Atherton Tableland
A scenic one hour drive in the Highlands west from Cairns is the Atherton Tableland. Read more about the Atherton Tableland.

Barron Gorge
Barron Gorge National Park extends from the mid-altitude Atherton Tableland uplands near Kuranda down the steeply sloping range to the low-altitude coastal area northwest of Cairns. Read more about the Barron Gorge.

Daintree
The Daintree and Cape Tribulation is about 90 minutes north of Cairns. Read more about the Daintree.

Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest World Heritage Area extending over 2000 kilometres and covering an area of over 350,000 sq km. Read more about the Great Barrier Reef and Reef Cruises.

Islands
Close to Cairns are a number of islands that can be visited form Cairns. Read more about Cairns islands.

Lake Barrine
One hour from Cairns is the volcanic crater filled with crystal clear water. There is a pleasant teahouse overlooking the lake and lake cruises.

Kuranda
The settlement of Kuranda is located approximately 30 kilometres north west of Cairns. For more information about Kuranda click here.

Palm Cove
Palm Cove has developed into a major tourist area with lots of accommodation, restaurants, spas and shops. Read more about Palm Cove.

Port Douglas
Port Douglas, is only 70 kilometres, or an hour's drive north of Cairns. Read more about Port Douglas.