48 Things To Do In Cairns

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Sightseeing (7)
Waterfall (6)
Beach (5)
Island (3)

1. The Great Barrier Reef (Outer Reef)

65 km from city center

Diving & Snorkeling

The Great Barrier Reef is home to a vast range of marine life, from multicoloured fish and coral to turtles. The outer reef, one of its three regions, is known for its clear water and its most dramatic coral formations. Boat trips, scuba diving, snorkelling, glass-bottom boat tours and scenic helicopter flights all take visitors out to it.

Tours starting from
₹10,604

4.8 /5

12 km from city center

Cable Car

The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is a popular tourist attraction located in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area in Queensland, Australia. It is a 7.5km, gondola ride that takes passengers on a journey through the rainforest canopy, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, rainforest, and Cairns city.

Tours starting from
₹5,275

4.5 /5

25 km from city center

Sightseeing

The Kuranda Scenic Railways is a 1.5-hour each way train journey that will take you for a spin in the rainforest of Far North Queensland, Australia. During the journey, you'll have the opportunity to see a range of native flora and fauna, including birds, reptiles, and marsupials.

Tours starting from
₹8,526

4.3 /5

27 km from city center

Island

Green Island is a tropical paradise located off the coast of Cairns, Australia. Major tourist activities on Green Island include snorkeling and diving in the Great Barrier Reef, exploring the island's white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, and going on a glass-bottom boat tour to see the diverse marine life that inhabits the reef.

Tours starting from
₹6,181

Cairns Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

13 Nights / 14 Days

Mesmerizing Australia Tour

Melbourne(3N) → Sydney(3N) → Cairns(2N) → Gold Coast(3N) &r...

₹245,999/person

4.5 /5

1 km from city center

Avenues & Promenades

Stretching across 2.5 km, the Esplanade boardwalk is located at the heart of Cairns. A large lagoon-style swimming pool is surrounded by grassy areas, parklands, and shady spots for visitors to lie and relax. It’s also a great place to take a casual stroll or go for a bike ride. If you have kids worry not, there is a playground on site with swings, slides, climbing structures, and more!

4.7 /5

0 km from city center

Swimming

The Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is located in the heart of Cairns, Australia. The lagoon is a large, man-made swimming pool that is surrounded by a beautiful park and gardens. It is a popular spot for swimming in crystal clear water, sunbathing, and just relaxing during holidays. There's a dedicated area for exercising.

7. Cairns Aquarium

4.5 /5

1 km from city center

Aquarium

Cairns Aquarium is a popular tourist attraction located in Cairns, Australia. It is home to a wide variety of marine life, including animals from the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest. You can see everything from coral reefs and tropical fish to crocodiles and snakes.

Tours starting from
₹3,091

4.7 /5

8 km from city center

Garden & Park

Officially known as Flecker Botanical Garden, The Cairns Botanic Garden is located in Cairns, Australia. Home to a wide variety of flora and fauna like orchids, palm vines, ginger, tropical rainforest trees, and much more, the world's rarest plants can be spotted here.

Tours starting from
₹1,119

4.5 /5

1 km from city center

Shopping Market

Located in Cairns, Australia, Rusty’s for over 30 years boasts about 130 stalls at the venue featuring a wide variety of selling fresh bread, dairy, clothing, gifts, and other items. Visitors can explore diverse food choices, including international cuisine, fresh seafood, and local specialties. Cafes and restaurants on-site, offer seats for guests to sit and relish their meals.

4.6 /5

17 km from city center

Waterfall

This breathtaking waterfall is located on the Barron river within the Barron George National Park. The attraction invites a huge crowd every year for its touristy activities like hiking, rafting, and kayaking along with fun games like ziplining. Barron falls Circuit is one popular trail that will you immerse you in the lush green forest and a thriving adventurous experience.

Tours starting from
₹6,341

4.7 /5

11 km from city center

Waterfall

Located in Cairns, Australia, Crystal cascades is a series of small waterfalls that pour down to a large swimming pool, ideal for swimming and a perfect getaway with family and friends. It is a surreal spot for picnicking and strolling around the place, just adoring the beauty of the surrounding green rainforests is a treat to the eye and soul.

Tours starting from
₹7,940

44 km from city center

Sightseeing

The Atherton Tablelands is a region in far north Queensland, about an hour inland from Cairns, known for its rainforests, waterfalls and crater lakes. Visitors hike, swim at Lake Barrine, mountain bike, and drive the waterfall circuit past Millaa Millaa, Zillie and Ellinjaa Falls, with everything from casual cafes to fine dining in the towns along the way.

Tours starting from
₹7,940

4.4 /5

98 km from city center

Beach

Located in Queensland, Australia, Cape Tribulation is a headland known for its stunning natural surroundings, connecting the Great Barrier Reef to the Rainforest. You can take boat tours to explore the reef and see a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, coral, and turtles.

Tours starting from
₹10,604

4.3 /5

64 km from city center

Island

Low Isles is a small coral cay located off the coast of Port Douglas, about 50 kilometers north of Cairns in Queensland, Australia. The islands are home to a small research station, a lighthouse and are surrounded by a fringing coral reef, making them a popular destination for snorkeling and diving.

4.8 /5

40 km from city center

Sightseeing

Michaelmas Cay is a small coral cay located off the coast of Cairns, Australia, and is recorded as one of the most important seabird nesting habitats. One of the major attractions of Michaelmas Cay is the opportunity to snorkel and dive in the Great Barrier Reef, which is home to an abundance of marine life and coral.

Tours starting from
₹10,604

4.6 /5

23 km from city center

Beach

Nudey beach is a white coral beach located on Fitzroy Island. You can relax on the sandy beach and swim in crystal-clear waters, go snorkeling and diving since the area is surrounded by coral reefs, flaunting a magnificent marine life. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking.

Tours starting from
₹5,062

4.6 /5

58 km from city center

Beach

Located about 50 kilometers north of Cairns in Queensland, Australia, Four Mile Beach is a long, sandy beach in the town of Port Douglas. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a range of water sports, like surfing, stand-up paddling, and kayaking.

Tours starting from
₹1,119

4.4 /5

22 km from city center

Beach

Located in the Cairns region of Queensland, Australia, Palm Cove is known for its beautiful beach, tropical climate, and wide range of dining options. The attraction has umpteen restaurants, cafes, pubs, and other eateries for visitors to relax, grab a bite from local seafood to international dishes and chug a beer whilst enjoying the view of the beach.

Tours starting from
₹1,119

4.4 /5

19 km from city center

Hiking

Kuranda is a small town located in the rainforest region of Far North Queensland, Australia, known for its picturesque beauty, and rich history. One of the major attractions is the Kuranda Scenic Railway, a train journey that will take you for a spin in the rainforest.

Tours starting from
₹9,059

4.8 /5

1 km from city center

Historical Site

Located in Cairns, the Australian Armour & Artillery Museum traces the history of Australian military vehicles, artillery and small arms. Its collection runs from tanks and armoured personnel carriers to cannons, mortars and rifles, alongside uniforms, medals and personal items that show the role Australian forces played in past conflicts.

Tours starting from
₹1,279

4.3 /5

0 km from city center

Nightmarket

There is not one but many night markets in Cairns where you can experience a pristine Australian culture with a variety of goods, fresh veggies, bread, dairy, jewels, handicrafts, clothing, and other souvenirs in their offerings. Stalls are set up with cuisines of international origin as well as dishes native to the country with live entertainment, and music to jazz it up.

Tours starting from
₹3,623

4.7 /5

50 km from city center

Sightseeing

Located in Queensland, Australia, Babinda Boulders is known for its string of large granite boulders, carved by the Babinda Creek, forming natural swimming holes and waterfalls. The area is home to walking trails, offering gorgeous views of the surrounding landscape.

4.8 /5

59 km from city center

Waterfall

Located in Wooroonooran, Cairns region in the north of Queensland, Josephine Waterfalls is a great way attraction for even a day’s trip. If you enjoy swimming, there’s nothing more relaxing than going for a dip in the clear waters to cool off. You’re also in for a major dopamine rush on those hiking trails and rock climbing all the way to the top of the mountain.

Tours starting from
₹6,874

4.7 /5

47 km from city center

Sightseeing

Dating back to 500 years ago, the Curtain Fig Tree is located in Queensland, Australia. It’s a historical masterpiece of the country and is known for its curtain-like roots, which hang down from its branches and form a tunnel-like structure. Visitors can walk through the tree's roots and explore the surrounding rainforest, home to a variety of plant and animal life.

4.8 /5

44 km from city center

Lake

Located in the Atherton Tablelands region of Queensland, Australia, Lake Eacham is a clear lake while Crater Lakes, on the other hand, is a series of lakes created by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. Both attractions offer opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, with crystal-clear waters, perfect for a rejuvenating dip.

Tours starting from
₹3,341

4.3 /5

11 km from city center

Lake

Lake Placid sits within Barron Gorge National Park, a long-standing local spot for kayaking, picnicking and swimming in a calm riverside setting. It also makes an easy base for the rest of the region, with the Kuranda Scenic Railway, the Daintree Rainforest and the Cairns Esplanade all close by, and cafes nearby covering a range of cuisines.

Tours starting from
₹3,341

4.5 /5

16 km from city center

Waterfall

Located in the Cairns region of Queensland, Australia, Stoney Creek is a relatively secluded and small waterfall in the Wooroonooran National Park and is known for its beautiful surroundings and peaceful atmosphere. It offers a range of activities such as hiking, swimming, and catching sight of birds, animals, reptiles, and mammals local to the country.

4.6 /5

1 km from city center

Garden & Park

Muddy's Playground is an adventure park located in Cairns, Australia. It is a great place for exciting, adventure-filled experiences and activities like zipline courses that allow visitors to soar through the air and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding rainforest. Visitors can use off-road vehicles, including 4WDs and quad bikes to explore the park's rugged terrain.

4.6 /5

22 km from city center

Mountain

Located the south of cairns, Walsh's Pyramid is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, rock climbing, birdwatching, and picnicking. It is a natural pyramid-shaped mountain that stands at 922 meters tall, making it the highest freestanding natural pyramid in the world.

4.7 /5

59 km from city center

Mountain

With an elevation of 1622 meters, Mount Bartle Frere is the highest peak in Queensland, Australia, located in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area near Cairns. It is popular for hikers and nature enthusiasts, offering a range of fun activities and experiences.

4.4 /5

26 km from city center

Adventure Sports

Located in Queensland, Australia, Behana Gorge is known for its beautiful waterfalls, rock pools, and hiking trails. It is a great place for canyoning, that is exploring a canyon or gorge by hiking, climbing, and rappelling down waterfalls and rock formations.

Tours starting from
₹6,341

4.6 /5

Water Sports

White water rafting on the Barron River is a popular tourist activity in Cairns, Australia. Known for its daring rapids and captivating scenery, it’s a great place for visitors to experience the thrill and adrenaline of white water rafting. Beautiful rainforest and mountainous terrain serve as a scenic backdrop making it all the more memorable.

Tours starting from
₹3,464

4.5 /5

Diving & Snorkeling

With the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland, Australia, there are many snorkeling spots within the area. Most snorkeling tours depart from Cairns or Port Douglas and offer a range of activities, including snorkeling, diving, and glass-bottom boat tours.

Tours starting from
₹6,181

4.8 /5

Diving & Snorkeling

With the treasury of the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is popularly known for its marine life exploration experiences. Some popular dive sites in the Cairns area include the Agincourt Reefs, Cod Hole, Ribbon Reefs, Osprey Reef, Temple of Doom, Green Island, Fitzroy Island, and the list can go on.

Tours starting from
₹14,068

4.6 /5

Sightseeing

You might want to soak in the beauty and wonderful colors of the Great Barrier Reef in style and catch an aerial view of this icon. From short scenic flights to full-day tours, you can choose the one that focuses on the outer reef, the inner reef, or a combination of both.

Tours starting from
₹9,538

4.6 /5

Adventure Sports

Hot Air Balloon Rides in Cairns, a region rich in beauty and landscapes like rainforests, beaches, and mountains will let you capture an aerial view of the lush green vegetation with the thrill of flying so high. One popular location is the Atherton Tablelands, to awe over the rainforests, and mountains.

Tours starting from
₹13,588

4.7 /5

Bungee jump

Bungee Jumping is an extreme and thrilling sport, jumping from a high platform and recording an overhead view of the ground and the beautiful nature. It is widely popular in the Cairns area of Queensland, Australia, and many locations serve the purpose of this heart-throbbing experience.

4.3 /5

Wildlife

Saltwater crocodiles, the largest living reptiles in the world are found abundantly in Australia and guided tours at different locations are set to spot these creatures as well as other wildlife in their natural habitat. Crocodile spotting tours in Cairns typically involve a boat or kayak ride through areas where crocodiles are known to live.

Tours starting from
₹5,062

4.4 /5

Wildlife

Known as the heaviest birds in Australia and second heaviest in the world, Cassowaries are native to Australia and New Guinea, most commonly found in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area near Cairns, Queensland, as well as in other parts of far north Queensland.

4.4 /5

Road Trip

The drive from Cairns to Port Douglas takes about an hour and packs in much of tropical north Queensland along the way. Stop at Palm Cove beach, walk in the Daintree, swim or hike at Mossman Gorge, and browse the markets at Kuranda before reaching town. It makes an easy day's escape from the city.

Tours starting from
₹2,931

4.9 /5

14 km from city center

Island

Frankland Island, located in Cairns, Australia, is known for its beautiful beaches, transparent waters, and plentiful marine life. The boat tour is a great way for visitors to experience the raw beauty of the islands and enjoy a scope of activities such as snorkeling in the reef, swimming, sunbathing, and wildlife spotting at nearby national parks

Tours starting from
₹5,062

4.2 /5

111 km from city center

Beach

Located in the Cassowary Coast region of Queensland, Australia, Dunk island lies on the coast of Mission beach and is known for its picturesque landscape with rainforests, national parks, and beaches. You can sunbathe on the shores of the beach, catch sight of birds and animals in the rainforest and make sure to climb to the top of Mt.

Tours starting from
₹5,062

4.7 /5

64 km from city center

Waterfall

Hypipamee Crater and Dinner Falls sit together in the Atherton Tablelands of Queensland. The crater is a vast, ancient volcanic pipe dropping sheer to a green lake far below; Dinner Falls is a short walk away through the rainforest. The surrounding forest adds wildlife spotting and easy scenic trails.

Tours starting from
₹6,874

4.9 /5

74 km from city center

Waterfall

Nandroya waterfalls are situated within the rainforest valleys of the Wooroonooran National Park. Touristy activities here include swimming, hiking, picnicking, and a photography session. The water here is crystal clear, making it irresistible to get your feet into them. The waterfall hike is to long for. Why not? You would be surrounded by tropical vegetation and rainforest vines.

Tours starting from
₹7,940

4.4 /5

112 km from city center

National Park

Tully Gorge National Park is a beautiful and diverse natural area located just outside of Tully Gorge, in Queensland, Australia. The park is known for its dramatic gorge, which features sheer cliffs and a picturesque river. It harbors a variety of native wildlife, including cassowaries, wallabies, and a range of bird species.

Tours starting from
₹3,144

4.6 /5

101 km from city center

Hot Spring

The Innot Hot Springs are located in the Atherton Tablelands. These are natural thermal springs, ideal for relaxing on vacation. The pool is surrounded by rainforests where you can walk around and absorb the lush green vegetation. If you want to stay overnight, camping facilities within the vicinity are available, with picnic spots and BBQ tables for an appetizing meal plan.

Tours starting from
₹6,874

4.5 /5

136 km from city center

Cave

Located about an hour's drive from Cairns, Chillagoe Caves is a popular destination located in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area in Queensland, Australia. The area is known for its limestone caves and rock formations where you can go hiking, as well as its rich cultural history. You can also go bushwalking, and explore the surrounding nature by birdwatching.

Tours starting from
₹12,203

4.2 /5

Sightseeing

The Cairns region is rich in the beauty of nature and vegetation. If you don’t have a car, bus operators at different locations will show you around these holiday destinations. Some of them include a roundabout tour of Daintree, Mossman Gorge and Cape Tribulation, the Great Barrier Reef, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventure, and the Paronella Park, Lake Barrine, and Millaa Millaa falls.

Tours starting from
₹5,062