Cairns, Port Douglas & Palm Cove Nightlife
After a busy day diving, white water rafting or trekking in the rainforest, it's understandable that many people will go for a relaxing night, such as strolling in the Night Market or enjoying a dinner cruise. However, it is amazing to see that lots people still have the energy to party all night long! For these active ones, Cairns offers a range of lively bars and nightclubs, some with their own theme.
Experience the excitement and fun of Australia's finest boutique casino, right in the heart of Cairns. The Reef Casino offers all the excitement expected from an internationally operated casino. Play games such as blackjack, baccarat, paradise pontoon, roulette, money wheel, and slots. Will you be lucky?
| Entry to the Casino is restricted to persons 18 years of age and over. Being located in such a pristine tropical location the dress standard is smart casual and ties and jackets are certainly not needed. However, Neat, clean attire and suitable footwear must be worn at all times. | |
| Where: | 35-41 Wharf Street, Cairns. |
| Phone: | +61 (0)7 4030 8888 |
| Website: | Reef Casino |
Cairns Night Markets provide a great opportunity for after hours shopping. More than 70 stalls converge here to provide a selection of homewares, giftwares, tattoos, crocodile skins and pearls. The market is indoors, with the comfort of air-conditioning, but captures all the atmosphere of an outdoor market.
| Where: | 71-75 The Esplanade, Cairns. |
| Website: | Cairns Night Markets |
| Where: | Flecker Gardens, Cairns Botanic Gardens (enter via McDonald Street gate) |
| Open: | Gates open 6pm; movies start at 7.30pm |
| Website: | End Credits |
The Civic Theatre is the main theatre of Cairns and hosts the majority of visiting entertainers and shows. Each year more than 100 shows are presented here, from local amateur shows to national and international touring extravaganzas. The theatre offers a diverse range of live entertainment including comedy, dance, drama, and circus.
| Where: | Cnr Sheridan & Florence Streets, Cairns. |
| Phone: | +61 (0)7 4031 9555 |
| Website: | Civic Theatre |
Catch a top gig at Cairns' longest running live music venue. Johno's Blues Bar hosts a large variety of local, national and international artists. Live music usually starts at 7.30pm and bands play until very late.
Johno's also holds regular Toad Races - a true Aussie experience. After the crowd and toads are warmed up by some music, it is time to put the toads in starting position and race. Your toad might win you a prize! This is a full-on comedy event, featured on numerous TV channels (including the Discovery Channel and Travel Channel).
| Where: | Crn Abbott & Alpin Streets, Cairns. |
| Phone: | +61 (0)7 4031 5008 |
| Website: | Johno’s |
It is good to know that many bars in Cairns serve meals as well as drinks, and provide a fairly relaxed atmosphere. Bars tend to open and close earlier than nightclubs. Some other examples of local bars and nightclubs include:
12 Bar Blue
62 Shields Street, Cairns.
+61 (0)7 4041 7388
Cadence Lounge
Cnr Esplanade & Shields Street, Cairns.
+61 (0)7 4051 2666
Casa de Meze
Level 1, Aplin Street, Cairns.
+61 (0)7 4051 5550
Gilligans
57-89 Grafton Street, Cairns.
+61 (0)7 4041 6566
The Grand Hotel
34 McLeod Street, Cairns.
+61 (0)7 4051 1007
The Heritage
Cnr Spence & Lake Streets, Cairns.
+61 (0)7 4031 8070
Mad Cow Tavern
25–27 Spence Street, Cairns.
+61 (0)7 4051 8872
PJ O'Brien's
87 Lake Street, Cairns.
+61 (0)7 4031 5333
Rhino Bar
Upstairs Cnr Lake & Spence Street, Cairns.
+61 (0)7 4031 5305
Salt House Bar & Restaurant
Marina Point, 6/3 Pierpoint Road, Cairns.
+61 (0)7 4041 7733
Sapphire Bar & Lounge
39-49 Lake Street, Cairns.
+61 (0)7 4052 1494
Vertigo Bar & Lounge
Reef Casino, 35-41 Wharf Street, Cairns.
+61 (0)7 4030 8888
The Woolshed
24 Shields Street, Cairns.
+61 (0)7 4031 6304
