Cairns, located in the tropical north of Queensland, Australia, is a hub for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. With its stunning tropical rainforests, the Great Barrier Reef, and a plethora of outdoor activities available, it’s no wonder Cairns is considered a must-visit destination for travelers. In this post, we will be exploring the best attractions and things to do in Cairns, from exploring the natural wonders to enjoying the local culture and cuisine. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or someone looking for a relaxing holiday, Cairns has something for everyone. So, let’s dive in and discover what Cairns has to offer!

The 7 Best Things to Do in Cairns

1. From Cairns Daintree National Park Day Trip and Night Tour
2. Reef Port Douglas Scenic Flight
3. Cairns Half Day Barron River White Water Rafting
4. Kuranda Skyrail and Scenic Rail Experience
5. From Cairns Fitzroy Island Return Catamaran Transfer
6. Kuranda Cairns Port Douglas 4 Park Pass
7. From Cairns Atv Tour With Petting Zoo and Kuranda Village

The 7 Best Things to Do in Cairns

1. From Cairns Daintree National Park Day Trip and Night Tour

Begin your journey to the heart of the Northern Queensland rainforest with a mid-afternoon pickup from your Cairns accommodation. Follow the Great Barrier Reef Drive, the region’s most picturesque coastal highway, and witness the transformation in habitat diversity as you travel north to Daintree National Park. Experience an eco-friendly small-group tour that provides an intimate feel and low environmental impact. Take a guided cruise down the magnificent Daintree River, searching for crocodiles and other native wildlife. Enjoy a peaceful, fume-free excursion on a solar-powered electric boat with no environmental impact. On a night walking tour, enjoy a special experience when hardly any other visitors are present at the park. Cape Tribulation, a UNESCO World Heritage area, awaits you with pristine beaches, rainforest, cool streams, towering mountains, and freshwater valleys. Spend an hour exploring the area and absorbing its natural beauty. Don’t miss out on experiencing the finest that the stunning Northern Queensland region has to offer on this exclusive day tour and night walking trip.

2. Reef Port Douglas Scenic Flight

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3. Cairns Half Day Barron River White Water Rafting

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4. Kuranda Skyrail and Scenic Rail Experience

Explore the wonders of the World Heritage Rainforest in Cairns with a Kuranda Skyrail and Scenic Rail experience. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Cairns, a one-way Skyrail Rainforest Cableway ride to the charming village of Kuranda, and a one-way journey aboard the historic Kuranda Scenic Rail. Spend free time exploring the many attractions of Kuranda before returning on the train. The tour price includes a Kuranda Boarding Pass, but participants must purchase lunch at their own expense. Note that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. Don’t miss the chance to travel over and through the lush rainforest and soak up the beauty of this unique part of Australia.

5. From Cairns Fitzroy Island Return Catamaran Transfer

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Fitzroy Island with a return catamaran transfer from Cairns. With a travel time of only 45 minutes, you’ll arrive at the island in no time and have the entire day to explore at your own pace. Swim and snorkel in crystal clear waters just off the beach using the equipment provided, or take a walk through the lush rainforest up to the summit lighthouse and beach. Embark on a glass bottom boat tour with an expert guide and admire the stunning coral reefs and abundant marine life. Optional activities and beach hire are available to book directly with the tour provider, Sunlover. Food and drinks are also available for purchase. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the natural beauty of Fitzroy Island on this unforgettable tour.

6. Kuranda Cairns Port Douglas 4 Park Pass

Experience the ultimate 4 parks pass, which includes the Rainforestation Nature Park, the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Cairns ZOOM & Wildlife Dome, and Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas. With a physical pass given to you once you visit the first park of your choice, you can use it over a 6 month period at any of the parks listed.

Located in the middle of Kuranda’s World Heritage Rainforest, the Rainforestation Nature Park provides visitors with 3 unique experiences, including an amphibious World War II Army Duck ride through the rainforest. The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, the largest butterfly flight aviary and exhibit in Australia, offers a captivating display of these beautiful creatures. Cairns ZOOM & Wildlife Dome provides the opportunity to experience up close Australian animals in their recreated natural habitats in the heart of Cairns while enjoying the stunning views from the top of the Reef Hotel Casino. Lastly, visit Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas and immerse yourself in the natural habitats of various animals.

This 4 parks pass is a perfect way to explore the best of Kuranda, Cairns, and Port Douglas, with the flexibility to use it at your own pace over a 6 month period.

7. From Cairns Atv Tour With Petting Zoo and Kuranda Village

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The Ultimate Guide to Cairns: Top Frequently Asked Questions Answered

Cairns is a beautiful city located in the tropical North Queensland region of Australia. This vibrant and culturally rich city, surrounded by lush rainforests, is a popular destination for tourists. With so much to see and experience in Cairns, it’s natural to have a few questions to plan your trip. We compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions to help you prepare for your Cairns adventure.

1. When is the best time to visit Cairns?

Cairns enjoys a mild tropical climate all year round; however, the best time to visit Cairns is between June and October, which is typically the dry season. The temperature at this time ranges from 18 to 26°C, and the skies are usually sunny, making it perfect for outdoor sightseeing. November through May is usually the wet season in Cairns, with occasional heavy rain and a higher risk of tropical cyclones.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Cairns?

Cairns is a city packed with engaging activities, from beautiful beaches and lush rainforests to various adventure sports. Here are the top attractions in Cairns:

• The Great Barrier Reef
• The Daintree Rainforest
• Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
• Cape Tribulation
• Palm Cove Beach
• Esplanade Lagoon
• Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park
• Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures
• Atherton Tablelands
• Crystal Cascades

3. Can I swim in Cairns beaches?

Yes, Cairns has several beaches where visitors can swim. Some of the popular beaches for swimming include the Palm Cove Beach, Trinity Beach, and Yorkey’s Knob Beach. However, it’s always essential to check the signs and listen to the instructions of the lifeguards, especially during the stinger season.

4. What is the Great Barrier Reef, and how can I see it?

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system and is home to an enormous diversity of marine life. Cairns is an ideal base for visiting the Great Barrier Reef. Tour companies offer various options, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass-bottomed boats, to explore the reef. Some of the popular spots to visit on the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns include Green Island, Fitzroy Island, and Michaelmas Cay.

5. Can I see the Daintree Rainforest from Cairns?

Yes, the Daintree Rainforest is located just north of Cairns and is filled with stunning wilderness, natural hotspots, and unique flora and fauna. It is also home to the most massive range of animals and birds in Australia. The best way to explore the Daintree Rainforest is on a guided tour or a self-drive tour, which can be hired from Cairns.

6. What are the top adventure activities in Cairns?

Cairns offers several adventure activities packed with thrilling and exciting experiences. Here are the top adventure activities to experience in Cairns:

• Snorkeling and scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef
• White water rafting in the Cairns region
• Hot air ballooning over Atherton Tablelands
• Skydiving in the Cairns region
• Exploring the Daintree Rainforest
• Bungee jumping at AJ Hackett
• Hiking in the Mossman Gorge area
• Kayaking at Fitzroy Island
• Quad biking in Kuranda

7. How can I get around Cairns?

Cairns has an excellent public transport system, including buses and trains, but driving is the most popular option. You can hire a car at Cairns airport and then drive to Cairns city or take a taxi or shuttle bus. Walking is also another fun way to see the city, especially on the Esplanade.

8. What should I pack for my trip to Cairns?

Cairns is a tropical city, and it’s essential to pack appropriately. Here’s our list of packing essentials:

• Sunscreen with a high SPF
• Hat and sunglasses
• Sun-protective clothing
• Insect repellent
• Swimsuit and beach towel
• Comfortable walking shoes
• A waterproof bag or pouch for electronics and beach gear
• Camera or a waterproof phone case

9. What is the currency used in Cairns?

The currency used in Cairns and Australia, in general, is the Australian dollar. Banknotes come in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100, and coins come in 5, 10, 20, and 50-cent denominations, and $1 and $2 coins.

10. What is the time zone in Cairns?

Cairns is in the Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) time zone, which is GMT +10. During daylight saving time, it’s GMT +11.In conclusion, Cairns is an exciting destination filled with several tourist attractions and adventure activities. With our guide and answers to the most frequently asked questions, you’re well on your way to planning a memorable trip to Cairns. Don’t forget to pack accordingly, soak up the sun and explore all that Cairns has to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cairns

Cairns is a tropical paradise located in the northern region of Queensland, Australia. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, Cairns is a must-visit destination for any traveler. With so many activities and sights to see, planning your trip to Cairns can be overwhelming. In this guide, we will help you make the most of your trip by sharing our top recommendations for how to spend your time in Cairns.

1. Marvel at the Great Barrier Reef

Cairns is the perfect gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. This massive reef system stretches over 2,300 kilometers and is home to a diverse array of marine life, including dolphins, sharks, turtles, and over 1,500 species of fish. Take a day trip to the reef and go snorkeling or scuba diving. You can also take a glass-bottom boat tour or a helicopter ride for a bird’s eye view of the reef. Whatever activity you choose, exploring the Great Barrier Reef is an experience you’ll never forget.

2. Explore the Daintree Rainforest

The Daintree Rainforest is another natural wonder in Cairns. This ancient rainforest is over 135 million years old and is home to some of the most diverse plant and animal species in the world. Take a guided tour of the rainforest and explore its lush vegetation, pristine waterfalls, and exotic wildlife. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also take a zip-line tour through the rainforest canopy.

3. Visit the Cairns Esplanade

The Cairns Esplanade is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. This scenic boardwalk stretches along the coastline and offers stunning views of the ocean and mountains. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars where you can grab a bite to eat or a drink. If you’re looking for some exercise, you can also take a jog or ride a bike along the boardwalk.

4. Discover Aboriginal Culture

Cairns is located in the traditional lands of the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji people, who have lived in the region for over 40,000 years. Learn about their rich culture and heritage by visiting the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. Here, you can watch traditional dance performances, learn about bush tucker, and even try your hand at traditional spear throwing. You can also visit the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair or browse the indigenous art galleries in town.

5. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

For a unique perspective of Cairns and its surroundings, take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise. You’ll soar over the Atherton Tablelands and enjoy breathtaking views of the rainforest, mountains, and farmland. After your flight, enjoy a champagne breakfast in the park. This is a great way to start your day and create unforgettable memories.

6. Relax on the Beach

Cairns is home to several beautiful beaches, each with its own unique charm. Visit Trinity Beach for a quieter, secluded experience, or head to Palm Cove for luxurious resorts and white sand beaches. If you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, visit Ellis Beach for surfing or kiteboarding. No matter which beach you choose, take some time to relax and soak up the sun and sea breeze.

Book Your Tour Now

Cairns is a dream destination for any traveler seeking natural beauty, adventure, and culture. From exploring the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest to experiencing Aboriginal culture and taking a hot air balloon ride, Cairns has something for everyone. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Cairns. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of photos!