By Trend Car Rentals
Cairns is one of Australia’s most iconic gateway cities—an entry point to the Great Barrier Reef and the lush, ancient rainforests of Tropical North Queensland. But what makes Cairns even more extraordinary is what lies beyond its borders: winding coastal drives, misty mountain plateaus, heritage-listed rainforests, outback landscapes, waterfalls, wildlife, and some of Australia’s most breathtaking scenery.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for weekend adventure, hitting the road is the best way to truly experience everything this region has to offer.
With a reliable and comfortable vehicle from Trend Car Rentals, you can explore the Far North with complete ease. From compact cars to SUVs and 4WDs, Trend has the perfect ride for every journey. Start here → https://www.trendrentals.com.au
In this ultimate guide, we break down the best road trips out of Cairns, including must-see attractions, ideal itineraries, and helpful travel tips—so you can create unforgettable memories on the open road.
Why Cairns Is the Perfect Starting Point for Scenic Drives
Cairns sits in one of the most biologically diverse and visually dramatic natural regions in the world. Within just a few hours’ drive, you can reach:
✔ Pristine beaches
✔ Ancient rainforests
✔ Picturesque waterfalls
✔ Mountain lookouts
✔ Charming country towns
✔ The world-famous Daintree and Cape Tribulation
✔ The tropical Atherton Tablelands
✔ The Cassowary Coast
✔ The Gulf Savannah and Outback
Few places on earth offer such variety in such a compact radius.
When you rent a car from Trend Car Rentals Cairns, you unlock the freedom to explore these destinations on your own timetable. Trend’s modern fleet ensures comfort, safety, and fuel efficiency — essential for longer trips.
Browse the fleet here → https://www.trendrentals.com.au
🌿 1. The Great Barrier Reef Drive (Cairns → Port Douglas & Mossman)
Distance: 66 km (1 hr 15 min)
Best for: Coastal scenery, beaches, relaxation
The Great Barrier Reef Drive is one of Australia’s most iconic coastal journeys. Starting from Cairns, this route hugs the coastline as rainforest-clad mountains plunge into turquoise Coral Sea waters.
Trip Highlights
- Clifton Beach & Palm Cove
- Rex Lookout
- Thala Beach Nature Reserve
- Port Douglas waterfront
- Mossman Gorge
Palm Cove is ideal for a relaxing breakfast stop, while Port Douglas offers boutiques, beaches, and world-class restaurants. Continue to Mossman Gorge for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear rainforest waters.
What Makes It Special
This drive captures the essence of tropical Queensland—sun, sea, and lush green rainforest. It’s also easy, scenic, and perfect for half-day or full-day exploring.
🌳 2. The Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation (Cairns → Daintree → Cape Trib)
Distance: 140 km (2.5–3 hrs)
Best for: Ancient rainforest, wildlife, nature lovers
The Daintree Rainforest is the oldest tropical rainforest on Earth, estimated at over 135 million years old. A trip here is a journey back in time.
Must-See Stops
- Daintree River Cruise (spot crocs & birds)
- Jindalba Boardwalk
- Alexandra Range Lookout
- Cape Tribulation Beach
- Myall Beach
- Marrdja Botanical Walk
Cape Tribulation is where the rainforest meets the reef—a world-famous convergence of two UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Road Trip Tip
A 4WD is recommended if you plan to continue beyond Cape Tribulation, where sealed roads end. Trend Car Rentals offers multiple 4WD options perfect for this terrain.
View options → https://www.trendrentals.com.au
🏞 3. Atherton Tablelands (Cairns → Kuranda → Atherton → Yungaburra)
Distance: 200+ km depending on route
Best for: Waterfalls, cooler climate, food tasting, wildlife
With rolling green hills, volcanic lakes, coffee plantations, and cascading waterfalls, the Atherton Tablelands offers the perfect escape from the coastal humidity.
Must-Visit Attractions
- Kuranda Village & Kuranda Markets
- Barron Falls Lookout
- Lake Eacham & Lake Barrine
- Millaa Millaa Waterfall Circuit
- Gallo Dairyland
- Nerada Tea Plantation
- Curtain Fig Tree
The Waterfall Circuit is a highlight, featuring Millaa Millaa, Zillie, and Ellinjaa Falls—some of the most photographed waterfalls in Australia.
Foodie Highlights
Atherton Tablelands is a gourmet heaven:
- Fresh tropical fruits
- Handcrafted cheese
- Locally roasted coffee
- Chocolates and ice cream
- Local distilleries and breweries
Ideal for families, couples, and anyone who loves nature and good food.
🌊 4. The Cassowary Coast (Cairns → Babinda → Etty Bay → Mission Beach)
Distance: 140–160 km
Best for: Beaches, rainforest walks, cassowary sightings
Heading south from Cairns leads to some of the most underrated gems in Queensland.
Babinda Boulders & Josephine Falls
These natural swimming holes offer crystal-clear waters framed by smooth granite boulders and lush rainforest greenery.
Etty Bay
Etty Bay is famous for its wild cassowaries who roam the beach. Spotting one here is almost guaranteed.
Mission Beach
A beautiful coastal town ideal for:
- Skydiving
- Island trips to Dunk Island
- Beachfront dining
- Rainforest hikes
This region has a laid-back vibe perfect for relaxing exploration.
🌵 5. The Outback Drive (Cairns → Mareeba → Chillagoe)
Distance: 210 km (approx. 3 hrs)
Best for: Outback scenery, caves, historical sites
Swap rainforest green for red Outback earth with a drive to Chillagoe, a fascinating region filled with limestone caves, mining heritage, and rugged country landscapes.
Highlights
- Chillagoe-Mungana Caves
- Balancing Rock
- Historic smelters
- Outback pubs
- Stargazing (exceptional clarity)
This is a trip for adventurous travellers who enjoy unique landscapes and geological wonders.
🌴 6. Kuranda Scenic Drive (Cairns → Kuranda via Captain Cook Hwy & Kennedy Hwy)
Distance: 30 km
Best for: Markets, wildlife parks, lookouts
Kuranda is the “village in the rainforest,” known for its bohemian vibe, indigenous artworks, butterfly sanctuary, and famous markets.
What to Do
- Kuranda Koala Gardens
- Australian Butterfly Sanctuary
- Birdworld Kuranda
- Kuranda Markets
- Barron Falls Lookout
- Scenic Railway & Skyrail combination
A short but rewarding trip for families or travellers short on time.
🌅 7. Cape York (for the serious adventurer)
Distance: 1,000+ km
Best for: 4WD adventure, bucket-list travel
If you’re craving a true expedition, Cape York is one of Australia’s greatest 4WD journeys.
What to Expect
- Remote landscapes
- River crossings
- Ancient Indigenous rock art
- Cultural sites
- Epic fishing spots
- Rugged dirt tracks
This journey requires preparation, experience and the right vehicle. Trend Car Rentals provides mine-spec and 4WD vehicles ideal for challenging terrain.
See the 4WD fleet → https://www.trendrentals.com.au
Best Time of Year for Road Trips Out of Cairns
The region has two primary seasons:
Dry Season (May–October)
✔ Cooler temperatures
✔ Clear skies
✔ Best for hiking, waterfalls & Cape Trib
✔ Peak tourism period
Wet Season (November–April)
✔ Lush, green landscapes
✔ Full-flowing waterfalls
✔ Fewer crowds
✔ Afternoon tropical storms
Both seasons have unique beauty—but roads in remote areas may be affected during wet season, so check conditions before travel.
Why Trend Car Rentals Is the Best Choice for Cairns Road Trips
Trend Car Rentals offers:
✔ Modern, well-maintained vehicles
✔ 4WD, SUV & compact options
✔ Affordable pricing
✔ Daily, weekly & long-term hire
✔ Excellent customer service
✔ Multiple locations & easy pickup
✔ Vehicles suited for both city and regional driving
Start your adventure with confidence → https://www.trendrentals.com.au
Sample 5-Day Cairns Road Trip Itinerary
Day 1
Cairns → Palm Cove → Port Douglas → Mossman Gorge
Day 2
Port Douglas → Daintree → Cape Tribulation
Day 3
Cape Trib → Kuranda → Cairns
Day 4
Cairns → Atherton Tablelands (Waterfall Circuit)
Day 5
Cairns → Babinda Boulders → Josephine Falls → Mission Beach
This itinerary blends rainforest, beaches, culture, waterfalls, wildlife, and delicious local food.