I’ve put together a list of my favorite things to do in Cairns for 2024. This tropical city has a little bit of everything—adventures in the rainforest and reef, relaxing on the beach, cultural activities.
Cairns is the entry point to Queensland’s tropical north, where you can explore the famous Great Barrier Reef and the lush Wet Tropics. The city also boasts beautiful beaches, lively markets, tasty restaurants, and a strong link to Australia’s Indigenous cultures. Here’s a list of activities to try on your next trip to Cairns.
Take a walk along Cairns Esplanade
If you are looking to get some fresh air and see Cairns? Enjoy a pleasant walk along the scenic 2.5-kilometre boardwalk. You’ll feel the sea breeze and sun while you pass by parks, public art, a water play area, playgrounds, and outdoor dining places.
Directions to Carins Esplanade Scenic Walk
Go for a swim at Cairns Lagoon
On the esplanade, there’s a big saltwater lagoon that’s 4800 square meters. It’s safe for swimming all year round and has views of Trinity Inlet. The lagoon has sandy areas and beach volleyball courts, making it a great spot to relax and have fun.
It’s close to the city center, so it’s easy to stop by for a swim. There are public toilets, showers, lockers, and electric BBQs nearby. Aquatic wheelchairs are also available for visitors to use in the lagoon.
Complete Guide to Cairns Lagoon
Cairns Koala’s & Creatures
Cairns Koalas & Creatures offers a unique and interactive wildlife experience in the heart of Cairns. Here, you can get up close and personal with Australia’s iconic koalas, taking memorable photos and learning about their habitat and behavior.
The center also features a variety of other native animals, including kangaroos, reptiles, and colorful birds, providing a comprehensive glimpse into Australia’s diverse wildlife. With knowledgeable staff on hand to share fascinating facts and ensure a fun, educational visit, Cairns Koalas & Creatures is a must-see for animal lovers and families exploring the region.
Complete guide to Cairns Koalas & Creatures
Discover a variety of sea animals at the Cairns Aquarium
Tropical North Queensland is packed with amazing nature experiences, but seeing all its different environments can be almost impossible unless you have an endless holiday.
That’s where the Cairns Aquarium comes in. It lets you see 16,000 animal species from 10 different ecosystems and 71 exhibits. It’s also the only aquarium in the world that features wildlife from two World Heritage sites.
At Cairns Aquarium, you can enjoy the usual aquarium experience, but you can also dive with sharks (no experience needed) or join a Marine Life Encounters tour. This tour gives you a personal guide who will show you around the aquarium, including behind-the-scenes areas and a new turtle hospital.
Complete guide to Cairns Aquarium
Get local at Rusty’s Market
Rusty’s Market in Cairns is a vibrant and bustling hub where locals and tourists alike come to experience the best of tropical produce and artisanal goods. Opened in the late 1970s, this market has become an iconic part of Cairns, offering an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, exotic herbs, and handmade products.
With over 180 stalls, it’s the perfect place to explore the diverse flavors of the region, sample tropical fruits, or pick up unique souvenirs. The lively atmosphere, friendly vendors, and the scent of fresh produce make Rusty’s Market a must-visit destination in Cairns.
Complete guide to Rusty’s Market
Explore the Great Barrier Reef by going on a dive
Your trip to Cairns wouldn’t be complete without exploring the famous Great Barrier Reef. Want to get a closer look at the coral and sea creatures? You can join a day tour that includes everything you need to snorkel or dive right into the water.
For something a little different, various tour operators offer unique experiences. You could try a reef waterslide with Sunlover Reef Cruises, learn from an Indigenous guide with Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel, or visit an underwater observatory with Quicksilver Cruises.
Take a walk through 38 hectares of lush greenery at Botanical Gardens
Another free activity to do in Cairns after Large Lagoon, the 38-hectare Cairns Botanic Gardens, is just five minutes from the city center.
These gardens, established in 1886, feature tropical plants that are both rare and well-cared for.
One of the highlights here is the Amorphophallus Titanum, one of only two found in Australia. This unusual plant can grow up to 70kg, with leaves stretching nearly seven meters long. It’s the largest unbranched flowering plant in the world.
You can also join guided walks to explore the gardens and see some wildlife.
Complete Guide to Cairns Botanical Gardens
Relax on Cairns beaches
Cairns is home to some of Queensland’s most beautiful coastlines, so you’ll always find a great spot to relax. Whether you prefer the calm waters of Trinity Beach or the wide-open space of Four Mile Beach, there are plenty of beaches in Cairns for a day by the sea.
Don’t forget to bring your snacks and drinks! If you’re up for a short drive, Babinda Boulders offers a unique swimming experience, where you can cool off in a natural pool surrounded by lush rainforest and massive granite rocks.
Take a dip in Natural Pools in the Rainforest
In Tropical North Queensland, the weather can get really hot, so finding a good place to cool off is just as important as knowing where to stay in Cairns.
For a refreshing swim, head to Stoney Creek, Crystal Cascades, or Fairy Falls. These spots are about 25 minutes from downtown Cairns and are set in the beautiful Wet Tropics Rainforest.
If you want to explore even more waterfalls and waterholes, there are 20 more to discover near Cairns.
Explore Islands around Cairns
It’s easy to visit some tropical islands from Cairns. Fitzroy and Green Island are the closest, and you can get there in about 45 minutes for some relaxing time.
We like Fitzroy better because it’s quieter, and you can camp overnight if you want. There’s also a resort if you prefer more comfort. One of my favorite hiking trails is here, offering a great spot to watch the sunset. You can also snorkel right from the beach, which is rare.
To reach Fitzroy, you can take the Fitzroy Flyer ferry for $85 round trip. They also offer full-day snorkelling tours for the same price. I’d suggest staying for one or two nights if you can.
Green Island is beautiful too, with soft white sand. It was really busy when we last visited, but there are fewer boats now due to social distancing, so it should be less crowded.
Top things to do & see on Fitzroy Island
Top things to do & see on Green Island
How to Explore the Frankland Islands
How to explore Michaelmas Cay Island
Relax at Fitzroy Island Resort
Why Fitzroy Island Resort is One of Cairns’ Top Choices: Beaches, Rainforests, and More!
Fitzroy Island has it all—beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, coral reefs, hikes, and amazing snorkeling. You’ll want to stay more than a day! Plus, the resort is fantastic and more affordable compared to other luxury spots in Cairns.
Go On Hiking & Walking Trails Around Cairns
Cairns is a great place to start if you want to explore the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, which includes the Daintree Rainforest and Wooroonooran National Park. These areas are home to special plants and animals.
Cairns offers a variety of hikes, from easy walks like Glacier Rock to longer, overnight hikes, such as climbing Mt Bartle Frere, Queensland’s tallest mountain. It’s one of the top spots in Australia for tropical hiking adventures.
13 Amazing Hikes And Walking Trails Around Cairns
The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
One of the top attractions for visitors in Cairns is the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. This famous gondola ride stretches 7.5 kilometres across the World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics Rainforest, connecting Smithfield in Cairns to Kuranda.
You can easily buy tickets for the Skyrail Cableway online. It’s a special experience that lets you explore the world’s oldest rainforest in Barron Gorge National Park.
On this trip, you’ll also see some of Cairns’ main sights, like Barron Falls, and enjoy a visit to Kuranda, making it a great day out.
A new feature of the Skyrail is the Edge Lookout, where you can walk on a glass platform and enjoy amazing views of Barron Falls.
Cape Tribulation
Cape Tribulation is a place where the rainforest meets the reef, giving you a true taste of wild Australia.
You can drive here along the Great Barrier Reef Drive (Route 28), which is a great way to explore the area. There’s plenty to do, from unique tours to visiting beautiful beaches. You can also see some of Cairns’ highlights like Barron Falls and Kuranda on a fun day trip.
Stepping straight from the rainforest onto a beach at Cape Trib is a rare and unforgettable experience. The area is filled with stunning nature, swimming spots, rich history, and ancient Aboriginal culture, making it a must-see near Cairns.
Top Things to Do in Cape Tribulation & the Daintree
Explore the Bloomfield Track
This is a coastal 4×4 drive to Wujal Wujal, starting from the end of Cape Tribulation. It’s also where the adventurous drive to Cape York Peninsula begins.
You’ll need a good off-road vehicle for the Bloomfield Track, especially if you’re going during the Wet Season.
Road Trip from Cairns to Port Douglas
Port Douglas is a must-see town in Far North Queensland. It’s close to the Low Isles, and the town itself is a famous spot near Cairns.
Some top things to do include river drift & snorkelling, watching the sunset at the Port Douglas pier, looking for crocodiles in the creek, and visiting the well-known Four Mile Beach.
Port Douglas is also a great place to stay if you’re planning to visit the Daintree. If you have time, it’s a good idea to split your stay between Cairns and Port Douglas to see more of Far North Queensland.
Rafting Adventure on the Barron River
One of the top half-day activities in Cairns is an exciting couple hours white water rafting trip on the Barron River.
It’s close to town, so you won’t spend the whole day getting there! The Barron Gorge is also one of the most beautiful spots near Cairns, making this an unforgettable rafting adventure.
Exploring Kuranda: Sights & Hikes
Kuranda is a small rainforest town close to Cairns. Even though it feels far away, it’s only a 30-minute drive. Once you arrive, you can explore local markets, try tasty street food, and enjoy live music, all surrounded by the lush rainforest.
Here are some popular attractions in Kuranda:
- Australian Butterfly Sanctuary
- Kuranda Rainforest Nature Park
- Birdworld
- Kuranda Koala Gardens
- Rainforest Riverboat Tour
Visit Lake Placid
Lake Placid is a quiet lake located at the foot of Barron Gorge, only a short drive from Cairns. It’s a perfect spot if you want to relax away from the crowds and see some vibrant rainforest birds. Even though there are usually no crocodiles, it’s smart to stay aware of the local wildlife.
Lake Eacham & The Crater Lakes
If you’re heading to the Tablelands from Cairns, be sure to check out Crater Lakes National Park. You’ll likely pass it after driving along Gillies Range Road.
Crater Lakes has two big, blue freshwater lakes: Lake Eacham and Lake Barrine. These lakes are set in a cool rainforest. You can explore walking trails, spot rare rainforest birds, have a picnic, and even enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear water.
The Old Curtain Fig Tree
Nestled in the rainforest near Yungaburra is the impressive Curtain Fig Tree. This massive tree is so special that it’s part of its own national park, called Curtain Fig National Park.
While many visitors might not know about it, this tree is a cherished landmark for locals in the Tablelands. Be sure to visit it and include it in your must-see list for Tablelands and Cairns!
Directions To Curtain Fig Tree
Exploring Behana Gorge and Clamshell Falls
Discover Behana Gorge: A Beautiful Spot for a Day of Swimming, Exploring, and Relaxing in the Rainforest. Located in Wooroonooran National Park, South of Cairns.
You can visit for free Behana Gorge and Clamshell Falls, but the best way to enjoy it is by joining a guided canyoning tour from Cairns. Local guides will show you the beauty of the gorge in an eco-friendly way.
Scenic Drive from Cairns to Cape Tribulation along the Great Barrier Reef
Driving from Cairns to Cape Tribulation is one of the most beautiful road trips in Queensland, maybe even Australia. If you’re visiting Cairns, this coastal drive should be on your must-do list to explore the Coral Coast.
You can finish the trip in a single day, but it’s better to take your time and stay overnight in Port Douglas to break it up. Some highlights include driving along the stunning beach roads north of Cairns, crossing the Daintree River by car ferry, and seeing where the rainforest meets the reef at Cape Tribulation.
Enjoy a Swim and Relax at Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas
Located near Port Douglas, Four Mile Beach is one of the largest white-sand beaches close to Cairns, Australia. It’s a great spot to swim, relax, or surf when the waves are good.
If you visit this famous beach, don’t miss the coastal walk from the northern end of Four Mile Beach to Port Douglas. The track leads to an amazing ocean viewpoint that’s worth checking out!
Babinda Boulders & Devils Pool
Around an hour drive from Cairns, Babinda is home to one of the best freshwater swimming spots. The creeks, fed by the Bellenden Ker Range, offer cool, clear water to enjoy year-round.
While Babinda Boulders is generally safe, Devil’s Pools can be dangerous, especially during the wet season. According to Aboriginal legend, the area is believed to be haunted, and several tragic accidents have occurred here.
Skydiving in Tandem Above the Daintree Rainforest
Ready for an unforgettable adventure in Cairns? Try tandem skydiving from around 15,000 feet above the ancient Daintree Rainforest.
Cairns is a top spot for this thrilling experience. It’s more affordable than other places, and you’ll enjoy amazing views of the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest during a 60-second freefall.
Cairns Bungy Jumping
Cairns has its own AJ Hackett Bungee Jump. It’s the only place in Australia where you can experience this thrill!
If jumping from a 50-meter platform is on your bucket list, don’t miss this epic adventure near Cairns’ Northern Beaches, right in the heart of the rainforest.
Directions To Skypark Cairns by AJ Hackett
The Night Markets
Every night from 4:30 pm, the lively Cairns Night Markets come alive in central Cairns. If you’re wondering what to do in Cairns at night, this is a perfect choice!
With seventy shops and plenty of food stalls, there’s something for everyone. If you’re in town during the evening, don’t miss it! Whether you’re craving a late snack or hunting for a good deal, the markets are one of the best free activities in Cairns.
