Cairns CBD

The Cairns CBD is the hub of business and commerce in Far North Queensland. The CBD is large for a city Cairns’ size, with an area of 1.73 km².

Traditionally the CBD was dominated by business premises, with relatively few residential houses. So of the units that existed, most were used for tourism purposes. However recent decades has seen the growth of a CBD residential population. Indeed today, just over 3000 residents call the CBD home.

However, it is the small shops, restaurants and other businesses that remain the main focus of this part of town.

Where is Cairns in Australia?

Where is Cairns on the Map?

Cairns Pronunciation

Cairns is pronounced the same as cans.

Cairns Hotels

Cairns, as a major tourist destination in Far North Queensland, offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly stays.

Cairns hotels offers unique features and amenities to make your stay in Cairns comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you are looking for luxury, value, or convenience, Cairns has a hotel that will meet your needs.

Population of Cairns 2024

The current population is 175,000 people. The city is growing quickly, particularly in the south. Consequently, the council has prepared a priority infrastructure plan for the new area of Mount Peter, which is one of the fastest growing areas in regional Australia.

Cairns CBD things to do

There are a great number of things to do in the Cairns CBD. The area has world class restaurants, relaxed cafes, pubs and bars so you can enjoy a cool drink and some great shopping opportunities as well.

Places to Visit in Cairns for Free

Cairns is a popular tourist destination. Consequently, there is heaps to do, both for tourists and locals alike.

Muddy’s Playground

Muddy’s is a modern, fun, safe, splash playground and parkland incorporating active, passive, interactive and educational facilities with a combination of play equipment including:

• Water play areas
• Flying fox
• Sound chimes
• Rope bridge
• Slides
• Mouse wheel
• Play houses
• See-saw
• Trick track
• Puzzle games

Indeed Muddy’s is open every day from 9am to 7pm (including public holidays and weekends). However, sections are closed for maintenance on Tuesday and/or Thursday mornings until noon.

Another free activity you can engage in is to enjoy the Esplanade and the free parks in the area. Whether it is an afternoon walk or a picnic with the family, it is worth the effort, especially during the pleasant winter months.

Cairns Esplanade

The northern section of the Cairns waterfront is referred to by locals as the Esplanade (see below). Indeed it is the busiest and most popular tourist precinct in the Cairns CBD. Consequently, along the Esplanade you will find many food outlets from McDonald’s to high-end restaurants.

Explore the iconic Cairns Lagoon, Muddy’s Playground, award-winning skate plaza, and shaded paths and parklands.

In addition, there are many beautiful green spaces along the Esplanade, starting with Fogarty Park in the south. The Esplanade features three playgrounds that encourage active play on the city’s beautiful foreshore. Entry to all our playgrounds is free.

There are many exercise facilities to choose from along The Esplanade to suit your active lifestyle such as the Lagoon, Beach Volleyball Courts and fitness stations (green gyms).

Cairns Climate

Far North Queensland (FNQ) features a tropical climate, characterised by distinct wet and dry seasons, high temperatures, and significant humidity. This region, located in the northeastern part of Australia, includes popular areas such as Cairns, Port Douglas, and the Daintree Rainforest.

The wet season brings heavy and frequent rainfall, particularly between December and March. This period can see torrential downpours and thunderstorms. Monthly rainfall can exceed 400mm (16 inches) in the wettest months. The region’s lush rainforests and diverse ecosystems thrive during this period.

High humidity levels are a hallmark of the wet season, often reaching above 80%. This can make the heat feel more intense and can be uncomfortable for those not acclimated.

Cairns Accommodation

Gilligan’s Hotel & Resort in the CBD is popular among backpackers, with dorms starting at around AUD 42 and private rooms available. It features a lagoon-style pool and communal kitchen facilities.

Mid-Range: Hides Hotel Cairns, located centrally, offers rooms starting from AUD 100 per night. It’s within walking distance of the Cairns Esplanade and other attractions.

Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort provides a relaxing escape in the CBD with amenities like a swim-up bar and spacious rooms starting from AUD 275.

Luxury: Shangri-La The Marina offers 5-star accommodation with private balconies, tropical gardens, and views of Trinity Bay. Rates start at around AUD 350 per night.

Pullman Reef Hotel Casino is ideal for those looking for upscale comfort with a casino and rooftop pools.

Unique Stays: Botanic Retreat Airbnb near the Esplanade provides a cozy, secluded option with a garden setting and outdoor kitchen, perfect for couples. Prices begin at AUD 269 per night.

These options cater to various budgets and preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay while exploring Cairns.

Cairns CBD Restaurants

Cairns CBD is home to a vibrant dining scene, offering a diverse array of restaurants that cater to various tastes and preferences.

Cairns CBD is a culinary hub with a rich array of dining options that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, international cuisine, or modern Australian dishes, the restaurants in Cairns CBD offer something for everyone. Enjoy exploring the diverse food scene and savor the unique flavours that Cairns has to offer.

Cairns CBD Parking

There are 4700 parking places in the CBD, through a mix of on-street parking and off-street car parks. Time limits, and fees if applicable, apply between 8.30am and 6pm weekdays, and 8.30am to 2pm on Saturdays (except the Southern Esplanade and Grafton Street car parks).

Parking is free outside these hours and on public holidays, and time limits don’t apply. However, drivers must continue to abide by rules for disability parking, loading, bus and taxis zones, etc.

Parking times and hours at other locations in Cairns will vary, so please check the signs.

Cairns CBD Shopping

In the past Cairns CBD had been a retail hub for locals to meet their shopping needs. However, the construction of Cairns Central Shopping Centre has seen that venue become the main retail outlet. It offers people undercover parking and an air-conditioned shopping environment, which is much appreciated in the tropics.

There are still many shops in the CBD. However, the Esplanade and east end of the CBD has become more of a tourist precinct, with backpackers and foreign accents the norm, especially during the winter ‘tourist season’.

Cairns CBD Wharf

Cairns original wharves were constructed in the late 19th century on the banks of Trinity Inlet. Around 1910 they were concreted. There have been a number of developments in the area since that time. However the heritage listed Cairns wharves remain largely in place.

In 2010 a state funded redevelopment project took place. This included the re-adaptive use of number 3 wharf shed as the Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal. It is now an important part of the Cairns CBD.

Cairns Aquarium

The Cairns Aquarium has been developed to provide a world-class venue for interacting with the incredible plants, animals, and habitats found only in Australia’s Wet Tropics, a region which borders two World Heritage Sites: The Daintree Rainforest and The Great Barrier Reef.

Relevant Material

• Bungalow Cairns
• Cairns City Council
• Cairns Post Office
• Fogarty Park
• Parramatta Park Cairns
• Portsmith

Other Areas

• Central Cairns
• Cairns West
• Mount Whitfield
• North Cairns
• South Cairns

Cairns