Things to do in Cairns City

Things to do in Cairns 

Nestled amidst the tropical part of North Queensland, Cairns serves as a bustling gateway to an array of remarkable natural wonders. Its year-round warm climate beckons adventurers from around the globe, drawn to explore its crown jewel, the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef, where unparalleled diving and snorkelling experiences await. Beyond the azure waters lie the ancient wonders of the Wet Tropics Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing lush landscapes and hidden waterfalls waiting to be discovered.

From adrenaline-pumping adventures like white-water rafting to tranquil beach days spent lounging at the Esplanade lagoon, Cairns offers an abundance of activities to suit every taste and preference. Immerse yourself in cultural experiences at the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Centre or indulge in a leisurely stroll through the vibrant stalls of the Cairns Night Markets.

With its diverse array of offerings and convenient accessibility, Cairns promises an unforgettable tropical getaway, where every moment is filled with awe-inspiring beauty and unparalleled adventure. 

Unique things to do in Cairns you can’t do anywhere else

Cairns has numerous attractions for an unforgettable holiday. Below are the top things you can do in Cairns that you can’t experience anywhere else. 

• Great Barrier Reef: One of the main reasons many flock to Cairns is to visit the iconic Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef system, situated just off the coast. It provides you with unmatched opportunities for diving, snorkelling, and taking glass-bottom boat tours to observe the vibrant marine ecosystem.
• Cairns Esplanade: You'll find Cairns Esplanade to be a picturesque waterfront spot offering walking paths, bike lanes, playgrounds, a swimming lagoon, and breathtaking views of the Coral Sea. 
• Cairns Aquarium & Turtle Hospital Tours: Discover Australia’s only 10m Deep Reef Tank and 20m underwater tunnel at Cairns Aquarium. Explore coral reefs and bioluminescent marine life like never before. You can also book a Turtle Hospital Tour along with your tickets right here at Traveloka.
• Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: Begin your journey on an unforgettable adventure with the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, where you'll glide above the rainforest canopy. Take in the breathtaking sights of the vibrant flora and fauna below, and enjoy panoramic views that will leave you in awe of the natural beauty surrounding you.

Best {geoName} attractions to see

• Reforestation Nature Park: Experience Australian wildlife, authentic Indigenous culture with the famous Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience, and take in the lush rainforest surrounds at Reforestation Nature Park. Plus, did we mention you’ll get to explore the ins and outs of the rainforest from a genuine WW2 Army Duck?

• Barron Falls: Just a 35-minute drive from Cairns city centre, you’ll end up at one of the most popular destinations in Queensland. There are plenty of ways to explore Barron Falls — via the popular Skyrail Rainforest Cableway experience, or you could drive straight to the lookout and take an easy boardwalk stroll to take in the sights at your own pace.
• Rusty’s Markets: Watch as locals gather every weekend at the renowned Rusty’s Markets. Here, you’ll find the freshest local fruit and veg to sample (along with all variations of bananas you can get in Queensland), along with some delectable pastries, coffee, and deli favourites. 
• Crystal Cascades Waterfall: A local gem, Crystal Cascades is one of the closest waterfalls to the city. Head to the main cascade when you arrive for a dip — though you can swim in any of the nearby freshwater swimming holes, too. 

Best {geoName} day trips and tours

There are a bunch of exciting and worthwhile tours and day trips to consider during your time in Cairns. Below are our favourites that deserve a spot on your Cairns itinerary. 

• Green Island Reef Cruise Eco Tour: With various packages to choose from to suit your preference, hop onto a glass-bottom boat and make your way to Green Island for the day with a Green Island Cruise. 
• Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Experience: We’ve mentioned it once, and we’ll mention it again. You don’t want to pass up on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway experience. With breathtaking views of the lush tropical rainforest canopy below and several stops for you to disembark and explore along the way, this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• Great Barrier Reef Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel Tour:  Experience the Great Barrier Reef from a unique perspective with Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel. With indigenous storytelling and culture combined with a full day of snorkeling or diving. 
• Day trip to Daintree Rainforest: Start your day early and take a scenic drive and day trip to the ever-so-gorgeous Daintree Rainforest. A 2.5 hour drive from Cairns, journey deep into the world’s oldest rainforest, cruise the Daintree River, and explore Mossman Gorge’s crystal-clear waters.

Budgeting for things to do in {geoName}

There is plenty to do in Cairns to suit whatever budget you’re working with. With an excellent mix of free activities as well as full-day experiences that are well worth the splurge. 

While full-day tours can be expensive, there are some affordable cruises under AU$130 that you can book to explore the Great Barrier Reef and neighbouring islands like Fitzroy and Green Island. If time and budget allows, paying the extra for an all-inclusive snorkeling experience when visiting the Great Barrier Reef is worth it — it’s simply something you won’t experience anywhere else. 

Free things to do in {geoName}

Not all experiences need to break the bank — who would’ve thought? Cairns is well-equipped with free things to do that are almost too good to be true (and free). Below are our favourite free things to do in the area:

• Go for a dip at Cairns Esplanade Lagoon: Go for a swim at Cairns Esplanade Lagoon — a large, safe saltwater swimming lagoon right on the waterfront. It’s patrolled and free, with shaded areas and great sunset views. Just make sure you’ve slapped on some reef-friendly SPF. 
• Spend the day at Cairns Botanic Gardens: Cairns Botanic Gardens is a tranquil oasis nestled within the city, offering you a peaceful escape surrounded by natural beauty. In these botanic gardens, you'll encounter a diverse array of tropical and subtropical plants, along with themed gardens and winding walking paths.
• Take in the views at Red Arrow Circuit Lookout: At Red Arrow Circuit Lookout, you can enjoy the panoramic views that encompass Cairns City, the nearby mountains, and Trinity Inlet. It's a perfect spot for you to take in the breathtaking vistas and capture memorable photos of the surrounding landscape.
• Chase waterfalls At Isabella Falls: In Isabella Falls, you’ll see a mesmerising series of cascading waterfalls enveloped by verdant rainforest, inviting you to take a refreshing dip amidst the tranquil surroundings. Accessible through scenic walking tracks, it's a serene oasis where you can immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds you.
• Sunbathe at Halloways Beach: If you venture to Holloways Beach, you'll discover a serene retreat just south of Cairns City, where you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere amidst stunning scenery and tranquil waters. It's the perfect spot for leisurely walks, picnics, and the chance to catch glimpses of marine life in their natural habitat.