Visiting Cairns? What to do on your tropical getaway
- Written by Claire Carter
Cairns, the gateway to Australia's Tropical North Queensland, is a vibrant city offering an abundance of activities and attractions for a memorable tropical getaway. With the Great Barrier Reef on its doorstep and the ancient Daintree Rainforest just a short drive away, Cairns is the perfect base for exploring some of the world's most incredible natural wonders.
Explore the Natural Wonders
No trip to Cairns is complete without experiencing the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you choose to snorkel, dive, or take a glass-bottom boat tour, you'll be mesmerized by the spectacular array of coral, tropical fish, turtles, and rays. Consider a day trip to Fitzroy Island or Green Island for stunning coral beaches and lush rainforest.
Venture inland to the Atherton Tablelands, a gorgeous rainforest area about an hour from Cairns, where you can chase waterfalls and swim in crystal-clear swimming holes like Crystal Cascades and Fairy Falls. The Daintree Rainforest, the oldest tropical rainforest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-visit. Explore Mossman Gorge, take a river drift, or soar through the treetops on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
Discover Cairns City and Surrounds
Cairns itself offers plenty to see and do. Stroll along the Cairns Esplanade boardwalk, take a refreshing dip in the saltwater Esplanade Lagoon, or explore the tropical oasis of the Cairns Botanic Gardens. Get local at Rusty's Markets, an institution in Cairns, offering fresh produce, arts, and crafts from Friday to Sunday.
For wildlife encounters, visit Hartley's Crocodile Adventures to see Australia's most famous reptiles and other native species. The charming village of Kuranda, located in the rainforest just outside of Cairns, is known for its arts, crafts, and wildlife. You can reach Kuranda via the scenic Kuranda Scenic Railway or the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
Just north of Cairns, Palm Cove is a stunning beachside town and an idyllic location to enjoy a true tropical paradise. Further north, Port Douglas offers sophisticated eateries, bars, luxurious resorts, and the famous Four Mile Beach.
Adventure and Relaxation
Cairns caters to both adventure seekers and those looking to relax. Beyond snorkeling and diving on the reef, you can try kiteboarding, kayaking, or stand-up paddling. For an adrenaline rush, consider bungy jumping at the Cairns Skypark by AJ Hackett.
If relaxation is your priority, spend a day at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, enjoy a scenic walk along the esplanade, or simply unwind on the beaches of Palm Cove or the nearby islands.
With its incredible natural beauty and diverse range of activities, Cairns promises an unforgettable tropical getaway.
