Getting Around the Region: Great Barrier Reef

Public Transportation Cairns

Public transport in Cairns focuses on its bus network. The main system, operated by Sunbus/TransLink, covers Cairns city, the northern beaches (Palm Cove, Clifton Beach), and surrounding suburbs.

The network coordinates public transport across Queensland, providing an efficient way to move around without a car.

Bus Network & Accessibility

Cairns City Bus Terminal: Located on Lake Street, this is the central hub for most bus routes. You can find route maps and information here.
Major Routes: Include services to Cairns Airport (Route 123, limited schedule), the Northern Beaches (Routes 110, 111), and Freshwater/Kamerunga (Route 120). These routes connect major tourist areas and accommodation zones.
Accessibility: Most TransLink buses accommodate wheelchairs, making public transport available for travelers with mobility needs.
Hours of operation: Buses generally operate from early morning (around 6:00 AM) until late evening (around 10-11 PM). Frequency varies by route and time of day.

Ticketing & Fares

Go Card: Queensland's electronic ticketing system. Purchase and top up Go Cards at various retailers and train stations. Go Card fares are cheaper than single paper tickets. Remember to tap on when you board the bus and tap off when you exit. Paper Tickets: Single fares can be purchased from the bus driver (cash only).

Operating Hours & Frequency

Buses generally operate from early morning (around 6:00 AM) until late evening (around 10-11 PM). Frequency varies by route and time of day. Services are more frequent during peak hours (commuter times) and less frequent in the evenings and on weekends. Check the TransLink website or app for specific timetables.

Navigation Tips

Download the MyTransLink app. This app delivers real-time tracking of buses, journey planning tools, and up-to-date timetables. Plan your journey ahead, especially if you are traveling on less frequent routes or during off-peak hours.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Licensed taxi identification and hailing procedures: Look for taxis with a "Taxi" roof sign. You can find them at designated taxi ranks (outside hotels, major attractions, and the airport), or you can hail them on the street if they are not near a rank. You can also book a taxi by phone or through a taxi app, like 13cabs.
Typical fares and payment methods: Fares are metered. A flagfall applies, along with distance and time rates. Surcharges can apply for late nights, public holidays, or booking fees. A short trip within Cairns CBD might cost A$10-A$20. Taxis accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards.
Payment methods include cash, credit cards, and debit cards.

Ride-Sharing Services

Recommended ride-sharing apps and services: Uber, Didi, and Ola are widely available in Cairns and Port Douglas.
Ride-sharing services generally cost less than traditional taxis for most rides.
Safety considerations: Ride-sharing apps deliver features like driver tracking, driver ratings, and cashless payments. Always confirm that the driver and vehicle match the details provided in the app before getting into the car.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Major international and local companies operate. Valid driver's license, credit card for bond. Minimum age 21 or 25.

Motorcycle & Scooter

Available from specialized shops in Cairns. A valid motorcycle license is needed.

Bicycle Rentals

Available from local shops in Cairns/Port Douglas. Popular for leisure cycling. Helmets mandatory.

Specialty Vehicles

4WDs are recommended in Daintree for some unsealed roads, past the Daintree River Ferry.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling deliver pleasant ways to experience the scenic beauty of the region at a relaxed pace.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Cairns Esplanade: Excellent for walking, jogging, or cycling along the waterfront. Features the Esplanade Lagoon, playgrounds, and restaurants.
Port Douglas: This town is very walkable, especially along Macrossan Street (the main street) and Four Mile Beach.
Rainforest Walks: Numerous walking tracks are available in national parks, like Daintree and Wooroonooran. These tracks cater to various fitness levels.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Dedicated cycle paths exist along the Cairns Esplanade and in some suburban areas.
Cycling on roads needs adherence to road rules. Helmets are mandatory by law for all cyclists in Australia.
No-Go Areas: Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas, especially late at night. In rainforest areas, stick to marked trails for safety.
Crocodile Awareness: Be aware of crocodile warning signs near waterways in Northern Queensland; do not swim or walk in unmarked areas.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Travel

Support local businesses and eco-certified tour operators.
Minimize your environmental footprint by adhering to "Leave No Trace" principles.
Stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems.

Conserve water, especially on islands with limited freshwater.
Learn about local marine life and cultural heritage.
Consider carbon offsetting for your flights.

Local Transport Tips

MyTransLink App

For real-time bus tracking and journey planning.

Go Card Benefits

Cheaper fares and easier travel on public transport.

Pre-Book Shuttles

Especially for airport transfers to Port Douglas.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard options, unique transport methods enhance your Great Barrier Reef experience.

Tour Buses & Water Transport

Tour Buses: Several companies offer day tours from Cairns and Port Douglas to the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, Kuranda, and Atherton Tablelands. These tours typically include bus transfers.
Boat Taxis & Ferries: Ferries operate regularly from Cairns to Green Island and Fitzroy Island. Numerous tour operators run catamarans, pontoons, and dive boats to the outer reef from both Cairns and Port Douglas.
River Cruises: Some river cruises or wildlife spotting tours operate on rivers, like Daintree River crocodile cruises.
Liveaboard Dive Boats: For multi-day dive trips, liveaboard boats offer extensive reef exploration.

Unique Aerial & Water Journeys

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: A unique aerial tramway connecting Cairns (Smithfield) to Kuranda over the Barron Gorge National Park. It often combines with the Kuranda Scenic Railway for a popular round trip.
Helicopter Tours: Scenic helicopter flights over the Great Barrier Reef deliver breathtaking aerial views of its vastness and colors.
Whitsunday Sailing: Charter a yacht or join a sailing tour for multi-day exploration of the Whitsunday Islands. This is a popular way to experience island hopping and secluded coves.
Island Hopping: Dedicated ferry services and private charters connect various islands, perfect for day trips or longer stays.

Accessibility Services

Public Transport

Modern public transport (buses, trains) is increasingly accessible for travelers with mobility needs.

Look for accessible icons on schedules.

Reef Tour Operators

Some reef tour operators offer accessible boat options. Contact them directly to confirm facilities and assistance.

Pre-booking highly advised.

Attraction Information

Accessibility information for attractions is usually available on their websites, detailing ramps, elevators, and other provisions.

Review before your visit.

Driving Laws

General Road Rules

Drive on the left side of the road.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants in the vehicle.
Speed limits are strictly enforced; adhere to posted signs.

Specific Regulations

Alcohol limits for driving are strict.
Paid parking available in Cairns CBD (metered street, multi-story car parks).
Free parking can be found further out or at some accommodations. Port Douglas generally has easier parking.

Road Hazards & Warnings

Fatigue: Distances between towns can be long. Take regular breaks to avoid driver fatigue.
Wildlife: Kangaroos, wallabies, and other wildlife can be a hazard, especially at dawn, dusk, and night. Drive with caution.
Road Trains: These are large multi-trailer trucks. Give them plenty of space on the road.
Road Conditions: Major routes generally have good road conditions. Remote roads can be unsealed.

Flooding: Roads can be cut off by flooding during the wet season. Check road conditions using resources like the QLDTraffic app or website before setting out.
Crocodiles: Saltwater crocodiles are present in estuaries and rivers in northern Queensland. Stick to designated swimming areas and observe warning signs.
Dangerous Animals: Be aware of snakes, spiders, and other potentially dangerous wildlife, especially when hiking.
Weather Changes: Tropical weather can change quickly. Be prepared for sudden rain or storms.

Navigating the Region

Effective transport planning unlocks the diverse wonders of the Great Barrier Reef region.

From urban centers to remote islands, movement options abound. Consider your itinerary and budget to select the best way to get around.

Getting Around the Great Barrier Reef Region