Frequently making the list for one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Great Barrier Reef is one of the most visited places in Queensland and comfortably calls the city of Cairns it’s home. This beautiful, yet hot, city is also home to some of the country’s most amazing rainforests and sunny skies, making it an ideal destination for a sunny Queensland holiday.
Cairns has often been known to be one of the hottest places in far north Queensland and generally enjoys two main seasons – wet and dry. If you love the cold weather, than Cairns isn’t what you are looking for, but if you love to soak up the sun or enjoy the odd shower (or two), then Cairns will be just perfect for you. Most days are sunny with a light breeze, bringing perfect days for your holiday.
When it comes to attractions for the kids, you really can’t get better than the Esplanade Swimming Lagoon which is great for the whole family. Rivalling Brisbane’s South Bank, the park is home to a salt water lagoon and is the ideal place to kick back and relax after your shopping and sightseeing.
The great thing about Cairns is that you don’t have to stay within the city limits to experience the best of nature, beauty and adventure. Just north of Cairns you will find the Lake Placid Tourist Park, which is positioned on 14 acres of rainforest. It is within close proximity to the World Heritage listed Barron River Gorge National Park. If you don’t want to stay in the actual city, this park acts a perfect base for your campervan exploration of the area, as it is a beautiful hideaway with an abundance of birds and wildlife. Not far away is the Crystal Cascades Caravan Park which is a perfect spot for the nature lover and for your campervan to rest up. Stunning waterfalls and magnificent tracks and lookouts are sprinkled here in abundance, with fun for the whole family a way of life here. This destination is great for a day trip, or a relaxing few days getaway.
Kuranda is located on the edge of the Atherton Tablelands, and is known for its skyrail which descends for 7 kms over the rainforest treetops. For thrill seekers out there, or those just searching for a good day out, this is an ideal experience you will never forget.
One of the best things about Queensland is the beautiful scenery that surrounds you as you drive the state’s highways and roads. One of these scenic drives would have to be to Copperlode Dam which is the city’s water supply. This huge dam stretches for 25km on Lake Morris Road and is a truly enjoyable drive which includes sweeping views of the valley below. Spectacular rainforest and the picturesque dam will reward your eyes and make you never want to leave.
The Northern Beaches of Queensland are a must for any campervan trip in our country’s Sunshine State. From 10 to 25 minutes away from the city centre of Cairns you will find white sandy beaches such as tree-lined Palm Cove, Trinity, Ellis and Yorkeys Knob. The beaches of northern Queensland are world class and there are camping and picnic spots throughout the beach road. This is the perfect place to stay if you want to escape the crowds and spend some quality time with your travel companions. There are so many beautiful beaches that you have the option to pick and choose which one suits you best.
A Cairns experience is not complete without a day trip to the islands. One of the most popular is tiny Green Island, which is located 45 minutes from the mainland. The island is home to many acres of natural rainforest and is surrounded by coral reef, which is absolutely fantastic for snorkelling. Half day tours are also available on the Reef Rocket catamaran which gives you a good two hours to explore the many hidden treasures of the island.
Fitzroy Island is just as beautiful with brilliant white beaches and world class diving. Located 45 minutes from the mainland, it is over 300 hectares of National Park. Lizard Island is 240km from the mainland and is home to 1000 hectares of beautiful rainforest. The world renowned island is famous for its monitor lizards.
The Great Barrier Reef is one Australia’s most protected and valuable treasures and is the ultimate highlight of Cairns. Thriving with coral reefs, thousands of colourful fish species and a myriad of sea creatures, be sure to spare at least a couple of days to experience this marine wonderland.
Whether you visit Cairns soak up the sun, sit back and relax, or leave the open track and explore all there is to offer, you will always leave with lifelong memories of the beauty of North Queensland.
