Birdwing Kuranda

Birdwing Kuranda is a casual open-air cafe and bar at 21 Coondoo Street, on the main drag of Kuranda village in the rainforest hills behind Cairns. It is better known for its live music sessions than its dog policy, but well-behaved dogs on lead are genuinely welcome in the outdoor seating, which is most of the venue.

The dog setup

Dogs are allowed in the open-air and semi-outdoor seating sections, kept leashed and supervised while you eat or drink. A water bowl is often out for canine visitors, but bring your own to be safe. Because the space fills up and gets lively when a live set starts, settle your dog early and pick a table away from the walkway if yours is unsure around crowds.

The vibe

Think rainforest-village cafe rather than fine dining: a full cafe and brunch menu, an on-site bar pouring beer, wine and cocktails, and regular live blues, country and local acts, with Sunday sessions the fixture. The pub-cafe hybrid layout suits a dog under the table. Hours run from 6:30am daily, closing at 4pm most days and later on Thursday through Saturday nights.

Getting there and parking

Birdwing sits on Coondoo Street, Kuranda's main thoroughfare, an easy walk from the heritage markets and the Skyrail and railway terminals. Street parking is available nearby but fills up on weekends, especially when the markets are on or a live act is billed, so arrive early if you are driving in with the dog.

Close by with the dogs

The Jumrum Creek Conservation Park track is a short stroll from the village centre: a shaded, roughly 750 metre Grade 2 rainforest walk crossing the creek toward Barron Falls Road, where dogs are welcome on lead at all times. For proper off leash time, Mareeba Shire Council's fenced dog park on Gregory Terrace has shade, water fountains and bag dispensers. Note that Kuranda's wildlife attractions, including Birdworld and Koala Gardens, do not allow dogs inside. If you are extending the day, the Kuranda Village and River Walk links the village to the Barron River, and Vittoria's Emporium is another Kuranda stop worth checking.

For more of the region, browse dog friendly cafes in Queensland or see what else is listed around Kuranda.