In Cairns explore one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef. You can snorkel, dive, or take a glass-bottom boat to witness the vibrant marine life and coral formations in Cairns.
Take a journey through the lush rainforest by riding the Kuranda Scenic Railway, followed by a return trip on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. It offers breathtaking views of Cairns, waterfalls, dense rainforest, and the Cairns coastline.
Visit the ancient Daintree Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk through dense tropical jungles, spot unique wildlife, and experience Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the reef.
Relax at the Cairns Esplanade, where you can swim in the picturesque lagoon, enjoy BBQ facilities, and take part in free fitness classes.
Take a ferry to Fitzroy Island for a day trip or overnight stay. It’s a tropical island where you can hike, snorkel, kayak, and enjoy secluded beaches.
For thrill-seekers, Cairns offers the opportunity to try Australia’s only bungy jump at AJ Hackett, set in a lush rainforest location with spectacular views.
Learn about the Indigenous culture of the region at Tjapukai, where you can experience traditional music, dance, art, and even try your hand at throwing a boomerang.
In Cairns discover the aquatic life native to the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics in this modern aquarium, which features a wide range of marine species.
Hike through Barron Gorge National Park, home to the stunning Barron Falls. It’s a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Another tropical island escape, Green Island offers great opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and glass-bottom boat tours, with pristine beaches and coral reefs nearby.
Cairns is a gateway to many unforgettable experiences, from vibrant coral reefs to dense rainforests, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
Just a short drive from Cairns, Palm Cove is a charming beachside village known for its serene atmosphere, beautiful beach, and beachfront dining. It’s perfect for a relaxing day out or a pampering spa experience.
Venture inland to the Atherton Tablelands, where you can explore rolling green hills, waterfalls like Millaa Millaa Falls, crater lakes like Lake Barrine, and unique wildlife like tree kangaroos.
For adrenaline junkies, white-water rafting on the Tully River is one of the most exciting adventures in the region. Navigate rapids through the rainforest for an unforgettable thrill.
A short drive from Cairns, this wildlife park lets you get up close with native Australian animals, including koalas, kangaroos, cassowaries, and crocodiles.
This local hidden gem offers beautiful freshwater swimming holes surrounded by lush rainforest. It’s a popular spot for a refreshing dip on a hot day.
Discover the unique Paronella Park, a historic Spanish-style castle set amidst tropical gardens and waterfalls. It’s a magical spot with a rich history and beautiful surroundings.
Explore the Cairns Night Markets for some local shopping, where you can find souvenirs, crafts, and a variety of international food stalls.
For a truly unforgettable experience, take a helicopter tour to get aerial views of the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. It’s a spectacular way to see the natural beauty of the region from above.
Along with bungy jumping, AJ Hackett Cairns also offers the “Minjin Jungle Swing,” a thrilling ride where you can swing through the rainforest at high speeds.
Drive along the Waterfalls Circuit in the Atherton Tablelands, which features a series of picturesque waterfalls like Zillie, Ellinjaa, and Millaa Millaa Falls, perfect for sightseeing and swimming.
A family-friendly attraction, Hartley’s offers boat tours where you can see crocodiles up close, as well as interactive wildlife shows featuring snakes, birds, and other Australian creatures.
Take to the skies on a peaceful hot air balloon ride over the Atherton Tablelands at sunrise. It’s a magical experience with stunning views of the countryside and distant mountains.
Stroll through the Cairns Botanic Gardens to admire the diverse plant life of the tropics. It’s a peaceful retreat with walking trails, including a boardwalk through the rainforest.
Join a day trip to the lesser-known Frankland Islands, where you can enjoy snorkeling, diving, and exploring pristine coral reefs in a more secluded setting.
Experience the Rainforestation Nature Park near Kuranda, which offers a combination of wildlife encounters, rainforest tours on an amphibious Army Duck vehicle, and cultural experiences with the local Aboriginal community.
Cairns is full of diverse activities, from adrenaline-pumping adventures to relaxing nature escapes, making it a perfect destination for all types of travellers26. Mossman Gorge
Located in the Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge is a stunning location where you can swim in crystal-clear waters, take guided Dreamtime walks with Indigenous locals, and explore rainforest trails.
For those interested in geology and history, the Chillagoe Caves are a must-see. Located west of Cairns, these limestone caves are filled with ancient formations and remnants of prehistoric marine life.
The Cairns Art Gallery is a great spot for art enthusiasts, showcasing contemporary and Indigenous Australian art. It’s free to enter and provides insight into the local cultural scene.
Head up to the Daintree Rainforest for an exciting Jungle Surfing experience. You’ll zip-line through the canopy, getting an up-close look at the ancient rainforest from a unique perspective.
A popular natural attraction, Babinda Boulders offers cool swimming holes surrounded by large, smooth boulders. The area is steeped in Aboriginal legend and offers a peaceful escape.
Behana Gorge is a beautiful, secluded spot for hiking and swimming. The trail follows a series of waterfalls, and you’ll be rewarded with pristine rock pools perfect for a dip.
For a unique dining experience, enjoy a candlelit dinner in the rainforest at Flames of the Forest. This cultural and culinary event combines gourmet food with performances by Indigenous artists.
Located near Wooroonooran National Park, the Mamu Tropical Skywalk offers a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest. Walk along elevated platforms and observation towers for incredible vistas.
If you’re feeling adventurous, take a guided 4WD tour to the remote Cape York Peninsula, one of Australia’s last true wilderness areas. The journey is rugged but filled with breathtaking scenery, Indigenous culture, and wildlife.
Lake Tinaroo, in the Atherton Tablelands, is perfect for boating, fishing, and camping. You can also explore nearby hiking trails or spot wildlife like platypus and wallabies.
Cairns is a popular spot for sport fishing, with the chance to catch marlin, tuna, and other big game fish. Numerous fishing charters operate out of Cairns, offering half-day and full-day trips.
A scenic one-hour drive from Cairns, Port Douglas is a charming coastal town offering beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and the famous Four Mile Beach. It’s also a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
Explore the fascinating Undara Lava Tubes, ancient volcanic tunnels formed by flowing lava thousands of years ago. Guided tours provide insight into this unique geological feature.
Visit the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary in Kuranda, the largest butterfly aviary in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s a magical experience, where you can walk through a tropical enclosure filled with thousands of colorful butterflies.
Head to Cape Tribulation for a range of adventure activities, including jungle surfing (zip-lining), kayaking, and night walks through the rainforest to spot nocturnal animals.
Located just outside of Cairns, Speewah Conservation Park offers a variety of hiking trails through the rainforest and eucalypt forests. It’s great for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts.
This adventure park offers horse riding and ATV tours through scenic bushland, suitable for all ages and experience levels. It’s a fun way to explore the Australian countryside.
For bird lovers, the Mareeba Wetlands, located west of Cairns, offer a peaceful sanctuary where you can spot hundreds of bird species, including brolgas, egrets, and finches. The area also features canoeing and walking trails.
In addition to hot air ballooning over the Atherton Tablelands, you can also enjoy hot air balloon rides over the rainforest, offering spectacular views of the lush green canopy at sunrise.
If you’re looking for something cultural, the Tanks Arts Centre hosts art exhibitions, live performances, and workshops in a unique setting—former WWII fuel tanks turned into creative spaces.
For a laid-back evening, head to Helm Bar and Bistro, where you can enjoy waterfront dining and stunning sunset views, along with fresh seafood and local cuisine.
During whale season (June to September), you can take whale-watching tours from Cairns to see humpback and minke whales as they migrate along the coast.
For a unique culinary experience, visit the Green Ant Cantina, a quirky local favorite offering Mexican-inspired dishes and a fun atmosphere.
Take a short drive to the Indigenous community of Yarrabah to learn more about Aboriginal culture, see local art galleries, and visit the stunning Yarrabah beach.
Charter a private yacht or catamaran for the day to sail around the Cairns region, including nearby islands and the Great Barrier Reef. It’s a luxurious way to explore the coastline.
Cairns is truly packed with diverse experiences that cater to every type of traveler, from adventure seekers to nature lovers and those looking for a cultural or relaxing getaway..
For hiking enthusiasts, the Mt. Whitfield Conservation Park offers trails through tropical rainforest with rewarding views of Cairns and the Coral Sea. The Red and Blue Arrow tracks are the most popular, offering walks of different lengths and difficulties.
For a unique indoor adventure, head to Cairns ZOOM, an adventure course with zip lines, ropes, and climbing obstacles all housed inside a wildlife dome. It’s a fun family activity, and you’ll be surrounded by native Australian animals like koalas and crocodiles.
For some high-speed fun, try go-karting at Cairns Kart Hire. It’s an adrenaline-filled activity, perfect for competitive fun with friends or family.
Set sail on luxury catamarans for day trips to the Great Barrier Reef. Ocean Freedom and Ocean Free offer personalized, small-group experiences with snorkeling, diving, and reef exploration.
Located on the Great Barrier Reef, Michaelmas Cay is a great spot for snorkeling, with shallow waters perfect for viewing marine life. The cay is also a protected bird sanctuary, home to a large population of seabirds.
Participate in the annual Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in Cairns, where you can witness dozens of hot air balloons filling the skies at sunrise. It’s a spectacular event for both participants and spectators.
For a more exhilarating aerial experience, you can go paragliding from Rex Lookout, just outside of Cairns. It offers breathtaking views of the Coral Sea and the surrounding rainforest.
For a full day of adrenaline-fueled activities, Cairns Adventure Group offers combo tours including white-water rafting, canyoning, and tubing. It’s a great way to pack multiple thrilling activities into one day.
Cairns has several well-loved pubs and bars, such as The Pier Bar and Gilligan’s. These spots are popular for live music, socializing, and enjoying drinks with a view of the water.
Dive deeper into the local history at the Cairns Museum, where exhibits cover everything from the region’s Indigenous heritage to the development of modern Cairns. It’s a great way to learn more about the city and its surroundings.
If you want to explore more of Queensland’s diverse landscapes, take a scenic flight over the rugged outback areas to the west of Cairns. This tour provides a unique contrast to the lush coastal rainforests and reefs.
If you’re up for a challenge, hike to the top of Walshs Pyramid, the highest natural pyramid in the world. The climb is strenuous, but the panoramic views of Cairns and the surrounding countryside are worth the effort.
If you’re looking for a luxury outback experience, Mount Mulligan Lodge offers remote luxury accommodation in the Queensland outback. You can enjoy a variety of activities like ATV adventures, hiking, and gourmet meals.
Head to Rusty’s Markets on the weekend to explore fresh local produce, crafts, and street food. It’s one of the best spots to find tropical fruits, handmade goods, and local snacks.
Voted one of Australia’s best beaches, Nudey Beach on Fitzroy Island offers clear waters and white sands. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun.
Take a scenic drive along the Captain Cook Highway from Cairns to Port Douglas. This coastal road offers spectacular views of the Coral Sea, with several scenic stops and beaches along the way.
While the Inner Reef is stunning, a trip to the Outer Great Barrier Reef offers a more pristine experience with crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. It’s a must-do for avid snorkelers and divers.
Yungaburra is a charming historic town in the Atherton Tablelands. Take the Yungaburra Heritage Walk to explore its historic buildings and learn about the town’s significance in the region.
If you’ve never seen a platypus in the wild, visit Peterson Creek in Yungaburra, a known hotspot for platypus sightings. The creek is peaceful and offers walking trails with plenty of wildlife to see.
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Mission Beach, south of Cairns, for camping. The beach is a beautiful spot for stargazing, with plenty of nature activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and rainforest walks.
With this expanded list, you’ll have no shortage of incredible activities to enjoy while in Cairns, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences.
For thrill-seekers, Skypark Cairns offers Australia’s only bungy jumping experience. You can jump from a 50-meter tower or try the Giant Swing, which soars through the rainforest at high speeds.
Explore the Atherton Tablelands’ food and wine trail, sampling local cheeses, chocolates, wines, and coffee. The region is known for its rich produce and artisanal offerings.
Open every evening, the Cairns Night Markets are a great place to shop for souvenirs, jewelry, clothing, and local crafts. You’ll also find food stalls offering a variety of street food and snacks.
Experience the unique combination of beach and rainforest on a horse-riding tour at Cape Tribulation. These tours offer a peaceful way to explore the natural beauty of the area.
Learn about the history of the Mareeba region, including its agriculture, mining, and Indigenous heritage. The museum has interactive exhibits and a variety of artifacts.
Indulge in a spa day at one of Cairns’ luxury wellness retreats, such as the Alamanda Palm Cove or Daintree Eco Lodge. You can enjoy massages, facials, and holistic treatments surrounded by the rainforest or beachfront.
Cairns is a known hub for Australian South Sea pearls. Visit local jewelers like Pearl Gallery or Opal & Pearl Factory for high-quality pearls and other gemstones.
Osprey’s Restaurant at Thala Beach Nature Reserve offers outdoor dining with stunning views of the rainforest and ocean. It’s an excellent spot for a romantic meal or special occasion.
Located just north of Cairns, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is a wildlife park offering boat tours where you can get up close to saltwater crocodiles. The park also features other native wildlife like cassowaries, koalas, and snakes.
Located off the coast of Queensland, the SS Yongala is one of the most famous dive sites in the world. The wreck is teeming with marine life, including giant groupers, turtles, and rays.
Take a road trip to Cooktown, located north of Cairns, to explore its fascinating history as the site of Captain James Cook’s landing in 1770. Visit the James Cook Museum and enjoy the scenic coastal views along the way.
Explore more of the Atherton Tablelands’ waterfalls beyond the famous Millaa Millaa Falls. Highlights include Ellinjaa Falls, Zillie Falls, and Mungalli Falls, each offering its own unique natural beauty.
Fitzroy Island has a beautiful walking trail known as the Secret Garden Track. The short hike takes you through lush rainforest, offering peaceful seclusion and chances to spot wildlife.
Several eco-tours in Cairns allow you to get involved in reef restoration projects. These tours combine snorkeling or diving with hands-on participation in efforts to preserve and restore the Great Barrier Reef.
Visit the Barron Falls Lookout in Kuranda for breathtaking views of the powerful waterfall, especially during the wet season when the falls are at their peak.
Take a scenic helicopter flight to view not only the Great Barrier Reef but also the spectacular waterfalls and lush rainforests of the Cairns region from above.
Learn how to cook tropical Queensland cuisine with a local cooking class. You’ll use fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and learn to prepare regional specialties like seafood dishes, tropical fruits, and Australian meats.
For a laid-back evening, catch a movie under the stars at Starry Night Cinema in Cairns. This open-air cinema offers a unique way to enjoy films while surrounded by the beauty of the tropics.
The Atherton Tablelands are home to two stunning crater lakes, Lake Barrine and Lake Eacham. Both are great for swimming, canoeing, and wildlife spotting, and you can enjoy a lakeside picnic or a boat tour.
For adventure enthusiasts, Smithfield Mountain Bike Park offers world-class biking trails, suitable for all levels of experience. It’s set in lush rainforest, providing a thrilling ride with incredible scenery.
With so much to do in Cairns, you’ll find activities to suit every interest, whether it’s adventure, relaxation, culture, or natural beauty.
Located about an hour south of Cairns, Babinda Boulders is a beautiful swimming spot surrounded by lush rainforest. It’s known for its clear, cool waters and interesting rock formations.
Set up camp in the Goldsborough Valley, part of Wooroonooran National Park, where you can enjoy camping, fishing, swimming, and hiking in a peaceful rainforest environment.
Explore Double Island near Palm Cove on an eco-friendly kayaking tour. Paddle through calm waters while enjoying views of the island, coral reefs, and marine life.
The Tanks Arts Centre, located in the Cairns Botanic Gardens, is a unique venue housed in WWII oil tanks. It hosts live music, art exhibitions, and cultural events in a spectacular tropical setting.
Just outside Cairns, The Crystal Caves in Atherton is an underground museum filled with fascinating gemstones and crystals from around the world. It’s a great place for both adults and kids to learn about geology and explore the stunning crystal formations.
Take a relaxing sunset cruise from Cairns Harbour, where you can enjoy scenic views of the city skyline and the Coral Sea as the sun sets. Some cruises also include dinner and drinks on board.
Head to the Malanda area in the Atherton Tablelands to spot the rare Lumholtz tree kangaroo. These elusive animals can often be found high in the trees of the rainforest.
Calm waters around Palm Cove and the Cairns northern beaches make it a great spot for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). There are plenty of rental shops and guided tours available for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Take a trip to the Herberton Historic Village, a well-preserved 19th-century mining town in the Atherton Tablelands. Explore over 50 restored buildings and experience life as it was in the 1800s.
Explore the rainforest after dark on a night walk through Mossman Gorge. You’ll get a chance to see nocturnal creatures like possums, gliders, and frogs while learning about the local flora and fauna.
Cairns has a vibrant street art scene with murals and public art scattered around the city. Grab a map from the visitor center and do a self-guided tour to discover colorful works from local and international artists.
For something off the beaten path, take the Savannahlander scenic railway from Cairns to Forsayth. This unique journey offers a glimpse into Queensland’s outback landscapes, from rolling hills to rugged plains.
For a fun night out, head to Gilligan’s nightclub, where you can catch a lively fire show performance. It’s a vibrant venue popular with both locals and visitors, offering entertainment, music, and events.
Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures also offers night tours where you can witness the feeding of nocturnal animals like crocodiles and cassowaries under the stars.
If you’re looking for a free and relaxing spot to swim, the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is a large public swimming pool overlooking the Coral Sea. It’s family-friendly, offering a safe space to swim and relax in the heart of Cairns.
A popular walking track for locals, the Red Arrow Circuit at Mt. Whitfield offers a moderate hike through tropical forest with fantastic views over Cairns. It’s perfect for an early morning workout or a scenic stroll.
Cairns is surrounded by sugar cane fields, and you can take a tasting tour to learn about the production of sugar, molasses, and rum. Sample fresh cane juice and learn about the region’s agricultural heritage.
Just a short drive from Cairns, Cattana Wetlands is a haven for birdwatchers, with walking tracks and bird hides to spot native species like magpie geese, ibis, and kingfishers.
Located west of Cairns, the Chillagoe Caves offer an impressive underground limestone cave system to explore. The Chillagoe-Mungana Caves National Park also features ancient Aboriginal rock art sites.
For those who love fishing, a sports fishing adventure in the Coral Sea offers the chance to catch species like marlin, sailfish, and barracuda in one of the world’s richest fishing grounds.
Cairns offers an unbeatable blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, making it an ideal holiday destination for travellers of all kinds. Nestled between the Great Barrier Reef and the tropical rainforests of Far North Queensland, Cairns is a paradise for nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and those looking for unique experiences.
For adventure enthusiasts, there are countless activities such as snorkelling or diving the Great Barrier Reef, exploring the Daintree Rainforest or bungy jumping at Skypark Cairns. Whether it’s zip-lining through the rainforest, white-water rafting down the Barron River, or taking a scenic hot-air balloon ride over the Atherton Tablelands, Cairns offers no shortage of adrenaline-filled options.
Nature lovers will be captivated by the region’s biodiversity. You can explore the lush landscapes of the Atherton Tablelands, swim in hidden waterfalls like Millaa Millaa Falls, or take a night walk through the Mossman Gorge to spot nocturnal wildlife. The Crystal Cascades, Babinda Boulders, and Paronella Park offer peaceful escapes into nature, while wildlife experiences at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures and Kuranda Koala Gardens provide a chance to see native Australian species up close.
Cairns also has a strong cultural and culinary scene, with opportunities to visit the historic Herberton Village, explore local markets, or embark on food and wine trails in the Tablelands. You can enjoy fine dining at Osprey’s Restaurant with views of the Coral Sea, take cooking classes using fresh tropical produce, or sample locally-made chocolates, coffee, and cheeses.
For those who seek relaxation, Cairns offers beautiful beachfronts, spas, and luxury resorts. You can unwind at Palm Cove, enjoy a sunset cruise on Cairns Harbour, or simply relax at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, which is perfect for families and couples alike.
With its world-class natural wonders, diverse outdoor activities, vibrant local culture, and friendly atmosphere, Cairns is a perfect holiday destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Australia’s tropical north. Whether you’re after adventure, serenity, or a bit of both, Cairns provides an unforgettable escape into one of the most beautiful regions in the world.
