Cool off at the best beaches near Cairns

While famed for its rainforests and reefs, Cairns is equally plentiful in beaches. A visit to at least one of these idyllic sandy stretches should be a part of any holiday spent in Tropical North Queensland, even if just for a leisurely stroll along their length. Though a word of warning before you plunge into Cairns’ waters - during summer (from November to May) keep your splashing limited to within the safety of stinger-proof netting.

Not sure where to begin? This go-to guide to the best beaches near Cairns will help point you in the right direction, uncovering a collection of local favourites and hidden gems among the mainstays.

Trinity Beach

Certainly one of the most well-known and arguably one of the best beaches near Cairns is Trinity Beach. You’ll find this beloved swimming spot just 30 minutes north of town, on the cusp of the much-loved resort town Palm Cove. Not a fan of the sand? No matter. There are free barbecues along the shoreline, as well as access to plenty of walking tracks nearby, including the popular Earl Hill Walking Trail.

Ellis Beach

Make like the locals do and make for Ellis Beach, an hour outside of Cairns. Conveniently boasting both stingers nets and a lifeguard, this popular sandy strip is well-regarded for its pumice-filled shoreline. Surfers will also be delighted to hear that neighbouring Buchan Point at the southern end welcomes somewhat sporadic swell, ideal for longboards.

Clifton Beach

Seeking seclusion? Grab your bicycle and head for Clifton Beach, which is connected to neighbouring Palm Cove by a leafy cycling track. This unspoiled sandy strip has become a favourite among families thanks to its easy access to Cairns and ample amenities, including a children’s playground and barbecue facilities that fringe the beach.

Palm Cove

No trip to Tropical North Queensland is complete without a visit to the resort town of Palm Cove, home to one of the best beaches near Cairns. Luxe seaside resorts mingle with some of the region’s best restaurants on the shoreline of this particularly postcard-perfect beach, which (as its name suggests) comes heavily fringed by palm trees.

Thala Beach Nature Reserve

Got more than a day trip in mind? Do yourself a favour and treat yourself to a stay at Thala Beach. Sitting between World Heritage-listed wonders the Daintree and Great Barrier Reef, just before the town of Port Douglas less than an hour away from Cairns city resides this eco retreat with its own private-access beach, the tree-lined Thala Beach Nature Reserve. Your only company here will be the plethora of bird life and the collection of bungalows scattered amongst 58-hectares of luscious forest.

Etty Bay

Get better acquainted with the hidden gem Etty Bay, a popular locals beach just 1.5 hours away from Cairns, 15 kilometres from Innisfail. There are two main visitors to these parts to be aware of - families attracted by the soft white sand, and the famous Southern Cassowary which roams the beach near daily. Eager to spend some time here? Kick back and relax at the much loved Etty Bay Caravan Park.

Nudey Beach

Take no notice of the name of this beach - Nudey Beach is not a clothes-optional kind of place. But it is considered the best beach near Cairns, if not the country, thanks to its draw-dropping white sands and crystal clear waters. Found on the southwestern side of Fitzroy Island, you’ll need to travel 45 minutes here by boat, but it’s well-worth the effort, we promise.

Four Mile Beach

Belonging on every guide to the best beaches near Cairns is Four Mile Beach, the famous Port Douglas resident. This seemingly endless stretch of golden sands and swaying palm trees is a haven of activity both in and out of the water - water sports aplenty (and beach bicycles) will tempt the adventurous, while the smooth sands and wide open spaces will appease sunbathers eager for solitude. Post-swim, visit the bevy of cafes and restaurants within walking distance.

Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

While not officially sand-based, no guide to the best beaches near Cairns is complete without mentioning the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon. Found in the town centre, this 4800 square metre saltwater lagoon gives visitors the chance to swim year-round without having to worry about surf, stingers, or crocodiles. Thanks to its shallow waters, ample barbecue facilities and immense lawns, this waterhole is particularly loved by those with kids in tow.

Mission Beach

Seekers of seclusion are best off making way for one of Cairns’ most celebrated citizens with a trip to Mission Beach. Less than two hours from Cairns and edged between the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics Rainforest, this spot is the closest point on the mainland to the reef itself. There’s plenty of sand to stretch out on here, with Mission reaching 14 kilometres in length, interlinking three separate beaches and four villages and nuzzling dense rainforest.

Kewarra Beach

You’ll find an equal abundance of privacy at Kewarra Beach, just a 20 minute drive from Cairns CBD. A loyal population of locals has kept tourism development to a minimum, protecting the sleepy seaside village which sits at the southern end of sand nudging Palm Cove and Clifton Beach. Sheltered from swell by a combination of rocky headland and shallow sandbank, Kewarra Beach is ideal for an easy dip.

Cooya Beach

Give your next beach adventure a cultural edge with a trip to Cooya Beach. The coastal town is just 10 minutes from Port Douglas, and already popular among families. But what it’s really best-known for is its association with Kuku Yalanji Cultural Tours. Join traditional land owners in a foray through the mangroves, spearing your own mudcrabs for a beachside cook up post-exploration.