Rental cars in Cairns, QLD
Rent a car in Cairns
Cairns is often hailed as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, but there's an entire world waiting to be explored in this tropical paradise, and car hire in Cairns is your key to unlocking it. With its perennially warm climate and a culture that embraces the outdoors, Cairns is the ultimate destination for sun-seekers, beach lovers, and those yearning for breathtaking landscapes.
But it's not just the natural beauty that makes Cairns shine. From vibrant dining scenes to fantastic shopping spots, there's plenty to enjoy indoors as well. And if you rent a car to venture further afield, the tropical Far North Queensland region offers a treasure trove of awe-inspiring natural wonders, best explored behind the wheel of your own hire car.
Cairns car hire: How it works
From the Daintree National Park to the bustling Cairns Esplanade, rent a car from a local host in Cairns to experience this expansive tropical paradise to the fullest. Car hire in Cairns on Turo gives you total control of your road trip itinerary. Set your booking duration, score discounts when renting long-term, and discover unique cars you can't find anywhere else.
Find your car:
Enter a date and location in Cairns (whether it is the CBD, Cairns Airport or elsewhere) and browse thousands of cars shared by local hosts.
Book with Turo:
Book on the Turo app or online, choose a protection plan, and say hi to your host! Cancel for free up to 24 hours before your trip, and get discounts if you book early or for a longer duration!
Hit the roads of Cairns:
Have the car delivered or pick it up from your host. Check in with the app, grab the keys, and hit the roads of Cairns!
Top hosts in Cairns, QLD
Jacob G.
Jacob G.’s vehicles
Benjamin B.
Benjamin B.’s vehicles
Try car sharing in Cairns, QLD
Things to do and places to see in Cairns, QLD
Cairns, with its stunning location in tropical North Queensland, serves as a gateway to an array of breathtaking destinations. From the tranquil northern beaches like Ellis Beach, Palm Cove, and Trinity Beach, to the lush rainforests and vibrant coastal towns, there's no shortage of incredible places to explore within a short drive from Cairns. Don't miss the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary before taking part in Hartley's Crocodile Adventures or exploring Cairns' sprawling northern beaches.
Book the perfect carCairns Esplanade
The Esplanade is a popular hub among locals, with lots of activities on offer. Here, you can swim in the saltwater esplanade lagoon, check out the cafes and restaurants, walk along the boardwalk, or simply soak up the electric atmosphere and ocean views.
Great Barrier Reef
No visit to Cairns would be complete without a day trip to the magical Great Barrier Reef. Situated just off the Cairns coast, the GBR is a jungle of colourful coral, fish, and other marine life that you won’t find anywhere else. You can also check out the many islands across the reef, like Lady Elliot Island and Green Island. Did you know the Great Barrier Reef Drive is one of the most scenic drives in Australia? Stretching from Cairns to Cape Tribulation, this 140km (one way) journey offers the perfect blend of rainforests and reefs to explore.
Shields Street
Cairns may be best known for its natural wonders and outdoor activities, but it also has a burgeoning dining scene. Much of it is concentrated around the junction between Shields Street and Sheridan Street, creating a lovely dining precinct to suit all tastes. Anywhere you choose to eat along the strip is bound to be good.
Recent reviews
My friends and I rented the car for two days and we had the best time exploring around Cairns.
Thanks Jacob for the quick reply and help, it's a clean reliable car and a great trip!
Lovely car, Jacob is very responsive and easy to deal with, would highly recommend.
I rented the car for my own to do a 3-day road trip to the north and it was great, really easy to use, good music, USB and phone holder.
Very smooth and comfortable ride. Great communication from the driver and all went well with no issues.
Worked for our needs, kept us cool. Jake was great at communication. Thanks!
Jacob helped me change the date of the rental until the day of without any trouble and responded quickly to all my questions during my trip.
The car quality as well as the service of Jacob regarding the car was great!
This is the second time we rented one of Jacob's cars and we cannot be more happier with the whole experience.
Everything was perfect, the car was very clean and great to drive.
Why hire a car on Turo?
More bang for your buck
Find deals on all kinds of drives in Cairns and throughout Australia - from the everyday to the extraordinary - complete with a better, more convenient experience versus Cairns car rental companies. Find the perfect vehicle for your budget.
Free cancellation
Cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before your Cairns trip starts. Because life happens and it helps to be flexible when it does.
Convenient delivery options, wherever you are in Cairns
Get your car delivered right to you or wherever you’re going. Many hosts offer delivery to custom locations or popular points of interest in Cairns, like airports, train stations, and hotels.
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Top tips for hiring a car in Cairns, QLD
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Cairns road rules and driving conditions
Before you hit the road in Cairns, it's essential to familiarise yourself with some key road rules and driving conditions. In Australia, we drive on the left side of the road. Speed limits are strictly enforced, so make sure to adhere to them. The blood alcohol limit is 0.05, so never drink and drive.
Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk when animals tend to be more active. When you venture into the mountains, be prepared for steep and winding roads, particularly if you plan on driving at night. The road quality in the region is generally good, and most tourist hotspots are accessible via sealed roads.
Given the tropical climate, it's advisable to carry plenty of water with you, as temperatures can soar.
Cairns' rush hour, busiest roads and toll roads
Cairns experiences some traffic congestion, primarily during rush hour. The morning rush is from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., and the evening rush occurs between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. While traffic in the city itself isn't a major concern, the Bruce Highway heading north can get crowded.
In Cairns, there are no toll roads. However, if you plan to travel around Queensland, be aware of toll roads such as AirportlinkM7, Clem7, Gateway Motorway, and others.
Make sure your Cairns car hire is fitted out with an e-tag prior to booking if you plan to travel on toll roads during your trip.
Petrol stations and EV chargers in Cairns
Fuelling up is a breeze in Cairns, with numerous petrol stations across the city. If you drive an electric vehicle, Cairns is well-equipped with charging infrastructure. The region is part of the Queensland Electric Superhighway, featuring six charging stations in Cairns and Far North Queensland. Plus, some hotels, such as the Cairns Sheridan Hotel and the Pullman Reef Casino, offer free Tesla charging for guests. Cairns Bus Charters even provides a Tesla car service.
While fuel prices can vary, Cairns has a competitive market, and it's advisable to check local fuel prices using your preferred mapping app. For EV charging, apps like PlugShare will guide you to the nearest charging point.
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Frequently asked questions and things to know about Cairns car hire
Car hire pickup locations throughout Cairns
Car hire pickup locations throughout Cairns
Wondering where you can pick up your ride in Cairns? Unlike traditional Cairns car rental options, local hosts on Turo can offer delivery of your car to anywhere across Cairns or the Sunshine State so that you can get on the road sooner.
Cairns Airport car hire:
On Turo, rent a car from Cairns Airport (CNS) - home to both the T1 International Terminal and T2 Domestic Terminal, and the primary gateway to the tropical paradise of Cairns.
On Turo, avoid the long lines at traditional Cairns car hire companies and enjoy a hassle-free car pickup process by meeting your hosts directly at the airport. After navigating to the arrivals halls, grab your baggage, leave the Cairns airport terminal and meet your car or host at a pre-arranged pickup location (such as the CNS on-site car park).
Cairns Airport is just a short 10-minute drive from the city centre, accessible via Airport Ave and National Route 1. This proximity makes car hire an incredibly convenient choice, especially if you plan to explore Cairns and its surrounding areas on day trips or road adventures.
There aren’t any public transport options between Cairns Airport and the city centre. However, you can book a taxi, rideshare, or shuttle.
Cairns city centre:
Want to rent a car from Cairns' city centre? With Turo, your local host can arrange delivery of your ride to any convenient spot across the CBD. Whether you're staying along the Esplanade or staying in one of Cairns' surrounding suburbs, get your trip on the road sooner by organising delivery of your ride directly to your accommodation in Cairns.
Cairns hire car types
Cairns hire car types
When it comes to car hire in Cairns, Turo offers a diverse range of vehicle types to suit your holiday style. Whether you're planning a family road trip, a coastal escape, or an off-road exploration, rent a car for you. Car types include but are not limited to:
Small and compact car hire: Rent a Toyota Corolla, Suzuki Swift or a Mini and zip around the city with ease.
Electric Car Hire: Embrace sustainability with options like the Tesla Model 3 for a green and eco-friendly journey.
7 Seaters and People Mover Hire: Ideal for larger groups or family getaways, with spacious vehicles like the Kia Carnival.
Van Hire: Perfect for transporting gear or a group of friends, vans ensure you have ample space for both passengers and cargo.
Ute Hire: For those seeking rugged adventures or moving tasks, consider ute or truck hire to get the job done.
Exotic and Luxury Car Hire: Elevate your Cairns experience with a touch of luxury, choosing from premium options like a Jaguar or BMW.
Sports cars: Get your adrenaline pumping and make a statement on the road with a powerful sports car, available in both automatic and manual transmissions.
Vintage cars: For a touch of nostalgia and style, cruise Cairns in a classic MG or vintage sports car.
Convertibles: Experience the joy of open-air driving and soak in the tropical breeze with a convertible.
SUVs: Versatile and ready for various terrains, SUVs are perfect for exploring the diverse landscapes of North Queensland.
Cairns car hire for any occasion
Cairns car hire for any occasion
Whatever your Cairns adventure has in store, rent cars from local hosts and find the perfect ride for any occasion:
Holiday Car Hire: Whether you're embarking on a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, our holiday car hire options ensure you have the perfect vehicle for exploring tropical Far North Queensland's beauty.
Long Term Car Hire: Planning an extended stay? Our long-term car hire solutions offer flexibility and affordability, allowing you to explore Cairns and its surroundings at your own pace.
Formal Car Hire: For those special occasions when you want to arrive in style, our formal car hire selection includes elegant vehicles to make a lasting impression.
Wedding Car Hire: Your big day deserves the best, and our wedding car hire options provide a touch of luxury and sophistication to enhance your wedding experience.
No matter the reason for your visit to Cairns, Turo has you covered with car hire that matches the occasion and exceeds your expectations. Enjoy the freedom and convenience of exploring this tropical paradise on your own terms.
Do I need to hire a car in Cairns?
Do I need to hire a car in Cairns?
While Cairns has public transportation options, hiring a car provides unmatched convenience and flexibility, especially if you plan to explore the region extensively. Cairns car hire is the best way to access remote attractions and make the most of your Cairns adventure.
Expert tips and things to know before hiring a car in Cairns
Expert tips and things to know before hiring a car in Cairns
The most popular car hires in Cairns include compact and SUV models, suitable for the region's tropical climate.
In the hot Cairns weather, avoid leaving belongings in your car during the summer months, as temperatures can reach upwards of 31 degrees Celsius.
Want to tailor your car hire in Cairns to suit your itinerary? Personalise your car with extras like baby seats, booster seats, and GPS navigation for a stress-free journey.
Parking in Cairns
Parking in Cairns
There is lots of parking in the Cairns city centre, comprising paid and free options. Keep in mind that many spots have time limits, particularly in the CBD and other busy areas.
You can also park in several off-street car parks, including Cairns Central Shopping Centre. Here, customers get their first three hours free.
Cairns day trips
Cairns day trips
This pocket of northern Queensland is easily one of the most beautiful parts of the state — and possibly even the country. Not only do you have the Great Barrier Reef on your doorstep, but you’ve also got easy access by car to lesser-known natural wonders like national parks, waterfalls, and tropical rainforests. The only trouble is picking where to drive first.
Daintree Rainforest
The Daintree Rainforest is a natural wonder like no other, best experienced by a car hire in Cairns. At least 180 million years old and filled with unique plants and wildlife including cassowaries and crocodiles, it feels like being in an ancient wild wonderland. Make sure to pack your swimmers to enjoy the forest’s many swimming spots.
Kuranda
Looking for more rainforest adventures? Make your way to Kuranda, a picturesque mountain retreat just 25 kilometres northwest of Cairns. It's an easy 40-minute drive from the Cairns city. In Kuranda, you can glide through the treetops on the Kuranda Scenic Railway, which winds along the forested hillside. For an immersive rainforest experience, the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway offers stunning views. Don't miss the Kuranda Butterfly House.
Be sure to make a stop at the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. Here, you can partake in a Tjapukai Indigenous Cultural Experience, gaining insights into the rich and ancient cultures unique to Australia's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It's an opportunity to delve deeper into Indigenous culture and the Dreamtime stories.
Port Douglas
Another gem in Queensland's tropical north is Port Douglas. The scenic drive from Cairns is a delightful road trip that only takes one hour along the stunning Queensland coast. Once you arrive in Port Douglas, you can spend a day splashing in the waters of Four Mile Beach or venture into the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest. Along the way, there are plenty of enticing pit stops to enjoy. Be sure to check out the thrilling crocodile sightings at Hartley's Crocodile Adventures, conveniently located just over halfway between Cairns and Port Douglas.
Crystal Cascades
Just 20 minutes from Cairns city lies a destination that feels a world away from the hustle and bustle. Crystal Cascades contains a number of swimming holes and rock pools with calm waters, along with waterfalls, wildlife, gargantuan granite boulders, and verdant rainforest.
Fitzroy Island
For a unique island experience, consider visiting Fitzroy Island, a short ferry ride away from Cairns. Here, you can discover Nudey Beach, known for its pristine beauty. It's an ideal spot for wading into the Great Barrier Reef, providing an opportunity to observe the reef's wonders for those who may be less experienced swimmers. Fitzroy Island offers a serene escape amid the turquoise waters of the Coral Sea, making it a must-visit destination off the coast of Cairns.
Best driving roads Cairns
Best driving roads Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Drive:
The Great Barrier Reef Drive stretches only 140 kilometres north of Cairns, but the route’s backdrop makes it well worth doing. You’ll drive right along the cliffs between Cairns and Cape Tribulation, enjoying unspoiled ocean views, gentle bends, and excellent driving conditions year-round.Cardwell Forest Drive:
The Cardwell Forest Drive will take you off the beaten track and into the Cardwell State Forest, replete with waterholes, waterfalls, picnic and barbecue facilities, and lovely views. The scenic Cardwell Forest Drive is the best way to explore the forest, offering soft bends, dips, and peaks. Note that the road is unsealed.Gillies Range Road:
This one’s for drivers after a bit more of a thrill ride. Gillies Range Road is a favourite among car and motorbike enthusiasts alike, beloved for its twisty turns (there are an impressive 263 corners), rolling terrain, and mix of sealed, gravel, and dirt roads.What documents do I need to rent a car in Cairns with Turo?
What documents do I need to rent a car in Cairns with Turo?
To book a car on Turo in Cairns, you must create a Turo account, be 21 years old or older, have a valid driver’s licence, and get approved to drive on Turo. When you’re booking your first trip, you’ll go through a quick approval process by entering your driver’s licence and some other information. In most cases, you’ll get approved immediately, and you’ll be set for every future road trip, business trip, and family holiday!
Do I need my own insurance?
Do I need my own insurance?
No, you don’t need personal insurance coverage to book a car on Turo.
What protection plan options are available on Turo in Cairns?
What protection plan options are available on Turo in Cairns?
When booking a car in Australia, you’ll also choose between the Premier (if available), Standard, and Minimum protection plans. Each plan includes varying limits on financial responsibility for damage to a host’s vehicle. All trips include up to $20,000,000 (per event) in legal liability protection. Legal liability protection protects against damage to other people’s property and death or bodily injury (where the legal liability is not covered or capable of being covered by any statutory or compulsory scheme) as a result of an accident involving the vehicle. All protection is provided by Turo Travels Mutual.*
How do I get discounts on hire cars in Cairns?
How do I get discounts on hire cars in Cairns?
On your Account page, make sure you’ve checked the box to receive email notifications, and enable push notifications from the Turo app in your phone settings — we’ll send you occasional promotions, discounts, and deals on car hire in Cairns!
Additionally, frequent travellers on Turo can get rewarded with the loyalty bonus — earn a promo code for one bonus day when you take trips totalling 10 days in a 90-day period!**
Are there discounts on weekly or monthly trips?
Are there discounts on weekly or monthly trips?
Yes, many Turo hosts in Cairns offer a car hire deal when you book a trip lasting 3+, 7+, or 30+ days. Additionally, hosts can offer “early bird” discounts for Cairns trips booked a week or more in advance. So, if you are looking for cheap car hire deals in Cairns, get the best car hire deals and lowest rates possible by booking longer trips, at least a week in advance.
How can I get unlimited kilometre car hire during my trip in Cairns?
How can I get unlimited kilometre car hire during my trip in Cairns?
Some hosts offer car hire with unlimited KMs; others set a daily distance limit. On the vehicle pages, you’ll see the total kilometres you’re allowed to drive under the heading “Distance included.” You can find cars offering unlimited mileage with every trip by using the “Unlimited distance” filter.
What payment methods does Turo accept?
What payment methods does Turo accept?
Turo accepts most credit cards issued by major financial institutions, including American Express and Discover cards, as well as debit cards with a Visa or Mastercard logo that are linked to a checking account.
Apple Pay and Google Pay on mobile devices are also accepted, but Turo does not accept cash or checks as valid payment methods.
What is the cancellation policy for guests on Turo?
What is the cancellation policy for guests on Turo?
You can cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours before your trip starts. If you book a trip with less than 24 hours’ notice, you have one hour after booking to cancel free of charge. If you cancel after the free cancellation period ends, you will be charged a small cancellation fee.
What are the cleaning and safety policies on Turo?
What are the cleaning and safety policies on Turo?
Under the enhanced cleaning policy, hosts are required to clean and disinfect their vehicles thoroughly before every trip, so you can feel safe and comfortable behind the wheel. Turo hosts have access to training materials on enhanced safety measures and cleaning practices to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 or other viruses.
Is Turo a rental car company?
Is Turo a rental car company?
No. Unlike rental car companies, Turo is a peer-to-peer car sharing marketplace where you can book directly from trusted local car owners in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. Turo does not own any vehicles — Turo hosts share their own personal cars and set their own prices, discounts, vehicle availability, and delivery options.
Is there a fee to add additional drivers to my trip?
Is there a fee to add additional drivers to my trip?
There is no fee or additional charge for adding a driver to your trip on Turo. Only the guest who booked the trip can request to add drivers; Turo hosts cannot do it for you. We encourage you to request to add any additional drivers before your trip starts, though guests in the US, Canada, and Australia can request to add a driver while a trip is in progress.
To speed up the process, have your additional driver create a Turo account and get approved to drive before you request to add them. All drivers must have a valid driver’s licence and meet the age requirements for the car you’ve booked. You can request to add drivers via the “Trips” tab in the Turo app without additional driver charges or extra costs.
How much does it cost to hire a car in Cairns?
How much does it cost to hire a car in Cairns?
When it comes to the cost of hiring a car in Cairns on Turo, prices can vary depending on factors like the type of vehicle you choose, the duration of your booking, and whether you book in advance. On Turo, you'll find competitive prices on a range of hire cars, making it an affordable option for exploring Cairns and its surroundings.
If you're planning an extended stay or require a car for a month or more, Turo hosts often provide discounts for long-term car hire. And don't miss out on early bird booking specials.
When renting a car from Cairns Airport, some hosts may charge an airport delivery fee. It's advisable to compare options and choose the one that suits your budget and travel plans.
Can you hire a car on your Ps in Cairns?
Can you hire a car on your Ps in Cairns?
On Turo, you can't hire a car on your Ps in Cairns. To hire a car, you must have a valid full license - no provisional or conditional licenses are accepted.
Do I need to be a certain age to hire a car in Cairns?
Do I need to be a certain age to hire a car in Cairns?
The minimum age to rent a vehicle on Turo in Cairns is 21 years of age, with all drivers under 25 years old being subjected to an extra cost of $15/day (a.k.a the Young Driver Surcharge). Plus, if you're looking to hire certain vehicle classes, you must be 25 or older to book a Deluxe Class vehicle, and 30 or older to book a Super Deluxe Class vehicle.
Do I need an international driving permit to drive in Cairns?
Do I need an international driving permit to drive in Cairns?
If you're a tourist or visiting from overseas, you're allowed to drive using your foreign licence for up to six months, as long as you meet these conditions:
- Maintain your status as a temporary overseas visitor.
- Hold a valid international licence.
- Have no history of driving disqualifications in QLD or any other location.
- Haven't faced licence suspension, cancellation, or withdrawal of driving privileges.
While not mandatory, it's advisable to carry both your original license and an international driving permit, if available, for identification purposes. If you plan on residing in Cairns or Australia for an extended period, consider checking the regulations of Queensland to determine if applying for a local driver's license is necessary. This can provide added convenience and compliance with local driving laws.
* The guest protection plans offer discretionary protection (protection) issued by Turo Travels Mutual Limited (the Mutual). The plans are offered and distributed on behalf of the Mutual by Turo Australia Pty Ltd and Turo Inc., who are both authorised representatives of Picnic Licensing Pty Ltd (AFSL No 532540). Discretionary risk protection is not insurance. Relevantly, the Board of the Mutual has absolute discretion to accept or reject a member’s claim.
Review the Guest Product Disclosure Statement for more information.
The Board’s discretion will be exercised fairly and consistently, and with all due consideration to the merits and circumstances of each claim and the terms and conditions set out in the Guest PDS.