Long weekend getaways with SUV hire from Cairns

There’s something pretty special about hitting the road for a long weekend. No flights, no airport queues, no rushing. Just you, your playlist, a bag full of snacks, and a good set of wheels. And when you’re starting from Cairns, the options are endless. With SUV hire, you’ve got space, comfort, and freedom to explore some of the best places in Far North Queensland — even the ones a bit off the beaten track.

If you're thinking about a little escape from Cairns, here are a few top spots you can reach in a couple of hours or less. Perfect for a 2–3 day adventure, and all made easier with the right SUV hire.

SUV hire in Queensland

Port Douglas – beaches, markets, and reef vibes

First up, let’s talk about Port Douglas. It’s only about an hour’s drive from Cairns, and honestly, the road there is half the fun. The Captain Cook Highway hugs the coastline and gives you stunning ocean views the whole way.

With SUV hire, you can cruise comfortably and stop at scenic lookouts whenever the mood hits. Port Douglas is great for a relaxed weekend. You can wander around the markets on Sunday, check out Four Mile Beach, and maybe take a boat trip to the reef. Parking’s easy with an SUV too, and you’ve got plenty of room for beach gear or shopping bags (depending on what kind of weekend you’re after).

Cape Tribulation – rainforest meets the reef

If you want to feel like you’ve really escaped the city, Cape Trib’s your spot. It’s around 2.5 to 3 hours north of Cairns, depending on how many stops you make (and trust me, you’ll want to make a few).

You’ll cross the Daintree River on a cable ferry, then head deeper into one of the world’s oldest rainforests. SUV hire makes this kind of trip simple. Some parts of the road can be narrow or winding, especially after rain, so it’s nice to have something sturdy.

Cape Tribulation has beautiful walking tracks, beaches, and wildlife. Don’t expect phone reception everywhere — and that’s kind of the point. It’s a good place to slow down, unwind, and breathe in that fresh, rainforest air. Bring snacks, mozzie spray, and your sense of adventure.

The Atherton Tablelands – waterfalls, lakes, and cheese

Want a long weekend that’s cooler (literally and vibe-wise)? Head inland to the Atherton Tablelands. It’s about 90 minutes to two hours from Cairns, depending where you go first. The Tablelands are higher up, so the temperature drops a bit — a nice change if Cairns is feeling too hot.

SUV hire comes in handy here too. The area’s full of little country roads and back tracks, and you might find yourself pulling over for waterfalls, fig trees, or roadside produce stalls.

Don’t miss the waterfall circuit near Millaa Millaa — there’s three amazing waterfalls close together. Lake Eacham and Lake Barrine are peaceful spots to swim or picnic. You can also check out cheese and chocolate shops, tea farms, and cute country cafes. Bring an empty esky and fill it with local goodies.

Why SUV hire makes these trips easier

Let’s be honest — a tiny car can start to feel cramped pretty fast. Especially if you’ve packed a few extra bags, or you’re travelling with kids, friends, or that person who brings six pillows “just in case.” That’s where SUV hire saves the day.

With SUV hire, you’ve got room to move, better visibility on winding roads, and enough space to pack like you mean it. No need to balance your bag on your knees or jam everything into the boot. You can chuck in beach gear, camping stuff, snacks for days, and still stretch your legs.

It’s also great for Queensland roads. Some of the spots you’ll want to visit might be a bit bumpy, gravelly, or full of potholes — and a solid SUV handles that way better than a little hatchback.

1300 Meteor Rentals – SUV hire made simple

If you're starting your trip in Cairns, SUV hire is easy with 1300 Meteor Rentals. We’ve got a range of SUVs that are comfy, reliable, and ready for the road. You can book online, pick up in town, and get going without the fuss.

We’ve been helping travellers, families, and locals explore North Queensland for over 35 years. Whether you're heading to Port Douglas for a chill weekend, up to Cape Trib for a rainforest getaway, or across to the Tablelands for cool country air — we’ve got you covered.

And yep, we’ve also got SUV hire options in Townsville and Mount Isa if you're starting from there instead.

A few quick tips for your SUV hire weekend

• Check the weather – Queensland can surprise you with a storm or two, especially in the wet season.

• Bring a real map – reception can drop out around Cape Trib or inland.

• Fuel up – some places don’t have petrol stations every 10km, so top up when you can.

• Stay safe – don’t drive tired, watch for wildlife (especially early morning and late evening), and take your time.

Time to hit the road?

There’s something satisfying about packing up the car, grabbing a coffee, and heading out of town for a few days. With the right SUV hire, you’re not just getting from A to B — you’re making the journey part of the fun.

So, if you’ve got a long weekend coming up, why not make the most of it? Port Douglas, Cape Tribulation, the Tablelands — they’re all calling, and they’re just a short drive from Cairns. All you need is good company, some snacks, and the right ride.

SUV hire isn’t just practical — it’s the key to making your Queensland road trip smooth, comfy, and full of good memories.

Ready to go? Book your SUV hire online with 1300 Meteor Rentals, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or check out our YouTube for more tips and road trip inspiration.