Cairns Transportation

Located at the base of Cape York Peninsula, Cairns provides important transport links between the Peninsula and Gulf of Carpentaria regions of Queensland. The Cairns International Airport is an essential growth engine of the state’s tourism industry. Cairns is also serviced by a large network of integrated transport alternatives. Although the most preferred means of transport is car rentals, Cairns transportation is also made up of an efficient bus, taxi, and rail service.

Cairns by Air
Cairns Airport features international, domestic and general aviation terminals that are served by major international, national and state air carriers. International visitors can fly direct to Australia with Cairns as their point of entry. Within Australia, local charter companies such as Qantas Airlines, Virgin Blue Airlines, Australian Airlines, and JetStar provide regular flights to major southern cities and regional Queensland towns.


Cairns by Road
Coach travel is an exciting and enjoyable way to see the countryside, and several coach companies operate to and from Cairns from Australia's major cities.

Taxis are readily available throughout the Cairns region and can be booked over the telephone or hailed in the street. Buses run regularly to all Cairns suburbs and beaches. You can obtain a timetable from any Cairns hotel.

Many Cairns hotels and motels provide a transfers bus shuttle service regularly. Therefore it is suggested that visitors initially check with their respective Cairns hotel or Cairns lodging about the services offered.

Vehicle, bicycle and motor-scooter rentals can easily be arranged from any Cairns hotel or even at the airport. There are many additional rental companies with offices in Cairns and larger towns. Reservations prior to arrival are recommended although not essential. In Australia, vehicles are right-hand drive thus you need to travel on the left hand side of the road. Cairns is also well serviced by excellent limousine fleets. Everything from airport transfers to limousine sightseeing tours can be organised upon request over the telephone.

Motorcycles and Scooters
Scooters or a motor bike under 50cc can also be hired with only a driver’s licence. There is no need for a separate licence. Most of these bikes are limited somewhat in speed and are ideal for short city driving but not practical on open highways.

Bicycles
Cairns is ideal for biking with its flat wide streets. Bicycles can be rented from several outlets and specific car rental companies in town. If you are staying for longer than a couple of weeks, think about buying a used bike at one of the opportunity or disposal stores in town. It is really easy to sell old clunker bikes. Remember that helmets are required by law. Purchase a lock and chain for added security.

Coaches
Cairns is served by long distance coaches to Brisbane, and many regional cities to the south.

Public Transport
An efficient and reliable public transport service is functional throughout the city via Sunbus. Most services run from the Northern Beaches to the southern parts of Cairns through the CBD. Bus services also operate to Kuranda and to the Atherton Tableland.

Cairns by Sea
Cairns boasts many bustling marinas for boating enthusiasts. In addition, an increasing number of overseas cruise ships call at the Port of Cairns regularly.

Cairns by Rail
Two major trains operate between Brisbane and Cairns. 'The Sunlander' operates three times weekly and 'The Queenslander' operates once a week. The journey takes approximately 32 hours.