About Cairns: Cairns is located in the northern part of Queensland and is the area’s core city. Cairns is located very close to the equator and is completely surrounded by tropical rainforests. With its long Great Barrier Reef, stunning coastline, jewel-like islands, silver-sand beaches and sapphire blue ocean, it is a true tropical holiday destination. While here, you can take a boat out to the world-famous Great Barrier Reef and check out the coral life beneath the sea. You can also go whitewater rafting, horseback riding, or take a trip in a hot air balloon for a bird’s-eye view of the ancient tropical rainforest. The beautiful scenery on the shores of the Pacific Ocean and inland is sure to come as a pleasant surprise. Once is never enough, when it comes to a visit to Cairns.