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Noosa Heads, Queensland to Cairns, Queensland from AU$91: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Noosa Heads, Australia
to
Cairns, Australia

How to Get from Noosa Heads to Cairns: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$91 - Bus, Train, FlyBest price
1304 kmDistance
5h 36m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Noosa Heads to Cairns 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
Bonza
Plane
Average Duration
5h  36m
Estimated price
AU$93-384
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Plane
Average Duration
8h  11m
Estimated price
AU$91-398
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1304 km
Duration: 5h 36m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Train
Plane
Average Duration
9h  5m
Estimated price
AU$120-482
Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
8h  7m
Estimated price
AU$214-634
Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
8h  57m
Estimated price
AU$263-930
Company
Queensland Rail Travel
Train
Average Duration
24h  15m
Estimated price
AU$931-932
Company
Premier Motor Service
Bus
Average Duration
27h  10m
Estimated price
AU$933-934
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
20h  55m
Estimated price
AU$935-936
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Noosa Heads to Cairns

The journey from Noosa Heads to Cairns offers a fascinating contrast between the laid-back charm of Noosa's beaches and the vibrant, tropical atmosphere of Cairns, where adventure awaits in the lush rainforests and the Great Barrier Reef.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cairns

Cairns features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own appeal for travelers.

Cairns Esplanade
• Scenic waterfront promenade with stunning views.
• Vibrant market and dining scene nearby.
Port Douglas
• Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef adventures.
• Charming village atmosphere with boutique shops.
Palm Cove
• Idyllic beach setting with upscale resorts.
• Serene environment perfect for relaxation.

Best Times To Visit Cairns's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at Cairns's top spots.

Great Barrier Reef
Visit in the early morning for fewer crowds and calmer waters.
Daintree Rainforest
Weekdays are ideal; weekends can be busier with tours.
Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
Mornings or late afternoons offer a cooler, more relaxed atmosphere.

Cairns Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cairns boasts a tropical climate, characterized by warm, humid summers and mild, dry winters, making it a year-round destination. Understanding the seasonal changes helps you plan your activities, as the dry months from May to October offer the most pleasant conditions for outdoor adventures.

Cairns Dining Recommendation

While Noosa Heads features a café culture with a focus on fresh, modern Australian cuisine, Cairns invites you to indulge in the rich flavors of local seafood at Ochre Restaurant, where dishes showcase native ingredients like barramundi and kangaroo. The vibrant atmosphere and artistic presentation of food at Ochre offer a delightful contrast, immersing you in the tropical essence of Far North Queensland.

Noosa Heads - Cairns operators

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

Plane
Website
flybonza.com

Plane from Maroochydore (MCY) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
AU$911-935
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Brisbane (BNE) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
2h 23m
Estimated price
AU$933-3841
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Brisbane (BNE) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
2h 21m
Estimated price
AU$937-3841
Train
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
queenslandrailtravel.com.au

Train from Cooroy to Cairns Central Station

Average Duration
22h 42m
Estimated price
AU$939-3840
Contact phone
13 12 30
Website
translink.com.au

Train from Nambour station, platform 1 to Eagle Junction station, platform 3

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
AU$914-915
Bus
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
premierms.com.au

Bus from Noosa Heads Junction to Cairns Central Station

Average Duration
27h 10m
Estimated price
AU$933-3846
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Noosa Junction to Cairns Central Station

Average Duration
27h 40m
Estimated price
AU$918-934

Noosa Heads to Cairns: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Noosa Heads and Cairns 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 the laid-back beaches of Noosa Heads to the tropical paradise of Cairns, covering a distance of 1085 miles. Enjoy the scenic drive that takes approximately 20 hours and 55 minutes, with ample opportunities to explore the diverse landscapes Queensland has to offer. 💰 Experience the flexibility of pricing options to reach Cairns from Noosa Heads by car, ranging from $220 to $320. Whether you choose the more budget-friendly route or opt for a bit more luxury, the journey promises to be filled with excitement and discovery along the way.
Average price
$220 - $320
🚂 Embark on an epic train journey from Noosa Heads to Cairns, spanning a distance of 24 hours and 15 minutes. This scenic route promises breathtaking views and a mix of urban and natural landscapes along the way. 💸 The price range for train tickets from Noosa Heads to Cairns is quite variable, allowing travelers to choose from budget-friendly options starting at $103 to more luxurious accommodations priced up to $3803. Pick a fare that suits your preferences and enjoy the comfort of rail travel.
🛫 The quickest way to travel from Noosa Heads to Cairns is by taking a direct flight from Maroochydore Airport, which only takes 2 hours and 20 minutes with Bonza Airlines. 🌴 The flight from Noosa Heads to Cairns typically lasts around 5 hours and 36 minutes, offering a convenient and quick way to reach the tropical city from the Sunshine Coast. 💸 Prices for flights between Cairns and Noosa Heads can range from $93 to $384, providing travelers with options to suit different budgets for this domestic Australian journey.
Departure Point
Maroochydore Airport
Arrival Point
Cairns Airport
🚌 The journey from Noosa Heads to Cairns by bus takes approximately 27 hours and 10 minutes. Services operate twice daily, offering a convenient way to travel between these two popular destinations in Queensland. 🚌 Prices for the bus trip from Noosa Heads to Cairns range from $110 to $390, providing flexibility in choosing the ticket option that suits your budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Noosa Heads Junction station
Arrival Point
Cairns Central Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Noosa Heads to Cairns.

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The distance between Noosa Heads and Cairns is 810 miles, with a road distance of 1085.5 miles. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes 24 hours and 15 minutes to reach Cairns from Noosa Heads. By taking a bus and then a train to Brisbane, the travel time is 8 hours and 12 minutes. For the fastest option, flying from Noosa Heads to Cairns takes 5 hours and 36 minutes. If traveling from Cairns to Noosa Heads by car, it takes approximately 20 hours and 55 minutes, while taking a bus from Noosa Heads to Cairns takes around 27 hours and 10 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Noosa Heads to Cairns is by train, with prices ranging from $100 to $250. Although this option takes 24 hours and 15 minutes, it is a more budget-friendly choice. However, the quickest way to reach Cairns from Noosa Heads is by flying, which takes approximately 5 hours and 36 minutes and costs between $95 and $370. This option is more time-efficient but may be more expensive.
The prices for traveling from Noosa Heads to Cairns vary depending on the mode of transportation. A train ticket between the two cities can cost between $102 and $243. Meanwhile, a bus ticket from Cairns to Noosa Heads can range from $110 to $550. It is recommended to check for current prices and availability before making any travel arrangements.
To travel from Noosa Heads to Cairns without using public transportation, you can drive the 1085-mile distance, which takes approximately 20 hours and 55 minutes. The cost of this journey typically ranges from $220 to $320 for fuel and any tolls along the way. Make sure to plan for rest stops and consider splitting the drive over multiple days for a more comfortable journey.
To travel from Noosa Heads to Cairns without a car, the best options are by train or by plane. Taking a train from Noosa Heads to Cairns would take approximately 24 hours and 15 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $100 to $250. Alternatively, flying is a quicker option, with a travel time of 5 hours and 36 minutes and ticket prices ranging from $95 to $370. If you prefer, there is also the option of taking a bus, which would take around 27 hours and 10 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $110 to $550.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Noosa Heads and Cairns. The bus services, operated by Premier Motor Service, depart from Noosa Heads Junction and arrive at Cairns Central Station. The journey takes approximately 27 hours and operates twice daily, every day.
The flight between Noosa Heads and Cairns typically takes 2 hours and 20 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary, ranging from $98 to $364. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best price for your desired travel dates.
There are numerous accommodation options available in Cairns. With over 711 hotels to choose from, travelers have a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for the hotels start at $73, but prices may vary depending on the location, amenities, and time of the year. It is advisable to check hotel booking websites or travel agencies for more specific information and to compare prices and reviews before making a decision.

Trips from Noosa Heads