Discover the top things to do in Cairns with this comprehensive guide! From exploring the Great Barrier Reef to hiking in the rainforest, there’s something for everyone.
Cairns is a top-tier vacation spot in Australia. When one looks at this impressive city, the rationale for its appeal becomes apparent.
Positioned in Far North Queensland, Cairns tour, Australia, it features a tropical ambience with consistently warm conditions all year round. It’s renowned for its lush rainforests and picturesque charm.
Many tourists flock to Cairns because it is a favoured launch pad for adventures to the Great Barrier Reef tour.
The magnetism of Cairns, Australia, lies in its awe-inspiring natural marvel that demands a visit and ought to be a part of every journeyer’s wish list.
Yet, there’s more to it.Cairns provides a spectrum of pursuits for thrill-seekers, encompassing deep-sea diving, bungee leaping, aerial tours via helicopters and the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
Here's a compilation of suggested activities in Cairns
Experience snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef
Regarded as one of Cairns’ prime attractions, the Great Barrier Reef is a marvel to behold.
Listed as a World Heritage site, the Great Barrier Reef encompasses the world’s most extensive collection of coral formations. Nestled in the Coral Sea, it is home to many aquatic creatures.
To truly immerse oneself in this natural wonder, it’s advised to explore its depths via snorkelling or diving.
Embarking on a day journey to the Great Barrier Reef is an unparalleled adventure that remains etched in memory and ranks as a foremost activity in Cairns.
Numerous tour operators in Cairns provide a range of excursions, with Sunlover Reef Cruises being one notable option.
Positioned north of Cairns, Port Douglas is another quaint township that serves as a favoured launch point for coral reef explorations.
Beyond the standard reef outings, Cairns offers several expeditions to larger, more adventurous isles dotting the shoreline.
Destinations like Green Island and Fitzroy Island are sought-after for day ventures from Cairns, being parts of the Great Barrier Reef and presenting pristine beaches coupled with rich snorkelling spots.
A trip to the Great Barrier Reef is highly recommended in Cairns, whether through a focused snorkelling expedition or island hopping to places like Green Island or Fitzroy Island.
Experience a helicopter ride
It’s universally acknowledged that Cairns is a captivating destination.
The locale’s natural splendour is equally mesmerising whether viewed from the land or the air.
You can undertake a picturesque helicopter tour above the city during your stay in Cairns.
Such aerial tours usually last about thirty minutes, offering an awe-inspiring perspective of the metropolitan area and the neighbouring rainforests.
Furthermore, there are assorted avenues to journey through the Great Barrier Reef, with options like touring Green Island, Fitzroy Island and other idyllic isles close to Cairns.
One can also behold the vista of Mission Beach, renowned as one of the distinguished beaches near Cairns’ south.
The helicopter excursion encompasses a concise stop at the Great Barrier Reef.
Undoubtedly, this ranks among Cairns’ premium experiences, but the splurge is justified by the experience it delivers.
Hike the Rainforests
Trekking through Queensland’s tropical climates promises to be a memorable adventure. The age-old woodlands here are teeming with various plant and animal species.
For those pondering activities in Cairns tour, embarking on hikes in places like the Atherton Tablelands or the World Heritage-designated Daintree Rainforest are available, each presenting a unique journey.
In the Atherton Tablelands, you can encounter a grand fig tree that’s stood for over eight centuries.
The Crater Lakes National Park, a highlight of the Atherton Tablelands, is famed for its picturesque trails encircling the park’s volcanic crater lakes.
Moreover, a Waterfall Circuit is on offer, guiding visitors to several awe-inspiring cascades.
On the other hand, a trip to the Daintree Rainforest lets you indulge in a refreshing swim in the pristine Mossman Gorge.
The Dubuji Boardwalk in Cape Tribulation is a family-friendly spot weaving through mangroves, marshlands and thick rainforests. Along the walkway, informative placards detail the diverse vegetation encountered.
A myriad of wildlife thrives in both terrains, including various avian and reptilian species, awaiting your keen observation.
It’s a prime chance to get up close with these creatures in their natural habitat. For nature enthusiasts, this stands out as a premier attraction in Cairns.
Try skydiving over the Great Barrier Reef
There’s genuinely no superior method to embrace the sights of Cairns than from a bird’s-eye view.
Many deem skydiving to be a thrilling endeavour.
Reserving a skydiving adventure allows you to behold the splendour of nearby World Heritage sites, notably the Great Barrier Reef.
Furthermore, travellers are treated to stunning aerial panoramas of the Atherton Tablelands and the Daintree Rainforest.
You don’t need prior knowledge, as you’ll be diving alongside a seasoned instructor.
Post-descent, guests can purchase photographs and footage of their plunge, preserving the recollection of this escapade forever.
In any case, it’s an encounter bound to leave a lasting impression.
Bungee Jump
Reserving the bungee jump adventure is a favoured pursuit in Cairns.
Travellers can leap from a tower that stands 50 meters high, nestled in the rainforests of North Queensland.
This endeavour promises adrenaline and a delightful chance to marvel at Australia’s scenic wonders.
While on-site, there’s the Minjin Jungle Swing to try, allowing participants to whisk through the forest at velocities surpassing a hundred miles per hour.
This thrill can be undertaken solo or enjoyed with a pair of companions.
The experience is genuinely memorable and distinct.
The bungee venture is facilitated by AJ Hackett, a distinguished entity known for its jumps in places like Macau and Queenstown. It receives glowing endorsements.
Take a road trip along the coast
We’ve touched upon numerous points of interest in Cairns, Australia, notably Kuranda, Port Douglas and Cape Tribulation.
Hiring a vehicle and setting forth on a Queensland driving adventure is often hailed as the optimal approach to immerse oneself in this stunning coastal expanse.
For those on a tight schedule, a day’s drive might suffice, but for a deeper dive, you could venture as far as the Daintree, staying a couple of days before returning.
Cairns boasts a variety of car rental services, ensuring travellers can select a conveyance aptly suited for their exploration endeavours.
Starting your road journey right from Cairns Airport before delving into the city is a feasible plan.
To access the most alluring beaches and quaint towns, steer northward on the Captain Cook Highway.Popular spots for swimming are Four Mile Beach, Ellis Beach, Pretty Beach and Trinity Beach. Moreover, the laid-back coastal communities of Palm Cove and Port Douglas await discovery.
Consider taking the ferry across the Daintree River, proceeding north to the rainforest, a globally recognised heritage site.
Incorporating day excursions to the outer reef, Green Island, and further afield is also manageable and can be organised en route.
Navigating Cairns’ picturesque landscapes is a prime avenue to drink in the region’s myriad delights.
Consider visiting the Village of Kuranda
Kuranda is a township in Tropical North Queensland, enveloped by dense rainforest, and is recognised as one of the must-see locales near Cairns.
This region boasts many attractions, such as a bird aviary, a wildlife park, the majestic Barron Falls and the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park.
Going to Kuranda is a favoured activity among Cairns due to its proximity to the city. A standout aspect of this journey is the distinctive transportation offered by the Kuranda Scenic Railway.
Witness the splendour of the enveloping rainforest while seated on a steam-powered train journey.
For a sweeping rainforest vista, tourists can hop onto an enclosed cabin known as the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
It’s feasible to partake in both adventures in a single day: by travelling via the Kuranda Scenic Railway to reach Kuranda and returning to Cairns using the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway or vice versa.
Situated a stone’s throw from Kuranda, the Barron Gorge National Park presents an eye-catching landscape with nature’s wonders, encompassing rainforests and cascading waterfalls. From the heart of Kuranda, visitors can tread towards Barron Falls to marvel at the splendid cascade.
A day excursion to Kuranda and the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park provides an immersive experience of the region’s abundant heritage and natural allure.
Visit the Cairns Night Markets for shopping opportunities
Should shopping be on your Cairns itinerary, this destination is a must-visit.
Starting at 5 p.m., the Cairns markets showcase a range of items spanning clothing, jewellery, gadgets, and beyond.
This venue is perfect for securing souvenirs, and its gastronomy stalls present an array of dishes from various global cuisines.
Beyond the evening Cairns markets, Rusty’s Market is another locale worth a perusal. Over time, it has carved a niche among culinary fans.
This spot is celebrated for its fresh produce and is a cultural epicentre in Cairns.
A visit to the Cairns markets with a tour of the Cairns Aquarium and a stroll on the Cairns Esplanade makes for a fulfilling day.
During Cairns’ summertime, a dip in the sea isn’t advised owing to the presence of marine stingers.
However, the Cairns Lagoon, an artificial pool with a sandy perimeter adjacent to the Esplanade, offers a refreshing respite on sweltering days.
Additionally, consider stopping by the Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome, a renowned local venue for adventure and enlightenment, boasting informative sessions and challenging rope courses.
Given their proximity, incorporating these attractions into a Cairns travel plan proves hassle-free.
Zip through the Daintree Rainforest
During a holiday, tourists can embark on a ziplining adventure in the Daintree Rainforest, situated in the Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage-designated area.
The forest in this locality stands as a magnificent site and is the world’s most ancient tropical rainforest. Exploring this varied and pristine ecosystem is highly advised, and ziplining offers a thrilling way to navigate the forest.
Those venturing into the forest might encounter local fauna, like koalas and kangaroos.
For those with a penchant for adventurous pursuits, Cape Tribulation in the Daintree comes highly suggested. Despite its secluded setting, it presents a distinctive chance to be enveloped by the rainforest.
Travellers can plan a day’s outing from Cairns to Cape Tribulation and schedule a zip-lining escapade with one of the resident operators.
There’s no prerequisite to having ziplining know-how for this journey. Expert guides will impart all essential guidance.
The elevated stations in this vicinity range between 7 and 16 meters in altitude. Through your expedition, you’ll be allowed to traverse the forest’s overhead layer.
Engaging in this pursuit lets you relish the forest’s innate allure paired with adrenaline-pumping exhilaration.
Go to the Crystal Cascades
Taking a rejuvenating dive into Crystal Cascades is a suggested day excursion to ponder upon when meandering through the thick forests of Cairns.
Crystal Cascades is a natural pool enveloped by stones and cascades in Queensland’s balmy northern region.
This serene spot garners attention from both natives and visitors alike.
Moreover, Crystal Cascades stands out as a favoured site for cliff jumping.
Thrill-seekers leap from the rugged edges into the waters beneath at this locale. The most elevated point is named “No Fear.”
Undertaking this feat has its perils, so it’s essential to tread carefully if you decide to indulge.
Knowing this venue lacks cellular connectivity and organised excursions is crucial. Thus, prearranging your conveyance to and fro is advised.
Explore the Great Barrier Reef by taking a cruise
A leisurely approach to discovering the World Heritage-designated Great Barrier Reef is a boat cruise on the Great Barrier Reef Cruise.
Such cruises hold appeal in Cairns, especially among tourists inclined towards a laid-back journey.
Aboard the cruise, guests can relish a day on a pontoon vessel in the Great Barrier Reef, with Wi-Fi access, an expansive buffet, and beverages.
The vibrant aquatic inhabitants of the reef can be admired from either a glass-floored boat or a semi-submerged craft.
For those eager to immerse themselves directly in the aquatic setting, diving is available for an extra charge.
This all-day reef voyage allocates 5 hours for guests to either wander the National Park or engage in snorkelling. The cruise includes a sumptuous lunch buffet, a wine serving, appetisers and live musical entertainment.
While in Cairns, dive into the reef’s wonders, whether via snorkelling, aerial jumps, island day tours or the cruises above. Whichever route you opt for, a delightful encounter is assured.
Consider going white water rafting
Engaging in white water rafting is a favoured pursuit in the World Heritage forests of Cairns, giving adventurers the exhilaration of maneuvering wild river currents and channels.
Two river choices are on offer: The Barron River and the Tully River.
The Barron River presents grade 2 and 3 rapids, making it an ideal starter experience for enthusiasts.
The Tully River is the go-to for those craving a higher challenge level, with its grade 3 and 4 rapids.
Regardless of the river selected, there’s no need for previous rafting experience. Moreover, some tours might feature an authentic Australian barbecue set alongside the river’s edge.
Embarking on a river rafting journey in the Cairns vicinity is a splendid way to immerse oneself in nature while enjoying an exhilarating escapade simultaneously.
Experience the thrill of riding in a hot-air balloon
Tropical North Queensland is notably heralded as the ballooning epicentre of the globe.
Embarking on a hot air balloon journey offers an unparalleled vantage point to savour Australia’s scenic landscapes from the skies, positioning it as a pinnacle activity in Cairns City.
This adventure unfolds during dawn as the sun ascends.
Consequently, participants are treated to mesmerising panoramas of the Atherton Tablelands and the region’s charming agricultural lands and waterways.
The span of this airborne escapade fluctuates between a half-hour to a full hour, contingent on the selected excursion.
Throughout the flight, the balloon’s captain can highlight various landmarks and features of the surroundings.
This venture also paves the way for absorbing fresh insights.
There’s an option to partake in the balloon’s inflation pre-flight and subsequent packing once it has landed.
Visit the Chillagoe Caves
For those with a penchant for probing the subterranean realms close to Cairns, this ranks as one of Cairns’ foremost attractions tailored for such interests.
A mere two and a half hours from Cairns is Chillagoe, an erstwhile mining town celebrated for its intricate labyrinth of limestone caverns.
Home to almost a thousand such caves, many tours from Cairns facilitate visitors’ exploration of this expansive network.
This site boasts a variety of remarkable stalagmite and stalactite structures, indigenous artworks, and the ancient remnants of creatures long gone.
Within Chillagoe, travellers can peruse the town’s museum and get acquainted with its deep-seated mining legacy, rendering it an enticing stopover for lovers of history.
Positioned in the heart of the Australian wilderness, Chillagoe presents avenues to witness a diverse array of fauna and avifauna.
For those intrigued by the offbeat, these caverns merit inclusion in their roster of Cairns explorations.
FAQ
What is Cairns best known for?
Cairns is famous as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. It offers a mix of reef adventures, rainforest hikes, tropical beaches, and adventure sports.
