There’s a Cairns market out there to suit every taste, budget and whim
Tropical North Queensland is packed with incredible experiences, but to really get a taste of the region, make time to explore its eclectic markets.
From stalls along the beachside promenade and out in the rustic country to indoor night markets and plenty more in between, here are some of the best markets Cairns has to offer.
In short
If you only visit one market in Cairns, make it Rusty’s Market. A Cairns institution, it’s the ultimate one-stop shop for fresh local produce, international eats and a buzzing weekend atmosphere. Come hungry and leave plenty of room in your bags.
Good to know: Most markets have free or nearby public parking, although city markets like Rusty’s and the Cairns Night Markets are easiest to visit on foot if you’re staying in the CBD.
Rusty’s Market
Delight in sweet creations at Rusty’s Market. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland)
Those in town for the weekend should set their sights (and stomachs) on the iconic Rusty’s Market. What began as a modest, community food market has now transformed into a bustling three-day event every week, showcasing over 180 stalls.
Both locals and visitors flock here from Friday to Sunday to browse the region’s best. You’ll find local produce – exotic fruit, artisan bread, samosas, coffee, smoothies, organic meats, and the like – as well as international foods, jewellery, clothing, and more.
- Opening hours: Friday–Saturday 5am to 4pm and Sunday 5am to 3pm
- Location: 57-89 Grafton Street, Cairns City
- Distance from Cairns Centre: 1-minute drive
Cairns Night Markets
Each night when the sun sets, the Cairns Night Markets come alive and are famous for good reason.
With over 70 market shops to explore (including gifts, homeware, jewellery, and more), as well as a varied food court and licensed restaurants, it’s the perfect place to grab dinner and hunt for a bargain. Oh, and it’s fully air-conditioned too, so if it’s a scorcher of a night, you know where to go.
- Opening hours: Daily 4.30–10.30pm
- Location: 54-60 Abbott St, Cairns City
- Distance from Cairns Centre: 1-minute drive
Tanks Markets
For a taste of the arts, the Tanks Markets showcase a blend of local art, craft, and vintage clothing, as well as produce, collectables, natural health products, and food and drink stalls.
Each month features a free yoga class, live entertainment from local emerging musicians and the Far Northern Brass Band, and plenty more.
- Opening hours: Held on the last Sunday of the month from 8am–1pm, between April and November (excluding August)
- Location: Tanks Arts Centre, 46 Collins Ave, Edge Hill
- Distance from Cairns Centre: 8-minute drive
Tanks Twilight Markets
If browsing market stalls with a drink in hand sounds more your style, make a beeline for the Tanks Twilight Markets. Held at the leafy Tanks Arts Centre, these evening markets bring together local artists, makers, food trucks and live music in one of Cairns’ most atmospheric settings. Wander between artisan stalls, grab dinner from a food truck and settle in for an evening of live music beneath the tropical trees.
- Opening hours: Selected Friday evenings throughout the year, 5–10pm
- Location: Tanks Arts Centre, 46 Collins Avenue, Edge Hill
- Distance from Cairns Centre: 8-minute drive
Clifton Beach Markets
Set among the palm-lined northern beaches, the Clifton Beach Markets are a relaxed community market where you’ll find handmade crafts, locally made gifts, fresh produce, plants and sweet treats. Grab a coffee afterwards and wander down to nearby Clifton Beach to round out the morning.
- Opening hours: Held on the third Sunday of every month, 9am–2pm
- Location: Clifton Village Shopping Centre, Captain Cook Highway, Clifton Beach
- Distance from Cairns Centre: 25-minute drive
Gordonvale Cottage Markets
At the heart of the sugar farming township of Gordonvale is their monthly market with a happy country vibe, often with live music, and an enjoyable atmosphere. There are around 120 stalls to explore, including a wide variety of homemade crafts, locally grown produce, and delicious food.
- Opening hours: Held on the first Saturday of every month (except in January)
- Location: Norman Park, Gordonvale
- Distance from Cairns Centre: 25-minute drive
Palm Cove Markets
Celebrating sustainable, locally made goods, the Palm Cove Markets have a reputation for being one of Tropical North Queensland’s best community markets. With over 130 stalls stretched across Williams Esplanade and entertainment alongside beachside scenery, it’s a market experience unlike anything you’re used to at home.
- Opening hours: Held on the first Sunday of every month, 9am – 2pm
- Location: Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove
- Distance from Cairns Centre: 30-minute drive
Kuranda Original Rainforest Markets
Found high up in the famous mountain village of Kuranda, the Kuranda Original Rainforest Markets showcase the area’s local arts, cuisine, culture, and history, and attract thousands of visitors annually.
With rustic yet charming outdoor stalls, a strong eco-conscious ethic, gourmet regional fare, tropical gardens to walk through, and even a mini golf course, why not enjoy a whole day trip here?
The neighbouring Kuranda Heritage Markets are also worth exploring, adding another collection of artisan goods, gifts, fashion and food to your day out.
- Opening hours: Held every day 10am – 3pm
- Location: 13 Therwine Street, Kuranda
- Distance from Cairns Centre: 35-minute drive
Article by Jemma Fletcher
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