The 10 Best Bars of Cairns and the Tropical North

Cairns, a coastal city in far north Queensland, Australia, is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning natural beauty, including the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. However, Cairns is not just about outdoor adventures, but also boasts a vibrant and exciting nightlife catering to all tastes and preferences.

The nightlife culture in Cairns has a rich history dating back to the 19th century when the city was a busy port and a hub for miners and loggers. Today, Cairns has transformed into a bustling city that offers a wide array of entertainment options that lures both locals and visitors alike.

Without further ado, let’s explore the ten best bars you can’t miss out on during your trip to Cairns and the Tropical North.

1. The Woolshed

Located in the heart of the city, the Woolshed is hugely popular among backpackers and locals alike due to its friendly atmosphere, affordable drinks, and live music. The bar features a spacious outdoor area and a dance floor that gets crowded every night.

2. P.J. O’Briens

If you’re looking for a traditional Irish pub experience, P.J. O’Briens is your best bet. The bar offers an extensive range of Irish whiskies and beer, along with hearty pub food, live music, and trivia nights.

3. Rattle n Hum

Rattle n Hum is the perfect spot for beer connoisseurs, with over 20 craft beers on tap and a mouth-watering selection of pub-style food. On weekends, the bar hosts DJ nights and live music events.

4. Salt House

Overlooking the scenic Trinity Inlet, Salt House is an upmarket bar that offers a stunning waterfront setting, stylish décor, and a sophisticated vibe. The bar serves delicious cocktails, fine wine, and gourmet tapas to tickle your taste buds.

5. Three Wolves

Hidden away in a laneway, Three Wolves offers an intimate and cosy speakeasy experience. The bar offers an extensive range of cocktails, premium spirits, and craft beer, along with live music and DJ sets.

6. The Conservatory Bar

Nestled in the lush tropical gardens of the Cairns Casino, the Conservatory Bar offers an elegant and classy setting for a night out. The bar serves classic cocktails, premium wine, and artisanal cheese and charcuterie boards.

7. The Pier Bar

Located on the Cairns esplanade, The Pier Bar is a popular spot to enjoy a few drinks while soaking up the fantastic waterfront views. The bar offers live music, DJs, and a diverse range of beers, wines, and cocktails.

8. Gilligan’s

Gilligan’s boasts the title of the biggest party hostel in Cairns, with multiple bars, a nightclub, and a massive pool area. The bar is a great place to socialize, dance, and make new friends from all around the world.

9. Salthouse

Nestled in the Cairns Marina, Salthouse is a trendy bar that offers a vast selection of beers, cocktails, and wines, along with fresh seafood and delicious share plates. The bar also hosts events such as DJs, trivia nights, and live music.

10. The Cotton Club

The Cotton Club is a Cairns institution, with a history that dates back to the 1920s. The bar offers live music, DJs, and classic cocktails in a setting that pays homage to the prohibition era.

In conclusion, Cairns and the Tropical North are not just about outdoor adventures, but also offer a diverse and lively nightlife scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. The ten bars listed above are just a few examples of what Cairns has to offer, and you’re sure to find something that suits your style, whether you’re after a chilled-out drink or a night of partying. So, don’t forget to check out these bars during your next trip to Cairns, Australia.

The Insider’s Guide to Cairns and the Tropical North: Discover Hidden Gems and Unforgettable Experiences

Cairns and the Tropical North are known for their natural beauty, but there’s much more to this region than the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. As a local, I’ve discovered some hidden gems, unique experiences, and fascinating stories that are not in the tourist brochures. In this insider’s guide, I’ll share with you the 10 best bars in Cairns and the Tropical North, but also give you insights into the local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and history that make this place so special.

Discovering Local Attractions Beyond the Tourist Hotspots

While the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest are indeed breathtaking, there are other places that are worth visiting and harder to find. For example, the Crystal Cascades is a lesser-known swimming spot with clear waters and scenic views that are perfect for a hot day. The Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, a man-made swimming pool on the waterfront, is also a popular spot for visitors and locals. Additionally, the Cairns Highlands, with their cool climate and charming towns, offer a refreshing break from the heat and a chance to explore some of the region’s agriculture and wildlife.

Local Dining Spots and the Unique Flavors of Cairns and the Tropical North

Cairns and the Tropical North are known for their fresh seafood, but there’s more to the cuisine of this region than fish and chips. For example, the Indigenous cuisine of Australia, which has been growing in popularity, is a delicious blend of traditional ingredients and cooking techniques with modern twists. You can find Indigenous-inspired dishes at Ochre Restaurant, Muddy’s Cafe, and the Tjapukai Cultural Centre. Other dining spots that offer unique flavors and ambiance are the Rusty’s Markets, the Night Markets, the Caffiend, and the Lefties Old Time Music Hall.

Cultural Experiences: Celebrating Cairns and the Tropical North

Cairns and the Tropical North have a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in their art, music, and festivals. For example, the Tjapukai Cultural Centre is an Indigenous-owned and operated attraction that offers a glimpse into the traditions, stories, and dances of the local Aboriginal people. The Cairns Art Gallery is a contemporary art museum that showcases the diversity and talent of the regional artists. The Cairns Festival, held in August, is a vibrant celebration of music, dance, street art, and food that attracts thousands of locals and visitors.

Local History: Uncovering Fascinating Stories and Legends from the Past

Cairns and the Tropical North have a colorful history of exploration, colonization, and adaptation. Some of the most fascinating stories are the ones that are not well-known, such as the legend of the Cairns Killer Crocodile, the story of the SS Yongala shipwreck, or the history of the Cairns Chinatown. You can also visit some of the historical sites that are still standing, such as the Cairns Courthouse Hotel, the St Monica’s Cathedral, or the Cooktown Museum.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Creating Unforgettable Memories in Cairns and the Tropical North

While the tourist hotspots are worth visiting, there are also some off-the-beaten-path suggestions that can create unforgettable memories. For example, you can take a hot air balloon ride over the Atherton Tablelands at sunrise, go on a night tour of the Cairns Botanic Gardens to see the nocturnal wildlife, or take a scenic drive along the Great Green Way to discover the sugar cane fields, the beaches, and the towns of the region. You can also try some unusual activities, such as crocodile spotting tours, helicopter rides, or bungee jumping.

The 10 Best Bars of Cairns and the Tropical North

Finally, let’s talk about the reason you’re here: the 10 best bars of Cairns and the Tropical North. These are the places where you can unwind, socialize, and experience the local nightlife. They are also great places to see live music, sample local beers, and meet new people. In no particular order, here are the 10 best bars of Cairns and the Tropical North:

– The Cotton Club: a stylish cocktail bar with a rooftop terrace and a relaxed atmosphere.

– Three Wolves: a boutique whiskey bar with friendly staff, live music, and a cosy decor.

– The Attic: a hidden gem in the heart of Cairns, with a speakeasy ambiance and craft cocktails.

– Hemingway’s Brewery: a waterfront brewery with a vast selection of beers and a lively crowd.

– Salt House: a chic restaurant-bar with stunning views of the marina, great seafood, and cocktails.

– The Chambers: a historic building turned art gallery-bar with a creative vibe and eclectic wines.

– The Conservatory Bar: a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city, live music, and craft beers.

– Grant Street Kitchen: a hipster cafe-bar with artisanal food, craft beers, and a casual atmosphere.

– The Jack: a beachside pub with a friendly crowd, live sports, and a laid-back vibe.

– The Woolshed: a party pub with a dance floor, karaoke, and cheap drinks.

Now that you have the insider’s guide to Cairns and the Tropical North, it’s time to pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare for an adventure you won’t forget. Whether you’re interested in the history, culture, cuisine, nature, or nightlife of this region, there’s something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Come and discover Cairns and the Tropical North for yourself.