Cairns, in North Queensland, is a beautiful part of Australia where you can visit the Great Barrier Reef with its diverse marine life, plus unspoilt sandy beaches, rainforests and stunning waterfalls.

Cairns and Port Douglas are launch-points for trips to the reef and surrounding islands. The reef is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and one of two World Heritage sites in Queensland. You can hire a boat and go snorkelling and diving to see the marine life. Alternatively, you can stay in the boat and go fishing or whale watching.

There are many water sports to enjoy in the area, where equipment and lessons are readily available along the coast.

The city itself has a laid-back, youthful feel to it. Some of the best nightlife on this stretch of coast can be enjoyed in Cairns. There are plenty of diving schools based here, too. Stay for a few days and earn your scuba stripes with the helpful instructors.

Cairns car hire is easy to arrange, as well as pick up from Cairns Airport (CNS). It’s wise to book car rental in advance of your visit to ensure the best deals and to secure the type of vehicle you want. As well as airport collection, you can choose to pick up your vehicle at one of the other car-rental locations in and around downtown Cairns.

To find the best price on car hire in Cairns, use TravelSupermarket’s search tool.

Visitors to Cairns ought to visit coastal areas such as Palm Cove, Cape Tribulation, the islands of Bedarra, Double, Haggerstone, Lizard, Green and Dunk.

A two-hour drive from Cairns is the Daintree Coast and, within it, the World Heritage Site of Cape Tribulation rainforest. You can go trekking through this tropical area from the Atherton Tablelands to Cooktown via Mission Beach, or visit the Kuranda Dreamtime Trail and see fascinating plant and animal life along with stunning views.

You can visit historical sites such as Tjapukai Aboriginal Culture Park, where you can see indigenous rock art, or visit one of the many wildlife centres and parks. With such a vast area to explore, car hire in Cairns is a popular option, allowing you freedom to explore territory outside the city.