree National Park: The world’s oldest continuous tropical rainforest, located north of Port Douglas.
Cape Tribulation: The only place on Earth where two UNESCO World Heritage sites (Reef and Rainforest) meet.
Mossman Gorge: A stunning gorge within the Daintree, offering cultural walks with the local Kuku Yalanji people.
Undara Volcanic National Park: Features the longest lava tube system in the world, an inland geological wonder.
Paronella Park: The ruins of a Spanish-style castle and gardens in the rainforest, an enchanting historical attraction.
Mission Beach: A quiet coastal town known for its long beaches, white-water rafting, and cassowary spotting.
Waterfalls Circuit (Atherton Tablelands): A scenic route including spectacular waterfalls like Millaa Millaa Falls and Zillie Falls.
Activities & Experiences
Snorkel or Scuba Dive the Outer Reef: Experience the world’s largest coral reef system by swimming among the “Great Eight” marine life (turtles, giant clams, clownfish, manta rays, etc.). Choose a full-day tour to an outer reef pontoon for the most pristine sites.
Take a Scenic Flight over the Reef: Get a bird’s-eye view of the immense size and vibrant blue and green patterns of the reef, including the famous Heart Reef (often departing from the Whitsundays, but accessible via longer flights).
Explore the Daintree Rainforest: Take a day trip north of Port Douglas to the world’s oldest living rainforest, where the reef meets the rainforest at Cape Tribulation. Look for the elusive Cassowary bird.
Walk on the Seafloor with a Helmet Dive (Seawalker): For non-divers, try a helmet dive on a coral cay like Green Island, allowing you to walk on the seabed with your head completely dry and with an unrestricted view of the marine life.
Experience Indigenous ‘Walkabout’ Cultural Tours: Join a local Aboriginal guide (e.g., Kuku Yalanji people) for a walk through the rainforest (like at Mossman Gorge) or on the coastal areas to learn about their ancient connection to the land and sea country.
Sail to a Tranquil Island or Sand Cay: Book a luxury sailing trip to idyllic spots like the Low Isles off Port Douglas or a private helicopter/charter to a temporary sand cay like Vlasoff Cay for an exclusive picnic.
Swim with Dwarf Minke Whales (Seasonal): Book a special liveaboard dive trip off Cairns/Port Douglas, as North Queensland is the only place in the world where you can intentionally and safely swim with these beautiful, curious whales (typically June-July).
Visit a Reef Island: Spend a day or night on one of the continental islands or coral cays, such as Fitzroy Island or Green Island, for hiking, relaxation, and easier access to fringing reefs.
Take the Kuranda Scenic Railway or Skyrail: Journey inland from Cairns through the Wet Tropics Rainforest to the charming village of Kuranda, either on the historic railway or the scenic Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
Go White Water Rafting: Experience the rush of white water rafting on the Tully or Barron Rivers near Cairns (seasonal and depending on water levels).
Take a Crocodile Cruise: Cruise on a river like the Daintree or the Barron to spot estuarine crocodiles in their natural habitat, offering a thrilling wildlife encounter.
Try a Sunset Cruise in Port Douglas or Cairns: Enjoy a leisurely sailing or boat trip at dusk, watching the sun set over the ocean and the mountainous coastline.
Local Tips & Transport
Cairns is the Main Hub: Cairns International Airport (CNS) is the primary gateway. Most major tours to the outer reef depart from the marinas in Cairns or Port Douglas.
Car is Recommended for Exploring: While you don’t need a car within Cairns city, a rental car is the best way to explore the region’s diverse attractions like Port Douglas, Mossman Gorge, and the Atherton Tablelands.
Driving to the Daintree: To get to Cape Tribulation, you will need to cross the Daintree River via a car ferry (cash or card accepted). Be aware that beyond this point, some roads become unsealed and require a 4WD, especially to reach the northernmost points of Cape York.
Public Transport: Cairns has an efficient local bus network (Translink) connecting the city center to the northern beaches like Palm Cove. Rideshare services (Uber, etc.) and taxis are available in Cairns but are less prevalent further north in Port Douglas.
Internal Rail/Tours: The Kuranda Scenic Railway offers a dedicated tourist experience inland. For longer distances, coach services like Greyhound Australia connect major towns.
Stinger Season Awareness: The marine stingers (Jellyfish) are a hazard, primarily during the wet season (roughly November to May). During this time, you must wear a stinger suit (provided by all reputable tour operators) when swimming or snorkeling in the ocean. Enclosed nets are also provided at popular beach swimming spots.
Sun Protection is Crucial: The Australian sun is intense. Always apply high-factor, reef-safe sunscreen (re-apply often!), wear a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses, even on cloudy days. UV levels can be extreme.
Respecting Indigenous Culture: The region is the traditional home of numerous Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups. Seek out and support tours and cultural centers run by Traditional Owners (like the Kuku Yalanji people) to learn about the deep history of the land and sea country. Always be respectful of restricted or sacred sites.
Crocodile Safety: Crocodiles (both freshwater and saltwater) inhabit many river systems and some coastal areas. Heed all warning signs. Never swim in areas where crocodiles might be present, especially near estuaries, and never clean fish near the water’s edge.
Tipping Culture: Tipping is not mandatory in Australia, as service workers are paid a decent wage. It is generally reserved for excellent service in restaurants or bars, but no one will be offended if you don’t leave a tip.
Hidden Gems:
- The Esplanade Lagoon (Cairns): A massive, man-made public swimming pool overlooking the ocean in the city center—a safe and free way to cool off outside of stinger season.
- Atherton Tablelands: A cooler, scenic highland area west of Cairns, known for its stunning waterfalls (like Millaa Millaa), crater lakes (Lake Eacham), and local produce farms (coffee, tropical fruits).
- Mossman Gorge: Located north of Port Douglas, this is one of the most accessible parts of the Daintree Rainforest, offering beautiful walks and a fantastic cultural center run by the local Indigenous community.
- Palm Cove: A chic, palm-fringed beach village just north of Cairns, perfect for a relaxing day trip with boutique shops and seaside dining.
Top Restaurants
Nu Nu Restaurant [$50-$80] – An iconic, award-winning beachfront restaurant in Palm Cove offering a sophisticated and creative Modern Australian menu with a strong focus on regional tropical produce and Coral Sea views.
Nautilus Restaurant [$60-$90] – Established for over 70 years, this is a unique Port Douglas dining experience set outdoors in a magical, lush rainforest grove with an elegant à la carte and degustation menu.
Salsa Bar and Grill [$40-$70] – A vibrant and long-standing Port Douglas institution serving a bold, tropical menu of Modern Australian and international cuisine, often featuring local seafood and meats like crocodile.
Osprey’s Restaurant [$50-$70] – Located in the stunning Thala Beach Nature Reserve, this restaurant offers fine dining with a focus on local produce and a spectacular view over the Coral Sea and coastal rainforest.
Tamarind [$60-$90] – One of Cairns’ most awarded restaurants, located in the Pullman Reef Hotel Casino, offering a refined “Australian Freestyle” menu with a noticeable South-East Asian influence and elegant, bold flavors.
Ochre Restaurant and Catering [$50-$80] – Internationally recognized for its focus on native Australian ingredients, offering a unique opportunity to try bush tucker infused into modern cuisine in a smart Cairns setting.
The Reef House Restaurant [$50-$80] – Nestled under magnificent Melaleuca trees at The Reef House in Palm Cove, this spot offers a sophisticated a la carte and degustation menu featuring refined coastal cuisine.
Salt Water Restaurant [$80-$120] – The signature restaurant at Lizard Island Resort, offering a daily changing menu dictated by the freshest local catches and produce, with 180-degree views over Watsons Bay (typically for resort guests).
Dundee’s Restaurant on the Waterfront [$40-$60] – Located on the Cairns boardwalk, this popular spot offers fresh-as-it-gets local seafood, as well as unique Australian meats like kangaroo and crocodile skewers.
Beach Almond [$40-$70] – An award-winning restaurant in Palm Cove that celebrates the rich harvest of local seafood with a focus on simple, fresh preparations right on Williams Esplanade.
Melaleuca [$50-$80] – A newer, highly-regarded addition to the Port Douglas dining scene offering a refined Modern Australian menu with a focus on seasonal local ingredients and a stylish waterfront atmosphere.
The Stanley Cairns [$50-$80] – A new modern Australian restaurant in the heart of Cairns known for its high-quality gastronomy and fine dining experience.
Aluco Restaurant And Bar [$50-$80] – A world away from the everyday in Port Douglas, designed with a focus on sophisticated Modern Australian dining and an ambient setting.
The Vine Room [$40-$70] – A breezy, Mediterranean-inspired spot on the Cairns Esplanade with a seafood-centric menu and sparkling sea and poolside views.
Tha Fish [$40-$60] – Located on the Pier Marina in Cairns, offering fresh, locally sourced seafood dishes in a sleek, modern setting.
Wrasse & Roe [$40-$70] – A Port Douglas spot paying homage to the town’s fishing village roots, specializing in local catches like Moreton Bay bugs and FNQ mud crabs.
Flynn’s Italian by Crystalbrook [$40-$60] – A popular Cairns spot offering a modern Italian spread, focusing on quality local produce fused with classic Italian flavors.
Code Cairns [$40-$60] – A boutique dining experience blending modern Australian and Middle Eastern cuisine, with a focus on shared plates like charred Fremantle octopus and lamb shawarma.
Salt House [$40-$60] – Located at the Cairns Marina, this glamorous, chilled-out spot is known for its wood-fired grill, diverse menu, and stunning views.
Coco’s Restaurant [$50-$80] – Found in the Pullman Cairns International, offering a relaxed yet refined dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and a popular seafood buffet.
Antica Pizzeria Ristorante [$30-$50] – A highly-rated Italian restaurant in Cairns known for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas and traditional pasta dishes, offering a great non-seafood option.
Prawn Star [$30-$50] – A Cairns Marina institution where the dining is casual, serving up fresh seafood platters straight from the trawler—a true local and traveler favorite for fresh bugs, prawns, and fish.
Ganbaranba [$15-$25] – A genuine local favorite in Cairns, known for its queue and widely considered to serve the best authentic Japanese ramen in the city, with a rich, comforting broth.
The Rattle ‘n Hum [$20-$35] – A popular, lively pub in both Cairns and Port Douglas known for its great wood-fired pizzas, hearty pub meals, and a relaxed, local atmosphere.
Hemingway’s Brewery Cairns Wharf [$20-$40] – Located in a heritage-listed building on the waterfront, this craft brewery offers excellent house-brewed beers and a menu of great pub food and sharing plates.
Chill Cafe [$15-$30] – A fantastic casual beachfront spot in Palm Cove known for its fresh, vibrant salads, tasty burgers, and relaxed, toes-in-the-sand vibe.
Mocka’s Pies [$10-$15] – A Port Douglas spot famous for its classic Australian meat pies, including unique local flavors like crocodile and emu, perfect for a quick and authentic bite.
Brother Jenkins [$15-$30] – A funky, converted Queenslander house on the outskirts of Cairns (Manunda) offering a popular, regularly changing menu for breakfast and lunch with a focus on fresh, trendy dishes.
Little Sister [$30-$50] – A vibrant spot inspired by Asian street food, offering flavorful, modern Asian cuisine and a buzzing atmosphere in the Cairns CBD.
Samgasat [$25-$40] – An authentic Northern Thai cuisine spot on the outskirts of Edge Hill, a popular local haunt that’s best booked in advance.
Waterbar & Grill [$35-$60] – A steakhouse in Cairns and Port Douglas, famous for claiming to have the best steak in town, with a menu infused with African and Portuguese flavors and great marina views.
Bellocale [$30-$50] – A Cairns CBD spot offering well-crafted Italian food with a focus on fresh seafood, pasta, and a casual, welcoming outdoor dining room.
Guerrilla [$25-$45] – A modern Mexican restaurant in Edge Hill offering fresh, elevated twists on classics like tacos and enchiladas, plus an impressive cocktail list.
The Yachty (Port Douglas Yacht Club) [$20-$40] – Known for its very scenic location, this club offers casual dining and drinks right on the water, popular with locals for its relaxed, community feel.
Mayhem at Machans [$15-$30] – A charming, coastal-style café in the quiet beachside suburb of Machan’s Beach, known for its delicious, unpretentious food and tranquil setting.
The Depot Espresso [$10-$20] – Innisfail’s favorite hole-in-the-wall coffee bar, also associated with Innisfail Seafood, perfect for a quick stop and local connection.
White Whale Coffee Roasters [$10-$20] – A dedicated coffee roaster and cafe in Cairns, sourcing and roasting beans thoughtfully, a must-visit for serious coffee lovers.
Palooka [$30-$50] – A spot in Cairns serving up modern Euro dining, ideal for pre-sunset drinks and delicious bites with a focus on a “flawless culinary experience.”
L’Unico Trattoria Italiano [$30-$50] – A long-standing, popular Italian restaurant in Palm Cove right on the beachfront, offering classic Italian dishes with a great view.
Barron River Hotel – Rivers Restaurant [$20-$35] – One of Cairns’ longest-standing hotels (built in 1887) in the suburb of Smithfield, offering a family-friendly menu in a historic setting.
Cafe Fresq [$15-$30] – A casual corner cafe in Port Douglas offering interesting and highly-rated breakfast and lunch options, popular for its modern cafe fare.
NOA [$25-$45] – A lively Cairns spot known for its inventive share-plate tapas-style menu and tropical atmosphere.
Strait on the Beach [$20-$35] – An idyllically located, licensed café at the southern end of Holloways Beach, offering Bali-esque beach vibes and an all-day menu for breakfast and lunch.
Flames of the Forest [$150-$200 (set menu)] – An extraordinary, immersive dining experience featuring a seven-course Aboriginal-inspired banquet set in the heart of the Daintree Rainforest, complete with Indigenous storytelling and song.
Julaymba Restaurant [$40-$70] – Located at the Daintree Ecolodge, this restaurant offers a beautiful setting and a menu celebrating the bounty of the Daintree Rainforest and local produce.
Daintree Ice Cream Co [$10-$15] – A unique spot where you can taste exotic fruit ice cream flavors (like wattleseed and Davidson Plum) grown organically on their own orchard in the Daintree wilderness.
N17 Burger Co [$15-$25] – A popular, locally-focused burger joint in Port Douglas known for high-quality, gourmet burgers and a casual, quick dining experience.
Bushfire Flame Grill [$40-$60] – An award-winning Brazilian Churrasco experience in Cairns offering an all-you-can-eat parade of meats carved tableside.
Mena Creek Hotel [$20-$35] – A classic, rustic country pub near the famous Paronella Park, known for its hearty pub meals and local charm away from the main tourist hubs.
Port Douglas Hot Wok [$15-$30] – A local favorite for quick, delicious, and authentic Asian takeaway and casual dine-in, known for its generous portions and fresh flavors.
The Chambers [$25-$45] – Located in a beautifully restored bank building in the Cairns CBD, offering a relaxed but stylish bistro atmosphere for modern Australian dining.
Oak & Vine Cairns [$35-$60] – A rooftop restaurant with stunning views of Cairns and the Coral Sea, offering unique Peruvian-inspired dishes and a vibrant atmosphere.
Rocco by Crystalbrook [$40-$70] – Perched on a rooftop with 270-degree panoramic views of Cairns and the Coral Sea, offering Mediterranean flavors and a stylish cocktail bar.
Daintree Siesta Restaurant [$30-$50] – A quiet spot to enjoy a meal focused on local flavors and relaxation in the Daintree Rainforest area.
Barbados Port Douglas [$30-$50] – A stylish bar and kitchen on the Port Douglas waterfront offering a contemporary menu and a great spot for cocktails and grazing.
Choo Choos at the Marina [$20-$40] – A unique Port Douglas spot where old Ballyhooley steam train carriages have been converted into a dining car, offering a memorable casual dining experience.
Hi Tide by the beach [$25-$45] – A great all-day spot on the Palm Cove Esplanade, popular for its breakfast and casual meals right overlooking the beach.
The Mexican – Port Douglas [$25-$45] – A revived and well-regarded Mexican restaurant in Port Douglas offering a culinary journey with fresh, local ingredients and a fun atmosphere.
Whiskey and Wine by Crystalbrook [$35-$60] – A sophisticated bar in Cairns with sultry summer breezes, known for its stylish setting, eclectic beats, and fine whiskey and wine selection.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Paddy’s Irish Pub & Grill: Found right on the Esplanade in Cairns, this lively spot is known for its welcoming atmosphere, great pub food, and a surprisingly good selection of classic cocktails alongside their beers.
Three Wolves: Tucked away down a Cairns laneway, this small, award-winning bar specializes in premium spirits and carefully crafted cocktails, offering an intimate and sophisticated speakeasy-style experience.
Hemingway’s Brewery Cairns Wharf: Located right on the water at the Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal, this venue is primarily a brewery but features a full bar offering classic cocktails with a stunning view of the inlet and marina.
The Chambers: Housed in a beautifully restored bank building in the heart of the Cairns CBD, this bar and restaurant provides a luxurious setting for enjoying inventive and high-end cocktails.
The Woolshed: A massive, iconic nightclub in the Cairns CBD that also functions as a massive bar, famous for its theme nights and for serving large, budget-friendly cocktail jugs to crowds.
The Conservatory Bar: Part of The Ville Resort-Casino in Townsville, this chic bar offers a sophisticated setting for enjoying premium cocktails with beautiful views of Magnetic Island.
Salt House: Situated right on the Marina in Cairns, this expansive venue features a dedicated cocktail bar with an extensive menu, comfortable lounges, and a spectacular waterfront ambiance, popular for sunset drinks.
L’unico Trattoria Italiano: While primarily an Italian restaurant, this beautiful beachfront venue in Clifton Beach (near Cairns) has a lovely bar area known for serving excellent, refreshing cocktails with a tropical view.
Zinc Port Douglas: Located right on Macrossan Street in Port Douglas, this bar and restaurant is known for its stylish, relaxed coastal vibe and its delicious tropical-themed cocktail menu.
Bar 36: The signature bar at the Reef Hotel Casino in Cairns, Bar 36 features a luxurious setting, live music, and an impressive cocktail list, making it a premium spot for a night out.
The Pier Bar: Found on the Cairns waterfront, this casual but iconic spot is perfect for enjoying a beer or a cocktail outside, with views of the boats, especially popular after work and on weekends.
Miss Songs Bar: Located within The Ville Resort-Casino in Townsville, this sophisticated Asian-inspired bar offers unique signature cocktails using exotic ingredients in a stylish, modern setting.
Barbados: A modern, beach-themed bar located near the Townsville beachfront, offering a great range of colourful and tropical cocktails in a relaxed, holiday setting.
The Yacht Club Port Douglas: A more exclusive spot on the Port Douglas waterfront, this club offers stunning views of the marina and an elegant, quieter setting to enjoy high-quality classic cocktails.
Gilligan’s: A massive, well-known backpacker resort and club complex in the heart of Cairns CBD. It features multiple bars, a huge outdoor area, and consistently hosts major domestic and international DJs, famous for its pool parties.
The Jack: A large, historic pub and club in Cairns CBD that is a long-time staple of the city’s nightlife, featuring a bustling main bar and a dedicated club area for late-night dancing.
Level One (at The Reef Hotel Casino): Located in the Cairns Casino complex, this sophisticated club offers a premium late-night experience with a focus on commercial dance music and a glamorous atmosphere.
Vinyl Bar (Townsville): A popular nightclub in the Townsville CBD known for playing classic hits, focusing on 80s, 90s, and current pop, providing a lively atmosphere for dancing.
Attik: A smaller, high-energy nightclub in Cairns offering a more intimate but intense party atmosphere with regular DJ sets playing a mix of house and dance music.
The Green Ant Cantina: While often considered a live music venue in the Cairns CBD, this spot transitions into a lively dance floor late at night, offering an alternative vibe to the larger clubs.
The Loft: Situated in the main entertainment precinct of Townsville, this club provides a modern and stylish space for dancing, often featuring local and guest DJs playing commercial music.
PJ O’Brien’s Cairns: A massive Irish pub right on the Cairns Esplanade that transforms into a busy, high-energy dance venue on weekend nights, popular for its central location and party atmosphere.
Mr. Goodbar: Located in the Townsville CBD, this late-night venue has a more eclectic and indie feel, often hosting alternative music nights and remaining open late for drinks and dancing.
Central Hotel Port Douglas: This large, iconic pub on Macrossan Street in Port Douglas is one of the only late-night venues in the area, offering a relaxed club atmosphere for locals and tourists after hours.
The Venue: A well-established nightclub in the Townsville entertainment district known for its themed nights and playing a mix of current pop, R&B, and dance hits.