Can you swim in Cairns?

Yes you can swim in Cairns beaches, however it can be very dangerous between the months of November – May. Most locals would recommend swimming in freshwater lagoons, lakes and waterfalls to avoid crocodiles, jellyfish and other dangerous animals in the sea.



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This 4800 square metre saltwater swimming lagoon offers an all-year-round, safe, swimming location without stingers and crocodiles. Entry to the Cairns Lagoon is free and provides excellent barbecue facilities, perfect for birthday parties or afternoon family dinners.

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We highly recommend wearing the stinger suits – regardless of the time of year – as it will not only protect you from cairns jellyfish stings, but also provide sun protection in the tropical climate. Snorkellers do not need to fear cairns jellyfish on the Great Barrier Reef. Jellyfish are found around the world.

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Palm Cove is within known “Croc Country” and it is vitally important that everyone in far north Queensland practices “CrocWise” behaviour. In particular: Obey crocodile signs—they are there for your own protection. Never swim in water where crocodiles may live, even if there is no warning sign present.

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The best beaches for swimming near Cairns are Trinity Beach, Palm Cove, Ellis Beach and Holloways Beach. All four of these sandy tropical oases are patrolled year-round and are protected by stinger nets in the summer season (November to March/April).

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When is stinger season in Cairns? Whilst varieties of marine stingers can be found year-round on the Great Barrier Reef, they are most prevalent during 'stinger season' which runs during the warmer months of the year, from the beginning of November until the end of May.

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A: It is safe to swim all year round in Cairns, Port Douglas and the Great Barrier Reef but it is highly recommended that you wear a lycra suit when entering the water in the warmer months of November-April.

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Two types of marine stingers, or jellyfish, are found on Cairns' Great Barrier Reef. Both are poisonous and can leave painful stings and sometimes scars. Usually, they are only present in the waters between November and May, but this may change pending weather conditions.

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Saltwater crocodiles are typically found in the murky waterways, rivers, lakes, and swamps in the Northern region of Australia. However, on occasion, they can be found in the ocean region, with the beaches and islands in the Great Barrier Reef known to have an occasional croc sighting.

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Great spot to see the water crashing and carving its way through the Babinda Boulders. Short walk down from the main swimming area and car park. Nice views but there's no swimming here as it's quite dangerous.

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The beach is very safe for swimming and like all Aussie beaches has lifeguards on duty and, in our tropical summer from November to May, a stinger-proof enclosure for protected swimming.

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