Hotels

Tourism is the lifeblood of Cairns (pronounced caans). The city makes a perfect base for exploring the wild top half of Queensland, and tens of thousands of international travelers use it as a jumping-off point for activities like scuba diving and snorkeling trips to the Barrier Reef, as well as boating, parasailing, and rain-forest treks. It's a tough environment, with intense heat and fierce wildlife. Yet despite the formidable setting, Cairns and tropical North Queensland are far from intimidating. The people here are warm and friendly, the sights spectacular, and the beachside lounging world-class—at the right time of year.