Start your morning right at these top Cairns cafes

Cairns is your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, but every adventure needs a little fuel. And what better way to start your day than a velvety flat white or a plate of smashed avo perfection? From breezy beachfront spots to quirky hideaways, the Cairns cafe scene is a goldmine for coffee and brunch lovers. Whether you are a local looking for a caffeine fix or a traveller ready to sip your way through town, here's our guide to the best cafes in Cairns.

Flynn's Italian

Nestled within Crystalbrook Flynn, Flynn's Italian is a sophisticated spot to enjoy a morning coffee or a hearty breakfast. This sleek, Italian-inspired gem serves up artisan brews and a buffet of fresh seasonal fruit, flaky pastries, and hearty breakfast dishes. Whether sipping on a rich espresso or soaking up those unbeatable waterfront views, Flynn's is the perfect place to start your day in style. Alternatively, grab a coffee to go and take a stroll along the Cairns Esplanade—best enjoyed before the tropical heat kicks in.

Paper Crane

Another Crystalbrook favourite, Paper Crane, takes your Cairns café experience to the next level. Enjoy a full buffet breakfast on the deck for just $42 per person, available daily from 6:30 am. With sweeping views of the Esplanade and the Coral Sea, you can feast on fresh pastries, a choice of cereals, bacon and eggs, tropical fruits, and more. Whether you're a morning person or a reluctant riser, the setting and spread are worth getting out of bed for.

Caffiend

When it comes to Cairns cafes, Caffiend is nothing short of legendary. This elegant artisan café with fresh artwork popping up on its walls has been winning over locals and visitors with its strong coffee game. From creamy lattes to cold brews and Vietnamese coffee, they know their beans. And if you're feeling peckish, their chilli poached eggs, brekky toastie or loaded avo toast will cure even the worst case of hanger.

Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/caffiend_cairns/

The Chambers Cairns

Step back in time at The Chambers, housed in a charming heritage building in the heart of Cairns. Whether sipping an iced latte in the sun-drenched courtyard or indulging in one of their famous pastries, this multi-award-winning cafe in Cairns is a true standout. The all-day menu, loaded with locally sourced produce, features crowd-pleasers like their green egg and ham benedict, breakfast burger and cinnamon cheesecake pancakes. But it doesn't stop there—The Chambers also serves up a decadent high tea experience and a lively bottomless brunch for those looking to celebrate.

Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/thechamberscairns/

Muddy's Café

For a laid-back vibe with million-dollar views, head to Muddy's Café in Cairns. Perched along the Esplanade, this family-friendly cafe is the kind of place where flip-flops are the dress code, and waffles are always a good idea. Their menu ticks all the boxes, featuring everything from acai bowls to corn fritters and classic eggs on toast. Oh, and if you've got little ones in tow, the nearby playground makes this a win-win.

Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/muddyscafe/

Wharf One Cairns

Few cafes can compete with the waterfront vibes at Wharf One Cairns. With breezy outdoor seating and heart-warming coffee, this hidden gem offers a slice of paradise right by the water. Pair your coffee with a freshly baked muffin, go all-in with one of their delicious brekky burgers, or indulge with a potato rosti with Tasmanian smoked salmon and avocado. This Cairns cafe is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys a side of serenity with their morning caffeine fix.

 
Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/wharfonecairns/

Sipping Duck Coffee Roasters

For those serious about their coffee, Sipping Duck Coffee Roasters is a dream come true. This Cairns cafe is all about ethical beans, expert roasting, and a whole lot of passion. Whether you're in the mood for a rich espresso or a smooth pour-over, they'll deliver the goods. Their simple but delicious cafe menu features everything from croissants, muffins, and sweet treats to delicious toasties, bacon and egg wraps, and homemade pies. Don't forget to grab a bag of beans to take home—you'll want to relive the magic long after you've left Cairns.

 
Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/sippingduck_coffee/

Succuliving & Co.

If you love coffee and plants, Succuliving & Co is your dream café in Cairns. Part café, part boutique plant shop, this charming spot serves up stellar brews alongside a curated selection of succulents and greenery. Their matcha lattes and cold drip coffee are a must-try, as is their selection of tasty breakfast treats.

 
Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/succulivingandco/

Rusty’s Market

If you’re in town from Friday to Sunday, a visit to Rusty’s Market is a must. This bustling market in Cairns CBD is packed with fresh produce, artisan coffee stalls, and vendors serving up tropical fruit smoothies and delicious street food. It’s the perfect place to grab a bite, sip a locally roasted brew, and get a true taste of local life. 

Annee's Caphê Sua Da

Nestled in the heart of Cairns, Annee's Caphê Sua Da brings a vibrant taste of Vietnam to the city. With nine locations spread across the region, this beloved cafe is renowned for its signature Vietnamese iced coffee—a rich blend of strong coffee, sweetened with just the right amount of creamy condensed milk. Perfect for Cairns' balmy days, Annee's iced coffees offer a refreshing morning treat or an afternoon pick-me-up, making them a staple for locals and visitors alike.

Everyday Lover

Located in Trinity Park just north of Cairns, Everyday Lover is all about fresh, flavour-packed dishes and high-quality coffee. With a record player sitting at the heart of the cafe, this trendy neighbourhood spot boasts a brekkie menu of Turkish eggs, avocado toast and egg ’n’ cheese potato rolls with a side of streaky bacon.

Babinda Bakery

If you are heading south, no road trip is complete without a stop at Babinda Bakery. Famous for its impressive array of pies, pastries, cream buns and sweet treats, this old-school country bakery is a must-visit for road trippers, adventurers, and anyone with a love for good old-fashioned baked goods.

Garage 

For those venturing up to Palm Cove, Garage is the perfect pit stop for breakfast or brunch before hitting the beach. With a scenic location by the sea and a focus on local produce, their cafe menu is filled with fresh, flavour-packed options. Think smashed avo with whipped ricotta on sourdough, fresh smoothies, and egg and bacon rolls with a signature twist.  

Why Cairns Cafes are Worth Exploring

The Cairns cafe scene is as diverse as it is delicious, offering everything from seaside brunches to hidden coffee spots. Whether you're craving an epic buffet breakfast at Paper Crane, artisan brews at Sipping Duck, or a relaxed family outing at Muddy's Café, there's something for everyone.

Each spot brings its own flavour, vibe, and charm to the table, making Cairns a destination for more than just its natural wonders. So grab your sunnies, your appetite, and a sense of adventure—it's time to café-hop your way through Cairns—after all, life's too short for bad coffee.