A Kiwi recommends ... Cairns

Blair Cutler says swimming at Crystal Cascades is one of Tropical North Queensland's best-kept secrets. Photo / Tourism and Events Queensland

Each week, expat Kiwis tell us what they most love about living by Queensland's beaches. Today we hear from Cairns teacher Blair Cutler.

TASTE

Best coffee spot: For a small city, Cairns has a surprising number of excellent coffee shops. Billy's Coffee in the Cairns CBD is an institution and on weekends you can also pick up a Billy's coffee at Rusty's Markets. Other notable ones are Caffiend, Rehab and Blackbird Espresso, which are also in the CBD.

Where should we eat? Meat lovers can't go past the ribs at Waterbar and Grill. At Trinity Beach the Blue Moon Grill has relaxed outdoor seating and a delicious menu.

Best walk: You can see a lot of Cairns walking along the Esplanade and along the Palm Cove beachfront to the jetty.

Best spot to get an icecream: During your walk at Palm Cove pick up an icecream at Jack and Shanan's.

Something special for dinner: Tamarind at the Casino is where locals go for a special occasion.

Best local produce: Rusty's Markets on Sheridan St for locally grown fruit and vegetables, and at Ocean World Seafood Market you can get fresh seafood or fish 'n' chips.

SEE

Be one of the first to: Have a Crocodile Burger at Hartley's Crocodile Adventures.

Best-kept secret: Swimming at Crystal Cascades at Redlynch.

RELAX

Best spa: The White Lotus Tropical Day Spa at Trinity Park is set in stunning tropical gardens.

Best place to rest your head: A holiday let house at Palm Cove will give you the comforts of home within walking distance to the beach and restaurants.