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Cairns to Airlie Beach from $42: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cairns, Australia
to
Airlie Beach, Australia

How to Get from Cairns to Airlie Beach: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$42 by trainBest price
303 milesDistance
3h 22m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cairns to Airlie Beach with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  22m
Estimated price
$268-783
Recommended
Company
Queensland Rail Travel
Train
Average Duration
11h  11m
Estimated price
$42-1436
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 303 miles
Duration: 3h 22m

See more options

Company
Premier Motor Service
Bus
Average Duration
10h  10m
Estimated price
$45-140
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
8h  1m
Estimated price
$75-120
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cairns to Airlie Beach

The journey from Cairns to Airlie Beach offers a transition from vibrant city life and lush rainforests to tranquil coastal views and gateway access to the Whitsundays.

Best Neighbourhoods in Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach features vibrant neighborhoods that cater to various tastes and preferences.

Airlie Beach Foreshore
• Stunning lagoon and beachfront promenade.
• Great dining and nightlife options nearby.
Shute Harbour
• Gateway to Whitsunday Islands' boat tours.
• Scenic views of the marina and boats.
Cannonvale
• Close local amenities and shopping centers.
• Family-friendly atmosphere with parks and beaches.

Best Times To Visit Airlie Beach's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience in Airlie Beach.

Whitsunday Islands
Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy fewer crowds and breathtaking light.
Airlie Beach Lagoon
Arrive during weekdays for a more peaceful atmosphere and less congestion.
Coral Sea Marina
Plan your visit around sunrise or sunset for stunning views and fewer tourists.

Airlie Beach Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Airlie Beach enjoys a tropical climate with warm, humid summers and mild, dry winters, making it a year-round destination. While winter months are ideal for pleasant beach days and outdoor activities, be mindful that summertime can bring occasional wet weather.

Dining Recommendation in Airlie Beach

Consider visiting Fish D'vine, where you can savor the local specialty of fish tacos, prepared with the freshest catch from the Whitsunday waters. Unlike the diverse international flavors of Cairns, the relaxed coastal vibe and focus on seafood in Airlie Beach create a uniquely Australian dining experience.

Cairns - Airlie Beach operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cairns and Airlie Beach, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
skytrans.com.au

Plane from Cairns Airport to Proserpine Airport

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
120-470
Website
flexflight.dk

Plane from Cairns Airport to Proserpine Airport

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
120-470
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
queenslandrailtravel.com.au

Train from Cairns Central Station to Proserpine

Average Duration
9h 29m
Estimated price
40-1500
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
premierms.com.au

Bus from Cairns Central Station to Airlie Beach

Average Duration
10h 10m
Estimated price
45-70
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Cairns to Airlie Beach

Average Duration
10h 30m
Estimated price
60-140

Cairns to Airlie Beach: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cairns and Airlie Beach offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an epic road trip from Cairns to Airlie Beach, covering a distance of 626.0 km through the stunning Queensland landscape. Allow approximately 8 hours and 1 minute for the drive, as you venture southward towards this coastal gem. 💰 The cost of travelling by car from Cairns to Airlie Beach typically ranges from $75 to $120, providing a budget-friendly and flexible transportation option. 🏝️ Arrive in Airlie Beach rejuvenated and ready for adventure, with the journey offering a mix of coastal views, charming towns, and natural wonders. Unwind on the beautiful beaches, set sail to the Whitsunday Islands, and soak up the tropical ambiance of this vibrant destination.
Average price
$75 - $120
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Cairns to Airlie Beach, covering a distance of 11 hours and 11 minutes. 💰 Depending on the class and time of booking, ticket prices for the train from Cairns to Airlie Beach range from $42 to $1436.
🛫 Flying from Cairns to Airlie Beach is a convenient and efficient way to travel between these two popular Queensland destinations. The quickest route is a direct flight from Cairns Airport to Proserpine Airport, with a flight time of 1 hour and 25 minutes. 🌴 Upon arrival at Proserpine Airport, travelers can easily make their way to Airlie Beach, which is a scenic 25-minute drive away. The total journey time from Cairns to Airlie Beach by plane is approximately 3 hours and 22 minutes, allowing passengers to quickly reach their tropical beach getaway. 💰 Flight prices for the Cairns to Airlie Beach route can range from $268 to $783, depending on the airline, booking time, and availability.
Departure Point
Cairns Airport
Arrival Point
Proserpine Airport
🚌 Starting from Cairns Central Station, the direct bus to Airlie Beach operates twice daily, offering convenience and accessibility for travelers. The scenic journey spans approximately 10 hours and 10 minutes, providing a comfortable way to experience the tropical landscapes of Queensland. 🌊 As the bus travels from Cairns to Airlie Beach, passengers can anticipate a journey filled with anticipation and excitement, with the possibility of spotting unique Australian wildlife along the way. The affordable ticket prices ranging from $45 to $140 make this bus trip an accessible and budget-friendly travel choice for exploring the wonders of Queensland.
Departure Point
Cairns Central Station
Arrival Point
Airlie Beach station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cairns to Airlie Beach.

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The distance between Cairns and Airlie Beach is approximately 487.6 km by road. By train, it takes around 11 hours and 4 minutes to reach Airlie Beach from Cairns. If you prefer to fly, the travel time is much shorter, with a flight taking around 3 hours and 17 minutes. Alternatively, driving by car takes about 8 hours and 1 minute, while taking a bus can take around 10 hours and 10 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Cairns to Airlie Beach is by train, which takes approximately 11 hours and costs between $45 and $90. However, this option is also the longest in terms of travel time. If time is a priority, the most time-efficient choice is to fly, which takes about 3 hours and 17 minutes and costs between $210 and $550.
The price of a train ticket between Cairns and Airlie Beach can range from $46 to $86, depending on the class and type of service chosen. On the other hand, the cost of a bus ticket from Airlie Beach to Cairns can vary between $45 and $190, depending on the bus operator and the type of seat selected.
To get from Cairns to Airlie Beach without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between Cairns City and Airlie Beach is approximately 626.0 km, and it takes about 8 hours and 1 minute to drive this route. The prices to rent a car and drive from Cairns to Airlie Beach vary between $75 to $120, depending on the rental company and type of vehicle chosen.
To travel from Cairns to Airlie Beach without a car, the best options are by bus or by plane. Taking a bus is the most affordable option, with a journey time of 10 hours and 10 minutes. Alternatively, flying is the fastest option, taking only 3 hours and 17 minutes.
Yes, there is a direct link between Cairns and Airlie Beach. Premier Motor Service operates bus services that depart from Cairns Central Station and arrive at Airlie Beach station. These buses run twice daily and the journey typically takes around 10 hours and 10 minutes.
The flight between Cairns and Airlie Beach typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary, ranging from $210 to $552. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best prices and availability.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Airlie Beach. With over 356 hotels to choose from, there is something to fit every budget and preference. Prices for hotels start at $69 per night.