21 BEST Things to do In Cairns Australia | Explore the top picks
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World travelers are lured by very distinctive sightseeing locales and interesting experiences in various realms. The 21 BEST Things to do In Cairns Australia include exploring iconic landscapes, from the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef to the lush rainforests of the Daintree. The Grand Canyon rocks transmit nature’s artistic perspective, while the tranquility of the Gulf of Bali remains intangible. Tuscany’s rolling countryside and beaches captivate visitors, just as the Twelve Apostles from down under in Australia offer an unforgettable view.
21 BEST Things to do In Cairns Australia are perfect for adventurous travelers seeking unique experiences and picturesque memories. These landscapes provide the ideal backdrop for photography and exploration, allowing visitors to marvel at the cosmos of elemental wonders. From snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs to hiking through waterfalls and gorges, Cairns offers a diverse range of must-visit spots.
If you’re looking to embrace the ultimate diversity our planet has to offer, experiencing the 21 BEST Things to do In Cairns Australia is a must. Whether you seek thrilling outdoor adventures, cultural encounters, or serene escapes, Cairns delivers an unforgettable journey filled with natural wonders.
Number 21: Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s most iconic natural attractions, located just off Australia’s northeast coast. It’s home to thousands of species and offers a stunning underwater paradise full of wildlife, vibrant coral, and magnificent beaches that are perfect for swimming or snorkeling.
You can also explore its vast array of dive sites, from shallow water reefs to dramatic deep walls, as well as take part in fishing trips or join an organized boat tour to take in all the beautiful sights.
Number 20: Cairns Botanic Gardens
Cairns Botanic Gardens is the perfect spot to relax, explore, and enjoy. Featuring lush gardens and tropical rainforest, it’s an ideal place for nature lovers to visit. As part of the 21 BEST Things to do In Cairns Australia, this serene destination offers several walks and trails that take visitors through a variety of exciting ecosystems.
The upper section boasts spectacular views of Cairns city, with eucalypt forests, rich bird life, pandanus palm stands, and areas displaying Australian natives. A visit to the gardens is a must on the list of the 21 BEST Things to do In Cairns Australia, offering a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy a tranquil garden café or picnic in one of the many shady spots throughout the parkland.
If you’re exploring the 21 BEST Things to do In Cairns Australia, don’t miss the Cairns Botanic Gardens. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or simply looking for a quiet escape, this lush paradise provides an unforgettable experience.
Number 19: The Esplanade Boardwalk
The Esplanade Boardwalk is one of Cairns’ top attractions, offering stunning views and a great place to relax. It stretches along the shoreline between Cairns Marina and Trinity Inlet, providing access to swimming spots, beach areas, playgrounds, and picnic spaces. From the boardwalk, you can admire the shimmering Coral Sea in all its beauty or take a jog on the paved and well-lit path.
Pathway—bring your cameras too, as there are plenty of panoramic photo opportunities to be had here
Number 18: Palm Cove
Palm Cove is a stunning beach town located north of Cairns and south of Port Douglas. It features a paradise-like, white sand beach, warm turquoise waters, lush native gardens, and sensational sunsets, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, sailing, or fishing.
There are many local cafes and restaurants nearby where you can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere while indulging in delicious cuisine from all over the world. For those looking for an extra special experience, there are plenty of pampering spa treatments available at one of the luxurious resorts dotted along Palm Cove’s gleaming coastline.
Number 17: Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is one of the main attractions in Cairns for visitors to enjoy. It takes riders on a 4.6-mile journey over and through lush rainforest.
This cable car provides spectacular views from above and an exciting peek into the stunning tropical wilderness below, with options for a guided tour and plenty of activities located along the way, such as lookouts, trails, and interactive exhibits. Skyrail is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to explore Cairns’ unique landscape.
Number 16: Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome
Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome is a popular tourist attraction in Cairns. It consists of two distinct activity zones: the Zoom Zone and the Wildlife Dome. In the Zoom Zone, you can experience over 10 exciting challenges that involve rope bridges, zip lines, and suspended cargo nets. The Wildlife Dome provides an unmatched wildlife experience with tropical birds, reptiles, frogs, and marsupials living in a simulated rainforest environment.
You can explore these fascinating creatures up close through special presentations and educational encounters. With so much to discover here, Cairns Zoom and Wildlife is definitely one of the top attractions to check out during your stay.
Number 15: Kuranda Scenic Railway
The Kuranda Scenic Railway is one of Cairns’ most iconic attractions. This ride takes you through tropical rainforest and covers 23 miles in 2 hours.
Number 14: White Water Rafting
White water rafting is one of the most thrilling and adventurous things to do in Cairns. If you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled experience, then this could be the perfect option for you. You can explore the Barron River with exhilarating grade 3 and 4 rapids or take a peaceful cruise down the Mulgrave River during your guided tour.
Enjoy breathtaking views of lush rainforest and unique wildlife around every corner as you paddle along in a raft accompanied by your experienced guide. With all safety equipment provided, white water rafting gives you the opportunity to experience nature’s beauty while getting your blood pumping at its most intense speed.
Number 13: Crystal Cascades
Crystal Cascades is a must-see attraction in Cairns. It is a series of cascading rock pools with crystal-clear water, hidden away in the beautiful rainforest. Here, you can take part in relaxing swimming or go for an enjoyable bush walk through its nature trails. There are plenty of spots to enjoy a barbecue or picnic with friends and family as well. The paths around the area lead to some stunning lookouts over the surrounding countryside, making it one of the best places to watch nature unfold on your Cairns adventure.
Number 12: Paronella Park
Paronella Park is a historic attraction located south of Cairns. This picturesque park was built in the 1930s and today stands as one of Australia’s most unique attractions. It boasts stunning gardens, walking trails, waterfalls, castle ruins, and plenty of other interesting features to explore. You can take part in educational tours of the grounds or simply stroll through the lush greenery for an unforgettable experience.
Paronella Park also has its own waterfall, which adds to its beauty and charm. From this breathtaking vantage point, you can witness views stretching over large areas of rainforest that are home to wallabies, possums, and even platypus. The park is also known for having an abundance of native birds, including parrots and galahs.
Surprise! That’s why bird watchers flock here too. By the way, if you want to learn how to save money on airfares, then click the link in the description below. This guide teaches you how to always get the cheapest flights.
Number 11: Kerr Cow Farm
Kerr Cow Farm is a popular tourist attraction situated in Cairns, Australia, located on the outskirts of Kuranda. Kerr Cow Farm offers travelers an opportunity to get close to Australian livestock and gain hands-on experience with farm animals such as sheep, cows, and goats.
You can also enjoy horseback riding, sip freshly brewed coffee or tea, and admire breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. With its spectacular country setting, knowledgeable staff, and friendly animals, this farm promises an unforgettable experience for all visitors.
Number 10: Kuranda Koala Gardens
Kuranda Koala Gardens is a delightful place to visit for an up-close encounter with Australia’s iconic marsupials. Located north of Cairns, visitors can see wild koalas outside of their habitats and even hand-feed the friendly animals. The gardens also boast beautiful green spaces filled with gum trees and papaya plants, adding to its natural charm. With a playground and designated picnic areas, this is the perfect spot for families looking to experience true Aussie wildlife.
Number 9: Australian Butterfly Sanctuary
The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is another interesting attraction in Cairns, located near the Koala Gardens. This butterfly sanctuary showcases the beautiful array of colorful tropical butterflies found in Australia. You have the opportunity to view free-flying butterflies up close as they wander around the grounds, feeding on nectar or hovering around shady foliage. The sanctuary also provides guided tours, which will help guests learn more about their fascinating life cycles and habitats. A great way to experience nature at its finest.
Number 8:Birdworld Kuranda
The aviary houses over 200 birds from all around the country, and guests can get close enough to snap a memorable photo or even hand-feed some of them in designated areas. Birdworld Kuranda also offers interactive experiences, such as animal encounters, where you can get hands-on with various animals, including lorikeets and possums.
Number 7: Hot Air Balloon Rides
Hot air balloon rides are one of the most popular activities in Cairns, offering spectacular 360-degree views. You can admire tropical landscapes and breathtaking sunrises high above the clouds from colorful hot air balloons. You’ll get to appreciate a unique view of rainforests, cityscapes, and mountain ranges. Enjoy an adrenaline-filled tour with experienced pilots as they take you on an exciting venture through the skies of Cairns.
Number 6: Hartley's Crocodile Adventures
Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is an awesome waterfront wildlife adventure park located just 25 miles north of Cairns. Here, you can experience the amazing world of Australian wildlife and get up close to iconic creatures like saltwater crocodiles, snakes, turtles, koalas, and many more native animals.
With a focus on conservation, education, and entertainment, Hartley’s offers incredible encounters with crocodiles through their famous Croc Show, as well as guided nature walks over a winding boardwalk that lets you take in Cairns’ flora and fauna. You can also explore by water via kayak tours. Be on the lookout for birds such as brolgas, ibises, jabirus, and even cassowaries if you visit during the winter months.
Number 5: Helicopter Tour of Cairns
For breathtaking views, take a helicopter tour over Cairns to see tropical islands, mountain ranges, and forests draped in eucalyptus tree canopies. See iconic landmarks like the Great Barrier Reef from above, all while taking in fresh sea breezes. Onboard commentary will also provide you with added knowledge of this beautiful part of Australia.
Number 4: Daintree Rainforest
This UNESCO World Heritage site is an incredible natural wonder located two hours north of Cairns. It offers a great adventure as you explore the lush vegetation and wildlife spotting opportunities. With over 1,200 species of birds, reptiles, and frogs, this ancient rainforest is the oldest surviving tropical rainforest on Earth, making it a must-visit destination when exploring Cairns. You can go trekking along trails, take part in night safaris or tubing experiences, or simply relax at one of many picturesque locations offering stunning views of this unique ecosystem.
Number 3: Cape Tribulation
Cape Tribulation is a stunning spot located within the Wet Tropics of Daintree National Park. With its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and abundant wildlife, it’s no wonder Cape Tribulation is one of Australia’s best tourist spots. You can go swimming in crystal-clear waters or take part in activities like snorkeling trips to explore the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, bird watching at Wangetti Beach, or exploring the ancient tropical forest on guided walks. Kayaking tours are also available for those looking for an adventure that takes them up close to mangroves and waterfalls.
Number 2: Atherton Tablelands
The Atherton Tablelands is one of the many must-see attractions in Cairns. Situated on the Great Dividing Range, this lush green grassland provides breathtaking views of mountain peaks, waterfalls, and rivers. It’s a great place to explore by car or by foot. Enjoy swimming in natural watering holes and lakes or explore local bushwalking trails. Wildlife viewing is also popular here, including platypus sightings and beautiful birds.
Number 1: Mission Beach
Mission Beach is a small but beautiful area with four stunning beaches: South Mission Beach, Wangaling Beach, North Mission Beach, and Bingil Bay. It’s the perfect place for those wanting to relax or indulge in adventure. Swimming, surfing, sailing, snorkeling, and fishing are all popular activities here.
The beaches have designated picnic spots alongside beachcombing opportunities, which are great for families. Nature lovers will not want to miss out on the incredible array of wildlife in this part of Australia, including dolphins, sea turtles, and migrating whales.
Therefore, Cairns from Australia is one destination everyone just cannot afford to miss! It is full of natural beauty and fun activities to enjoy-visit the Great Barrier Reef, become part of the local culture, and savor the freshness all around. Things to do in Cairns, Australia, is practically a city where, whether you are very active or are looking for serene firmament in junctures, there’s so much to be entertained by. This is the right place, so grab that magical moment offered by this tropical paradise.
Thank you, and that wraps up 21 BEST Things to do In Cairns Australia | Explore the top Picks. Do you agree with the places we chose, or is there somewhere you visited that you feel should be on the list? leave us a comment.
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frequently asked.
What are the 21 BEST Things to do In Cairns Australia?
The 21 BEST Things to do In Cairns Australia include exploring the Great Barrier Reef, visiting the Daintree Rainforest, swimming in Crystal Cascades, riding the Kuranda Scenic Railway, and skydiving over the coastline.
What is the best time to visit Cairns?
The best time to visit Cairns is during the dry season (May to October) when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities like snorkeling and hiking are ideal.
Is Cairns good for adventure activities?
Absolutely! The 21 BEST Things to do In Cairns Australia include thrilling adventures like scuba diving, white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and hot air ballooning.
Are there family-friendly activities in Cairns?
Yes! Families can enjoy the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, visit the Cairns Aquarium, take a scenic cableway to Kuranda, and explore Fitzroy Island.
How many days do you need in Cairns?
A minimum of 3–5 days is recommended to experience the 21 BEST Things to do In Cairns Australia, including reef tours, rainforest hikes, and cultural experiences.
