Getting Around: Cairns

Public Transportation

Cairns mainly relies on a public bus network operated by Sunbus, which is part of the TransLink system. You will not find metro, train (other than tourist services), or tram systems within Cairns city itself.

The bus network serves the Cairns city center, extending to the northern beaches (Palm Cove, Trinity Beach, Clifton Beach, Kewarra Beach), southern suburbs, and regional centers like Gordonvale. The main hub for bus services is the Cairns City Bus Station, located on Lake Street near the Esplanade.

Bus System Overview

Routes: Network serves city center, northern beaches, southern suburbs, and Cairns Airport (Route 140).
Ticketing: Zone-based; Go Card (reusable smart card) presents cheaper fares. Tap on/off for correct fare.
Accessibility: Most Sunbus buses are wheelchair accessible. Check TransLink for route info.
Service Frequency: Operates early morning to late evening. Frequency varies by route and time of day.

Planning & Efficiency

Download TransLink QLD app for real-time tracking, journey planner, and fare estimates.

Plan Ahead

Plan ahead, especially for evening or weekend travel when bus frequency reduces.

Go Card for Savings

Use a Go Card for convenience and cost savings if you travel often by bus.

Bus Travel Tips

Payment & Etiquette

Purchase single paper ticket from driver with cash (exact change appreciated) or card, but costs more than Go Card.
Wait at designated bus stops.
Give way to passengers alighting before boarding.

Network Coverage

Many routes begin or pass through the central Cairns City Bus Station on Lake Street.
Routes like 110 connect to Smithfield (near JCU, Skyrail), 120 to Northern Beaches.
Route 130/131 serves Southern Suburbs and Gordonvale, 140 connects to Cairns Airport.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

On-Demand Transport

Taxis and ride-sharing services present convenient, on-demand transportation in Cairns.

Taxi Availability

Licensed taxis feature a "TAXI" sign; hail on street, find at ranks (Esplanade, airport), or book by phone/app.

Ride-Share Apps

Uber is most popular; DiDi also an option. Both accessible via smartphone apps.

Safety Verification

Always verify driver and vehicle details match app info for safety when using ride-sharing.

Rental Options

Various rental options present freedom to explore Cairns and its surroundings at your own pace.

Car Rentals

Valid driver's license (with IDP if not English) needed.
Most companies need drivers 21+, some 25+ for certain types.
Credit card in driver's name for deposit.
Major international companies (Avis, Budget, Hertz) at airport & city.

Motorcycle & Bicycle

Motorcycle/scooter rentals from specialized agencies. Valid motorcycle license and experience needed.
Helmets are mandatory by law for all riders and passengers.
Independent shops in Cairns offer bicycle rentals (daily/weekly rates).
Many hostels present bikes for rent; popular for Esplanade.

Driving & Parking Tips

Drive on the left-hand side of the road. Seatbelts mandatory for all occupants.
Speed limits strictly enforced (50 km/h urban, 100/110 km/h highways).
No mobile phone use while driving. Strict drink driving laws (BAC limit 0.05%).

Road conditions are generally good for major roads; some unsealed roads exist in remote areas.
Wildlife (kangaroos, wallabies, cassowaries) can pose hazards, especially at dawn/dusk.
Paid street parking in city center is metered. Multi-story car parks operate. Free parking may be found further from CBD.

Specific Options

Electric Scooters

Electric scooter sharing services may be available for short distances within the city center.

Campervan Rentals

For longer road trips, campervan rentals are popular and offer flexibility for accommodation and travel.

Motorhome Hire

Ideal for family travel, providing comfortable lodging and kitchen facilities on the go.

Walking & Cycling

Cairns presents a pleasant environment for walking and cycling, especially in its central and coastal areas.

Walking Friendly Areas

Cairns Esplanade: Wide pathways perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling.
City Center: Compact and easy to explore on foot, with footpaths throughout.
Cairns Botanic Gardens: Excellent walking paths amidst tropical flora.
Several operators present guided walking tours of Cairns city, focusing on history, art, or food.

Cycling & Safety

Cairns features dedicated cycle paths along the Esplanade and some major roads, making it generally bike-friendly.
This is especially true for leisurely rides.
Helmets are mandatory by law for all cyclists in Queensland.
Exercise caution in less-lit areas at night; stick to main roads and well-lit paths for safety.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Numerous tour operators present buses for day trips from Cairns to the Great Barrier Reef, Kuranda, Daintree Rainforest, Atherton Tablelands.

Often include comfortable coach transport.

Boat Tours & Ferries

Many companies offer full-day or half-day boat tours to the Great Barrier Reef, Green Island, and Fitzroy Island.

Depart from the Reef Fleet Terminal or Marlin Marina.
River tours for wildlife spotting are available from specific operators.

Aerial Transport

The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: A major tourist attraction, giving an aerial gondola journey over the rainforest between Caravonica and Kuranda.

Offers an unique perspective of the Wet Tropics.

Hop-on/Hop-off & Accessibility

Flexible Transport

Cairns does not have a formal hop-on-hop-off bus service within the city.
Services like the "Kuranda Boarding Pass" or combined Kuranda Scenic Railway/Skyrail packages offer flexible transport.
These packages take you to and from these popular attractions.

Inclusive Travel

Many tour operators and attractions in Cairns strive for accessibility.
Contact individual tour companies or attractions directly for specific accessibility features.
Cairns Airport, public buses, and many public facilities are designed with accessibility in mind.

Accessibility Note

Cairns endeavors to welcome all visitors. Many services and attractions have features to assist those with varied mobility needs.

For specific requirements or inquiries, reach out directly to service providers or consult local visitor information for tailored guidance.

Getting Around Cairns