9 Best Beaches in Cairns

9 best beaches in Cairns Australia for sun, surf, and sand

Last updated on June 3rd, 2024 at 01:43 pm

Cairns is a city surrounded by stunning beaches and an endless coastline stretching from Palm Cove to Port Douglas. It is a perfect destination for beach lovers, surfers, and sun seekers. The Cairns beaches offer crystal clear waters, powder-soft sand, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes them perfect for relaxing and unwinding. Here are the 9 best beaches in Cairns.

1. Palm Cove Beach

Palm Cove Beach

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This picturesque beach is located just 25 minutes north of Cairns and is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. The beach is surrounded by swaying palm trees, and the calm waters make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to enjoy a meal or a refreshing drink.

2. Trinity Beach

Trinity Beach

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Trinity Beach is located just 15 minutes north of Cairns and is a popular spot for families. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards, making it safe for swimming, and there are plenty of facilities, including BBQ areas and playgrounds. The beach is also home to several resorts and holiday apartments.

3. Yorkeys Knob Beach

Yorkeys Knob Beach

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Yorkeys Knob is a quiet, secluded beach located just 20 minutes north of Cairns. The beach is famous among kite surfers, and several schools offer lessons. There are also several restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a meal or a refreshing drink.

4. Ellis Beach

Ellis Beach

Ellis Beach is located just 30 minutes north of Cairns and is an excellent spot for a relaxing day at the beach. The beach is surrounded by rainforests, and there are several BBQ areas and picnic tables available. The beach is also a popular spot for fishing and snorkelling.

5. Four Mile Beach

Four Mile Beach

Four Mile Beach is located in Port Douglas, approximately an hour north of Cairns. The beach is a tourist favourite, and it is easy to see why. The long stretch of white sand is perfect for sunbathing, and the crystal-clear waters are great for swimming and snorkelling.

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6. Kewarra Beach

Kewarra Beach

Kewarra Beach is located just 20 minutes north of Cairns and is an excellent spot for a quiet day at the beach. The beach is surrounded by rainforests, and there are several walking trails in the area. The beach is also a popular spot for fishing and kayaking.

7. Clifton Beach

Clifton Beach

Clifton Beach is located just 20 minutes north of Cairns and is a popular spot for swimming and surfing. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards, making it safe for swimming, and there are several surf schools in the area that offer lessons. There are also several restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a meal or a refreshing drink.

8. Holloways Beach

Holloways Beach

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Holloways Beach is located just 15 minutes north of Cairns and is an excellent spot for a relaxing day at the beach. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards, making it safe for swimming, and several BBQ areas and picnic tables are available. The beach is also a popular spot for fishing and birdwatching.

9. Wonga Beach

Wonga Beach is a secluded, quiet beach located just over an hour north of Cairns. The beach is surrounded by rainforests, and there are several walking trails in the area. The beach is also a popular spot for fishing and birdwatching.

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