Escape the heat with a swim at these Cairns beaches
Cairns, in the heart of tropical North Queensland, is home to a selection of stunning beaches that rival the postcard-perfect shores of Hawaii, Thailand or the Seychelles. Whether a local beach bum or a travelling sun worshipper, you are in for a sandy, sun-filled adventure with our roundup of the best beaches in Cairns.
Trinity Beach
With its powdery sand and palm-fringed coast, Trinity Beach is where locals and visitors flock to watch the sun dip below the horizon. Located just 20 minutes from Cairns, Trinity is a magical spot for a morning swim, spotting local wildlife or taking a scenic stroll up to Taylors Point at the beach's southern end. Enjoy a late afternoon barbeque along the shoreline, or take your pick of vibey beachfront restaurants offering a delightful blend of local and international cuisine.
Trinity Beach is patrolled year-round and has stinger nets for warmer months
Image Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Kewarra Beach
Kewarra Beach is the cool, quiet cousin of Cairns' busy beaches. Nestled between Clifton and Trinity Beach just north of Cairns, this white sandy beach is ideal for those seeking a little serenity away from the crowds. Here, you'll find locals walking their dogs, friendly fishermen casting lines from the beach, and travellers enjoying some undisturbed beach time. With a stinger net and local lifesavers patrolling this Cairns beach, you are safe to swim year-round.
Nudey Beach
This little slice of heaven on Fitzroy Island is where nature puts on its finest display. With crystal-clear waters and a coral-covered seabed, this award-winning beach is a paradise for sun seekers and snorkelers. And before you ask, no, clothing isn't optional here. The beach is named after Naval Vice Admiral Sir Reginald Nudey and, sadly for some, doesn't refer to the dress code. Located a scenic 45-minute boat ride from Cairns, Nudey Beach is definitely one for the beach bucket list.
While the beach is incredibly beautiful, it is located in an area where stinger nets are not provided. If you're swimming in the warmer months (typically November to May), it's essential to take precautions against box jellyfish and other stingers. Consider swimming at other beaches during the warmer months.
Image Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Ellis Beach
Just a short drive north of Palm Cove, Ellis Beach is like that secret treasure you stumble upon when you least expect it. With a population below 30, this sleepy seaside town offers the perfect escape from the touristy hustle with its palm-fringed shores, serene atmosphere and picturesque views of the Coral Sea. This beach near Cairns is home to a popular bar and grill, offering wood-fired BBQ burgers and cold brews, perfect for sundowners.
Ellis Beach has a swim net during the stinger season so you won’t have to worry about getting stung on a swim.
Palm Cove Beach
Famous for its picturesque palm-lined shore and charming village vibe, Palm Cove Beach is a must-visit. Located a short drive north of Cairns, this pristine stretch of coastline is perfect for a morning dip, an afternoon cocktail, or a scenic sunset stroll. With lifeguards on duty, a protective stinger net during the summer months, and a surf club serving beachside beverages, Palm Cove has everything you need for an epic beach day in Tropical North Queensland. Plus, with a range of top-rated restaurants, boutiques and day spas just steps from the sand, it’s easy to make a day (or a weekend) of it.
Port Douglas & Four Mile Beach
If you’re keen to explore beyond Cairns, take a scenic one-hour drive north to Port Douglas and its famous Four Mile Beach. Stretching as far as the eye can see, this golden coastline fringed by palm trees is ideal for long beach walks, kite surfing, paddleboarding and cooling off in the designated swimming areas. After a morning of cool dips and Coral sea views, head into Port Douglas for a lazy lunch, boutique shopping, or a sunset drink at a trendy waterfront bar.
Port Douglas Surf Life Saving Club install stinger nets at Four Mile Beach every year to protect swimmers so everyone can enjoy the beach safely during stinger season
Etty Bay
For a truly unique beach experience, hop in the car and head south to Etty Bay, where rainforest meets reef, and the famous Southern Cassowary can be spotted roaming the shoreline. This small but stunning beach is a haven for locals, loved for its peaceful vibe, untouched natural beauty, and rare wildlife encounters. It’s the perfect place to escape the crowds, enjoy a refreshing swim, and witness one of Queensland’s most fascinating birds in its natural habitat.
Cassowary Coast Regional Council set up stinger nets at Etty Bay each year but still advise all beachgoers to be vigilant when swimming in the beach.
Watch Out During Stinger Season
Cairns’ beaches are paradise year-round, but from November to May, marine stingers (including the potentially dangerous box jellyfish) can be present in the water. Many beaches have protective stinger nets and lifeguards on duty, so always swim in designated areas and wear a stinger suit for extra protection. If in doubt, check with local authorities before diving in.
Discover the Best Beaches in Cairns
While Cairns is known for its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and lush rainforests, the local Cairns beaches add another layer to its appeal. Whether snorkelling off Fitzroy Island, watching the sun kiss the horizon at Trinity Beach, or enjoying a family picnic in Palm Cove, Cairns' shores will leave you spellbound.
If you're planning a trip Down Under and want a taste of paradise, be sure to make one of Crystalbrook's luxury hotels in Cairns your base.
Top Image Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland