Cairns and Surrounds, QLD guide

Whileaway Guides are all independently sourced, tried and tested so you know that were only including the notable gems we promise no boring bits! More like the diary of a well travelled friend, the information is displayed in an itinerary style and grouped by location so its easy to navigate from one place to the next, making it simple to plan ahead. These pocket-sized guides pack a punch and are full of only the best things to see, do, eat, drink and stay to ensure your next getaway or weekend escape will be a memorable one. Light on the wallet, weve done all the time consuming research for you, so you wont want to leave home without one.
The atmosphere in Cairns will take you back to your uni years backpackers, beer sodden noisy pubs, cheap set menus and a general carefree lifestyle. Whilst the town itself does not hold the glamour or rugged beauty of some of the surrounding destinations, you may as well join in the fun as its a great base to explore further afield. Depending how long you have, we recommend a night or two in Cairns to do the reef, islands and beaches followed by an escape south to Mission Beach or north to Palm Cove. About 1 hour north of Cairns is Port Douglas, another Whileaway destination. Cairns Airport is only a 5 minute drive from the centre of town.