Cairns is the adventure playground of the world and basks in sweet balmy sunshine all year round. Whether you are looking to kick back on sugary white sands, snorkel the majestic Great Barrier Reef or trek through lush jungle, Cairns has it all. Take a sneaky peek at the best things to do in Cairns and start planning the trip of a lifetime.
1. Great Barrier Reef Cruise
The rainbow delights of the Great Barrier Reef are a must for anyone looking for things to do in Cairns. Take a cruise across one of the seven wonders of the natural world dive down to explore the rich marine life and discover the bright coral gardens that sit beneath the shimmering hues of blue.
2. Daintree Rainforest/Cape Tribulation Tour
Take a tour of the emerald DaintreeRainforest and see the heady sights of the gorgeous Cape Tribulation. Trek through verdant virginal forests littered with luminous butterflies, watch crocodiles slide from the river banks and stand in awe at the mythical Mossman Gorge with this evocative day tour.
3. Green Island Tour
Leave civilisation behind and seek your own perfect piece of paradise with a dreamy Green Island tour. The Green IslandNational Park is a smorgasbord of beauty packed with coral cays, secret beaches and breath-taking eco walks. Spend the day hiking through the carved landscape and snorkelling in crystal clear waters.
4. Atherton Tablelands Tour
One of the best things to do in Cairns has to be the Atherton Tablelands Tour. Get wet and wild in this natural playground of cascading waterfalls, sparkling lakes and swimming holes. Cool off in soft lit lagoons, listen to the sounds of the rainforest and watch kangaroos and platypus tumble and play in this unique environment.
5. Cairns Harbour Sunset Cruise
Witness a flaming sunset of gold and red as you sail in style around Cairns harbour. There’s no better way to end a day then with a drink in hand watching the sun sink like a stone and seeing the bright lights of Cairns twinkle afterhours.
6. Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Take the train ride of your life to the hillside gem of Kuranda, the rainforest village. After exploring the galleries and markets you can slide down on the Skyrail cableway. The gondolas glide above the rainforest delivering breath-taking views before sweeping down into the canopy.
7. Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park
Looking for culture in Cairns? One of the most fascinating things to do in Cairns has to be the Tjapukai Aboriginal Park. Spend time with the indigenous people of the rainforest, play didgeridoos, listen to ancient folk lore tales around the campfire and witness a real life Quinkan spirit performance.
8. AJ Hackett Bungee
The ultimate adventure is yours for the taking with the Aj Hackett Bungee jump. The jump was actually invented by Aj Hackett himself and in the heart of the rainforest you can take the fifty metre dive into the unknown with one of the world’s most exciting bungee jumps. Those who don’t fancy the dive can play on the giant jungle swing, watch live bands and devour wood smoked pizza straight from the oven.
9. Australian Butterfly Sanctuary
When you want to take a moment to catch your breath be sure to head to the serenity of the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary. This is one of the most beautiful things to do in Cairns as brightly painted butterflies flit before your eyes, perch on your shoulders and create a kaleidoscope of colour.
10. Cairns Markets
Rusty’s Markets can be found in the city centre and are the perfect place to discover the gourmet delights and bright trinkets of Cairns. The stalls are laden with jewelled fruits, freshly cut flowers, thick scented local coffee, ripe wheels of cheese and a multitude of goodies that will have you delving in your pockets.
Tips to visit Cairns
Cairns Travel Guide
Cairns Tours FAQ
Tips to visit Cairns
Cairns Travel Guide
Cairns Tours FAQ
