The gateway to the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, this small, scenic Aussie town is shrouded in natural beauty.
Although it began life as a swamp, these days, there’s no shortage of things to do in Cairns, now abundant with backpackers, cruise liners, day trips, and luxury hotels.
With a few unique insects residing in Cairns including the Cassowary, one of the most dangerous birds in the world, and the world’s largest moth, the mammoth Hercules, it’s not all just creepy crawlers around here.
It’s also surfing at Etty Bay, off-roading in the rainforest, taking a beautiful kayak tour through the crystal waters of Palm Cove, or taking the plunge, swinging rope to rope at the world’s first high-ropes course in a wildlife park.
There is so much to do, that these insects, along with others are harmless and just what makes Cairns interesting.
Welcoming three million yearly travelers, this adored coastal city is the launchpad to the countless wonders of North-East Australia. So grab a towel, some sunscreen, hiking shoes, and flip-flops, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in Cairns!
1 – Find Nemo in the Great Barrier Reef
Considered as one of the best places to visit in Australia, the Great Barrier Reed is a must-see for any diving lovers.
Spend the day on a luxury yacht, take a snorkeling lesson or a kayaking tour, and lose yourself in the dazzling aquatic display of the Great Barrier Reef. For a more immersive experience, hire scuba gear and get close to (but don’t touch) the colorful anemone.
Of course, no trip is complete without wading through Michaelmas Cay’s white sands and sapphire waters, looking out over the stunning coral reef.
Read more about the best Great Barrier Reef tours from Cairns.
2 – Come face to face with a crocodile at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures
Crikey! The infamous Crocodile Attack Show is energetic fun for all ages: colossal crocodiles are fed from a distance before performing death rolls and head shakes.
If you simply can’t get enough of the crocs, take a wetlands cruise and see the prehistoric creatures up close.
Catch Australia’s venomous snakes; spot local cassowaries, wombats, wallabies, and quolls; and even feed the cuddly koalas and kangaroos — all at Hartley’s!
3 – Enjoy local cuisine and drinks on a food and wine tour
Try a sampling of the best food and wine pairings on a complete food and wine tour, guided by a passionate foodie,
Learn about the local ingredients grown in the region, from cheese, wine, and more as you sample them in the beautiful landscapes of Atherton Tablelands, about 1 hour from Cairns.
Visit wineries, and learn from the experts themselves, while trying the tapa-style snacks, but don’t fill up yet, as lunch is yet to be served.
With group and private, boutique food and wine tour options available, choices are possible.
4 – Ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway and glide through the treetops in the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
All aboard! Feel the charm as the train weaves through Barron Gorge National Park, skirting around the mountains, past waterfalls, and eventually up to the village of Kuranda.
An undisputed crowd favorite, Kuranda is not only the gateway to the rainforest, but also home to local markets, a treetop cable-car, and relaxation spots — visiting is one of the best things to do in Cairns, hands-down.
Ready to soar through the treetops between Cairns and Kuranda?
With views spanning the plush rainforest all the way out to the Great Barrier Reef, the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is one of the most exciting things to do in Cairns.
Cableway tickets typically include entry to Rainforestation Nature Park and/or lunch at Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park — making for a perfect day in the outdoors.
5 – Soak up the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
If you’re looking for somewhere to cool down in Cairns, look no further.
Sitting next to the CBD on the Trinity Harbour foreshore, the sapphire waters of the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon offer underwater seating benches, sandy shores, outdoor gym equipment, and shaded gardens — all in all, it’s an ideal spot to cool down by the Esplanade’s bustling shops and cafes.
If you have children, they’ll especially love the Esplanade playgrounds, and for equally active parents, book an open-air fitness class here as well!
6 – Chase waterfalls at Atherton Tablelands
The Tablelands are jam-packed with notable waterfalls including Millaa Millaa and Dinner Falls, all of which are perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.
Make sure to stop at Lake Eacham, a stunning volcanic crater lake known for its unique residents; look out for platypuses, kangaroos, and tree frogs — or if you’re a little more adventurous, take a nocturnal wildlife tour!
From food and wine tasting tours to a 2-day multi-day trip, there are many ways to explore this beautiful place.
7 – Put your explorer hat on when visiting Daintree Rainforest’s natural wonders
There are plenty of things to do in Cairns but even the strongest legs eventually need a break.
Visit the richly biodiverse Daintree Rainforest, home to over 60% of Australia’s wildlife, with plenty of exploration trails, beautiful lookout points, and an encounter with the Mossman Gorge on a day trip – s stunning cascade of clear water against huge boulders on the Mossman River.
Feel the mist and beauty of this natural sight, feeling its cleansing energies surrounding you.
Cape Tribulation — in th49e heart of the Daintree — boasts remote beaches, camping grounds, and resorts, creating the perfect atmosphere for some much-needed R&R.
If you’re still up for more adventure, check out the boardwalks, try horse riding, or take a dip in the warm waters.
Enjoy a guided tour through the park, with bonus hiking, and even a cruise through the Daintree River.
8 – Ride an Army Duck at Rainforestation Nature Park
Ride an amphibious Army Duck car through the ancient Kuranda rainforest to check out the flora and fauna, before the Duck turns into a boat as you splash into the lake.
While you’re there, catch an Indigenous dance performance complete with traditional spear presentation and didgeridoo-playing before trying to throw a boomerang — if you don’t remember how to throw one, don’t worry, it’ll come back to you.
Tours through the rainforest begin at $36 USD.
9 – Explore the Cairns Art Gallery
Sitting within the historic walls of a heritage-listed 1936 government building, the popular Cairns Art Gallery provides the perfect indoor afternoon respite for any day too hot or too stormy.
Besides the gallery that features a Ned Kelly exhibition, aboriginal art, and a wider focus on local artists, the free museum also boasts a cute gift shop and an on-site cafe.
The museum is free, and they are open every day. Be sure to check their opening times on their website.
10 – Climb the less-famous Pyramid at Wooroonooran National Park
With stunning and relatively simple trails to boot, including the Mamu Tropical Skywalk which elevates almost 50-feet, Wooroonooran is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
While taking in the views, make sure to learn about the rich historical and ecological importance of the rainforest, on plaques throughout the skywalk.
For a more difficult climb, conquer the 3000-foot-tall, natural Walsh’s Pyramid.
Feeling competitive? Every year in August is the Great Pyramid Race where racers bolt to the summit and back down again.
11 – Explore the Fitzroy Island
Sail to the lush rainforest of Fitzroy Island, a beloved (also quiet and unspoiled) locale boasting adventure activities and hiking trails fit for every type of traveler. Enjoy the scenic views, virtually untouched nature, and stunning tropical weather.
Walk around at your own pace before heading to the beach where the rainforest meets the reef; snorkel with colorful wildlife; ride a glass-bottom boat over the reef; or hire a paddle ski — there’s no shortage of things to do!
Trips are often combined with whale-watching tours. Watch as in the distance, humpback whales, and a few others pop their heads from the waters of the Great Barrier Reef, for approximately 90 minutes.
The main whale-watching season is between July-August.
12 – Dream of flight at Birdworld Kuranda
In Australia’s largest free-flying aviary, Mother Nature has truly outdone herself: the colors of the birds, plants, and ponds are spectacular, and can be experienced fully inside Birdworld Kuranda.
Keep your ears open too — listen carefully and you’ll hear the calls of majestic lorikeets, chatterbox cockatoos, galahs, and stunning macaws, among so many more.
General entry into Birdworld is $13 USD, but if you’d like to enter the Kuranda Koala Gardens additionally, you can get the combo ticket for $23 USD.
13 – Ride a helicopter over the Great Barrier Reef and have your own private beach
To really appreciate the size and scope of the largest coral reef in the world, you have to see it from above.
Fly over the glistening waters and see Green Island and Arlington Reef from the air; look out for whales if you’re flying in the winter; and, year-round, keep an eye out for manta rays, turtles, and colorful coral!
Board a helicopter tour, marveling at the views on your way to a deserted Vlasoff Cay — from there, the beach is yours for a couple of hours. You’ll be left with snorkeling gear, a beach umbrella, chairs, and a picnic (with champagne!).
In this tourist haven, you’ll be left alone (or with your partner or family) to enjoy your private slice of paradise.
14 – Take a jeep tour through the rainforest
Get an insightful tour of the local rainforest (not to mention a little taste of the Aussie Outback) and get up close to cassowaries, kangaroos, and other wildlife (including the 900-year-old ‘strangler’ fig tree!) from the comfort of your very own jeep!
For lunch, settle into local ice cream and a buffet lunch, or grab a classic Australian ‘pub meal’.
Double up the activities with a combo ticket that includes this activity, plus a waterfall rainforest tour or the scenic railway.
15 – Swim Babinda Boulders and visit the Devil’s Pool if you dare
Located around 64 kilometers from Cairns, are the beautiful Babinda Boulders and the mysterious Devil’s Pool, which has an ominous and ancient legend that dates back to the Aboriginal people.
The Babinda Boulders is a perfect shallow pool with clear, and refreshing water, surrounded by large boulders, offering a perfect swim.
The Devil’s Pool is on the opposite side from Babinda Boulders, which requires a 700-meter walk to see the famed natural pool. Other than the legend and unfortunate deaths caused by flash floods, swimming here is not allowed.
16 – Walk the Cairns Botanic Gardens
Lose yourself in a sea of exotic trees, flowers, waterbeds, and animals without leaving Cairns!
A little closer to home, the Botanic Gardens’ guided and self-guided tours will take you around the world from the Aboriginal Plant Use Garden to the Freshwater Lake, Zhanjiang Friendship Garden with carved granite dogs, and so much more.
Bird lovers will especially love going on the Bird Walks at the garden, taking place Tuesday mornings, and other themed activities on the calendar.
17 – Fly over the Far North Queensland coastline
If skydiving is still a little too intimidating, enjoy the sights in comfort instead, appreciating the coastline from the window of a private plane, with an informative pilot firing off tidbits the whole way through.
The color contrast between the aqua reefs, their surrounding deep blue waters, the golden beaches, and green rainforests beyond — well, it’s nothing short of spectacular.
Make sure that your experience includes transportation to the departure airport, for the 40-minute journey into the sky.
18 – Challenge yourself by going canyoning at Behana Canyon
Enjoy the thrill of exploring Behana Cayon Waterfall, using tools and your own strength to jump from rock to rock, sliding down smooth rocks, and landing with a splash into the water with a group of enthused travelers.
Half-day tours are available to take you to Behana Canyon Waterfall, where you’ll also be guided inside the water caves, be close to the wildlife that lives nearby, and more.
Check each tour’s suggested items to bring, as safety equipment is the only material supplied.
19 – Help set sail to Green Island
Ever wanted to steer a ship? Now’s your chance! Help hoist the sails and direct the group all the way to the snorkeling point at Pinnacle Reef!
Snorkeling is no easy task though, and you’ll definitely be working up an appetite — thankfully, the boat awaits with a seafood feast.
Afterwards, kick back with wine and cheese en route back to Cairns.
Without breaking any budget, you can go to Green Island for as low as $68 USD.
20 – Refresh yourself at the Crystal Cascades
Visit the Crystal Cascades for a nature show unlike anywhere, with water holes and large, crashing cascades.
Featuring relatively cool waters all throughout the year, and ample picnic spaces, the Crystal Cascades is the perfect place to check out with a delicious packed lunch. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit to dive in and your best walking shoes for the beautiful trails nearby.
Some wildlife may make an appearance in harmless ways, however, if you bring food, keep an eye on it as some animals may eat it before you get to it.
21 – Skydive over Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Cairns, nothing compares to skydiving.
Take to the skies and feel the adrenaline surge as you freefall for a full minute from 15,000 feet, greeted by unparalleled views of the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.
Then pull the chute and steer yourself onto the drop-zone where you’ll be begging to have another go.
Feel safe gliding down with your guide who happens to master the experience, and your parachute secured with safety technology.
22 – Browse the Cairns Museum
Visit the Cairns Museum and journey back in time with stories of the native Aboriginals, the European settlers, and the old Cairns locals who transformed a steamy swamp by the forest into the tropical paradise it is today.
Cyclones, hippies, parades, and plenty of toads punctuate the story — for history buffs, it should sip atop the list of things to do in Cairns.
Tickets for the museum start at $15 AUD for adults and $6 AUD for children.
23 – Immerse yourself in butterflies at the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary
There’s just something about butterflies! Thousands of these delicate, cute, and colorful animals flutter around and land on you if you stand still at the sanctuary — but keep an eye out for two particular butterflies: the gorgeous Blue Ulysses and the almost-glowing Cairns Birdwing.
Within the sanctuary, learn about the myths and legends of the universally loved creatures too.
Get tickets to enter the sanctuary, starting at $14 USD, or $44 USD if you also want access to the Rainforestation Nature Park.
24 – Treat yourself at Palm Cove
Australians flock here for weddings and honeymoons — walking down the esplanade, you’ll see why: it’s simply paradise on Earth!
Lined with elegant restaurants, spas, resorts, shops, and bars; there’s plenty of opportunities to practice some self-care before sipping a cocktail in front of a famous Palm Cove sunset.
With a less touristy vibe and beautifully maintained beaches, Palm Cove is the perfect little day escape from Cairns, at just a 27-minute drive.
25 – Surf in Cairns area
More known to locals than tourists, Etty Bay on the Cassowary Coast is a safe and exciting surf beach away from the tourists. True to its name, cassowaries are a common sight at the beach, particularly during the late afternoon and dusk.
Note that cassowaries are wary of humans, so enjoy these gracious, flightless birds from a distance.
Yorkeys Knob, as well as Kewarra Beach, are beaches that are only 20 minutes away from Cairns, and offer a surfing paradise, with relatively low crowds, while Ellis Beach has mid to low tides, making it a perfect beach for beginners.
26 – Muster up the courage to get on the Giant Jungle Swing
Head over to Skypark, the epic adventure park for those ready for the ultimate thrill.
Swing on the epic giant swing ride and glide above the immense forest either by yourself or with 2 other friends at the same time.
Afterward, one-up yourself and bungee jump from a height of 50 feet in the air, into a lake before bouncing back up for the ultimate punch of adrenaline.
Ticket combos are available where you can do both for one price, but if you’re not ready for that, you can purchase one experience alone.
27 – Go white-water rafting on the Barron River
After your first lesson or refresher course, the raging rapids await (don’t be afraid to get wet!) — whether you’re a first-timer or a veteran rafter, this will surely get the adrenaline pumping.
Once you’ve conquered the whitewater, kick the feet up and float downstream through Barron Gorge National Park, a postcard-worthy rainforest home to deep ravines and rugged rocks.
Whether you’re looking for a half–day rafting tour, or something a bit longer, some rafting tours start at $56 USD.
28 – Go stand-up paddle-boarding at the Goldsborough Valley
An undisputed fan favorite paddle-boarding activity, the Goldsborough Valley tour takes visitors upstream through some rapids, before letting guests roam a swimming hole where snorkeling, local fruits, and board games await.
While you’re there, consider a hike through Wooroonooran National Park to Kearneys Falls for a perfect photo op, then hop back on your board and journey back to Cairns!
This experience is beginner-friendly and even budget-friendly with some experiences starting as low as $30 USD.
29 – Sink your teeth into the best bites at the best restaurants
For a bite of bush food, make sure to step into Ochre, where you’ll surely find a menu quite unique, offering authentic Australian dishes, made with local ingredients to the country. Try char-grilled Kangaroo sirloin, Australia’s national dish.
Try an Australian sampler at Dundee, offering everything from freshly caught and prepared crab to crocodile on a skewer. With the great barrier reef as the view from the restaurant.
Don’t miss out on Prawn Star, serving the“sea to plate” concept with their fresher-than-fresh prawns. Pair it with a refreshing beer, and you’re in for a real treat!
30 – Check out the wall drawings at Chillagoe – Mungana Caves National Park
Find yourself surrounded by the 400 million-year-old Chillagoe Caves at Mungana Caves National Park, filled with both historically and culturally magnificent sights.
Feast your eyes on wall drawings, originally created by the Aboriginal people who once lived there, as well as the naturally-rich limestone-made caves, focusing on remnants left after being covered with water for a significant amount of time.
With daily tours available, and multiple caves to see and learn about, make sure to join a knowledgeable guide, as that is the only way to be able to explore them fully.
31 – Jet boat through the Trinity Inlet
See Cairns speed by from the water as you rush through the Inlet on your jet boat. As the sun beat down, the wind in your hair and the water breaking on the boat provide the perfect cool down.
Your captain won’t hesitate to show off either — get ready for boat spins, high speeds, wave slides, and plenty more.
When planning for this experience, make sure to pack clothes you don’t mind getting wet, and sandals.
32 – Take on the ropes at Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome
In the heart of Cairns atop the casino, Cairns Zoom is the world’s first high-ropes course in a wildlife park. The Dome Climb provides excellent city views from its peak before the 42-foot PowerJump descent awaits!
The ropes challenge is complete with thrilling ziplines, including one that glides over Goliath, a 13-foot saltwater crocodile!
Extend your fun at the Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome, by opting for the 5-day re-entry pass, if one day is not enough for your adventurous plans.
33 – See the nocturnal animals at Kuranda Koala Gardens
By day, the Gardens host adorable koalas, quokkas, wombats, and wallabies; but by night, the intriguing nocturnal mammals of the area (bilbies, mahogany gliders, and squirrels) come out to play.
For the perfect Instagram picture, the staff will let you take a picture with a cuddly koala!
General entry tickets for this amazing experience start at $13 USD, but if you want to visit Birdworld too, the combo ticket is $23 USD.
34 – Hold on tight as you waterski at Cairns Wake Park
Feel the wind in your hair, and don’t let go as you rocket along the waters! Cable-water skiing is a unique, exhilarating activity for all skill levels and there are few better places to try than the Cairns Wake Park.
Perfectly safe for children 10 and above, this activity also welcomes any seasoned wakeboarders, making this a perfect activity no matter your expertise.
For the ultimate daredevils, navigate the slaloms and ramps like you’re an aquatic Tony Hawk.
35 – Enjoy the magnificent views from the best rooftops
Get the perfect views of the Coral Sea when you visit Cairns’s highest rooftop bar, Rocco at Crystalbrook Riley. Cheers with champagne, or try their must-try herb-infused drinks.
Speaking of amazing views, step into Oaks & Vine, for incredible bites made with Peruvian and Japanese flavors (Nikkei Cuisine). With stellar views of Cairns from the terrace, make sure to stop by just in time for sunset, for the perfect views, vibes, and a famous Aussie botanical gin.
Hemingway’s Brewery offers stunning views of the Trinity Inlet, with the perfect in-house brewed drinks, ciders, and social vibes.
36 – Take a tour at Paronella Park
Paronella Park is a historical sight with a fascinating story and lush vegetation.
With various stops inside to see, one of the highlights is the Mamu Tropical Skywalk – an elevated boardwalk with a stunning view of the park, and its abundant forest.
To see both sights, make sure to get a ticket combo that allows you to see both places for the price of one, plus other bonuses.
At night, make sure to also check out the Darkness Falls tours, offering an illuminated version of the park, that you have to see to believe.
37 – Go fishing at Trinity Inlet
With Cape Grafton, Kings Point, and Fitzroy Island all boasting points where you can catch all different sorts of sea life, there are plenty of places to go fishing around Cairns.
A common local favorite, however, is Trinity Inlet where you can catch yourself a couple of Aussie seafood delicacies: a delicious mud crab or a large barramundi.
Check out the tidal estuary, only a short distance from Cairns, and offers fishing lovers over 35 different fish varieties.
38 – Go tubing on the Mulgrave River
The more private cousin of rafting, tubing is perfect for solo travelers — tubes hold singles, whereas rafts are shared.
Once again, no matter your experience level, the rapids on the beautiful Mulgrave River are a sight to behold; after tackling the rapids, let the current take you downstream where pristine rainforest views await.
Perfect for the budget traveler as well, tubing experiences start as low as $56 USD, and include the essentials for a great experience!
39 – Walk the plank at the Port Douglas Wildlife Habitat
Some of the best things to do in Cairns are a little further out.
This 8-acre Wildlife Habitat is split into five sections: woodlands, wetlands, rainforest, nocturnal, and savannah; all with opportunity and space to interact and explore.
Those brave enough can walk the plank — a balance beam over a billabong of fierce-looking crocodiles — otherwise, there are plenty of equally-enjoyable Habitat tours.
Entry tickets to the Wildlife Habitat start at $26 USD.
40 – Cruise on the Barron River
The Barron River, winding through the picturesque Kuranda Rainforest, hosts spectacular cruises fit for the whole family.
Spot crocodiles, turtles, birds, and fish from the comfort of your boat while indulging in a delicious two-course meal — and yes, you can bring your own alcohol!
For breathtaking sunset views over the river, head onto the water in the late afternoon.
Kuranda Riverboat Tours features a menu of tour experiences, from a 45-classic and calm tour to a dinner and cruise, a sunset cruise, and more.
41 – Conquer the terrain on an ATV
Book an exciting quad tour, and thunder through the rugged hills and rainforests, getting a view of Cairns that not many travelers get to see.
Make it a whole-day experience, and book a combo tour that offers a thrilling quad tour with an equally exciting bungee jump experience, or a petting zoo bonus.
Book your experience with Kur-Cow Barnwell Farm, which also offers horseriding experiences and other fun bonus activities like a scenic train ticket, or a bonus trip to Fitzroy Island.
42 – Learn about the buzzing beer industry on a Cairns Brewery tour
Try the local beer brews on a Cairns Brewery tour, stopping by the local brewers at their beer production facilities, showing travelers a behind-the-scenes process of making the perfect craft beer.
Stopping at 3+ breweries, each one will offer beer tastings where you’ll come out of the experience buzzing with expertise, and a new appreciation for Aussie beers.
From large to microbreweries, get to know this booming industry in Cairns, which also concocts a few other alcoholic drinks.
Brewery tours are available as half-day tours, or longer as some offer bonus stops.
43 – Sail the Low Isles
Board the luxury catamaran at Port Douglas with a light lunch as you approach the Coral Sea.
There you can choose to snorkel, ride a glass-bottom boat, take a walk along the Low Isles, or just lie on the deck.
Follow that up with afternoon tea, canapes, and a drink as the sun sets over the distant mountains as the boat glides back to beautiful Port Douglas.
44 – Join a Cairns hipster & street art tour
How about some indie things to do in Cairns? Cairns has been dubbed the secondary hipster capital of Australia thanks to its boutique coffee, street art, vintage shops, and stylish barbers — and the local guides know every hipster gem!
Don’t pack lunch and don’t drink coffee beforehand, you’ll want to try something at every stop.
The hipster and street art tour departs from Cairns Museum a few times a week, at 9:30 AM.
45 – Take the kayak turtle tour
Grab a kayak and row from Palm Cove to Double Island along the reefs and mangroves. Turtles and manta rays are commonplace, but keep your eyes out for some rarer finds like dolphins and whales!
Shuttle bus transfers are available from Cairns to the kayak departure point, while children over 6 and first-time kayakers are welcome too.
Kayak into the waters of Haycock Reef, as you learn on a tour from Palm Cove Watersports about the islands nearby, and the medicinal uses of the local vegetation.
46 – Ride in an armored vehicle at the Australian Armour and Artillery Museum
As the southern hemisphere’s largest artillery museum, there’s no shortage of fascinating exhibits at the Australian Armour and Artillery Museum.
Witness artillery from all around the world that washed up on Aussie shores (with an emphasis on the WW2 era), or, for a more hands-on experience, fire a bolt-action WW2 rifle with no license required before taking a joyride in one of the armored display vehicles.
47 – Dine in the twilight at Cairns Aquarium
Obviously, the aquarium by the Great Barrier Reef has unparalleled biodiversity with shimmering fish and habitats for miles. But for a different experience, visit at dusk — a truly unmatched visual spectacle.
The nocturnal fish and amphibians come out to play in the shadows as you’ve never seen before, with dinner, drinks and dessert included, of course.
As a bonus, a few Cairns Aquarium tours will also include a city tour of Cairns, including stops at the botanical garden, Palm Cove Beach, and more.
48 – Watch a Cairns sunrise in a hot air balloon
Want to see why Queensland is dubbed the ‘Sunshine State’?
Set an alarm clock and take in the awe-inspiring sunrise above the Atherton Tablelands; gaze through the morning fog over the rolling hills; and then, as the fog lifts, be dazzled by the golden light that basks the landscape as far as the eye can see.
It’s simply unmissable.
Since the experience is early, make sure to check a tour that includes transportation.
49 – Dine lavishly at the Flames of the Forest
A candlelit dinner in the rainforest is just too good to pass up.
Sit under the silk marquee, let the acoustic guitar play gently in the background, and feel the romance like never before; then sip on the local wines and dine on a set six-course tropical menu.
The best part? They’ll pick you up from your hotel too!
If dining under the stars and in the jungle is on your bucket list, make sure to book this seasonal experience between April-October.
50 – Explore your own way on a Thala Beach Nature Reserve Tour
Stay the night, or visit for the day Thala Beach Nature Reserve, a private, eco-friendly resort nestled in the densely wooded forest situated between Cairns and Port Douglas.
Offering adventurous and bespoke adventure activities, from magical stargazing to stunning nature walks with a guide, and even joining Australia’s sole coconut tour, and more, you’ll have to spend some time choosing wisely just what you want to explore first!
If you stay at the hotel, the activities are complimentary, but if not, a fee may be required.
51 – Dinner, drinks, and dance on a luxury catamaran
Board a catamaran, drink in hand, and drift by the waterfront before setting anchor at Trinity Inlet for a delectable three-course buffet dinner.
Need a soundtrack to complement the sunset view? Hit the dance floor and enjoy the live music!
Whether you want to be a guest or you want to host your own affair on a catamaran, both options are available.
On Thursday to Saturday nights, there’s also a fully-licensed bar on board!
52 – Explore the rainforest… by night!
By now you’ve seen the rainforest by day and appreciated the sights and sounds of the lush greenery.
But when the sun goes away, the rainforest really comes out to play! Under the stars, a whole new wave of curious animals venture out including frogs, owls, geckos, gliders, and more.
Relish the sunset views from the beautiful Lake Barrine, as the sounds of the nocturnal animals start to play their music.
You haven’t seen a rainforest until you’ve seen it under the moonlight.
53 – Get to know the locals at the best bars
For chill vibes on a hot day, stop by The Beach Shack, featuring a menu that crosses multiple nationalities, along with the best Aussie beers, and live music on the weekends to seal the deal.
For a glass of fine wine, look no further than The Conservatory Bar, offering more than 600 international wines, while boasting its own homegrown wines.
And for rum cocktails, try the Flamingo’s Tiki Bar – a tropical oasis in the heart of Cairns.
54 – Buy a beer and a souvenir at Cairns Night Markets
Staying around the Esplanade, the air-conditioned Cairn Night Markets are essential. Browse over 70 market stalls full of jewelry, arts and crafts, and souvenirs for your friends and family back home.
If you need to unwind, stop into a massage tent before grabbing a wine or beer from a huge range of Italian, Chinese, and local eateries.
The market opens daily year-round, from 4:30 PM and the food court opens earlier at 10:00 AM.
How to get to Cairns?
Cairns is serviced by Cairns Airport (CNS) and has a few shuttles available to get into town.
Get to your hotel from the airport easily and efficiently when you pre-book an airport transfer, directly taking you to the door of your hotel. Typically taking around 8 minutes in total, the airport transfer is as low as $12 USD.
Where to stay in Cairns?
Admire the Mediterranean vibes and decor at Palm Royale Clarins, as you open up your balcony to quaint garden views every morning. Relax by the pool, sipping your choice of beverage, or take to the town, and visit sites like the Tjapukai Cultural Park only a 15-minute drive away.
Stay in the renovated and modern rooms at the Hilton Cairns, and enjoy being on the beachfront, enjoying the coastal beauty. With a lagoon-style pool, or lounging on the beyond-comfortable lounge chair soaking up the Aussie sun, a relaxing stay is surely a guarantee here.
Get your shopping on, or enjoy the iconic Esplanade Lagoon, not too far from the Pacific Hotel Cairns. With top hospitality, cozy lounges to sit and relax in, and spacious rooms with soft Italian decor, guests rate this hotel highly, all the time. Grab dinner at Bushfire Flame Grill Restaurant, a fusion of Brazilian and local cuisine.
Where to go next?
Enjoy the rest of the must-see destinations and best places to visit in Australia, from its bustling cities to its coastal towns, and magnificent national parks, adding some of these to your Aussie itinerary.
Relax in the idyllic seaside village of Palm Cove, just north of Cairns. With its picture-postcard beaches, exclusive resorts, and world-class restaurants, Palm Cove is the epitome of tropical luxury and a must-visit destination.
From its quaint local markets like Cotter’s Market, selling the best of local and fresh produce, to outstanding sights of the nature around from the Flagstaff Hill Lighthouse Lookout, the things to do in Port Douglas go beyond just a coastal city.
Airlie Beach charms its visitors with stunning nature, wildlife, and a present Aboriginal culture so worthy of learning more about. Adventure through the skies on a helicopter tour, or down in the rivers and wetlands on an exciting kayak, and more.
Don’t leave without stopping at Hervey Bay, a charming seaside town known for its access to Fraser Island and humpback whale encounters. With calm waters, unique boardwalks and a vibrant restaurant scene, Hervey Bay promises a laid-back yet exciting getaway for both the adventurous and the laid-back.
Want to explore beyond Cairns? Check out the many multi-day trips from Cairns, taking you to the best-hidden gems. Take a coach bus, and a knowledgeable tour guide, to get your exploring on.
Final thoughts
With its geographic location giving way as the gateway of the Great Barrier Reef, the incredibly dense and rich rainforests, and magnificent adventurous activities allowing visitors to get closer to Cairns’ wild side, we are convinced that this city has more than a few unique things to see.
We hope you enjoyed our list of the best things to do in Cairns.
Happy travels!