Cairns and the Tropical North are renowned for their lush landscapes and lively social scene, making them perfect for drinking tours that combine local flavor with fun. Whether you’re a craft beer lover, a night owl, or looking for a memorable celebration, Cairns offers a variety of options. I personally enjoy the Cairns Brewery Tours because it highlights the region’s growing craft beer scene and includes visits to microbreweries like Macalister Brewing and distilleries such as Wolf Lane. These tours give you a taste of Cairns’ burgeoning local brewing culture, along with insights from passionate brewers and distillers. The pub crawl is perfect if you want to sample Cairns’ vibrant nightlife with a group, while the Party Bus provides a high-energy, all-in-one night for those who want a truly party-centric experience.
In this guide, you’ll find a quick overview of the best drinking tours in Cairns, followed by detailed descriptions of each. We’ll help you decide based on your budget, interest level, and what kind of night out you’re after.
1. Cairns Brewery Tours
At number one, the Cairns Brewery Tours offers an in-depth look into the craft beer scene of Cairns. For around $149, you spend about five and a half hours exploring microbreweries and distilleries, sampling beers, and learning firsthand about brewing techniques. The tour includes visits to notable venues like Macalister Brewing Co., Wolf Lane Distillery, and Coral Sea Brewing Taproom. The itinerary is flexible, allowing for surprises and venue changes, but each stop promises a friendly environment and quality tastings.
What makes this tour special is the focus on local craftsmanship. Macalister Brewing’s paddle of top craft beers and Wolf Lane’s award-winning spirits are highlights. The guide also shares insights into the brewing process, making it ideal for beer enthusiasts who enjoy both tasting and learning. The tour is conducted in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which is a bonus during the warm Cairns afternoons. Reviewers praise its relaxed vibe, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to discover hidden microbreweries you might not find on your own. The tour is especially suited for those wanting a laid-back, yet immersive, experience into Cairns’ beer and spirit culture.
Bottom line: If craft beer and local spirits are your thing, this tour delivers a well-rounded, relaxed afternoon of tasting and discovery at a fair price with excellent reviews.
2. Cairns Pub & Club Tour
Number two is the Cairns Pub & Club Tour, which focuses on experiencing Cairns’ nightlife in a lively, social way. For just $33.90, you get an evening (or night) of bar hopping, meeting fellow travelers, and enjoying free drinks at each venue. The tour typically starts at The Jack Hotel & Backpackers, where you can grab a discounted dinner before heading out. You’ll visit popular spots like The Woolshed, P.J.O’Brien’s Irish Pub, and finish at Gilligan’s Bar, Cairns’ biggest nightclub.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on building a fun, social atmosphere. With live music, dancing, and games, it’s designed for people who want to mingle and enjoy Cairns’ vibrant scene. The tour includes drink discounts and cover charges, making it a budget-friendly way to experience multiple venues in one night. Reviews are glowing, with travelers loving the seamless organization and the chance to dance and make new friends. The tour is suitable for solo travelers, groups, or anyone looking for a lively night out with minimal planning.
Bottom line: If your goal is to enjoy Cairns’ nightlife with a guided social experience that includes free drinks and easy access to top venues, this tour offers great value and good fun.
3. Cairns Party Bus Pub Crawl Night Out Experience
Number three on our list is the Cairns Party Bus Pub Crawl, offering an exciting night that combines transportation and bar-hopping. For approximately $43.85, you get a five-hour experience riding a double-decker, party-style bus across Cairns’ hottest pubs and clubs. Operating every Friday and Saturday, this tour is designed for those celebrating special occasions like hens’ or bucks’ parties, or anyone who just wants to dance the night away.
The itinerary includes visits to five bars in the city, culminating in a big party at Gilligan’s, Cairns’ premier nightclub. The bus itself becomes part of the fun, with music, atmosphere, and the chance to meet other party-goers. With over 24 years of experience, the tour organizers know how to keep the energy high and the fun flowing. Reviewers note it as a fantastic way to experience Cairns’ nightlife in a safe, lively setting, especially for groups wanting a hassle-free, all-in-one night out.
Bottom line: The Party Bus is perfect for those wanting a high-energy, social, and hassle-free night that mixes transport, drinks, and dancing in one lively package.
How to Choose
When deciding between these drinking tours, consider your budget, what kind of atmosphere you prefer, and how much time you want to spend out. If you’re into craft beers and spirits, the Cairns Brewery Tours offers a relaxed, educational experience with excellent reviews. For a more casual, social night focused on pub hopping and dancing, the Cairns Pub & Club Tour is budget-friendly and perfect for mingling.
If your goal is to party hard with friends and enjoy Cairns’ nightlife on a high-energy, all-in-one experience, the Cairns Party Bus Pub Crawl is the way to go. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons, since these tours tend to fill up fast.
Final Thoughts
Cairns offers a variety of drinking tours that cater to different tastes—whether you’re into craft beers, lively pub nights, or full-blown party experiences. For relaxed, educational outings with local brewers, the Cairns Brewery Tours stands out. If you prefer a social, bar-hopping adventure without breaking the bank, the Pub & Club Tour is a great pick. For those celebrating a special night or wanting a memorable party on wheels, the Party Bus is unbeatable.
Each of these options provides a way to enjoy Cairns’ social scene, meet new people, and experience the local nightlife authentically. To make the most of your trip, consider your style of fun, budget, and how much energy you want to invest. And remember—booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on the best nights in Cairns.