Best 6 Things to Do in Cairns, Australia: Attractions & Activity Guide

Experience the wonders of Australia beyond its renowned wildlife with our Australia tour packages. Don’t let long flights deter you from discovering the best this country has to offer. From the excitement of journeying to the tranquility of exploring its stunning landscapes, Australia promises an exceptional quality of life for both travelers and residents alike. Venture beyond Sydney and Melbourne to discover the beauty of Cairns, a destination captivating tourists with its incredible natural allure.

Cairns is a vibrant town located in the east of Australia. Snuggling on the coastline, its located right in the heart of rainforests and the marvellous Great Barrier Reef. The place is filled with interesting activities for adults and kids, making it a perfect destination for all age groups. Best food, stunning getaway spots, not too hot climate and beautiful sceneries that make your pictures look just perfect are few of the many reasons to visit this beautiful place.

Coral reefs at cairns — Image source: Unsplash

Tourists and tropical destinations go hand in hand. People travel to tropical regions as a way to escape from reality. Cairns is one such famous tropical paradise in the country of Australia. Cairns is known for its coral reefs, rainforests and Atherton tableland plateau. Who wouldn’t be charmed by nature’s beauty? Streets neatly lined by palm trees, water theme parks, seafront parks and cafes, there’s a lot more than just sand. The city attracts plenty of tourists throughout the year, irrespective of the seasons. It is a city filled with natural beauty is truly a gem.

Top 6 Things to do in Cairns

1. Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef, Cairns — Image Source: Unsplash

Take a cruise and explore the Great Barrier Reef, one of the greatest treasures of Australia. The Great Barrier Reef is also under the list of World Heritage Sites. Cruising along the reef is one of the most popular and common activities done in Cairns. Stretching for approximately more than 2000kms, the reef is one of the richest ecosystems on planet earth. The reef consists of sparkling corals hard and soft, a number of fish species, dolphins, turtles and other marine animals. The 8.5 hours long cruise sure does keep you entertained by letting you snorkel or dive giving you a closeup experience.

Location: There are different cruise companies on the dock of Cairns that provide tours to the Great Barrier Reef

Open hours: Each operator has different timing but goes somewhere in between 9 AM – 10 AM in the morning to catch the cruises.

2. Day trip to Kuranda

Kuranda scenic railway — Image Source: Google

Go on a comfy train ride to the epic tropical rainforest in Cairns that goes through tunnels, curves and stunning bridges. There over 1000+ species of plants, 800+ rainforest trees, exotic palms, plumply figs and different unique creatures inhabiting the lush green tropical region. Through the train ride, one can imagine getting close to all that wonders. Imagine a chill breeze blowing your hair as you touch the spectacular orchids with your hands in the moving train. The train runs from Cairns to Kuranda where you will also be taking cable cars to catch the mesmerizing panoramic views of the mountain from up top. Kuranda is one among the oldest homes on earth to a number of animals and plants.

Location: Coondoo St, Kuranda QLD 4881, Australia

Tour timings: Tour departs at 2 PM

3. Take a dip in the pool

Water park, Cairns — Image Source: Unsplash

With the weather being humid round the year, it certainly calls for a swim. Take a dip in swimming pools present inside the water parks in Cairns. You can swim around the beaches in Cairns, but note that there might be jellyfishes that sting, so you can visit the water parks to be on the safer end. While at water parks, make sure you don’t miss out on the adventurous sports like skiing, wakeboarding etc.

Location: Cairns Wake Park, Skyrail QLD

Open hours: 10 AM – 6 PM

4. Island hopping in Cairns

Cairns has many islands nearby and approximately 900 islands along the Great Barrier Reef. Most of these islands aren’t inhabited but can be used for weekend getaways or for day trips. Try visiting Fitzroy Island, located roughly 45 minutes away from cairns and it is a perfect slice of paradise and fun. The island has its own hiking trails, lighthouses and cafes. Voted as one of Australia’s most visited beaches, it provides an amazing experience and you can go on a dive or snorkelling and relieve those stresses you have been carrying around.

Location: Fitzroy Island, Cairns

Open hours: Safe to go in the mornings and come by late in the evenings.

5. Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

Tribal dance of Tjapukai — Image Source: Google Images

Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park located 15 minutes from Cairns, is a popular tourist attraction near the Kuranda. The place enlightens the visitors about the earth, the oldest tribes and traditions followed by the people. The place entertains the guests with music and dance of the Tjapukai people. You can also learn to throw a spear or use a boomerang or take part in many such interesting games and activities. In the evening, get a chance to dine in campfire while you enjoy the live performance.

Location: Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

Open hours: The park is opened only during the weekends between 9 AM – 10 PM.

6. Skydive in Cairns

Aventure activities in Australia are vast so that will rush your adrenaline and skydiving in Cairns is one of them. Cairns has got the best scenery in the whole of Australia. Jump high from the sky to get a glimpse of how beautiful Cairns looks in God’s eye. Check the weather and Pre-book your skydiving costs beforehand you visit the city.

Tips

Anywhere you go, there are high chances you are surrounded by water and might get tempted to take a dip. So, carry swimsuits along.
While travelling around in Cairns, choose public transport instead of hiring a cab as it is very expensive.
Pre-book all your activities to avoid roaming around hopelessly.
Cairns has been setting up many ecotourism attractions, try taking part in it and do your deed to mother nature.
Eat the local cuisines of cairns and try your hand is cooking classes to while away time.
Check the weather before travelling and pack clothes suited for the weather.

Cairns is one of the famous gateways of Australia. One should spend a minimum of two to three days here to enjoy all that the city has to offer. Visit Pickyourtrail and scroll through different packages available for Australia, if you are a very picky person, why not customize your entire according to your likings by talking to our travel consultants.