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The Esplanade
The Esplanade Review
Fronting Cairns Harbour between Minnie and Spence streets, this is the focal point of life in Cairns. A shallow, 4,800-square-meter (51,667-square-foot) saltwater lagoon-style swimming pool with a sandy shore, decking, and shelters, is open until well after sunset. It's patrolled by lifeguards (6 am-10 pm October-March,7 am-9 pm April-September), and is a free, convenient place to seek relief rom the sticky air. Farther along the Esplanade are imaginative children's play areas and parklands, picnic grounds with BBQ facilities,volleyball courts, and Skate Plaza—Australia's largest, at just under 25,000 square feet. Some fine shops, hotels, galleries, and eateries can be found along the Esplanade; backpackers also tend to gather here, giving it a lively feel.
- Address: The Esplanade, between Spence and Upward Sts., CBD, Cairns, QLD, 4870 | Map It
- Phone: 07/4044-3715
- Cost: Free
- Hours: Pool: Daily 6 am--10 pm (Oct.--Mar.), 7 am--9 pm (Apr.--Sept.), closed Wed. 6 am--noon; Muddy's playground: daily 8--8 (Oct.--Mar.), 9 am--7 pm (Apr.--Sept.), closed Tues. and Thurs. 7--11 am; volleyball courts: Thurs.--Tues. 9 am--9:30 pm, Wed. 4--9:30 pm
- Website: www.cairnsesplanade.com.au
- Location: Cairns
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