Things to do in Cairns

Planning a trip to Cairns, Queensland, Australia? This tropical city is your gateway to two of the world's most spectacular natural wonders: the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient Daintree Rainforest. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a chance to connect with nature, Cairns offers an unforgettable experience. Discover the best of Cairns with Traveloka, your one-stop shop for flights and accommodation.

Why Visit Cairns?

What Cairns Is Famous For

Cairns is renowned as the adventure capital of Tropical North Queensland. It's the primary departure point for exploring the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef system, teeming with vibrant marine life. Equally impressive is its proximity to the Daintree Rainforest, the oldest tropical rainforest on Earth, offering a lush, ancient landscape to explore. The city itself boasts a lively Esplanade with swimming lagoons, a bustling marina, and a vibrant dining scene, making it a perfect base for exploring the region.

Top Highlights You Shouldn't Miss

• Snorkelling or diving the Great Barrier Reef
• Exploring the ancient Daintree Rainforest
• Taking a scenic ride on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Kuranda Scenic Railway
• Relaxing at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
• Discovering the local markets and vibrant nightlife

Best Time to Visit Cairns

Weather by Month

Cairns experiences a tropical climate with two main seasons: the wet season (November to April) and the dry season (May to October). The dry season is generally considered the best time to visit, with lower humidity, less rainfall, and plenty of sunshine. Temperatures are warm year-round, typically ranging from 20°C to 30°C. During the wet season, expect higher humidity and occasional heavy downpours, but also lush green landscapes and fewer crowds.

Festivals & Peak Periods

Peak tourist seasons in Cairns often coincide with Australian school holidays, particularly the summer break (December-January), Easter, and the mid-year winter break (June-July). For Singaporean travellers, be mindful of the SG school holidays in March, June, September, and November/December. While these periods offer a lively atmosphere, booking flights and accommodation in advance is highly recommended. The Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) usually takes place in August, showcasing vibrant Indigenous culture.

Top Things to Do in Cairns

Attractions & Landmarks

• Great Barrier Reef: Embark on a day trip to snorkel, dive, or take a glass-bottom boat tour to witness the incredible coral formations and marine life. Popular departure points include the Outer Reef and islands like Fitzroy Island and Green Island. Book experiences on Traveloka starting from $cheapestPrice.
• Daintree Rainforest: Journey into the world's oldest tropical rainforest. Explore boardwalks, take a guided tour, or cruise the Daintree River to spot crocodiles and unique wildlife.
• Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: Experience a breathtaking journey through the rainforest canopy. The historic railway offers stunning views, while the Skyrail provides a unique perspective from above.
• Cairns Esplanade Lagoon: A free, man-made saltwater swimming pool located on the foreshore, perfect for a refreshing dip and relaxing with city views.
• Cairns Aquarium: Discover the diverse aquatic life of Tropical North Queensland, from the reef to the rainforest, in a state-of-the-art facility.
• Cairns Night Markets: Browse for souvenirs, local crafts, and enjoy a variety of food stalls offering diverse cuisines.

Activities & Experiences

• Reef Tours: Choose from a wide range of operators offering full-day trips to the Great Barrier Reef, often including lunch and snorkelling gear.
• Rainforest Walks: Explore the many walking trails within the Daintree and surrounding national parks, such as Mossman Gorge.
• Wildlife Spotting: Look out for kangaroos, wallabies, cassowaries, and a variety of birdlife in the rainforest and wildlife parks.
• Adventure Sports: Cairns is a hub for adrenaline junkies, offering options like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and skydiving.
• Island Hopping: Visit nearby islands like Fitzroy Island or Green Island for a day of snorkelling, kayaking, and beach relaxation.

Neighborhoods & Areas of Cairns

While Cairns is relatively compact, understanding its different areas can enhance your visit. The city centre is where you'll find most hotels, restaurants, and the Cairns Night Markets. The Cairns Esplanade is the vibrant waterfront strip, home to the Lagoon and a lively atmosphere. Further afield, areas like Palm Cove offer a more relaxed, upscale resort experience, while Port Douglas, a short drive north, is a charming town with a beautiful marina and access to both the reef and rainforest.

For day trips and exploring further afield, consider visiting the Atherton Tablelands for its waterfalls and dairy farms, or head north to the historic town of Port Douglas (Dayman Point).

Getting to Cairns

By Air

Cairns Airport (CNS) is the main gateway to the region, with direct flights from major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. International connections are available, particularly from Southeast Asia and New Zealand. For travellers from Singapore, direct flights are available, making Cairns an accessible weekend getaway. You can easily find and book flights to Cairns on Traveloka.

By Ground Transport

If you're travelling from other parts of Queensland or Australia, you can also reach Cairns by car or bus. The Bruce Highway connects Cairns to Brisbane and other coastal towns. Greyhound Australia operates bus services to Cairns from various locations.

Getting Around Cairns

Public Transport

Cairns has a public bus system, Sunbus, which serves the city and surrounding suburbs. It's a convenient way to get around the main urban areas. Taxis and rideshare services are also readily available.

Taxi, Rideshare & Car Rental

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber operate in Cairns and are a good option for getting to and from the airport or for shorter trips within the city. Car rental is highly recommended if you plan to explore the wider region, including the Daintree Rainforest, Atherton Tablelands, and Port Douglas (Dayman Point), as public transport options become limited outside the city centre.

Food & Dining in Cairns

Local Dishes to Try

Being a coastal city, Cairns offers an abundance of fresh seafood. Don't miss trying local specialties like barramundi, prawns, and Moreton Bay bugs. Tropical fruits are also abundant, so sample mangoes, passionfruit, and lychees when in season. You'll also find a diverse range of international cuisines due to its multicultural population.

Best Areas to Eat

The Cairns Esplanade is lined with restaurants offering various cuisines and stunning ocean views. The Cairns Night Markets provide a more casual dining experience with a wide array of affordable food options. For a more upscale experience, explore the restaurants around the marina or in the nearby resort town of Port Douglas (Dayman Point).

Insider Tips for Cairns

• Book reef and rainforest tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and potentially get better deals.
• Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent.
• Stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months.
• Consider purchasing a combined Skyrail and Scenic Railway ticket for a full-day rainforest experience.
• If you're prone to seasickness, take precautions before heading out to the Great Barrier Reef.
• Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and local produce.

More Things to Do Near Cairns

• Port Douglas: A charming coastal town known for its upscale resorts, Four Mile Beach, and the Daintree Rainforest.
• Fitzroy Island: A beautiful continental island offering excellent snorkelling, hiking, and a resort experience.
• Green Island: A popular coral cay on the Great Barrier Reef, perfect for a half-day or full-day trip.
• Atherton Tablelands: Explore waterfalls, crater lakes, charming country towns, and local produce.
• Cape Tribulation: Where the rainforest meets the reef, offering a unique natural landscape and adventure activities.

Cairns is more than just a gateway; it's a destination in its own right, offering a perfect blend of natural wonders and city comforts. From the vibrant coral gardens of the Great Barrier Reef to the ancient mysteries of the Daintree Rainforest, Cairns promises an adventure for every traveller. Plan your unforgettable trip to Cairns today with Traveloka, where you can find the best deals on flights and hotels.