More than 15 swimmable beaches dot the shoreline in and around Cairns. But, if you don’t have time for them all, how do you decide which to visit?
We’ve done your research for you with this round-up of the best five beaches in the area.
There’s one for everyone – whether you’re looking for a sweeping stretch of palm-fringed sand where you can escape the crowds or a postcard-perfect cove encircled with rainforest.
ELLIS BEACH
Drive 30 minutes north of Cairns to reach Ellis Beach, a one-kilometre stretch of sand backdropped by palm trees.
This idyllic spot, where just 24 people live, is perfect for taking a dip in peace and quiet. There’s plenty of space, so there’s no need to share. Plus, the water’s nice and calm, as the beach is well sheltered by Double Island.
If you’re keen to swim within watch of lifeguards, head to the centre, just opposite the surf club. Stinger nets are in place between November and May.
PALM COVE BEACH
Just south of Ellis Beach – separated by a rocky outcrop – is Palm Cove.
Unlike its tranquil northern counterpart, this beach is home to a luxurious village, filled with boutique hotels, fine dining restaurants and fancy cocktail bars.
On top of swimming, consider paddling a kayak to Double Island, popping into town for a spa treatment or maybe even staying the night.
Lifeguards are on hand and there are swimming enclosures to protect you from stingers (and crocodiles!).
TRINITY BEACH
Another 10 minutes’ drive south of Palm Cove is Trinity Beach.
Being a little closer to Cairns, this one is busier and more populated than the others.
But it still feels like a slice of paradise – and it’s very family friendly. There are barbecue areas for cooking up a feast, a boardwalk for strolling along and a next-level playground set among 9,000 square metres of tropical gardens.
YORKEYS KNOB BEACH
Jump in the car and head towards Cairns for another 10 minutes to reach Yorkeys Knob Beach.
Despite being close to town, it has a surprisingly laidback feel – partly because it’s tucked away behind a headland.
For spectacular views, follow up your swim with a drink or meal at Yorkeys Knob Boating Club. There’s live music on weekend afternoons.
NUDEY BEACH
A trip to Nudey takes you off the mainland to Fitzroy Island, which is a 45-minute boat ride from Cairns.
You’ll land in Welcome Bay, before following a trail for 15 minutes through tropical rainforest to reach the beach.
It’s a postcard-perfect spot, with sparkling white sand, crystal-clear water and stunning views of the Cairns hinterland.
It’s also one of the few places on the Great Barrier Reef where you can snorkel just off the land (without having to jump on a boat).
CAIRNS LAGOON
If you don’t want to even think about stingers and crocodiles, then head to Cairns Lagoon for a dip.
This human-made swimming hole is made up of a series of saltwater pools, which, collectively, cover 4,800 square metres.
Entry is free, lifeguards are onsite and there’s a cafe for refreshments between swims.
GETTING TO CAIRNS
Cairns, the biggest city in Far North Queensland, is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.
It’s an 18-hour drive from Brisbane, 27-hour drive from Sydney and a 31-hour drive from Melbourne.
You could make Cairns the finishing point on an epic Australian road trip from any major city – or catch a plane to Cairns Airport, then jump into a SIXT car rental of your choice.
