Planning a trip to the GBR (Great Barrier Reef)? Start your trip planning with cheap flights to Cairns in northern Queensland. Three airlines operate the route from Sydney to Cairns: JetStar Airways, Qantas Airways and V Australia. Of course, low cost carriers are the cheapest option if you’re on a budget.

When to book the cheapest flights to Cairns

Cairns is a big destination in summer when tourists arrive in droves to snorkel and dive in the Great Barrier Reef. Be sure to book your flights to Cairns at least 3 months in advance for the cheapest airfares. Bloody oath that is!

Peak season: November to March, ideal diving season.

Low season: Winters are generally quieter.

Flight duration

Direct flights to Cairns take 3 hours from Sydney.

Experience Cairns: what to see and do

Who would’ve thought this struggling cane town would turn into a glitzy and glamorous summer resort town? The saltwater lagoon, fancy-shmancy marina and great eateries has put this city on the tourist map. Plus, the GBR is just around the corner.

Cairns essentials

Cairns lagoon: Cairns doesn’t really have a beach in the city, you have to get a rental car if you want to hit the beach, but it does have a great saltwater swimming lagoon. The area is patrolled by lifeguards and is illuminated at night for twilight swims. Enjoy the free BBQs and picnic areas during the day.

Great Barrier Reef: The GBR stretches for over 2,000 kilometres and is one of the world’s most incredible natural wonders. Get your mask and fins and start exploring! Day trips by boat are really the best way to go, with about 3 hours underwater time.

Crystal Cascades: Take your Cairns car hire for a spin and venture out to this series of waterfalls about 20 kilometres from Cairns. The pools are great for swimming and the plus side is, there are no crocodiles! Stop by Lake Morris too if you have time.

Find more information on www.cairns-greatbarrierreef.org.au.

Accommodation in Cairns

Cairns has plenty of accommodation options but do keep in mind that they tend to fill up during peak tourist season. There are more than 20 hostels and lots of hotels in the mid-range including coastal resorts and self-catering apartments. Looking for something really luxurious? Try something with views over Trinity Bay like the Sofitel.