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Layover Ideas Cairns Airport CNS

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Top 5 Layover Ideas for Cairns Airport

Long layovers can often be a drag, but not when you're at the Cairns Airport. With its close proximity to a range of unique Australian attractions, there's plenty to do and see. Here are our top 5 recommendations for things to do during a layover at Cairns Airport:

1. Explore the Cape York Peninsula

Recommended by the Cape York Peninsula Development Association, the Cape York Peninsula is one of the last remaining wilderness areas of Australia. It offers a diversity of culture, language, environment, and lifestyles that make it a truly unique place. For more information, visit the Cape York Peninsula Development Association.

2. Discover the Gulf Savannah

Extending from the Great Dividing Range in the east, to the Northern Territory border in the west, the Gulf Savannah region of Tropical North Queensland covers an area of 186,000 sq. km. For more information, visit the Gulf Savannah.

3. Visit the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park

This site is the gateway for information on all aspects of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and World Heritage Area. Learn about the reef's biodiversity, its importance to the indigenous people, and the efforts being made to conserve it. For more information, visit the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.

4. Take a trip to Mission Beach

Mission Beach is approximately half way between Cairns and Townsville on Queensland's north tropical coast and is the gateway to the famous Dunk and Bedarra islands. For more information, visit Mission Beach Tourism.

5. Explore the Tropical Tablelands

Less than an hour from Cairns is the Cairns Highlands, known by the locals as the Atherton Tablelands. The cool, tropical Tablelands are set on rolling plateaux at an average of 700 metres above sea level. The Highlands offer a true mountain retreat with a superb range of natural and developed attractions. For more information, visit Tropical Tablelands Tourism.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If you have more than 12 hours for your layover at Cairns Airport, consider venturing a little further to explore some of the surrounding attractions. With up to 48 hours, you can experience some of the best that Australia has to offer. Here are our top recommendations:

1. Daintree Rainforest

As the oldest rainforest in the world, the Daintree Rainforest is a must-see for any nature lover. With its stunning biodiversity, you can spend hours exploring the various trails, spotting unique wildlife, and taking in the breathtaking scenery.

2. Kuranda Village

Take a scenic train ride or cableway to the mountain village of Kuranda. Here, you can explore local markets, visit a butterfly sanctuary, or take a riverboat cruise on the Barron River.

3. Port Douglas

Just an hour north of Cairns, Port Douglas is a tropical paradise with beautiful beaches, a bustling marina, and a range of dining and shopping options. It's also the gateway to the Low Isles, a popular snorkeling and sailing destination.

4. Palm Cove

For a more relaxed pace, head to Palm Cove. This seaside village is known for its palm-lined beach, boutique shops, and world-class spa facilities. It's the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the tropical climate.

5. Cairns Night Markets

Back in Cairns, don't miss the vibrant night markets. Open every night from 5pm, you'll find a range of food stalls, local crafts, and live entertainment. It's the perfect way to end your extended layover in Cairns.

Updated on: November 22, 2023

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