Cairns is the perfect base for a superb nature-based holiday allowing trips to the World Heritage listed reefs and rainforests as well as the dry Outback.

With its international airport, well-developed tourism infrastructure and proximity to natural attractions such as the Great Barrier Reef, tropical rainforests and Atherton Tableland, Cairns is the `tourist capital' of North Queensland. Here are dozens of hotels, restaurants and shops, and many options for cruises - as well as diving, fishing or snorkelling trips - to the reef. Excellent beaches stretch to the north and south, and adventure activities like whitewater rafting and bungee jumping are popular. Around town you can visit the Cairns Museum and the Pier Marketplace, or just wander the streets and waterfront to soak up the city's relaxed, tropical atmosphere. North of the city is the pretty coastal town of Port Douglas, while further afield are Mossman and the Daintree rainforests.