A Tropical Party Scene Like No Other
Cairns is a laid-back city during the day, but when the sun goes down, it transforms into a lively hub of nightlife. Whether you’re after a casual pint in a cozy pub, a night of live music, or a full-blown party at a nightclub, Cairns has something for everyone. From locals hanging out by the Esplanade to tourists soaking up the tropical vibes, Cairns’ nightlife scene is fun, friendly, and just a little bit wild. So, if you’re planning on experiencing Cairns after dark, here’s your guide to the best pubs, bars, live music venues, and nightclubs in the region.
The Classic Pub Scene: Cheers to That!
Let’s start with the pubs. Cairns has a wealth of classic Aussie pubs, where you can enjoy a cold beer, hearty pub grub, and a relaxed atmosphere with both locals and visitors. If you’re looking for a classic pub experience, here are a few favorites:
The Woolshed
One of Cairns’ most iconic watering holes, The Woolshed is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a lively atmosphere and a great selection of drinks. Located on the bustling Cairns Esplanade, this pub is well-known for its laid-back vibe, party atmosphere, and hearty meals. It’s not just your average pub—it’s a place where you’ll find great deals on drinks, lively crowd interaction, and even mechanical bull rides (if you’re feeling adventurous)! The Woolshed is perfect if you’re in the mood for a fun night out with friends or if you’re looking to meet new people. Live music is often a feature here, and it’s a go-to spot for backpackers and tourists who want to kick back and enjoy the tropical vibes.
The Jack
If you’re after a more laid-back, traditional pub experience, The Jack (also known as Jack’s Bar), located on Grafton Street, is an excellent choice. Known for its friendly vibe, classic pub food, and great selection of beers, The Jack is the perfect spot for a casual evening out. The laid-back atmosphere is complemented by a spacious beer garden, making it an ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring. The pub regularly hosts trivia nights and karaoke, so if you’re in the mood for a little competition (or want to show off your singing chops), this is the place to be.
Elixir Bar in Cairns isn’t just a spot for a cool beverage or two—it’s also a fantastic live music venue! With its laid-back yet buzzing atmosphere, Elixir regularly hosts local bands and solo artists, bringing a steady stream of talented musicians to its eclectic space. Whether it’s chilled-out acoustic tunes to set the mood or upbeat tracks that get the crowd tapping their feet, the live performances here always add an extra layer of magic to the night. The intimate setting means you’re never too far from the action, making it the perfect place to enjoy some great music while sipping on one of their signature drinks. It’s the kind of place where you can kick back with friends, enjoy a stellar cocktail, and discover new local talent in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
Rattle ‘n’ Hum
For a more intimate and cozy pub experience, Rattle ‘n’ Hum is a local favorite. Located near the Esplanade, this quirky pub features an eclectic mix of décor, tasty pub meals, and a chilled-out vibe. It’s a great spot for an afternoon pint or an evening drink with friends, and the food menu includes everything from burgers to hearty mains. They also serve a fantastic selection of cocktails, and it’s known for its extensive craft beer offerings—ideal for beer aficionados looking to try something local or a little different.
Live Music: The Heart and Soul of Cairns’ Nightlife
One of the things that makes Cairns’ nightlife truly unique is its thriving live music scene. Whether you’re into jazz, rock, reggae, or indie, there are plenty of venues where you can enjoy talented local musicians (and sometimes big-name acts) playing live. Here are some top spots to check out for live music in Cairns:
The Tanks Arts Centre
Located just a short drive from the city center, the Tanks Arts Centre is one of Cairns’ premier venues for live music, hosting everything from local performances to international artists. Housed in a series of repurposed WWII oil storage tanks (how cool is that?), this venue exudes a unique, industrial-chic atmosphere. It’s an awesome place to catch everything from rock gigs to folk music and theatrical performances. If you’re in Cairns during one of their events, it’s worth checking the schedule to see who’s playing. The venue’s acoustics and intimate setting create an unforgettable experience.
The Courthouse Hotel
For those who enjoy live bands in a relaxed, unpretentious setting, The Courthouse Hotel is a Cairns institution. Located in the heart of the city, The Courthouse offers live music nearly every night of the week, covering a wide range of genres from local acoustic acts to full bands. The relaxed pub vibe makes it a great place to enjoy a few drinks and dance the night away with friends. The beer garden is spacious and shaded, making it an excellent spot to hang out when the weather’s warm, and the rotating lineup of local bands means there’s always something different to enjoy.
The Green Ant Cantina
If you’re in the mood for live music with a side of good food, The Green Ant Cantina is a Cairns gem. This funky Mexican-themed restaurant and bar often hosts live music nights, especially on weekends, featuring everything from solo acoustic acts to full bands. The food is delicious (think tacos, nachos, and margaritas), and the atmosphere is vibrant, making it a fantastic spot for a fun, lively night out. It’s not too big or crowded, so you can really enjoy the music and the vibrant atmosphere.
P.J. O’Brien’s Irish Pub
For fans of classic pub music, P.J. O’Brien’s Irish Pub is the place to be. Located right on the Esplanade, this traditional Irish pub regularly hosts live folk and rock bands, with an emphasis on lively tunes that’ll get you tapping your feet. The warm wooden interiors and old-school pub feel transport you straight to Ireland, while the delicious food menu and great drinks selection make it a cozy spot to spend the night. Whether you’re enjoying a Guinness or a whiskey cocktail, the music here will keep you entertained well into the night.
Nightclubs: Dance the Night Away
For those who like to keep the party going into the small hours of the morning, Cairns has a great selection of nightclubs that offer everything from EDM to top-40 hits, and everything in between. Whether you’re in the mood for a night of dancing or just enjoying the vibrant club scene, here are a few places to check out:
Gilligan’s Nightclub Cairns is the ultimate party playground in Far North Queensland, and if you’re looking to dance, drink, and mingle with an eclectic crowd, this place is where the fun’s at! Known for its vibrant, high-energy atmosphere, Gilligan’s is a Cairns institution—packed with tropical vibes, great beats, and plenty of space to let loose. With its huge dance floor, impressive sound system, and party-friendly drink specials, it’s the kind of nightclub where the music never stops and the dance moves get a little wild. Whether you’re here for their epic themed nights, to catch some of the best local and international DJs, or just to enjoy a fun night out with friends, Gilligan’s always delivers. Oh, and did we mention they’ve got a massive outdoor area perfect for cooling off between sets? It’s the ultimate spot to let your hair down, have a blast, and party until the early hours of the morning!
The Attic
For a more intimate, underground vibe, The Attic is a small but popular nightclub offering a mix of house, techno, and electronic dance music. Located above some of Cairns’ popular bars, The Attic is the place to go if you’re a fan of underground clubs and electronic beats. It has a trendy, laid-back atmosphere and is often less crowded than some of the bigger clubs in the area, which gives it a more exclusive feel. The sound system here is excellent, and the DJ lineup is top-notch—perfect for those who like to get lost in the music.
Cotton Club
For a touch of sophistication alongside the dancing, Cotton Club offers a luxe clubbing experience. Located in the heart of Cairns, this stylish venue hosts regular live DJ sets, themed events, and dance nights. The music varies, but you’ll typically find a mix of house, hip-hop, and electronic tunes. With its sleek décor, VIP sections, and VIP-only nights, Cotton Club attracts a chic crowd who enjoy a more upscale nightclub experience.
Wrapping It Up: Cairns’ Nightlife Has Something for Everyone
Whether you’re in Cairns for a short stay or you’re a local looking to have a fun night out, the city’s nightlife has a great mix of pubs, live music venues, and nightclubs that will keep you entertained. From chilled-out beer gardens with acoustic sets to high-energy nightclubs where you can dance until dawn, Cairns offers a laid-back yet lively atmosphere perfect for all kinds of night owls.
So, grab your friends, put on your dancing shoes (or just your flip-flops), and get ready to explore Cairns’ buzzing nightlife scene. It’s guaranteed to be a good time, tropical style!