111 Things To Do In Cairns
We had the absolute honor of calling Cairns home for over 15 months, and in that time, we explored every waterfall, lookout, market, hiking trail, and hidden gem we could find. And while Cairns itself is packed with unforgettable experiences, the beauty of living here is that you’re surrounded by entire regions that feel like a world of their own.
In This Article:
Cairns
1. Dive The Great Barrier Reef
Not only is the Great Barrier Reef the world’s largest reef system, it is also an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Take a Scenic Helicopter Flight
Head straight over the Great Barrier Reef and bask in the remarkableness of the big blue sea. Spot coral and oceanic wildlife from above in this epic adventure.
3. Charter a Fishing Boat
Take to the ocean in your own boat with all your friends. Try to catch the big one and enjoy some barbie in this relaxing adventure.
4. Take a Sunset Cruise
Enjoy some snacks and drinks while watching the sunset on a cruise.
5. Shop at Rusty’s Markets
The ultimate farmer’s market. Located right in the center of the city. Definitely a great place to find great tasting, cheap produce.
6. Take a dip in the Esplanade Lagoon
Conveinently located this free swimming pool is right next to the ocean for some amazing views while swimming. (Fun Fact: the shape of the pool is in the shape of Far North Queensland
7. Check out the Cairns Aquarium
The Cairns Aquarium has some great events such as night time tours and an entire restaurant right inside.
8. Cairns Botanical Gardens
These beautiful gardens house a great deal of tropical plants as well as many other types of plants.
9. White Water Raft the Tully River
Take an entire day tour down to Tully to white water raft one of the most renown white water rivers in the entire world.
10. White Water Raft the Barron River
Have a little less time on your hands? Raft down the Barron River in a half day tour.
11. Test your odds at The Reef Casino
Looking for a way to earn a few extra bucks to enjoy another tour? In no way do we recommend you do this, or are responsible for any choices you make regarding this activity (unless of course you win big).
12. Ride the Reef Eye Ferris Wheel
Get a bird’s eye view on the CBD of Cairns in the ferris wheel located right on the main esplanade near the lagoon.
13. Take a walk along the Esplanade
Enjoy restaurants, bars, live music, and the atmosphere of Cairns.
14. Check out the Night Markets
This nightly market has got something for everyone! From Australia souvenris, to gifts for the family, and even massages and haircuts. You’ll never know what you find here.
15. Go for a thrill by Jet Boating
Head down to the boat terminal and board a Jet Boat that goes 80 kilometers per hours.
16. Take a trip to the Go Kart, Laser Tag, and Escape Rooms
Trying to tire the kids out? Trying to beat your first date in some healthy competition? Or maybe just need a fun day out.
17. Hike The Red Trail
Located in the Mount Whitfield Conservation Park. A great hiking trail that provides some great views.
18. Hike The Blue Trail
Located in the Mount Whitfield Conservation Park. A great hiking trail that provides some great views.
19. Hike The Yellow Trail
Located in the Mount Whitfield Conservation Park. A great hiking trail that provides some great views.
20. Hike The Green Trail
Located in the Mount Whitfield Conservation Park. A great hiking trail that provides some great views.
21. Swim at Crystal Cascades
This beautiful waterfall / swimming area is located only 20 minute drive from the Cairns CBD.
22. Go Canyoning
Take the thrill Crystal Cascdes up a notch by going canyoning over large rocks and jumping off cliffs down waterfalls.
23. Discover Fairy Falls
The trail to Fairy Falls is located in the same car park as Crystal Cascades. This hike will take you all the way up to the falls. Beware of stinging tree.
24. Take a ferry to Fitzroy Island
A wonderful island to go snorkelling to see some coral, ride in a glass bottom boat, and discover an island just off the coast of Cairns.
25. Take a ferry to Green Island
Another great choice to be able to see part of the reef and explore a beautiful island off the coast of Cairns.
26. Cairns Art Gallery
For the true art lover alike. Be sure to check if they have any special events going on.
27. Cairns Wake Park
Ever wanted to try wake boarding in a safe environment? Now you can!
28. Take a Sunset Cruise out of Port Douglas
Port Douglas is a huge vacation destination stop and what better way to see it from a sunset cruise.
29. Sail on the Shaolin
Hop aboard this “unique, vintage timber junk boat” for a ride you won’t forget.
30. Hike to the top of Walsh’s Pyramid
The best spot to see sun rise. If you are here in early August be sure to check out the Great Pyramid Race.
31. Tube down the Little Mulgrave River
Take a semi-relaxing / semi-thrilling cruise down this lazy river. Kick back, relax, and take in the rainforest.
32. Kayak Behana Gorge
Grab a kayak or paddleboard and head just out of town for a great little river excursion.
33. Bounce at Jump Mania
Take on the ninja course, bounce to your hearts content, or become the ultimate dodgeball champion at Jump Mania.
34. Waterslide down Sugarworld
Enjoy great day out at this water park!
35. Take a ride on Kuranda Scenic Railway
Take in all the sights and sounds of the rainforest on this old scenic railway that brings you all the way to or from Kuranda.
36. Take a ride on SkyRail
Take in all the sights and sounds of the rainforest on this gondala that brings you all the way to or from Kuranda.
37. Be in awe at Barron Falls
Barron Falls is a 260 meter waterfall that you can self drive to, or you will see on the scenic railroad and skyrail routes.
38. Spot animals at Kuranda Koala Gardens
Get a chance to be up close to a lot of Australia’s famous animals. Feed some Kangaroos and even hold a Koala!
39. Spot animals at Birdworld Kuranda
Located in Kuranda, Birdworld is a great chance to have interactions with a lot of different species of birds and parrots.
40. Spot animals at Australian Butterfly Sanctuary
Head into the sanctuary up in Kuranda to check out some amazing butterflys.
41. Get the yums at Petit Cafe Kuranda
You can’t stop at Kuranda without getting some delicious food. Our top pick off the menu - crepes.
42. Indulge at Muddy’s Cafe
Conveniently located on the Cairns esplanade, Muddy’s offers an amazing brekky, lunch, and dinner. Be sure to go on Tuesday for Taco Tuesday!
43. Gaze at the wonders of Le Petite Chef
Ever wanted a dinner and a show? Le Petite Chef projects your chefs right onto your table so you can watch them cook your meal right in front of you.
44. Indulge at Mexicairns
Mexican restaurants are sometimes hard to find. Not this one. Comes complete with bowling, beer pong, and other games.
45. Have a drink at Three Wolves
A classic old-timey bar, Three Wolves is a great place to catch up with friends.
46. Split the G at McGinty’s
The best Irish bar in Cairns.
47. Party all night at Gilligan’s Cairns
Themed nights. Three full bars. A swimming pool. A hostel. A night club. Gilligan’s has it all.
48. Dance all night at The Woolshed
Great place to go out, enjoy the DJ, and dance the night away.
49. Have a drink at Pier Bar
Located near the marina and esplanade a classy place to grab a drink.
50. Have a drink at Bar 94
A great place to grab a drink.
51. Climb through the wash at The Party Pit
Because what club isn’t complete without a washing machine entrance.
52. Hop aboard the Party Bus
Cruise around town in style in this double decker party bus!
53. Take a ride in the NQ Hummer
Ride around in style in a stretch limo hummer.
54. Get your PADI Certificate
Ever wanted to learn how to scuba dive? What better place than The Great Barrier Reef.
55. Take a leap of faith Bungee Jumping
Are you braver than most? Try Bungee Jumping. Don’t tell your mom.
56. Take an even bigger leap of faith Sky Diving
It is one of the best places to do it. Might as well. You’re already here.
57. Take a tour on a Jet Ski
There is no better way to take a tour than on a Jet Ski.
58. Soar high in a Hot Air Balloon ride
A beautiful way to see the rainforest and surrounding areas.
Daintree Rainforest
59. Discover The Daintree Rainforest
There is so much to discover in the Daintree Rainforest which we will get more into detail below. But there are also plenty of full day tours to give you a great insight into the Daintree.
60. Float down the rainforest.
Float down a river in the middle of the oldest living rainforest in your very own relaxing inflatable.
61. Learn about culture at Mossman Gorge
Learn about the traditional custodians to this wonderful land, Walk through the rainforest and try to spot wildlife.
62. Feed crocs at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventure
Feed crocodile, cassowaries, and more. Learn about the different animals and watch some death defying shows.
63. Learn at the Daintree Rainforest Discovering Centre
Learn about the rainforest. Go on rainforest walks and even canopy walks.
64. Find a sweet treat at the Daintree Ice Cream Co.
Some of the most unique flavors of ice cream we have ever tasted live here. All of their ice cream is made in house and off the grid.
65. Myall Beach Walk
One of many incredible boardwalks that help you get a closer connection to the rainforest.
66. Cape Tribulation
It is full of trials and tribulations to get here, but is very pretty when you arrive.
67. See far and wide at Alexandra Lookout
An amazing lookout on the top of the Alexandra range. You are able to see the islands where Steve Irwin shot his last episode.
68. Go offroading on the Bloomfield Track
North of Cape Tribulation is the Bloomfield Track. It is the stretch of road that goes way farther north. Four wheel drive is required.
69. Horse Back Ride in the rainforest
Riding a horse in Cape Tribulation is one of the most unique experiences there is. There is no where else in the world like it.
70. Take to the trees Ziplining the Daintree
Be surrounded by the sounds, sights, and smells of the rainforest while walking the ropes and canopys, and even zipining over the Daintree.
71. See crocs in their habitat with a Crocodile Wildlife Cruise
Hop aboard a small boat and ride down the Daintree river in search for wild crocodiles.
72. Drive the Great Barrier Reef Scenic Drive
Just north of the Cairns area, on the way to the Daintree Rainforest is one of the most scenic drives in all of Australia.
73. Take a break at Rex Lookout
On the Great Barrier Reef Scenic Drive, Rex Lookout offers some unique views of the ocean and mountain landscape. If you go in the dry season you may see paragliders jumping from here.
74. Enjoy an afternoon at Ellis Beach
Go for a swim, enjoy some lunch, and relax at Ellis Beach. During stinger season make sure to follow the rules and stay inside the nets.
75. Enjoy an afternoon at Trinity Beach
One of the northern beaches this is a great spot to enjoy the beach, the local restaurants and shops, or even stay in a resort just outside the busy city.
76. Enjoy an afternoon at Palm Cove
One of the northern beaches this is a great spot to enjoy the beach, the local restaurants and shops, or even stay in a resort just outside the busy city.
Atherton Tablelands
77. Learn the legend of Babinda Boulders
Take a swim, or enjoy a hike learning about the history of Babinda Boulders and it’s significance.
78. Slide down Josephine Falls
Spend the afternoon enjoying this natural rock waterslide.
79. Enjoy the best bakery in Cairns at Babinda Bakery
No visit near Babinda is complete without visiting the bakery. We’re not lying when we say it is the best bakery in Cairns.
80. Flip your hair at Millaa Millaa Falls
The herbal essence hairflip. The Peter Andre music video. The most iconic waterfall.
81. Discover Zillie Falls
No waterfall circuit is complete without adding in the hidden gems.
82. Discover Ellinjaa Falls
No waterfall circuit is complete without adding in the hidden gems.
83. Discover Mungalli Falls
There is so much to do at Mungalli. It is the summer camp we all miss.
84. Discover Malanda Falls
The perfect little stop while heading through the quaint town of Malanda. Be sure to head in the visitor center for some amazing information and gifts.
85. Discover Wallicher Falls
Like a scene out of a movie, this great big falls is a sight to behold.
86. Discover Dinner Falls
A great falls to add to your list! A lot of fun hikes as well.
87. Discover Tchupala Falls
Another insane set of waterfalls that is a must see!
88. Discover Millstream Falls
The widest waterfall in Australia!
89. Discover Serendipity Falls
One that a lot of people miss, but a great waterfall!
90. Discover Nandroya Falls
A hike to get to it, but honestly this might be the favorite. It is stunning all around, and you are able to swim here.
91. Discover Silver Falls
You will discover this falls set in a fairy garden on the way to Nandroya. Magical.
92. Discover Windin Falls
A hike up to a waterfall with an infinity pool overlooking where two mountains meet. An absolute must do!
93. Swim at Lake Eacham
The most serene lake, it invited swimmers, paddle boarders, kayakers, and even water polo-ers to enjoy the warmest water of the waterfall circuit. Keep an eye out for the little fresh water crocodile. He is scared of everyone since he was dumped here all by himself, but he’s still a croc so be safe!
94. Swim at Lake Barrine
Lake Eachams twin sister lake. Both lakes are volcanic crater lakes.
95. Enjoy brunch at Lake Barrine Tea House
The absolute cutest lake tea house!
96. Marvel at the Curtain Fig Tree
One of the two trees that inspired the mother tree in the movie Avatar.
97. Marvel at the Cathedral Fig Tree
One of the two trees that inspired the mother tree in the movie Avatar.
98. Enjoy the Mamu Skywalk
Walk along the elevated walkway looking over the rainforest.
99. Take a peak at Crawford’s Lookout
A great lookout that you can see for miles at.
100. Take a peak at Gentle Annie Lookout
An amazing lookout that provides you scenic views all around.
101. Find magic at Paronella Park
A legendary waterfall with an even more legendary story. Learn all about the founder of Paronella Park and how he was a brilliant business man.
102. Look for wildlife at the Yungaburra Platypus Viewing Platford
A great chance to see platypus in the wild. They are most active at dusk and dawn so you might need to wake up early for this one.
103. Discover magic at the Crystal Caves
A man made cave inside a building housing crystals, geodes, and fossils from all over the world.
104. Take a tour of the Tolga Bat Hospital
Get an up close look at many different species of bats and how the community is trying to help rehabilitate injured bats.
Mareeba
105. Spend the day at Lake Tinaroo
The ultimate lake day is at Lake Tinaroo! Wake board, swim, jet ski, walk, BBQ, and relax here.
106. Take in Davies Creek Falls
This serene location offers some great views of the natural rock and waterfall formations.
107. Spend the night at the Mareeba Drive In
Who doesn’t like drive ins? If you book a ticket you even get to camp there!
108. Discover Emerald Creek Falls
Located down a long gravel road this falls is one for the books.
109. Feed rock wallabies at Granite Gorge Nature Park
This camoground offers a unique experience to be able to go on a granite rock hike and feed Mareeba Rock Wallabies.
110. Enjoy a cuppa at the Mareeba Coffee Works
A coffee lover’s dream. They have so much unique housewares for sale as well.
111. Discover the Chillagoe Caves
Take a tour and discover the ancient cave formations.
