Christmas in Cairns
 

We are flying from Sydney to Cairns on Christmas Day, landing around lunchtime. It just occurred to me recently that most places will be closed. I actually tried to book Christmas lunch but most places are really expensive and several are already booked. Does anyone know if any grocers might be open Christmas Day? We'd really rather not spend $3-400 on a fancy buffet and would be happy just putting together a picnic lunch for our drive up to Port Douglas.

Thank you!

Just had a quick look at the Coles website and the Cairns Central store is closed Christmas Day. I think the other supermarkets (Woolworths, Aldi, IGA etc) would be closed as well. I think if you want a meal that is not horribly expensive, try and get into a Chinese or Indian restaurant. Generally speaking, they are likely to be open. You could do a quick check on Trip Advisor to see what there is and then look at individual websites for hours. Or maybe get your hotel to recommend somewhere?

I'm assuming there will be a café open at Cairns airport so why not buy some takeaway sandwiches/rolls/salads and drinks. My favourite place for a picnic en route to PD is Palm Cove - sit under the trees on the foreshore and enjoy the view.

Could you ask your accommodation to get some picnic provisions in for you on Christmas Eve?

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill a short drive out of Cairns( Palm Cove) on the way to Port Douglas. Makes a nice stopover for a beer and bite.
Call to check if they are open

http://ellisbeachbarandgrill.com.au/

(07) 4055 3534