Just after this shit fest called Covid landed, even Vogue Australia recognised that Cairns is one of Australia’s most beautiful destinations to visit. And especially now that none of us are heading overseas in a hurry, and with Easter just around the corner - what better time to explore this place we are lucky enough to call home.
Large enough to be a city, but still relaxed enough to feel like a big country town, playing tourist in our hometown is one of our favourite past times, here’s a few of our favourite hangouts:
Accommodation
Because clean sheet night matters when you are kicking back & relaxing
For that true tropical holiday experience, you can’t go past any one of the The Crystalbrook Hotels. The Riley is probably our fav having the BEST pool and cocktails with an incredible view at Rocco’s.
Got the kids in tow? Well, you are going to want to book into Coconuts Big4 Holiday Resort - you won’t even have to talk to them there is so much to do for the kids.
Eating Out
Now this is when Cairns likes to turn it on...where to start??
It all depends on what you feel like and what the budget allows. Our favourite dinner & lunch location would have to be at the Boatshed, located at Harbour Lights. Tiina and her attentive team serve up mouth-watering food and deliciously refreshing cocktails in front of a stunning water view that stretches across the inlet.
For a quick bite to eat, Café Strada on Lake Street, or Candy Café on Grafton Street, both offer a tasty menu & amazing coffee with warm & friendly staff.
No matter where you go, it’s always a good idea to phone ahead and check if you need to book thanks to the covid restrictions.
What to do?
How long have you got?
Even living here sometimes feels like you don’t get time to see all the good bits.
If you have transport, definitely pop up to Crystal Cascades for a swim, check out the Cairns Botanical Gardens, or take a drive to Palm Cove for a bite to eat. If you are hanging out in the city, and feel a little adventurous, go and literally hang out at Cairns Zoom. This is a HEAP of fun and the staff will make sure you will have a blast (and they don’t laugh at your camel toe when you are all rigged up).
The Esplanade Lagoon and Muddy’s water playground make great (free!) hangouts for the day too.
But you definitely can’t come to Cairns without heading out the reef or one of the islands - Fitzroy or Green Island. The Kuranda Railway (up the hill) & Skyrail (down the hill) to visit Kuranda should also be on the top of your list. It is one of those activities you just must do to get the whole Cairns vibe thing happening!
And on the days you just want to chill and go for a walk around - and if Vogue recommends it well then it must be true - come for a wander down Oceana Walk Arcade to find and eclectic mix of smaller boutique style stores. All local businesses that have one thing in common - we are all different to what you find in shopping centres.
Eggplant and Poppy is open Monday - Friday 9am - 4pm,
Saturday 9am - 2pm.
Drop in and check out our quirky range of unique gifts & homewares, take home a little bit of Cairns. You are sure to find a pressie for the dog or cat sitter, or that gift that just screams “I went to Cairns!”