24 Best Things to Do in Cairns: Ultimate Guide

A call to all nature lovers! Barron Gorge National Park is a true gem and an absolute must-see when visiting Cairns. The lush foliage and cascading waterfalls are simply breathtaking. Take a walk on one of the many hiking trails and experience the breathtaking Barron Falls up close. Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife like the cassowary. Don't miss the opportunity to snap a photo of the breathtaking view at the overlook.

Get ready to experience the ultimate tropical oasis at Cairns Esplanade Lagoon! This man-made saltwater pool is a must-see for tourists and locals alike. With its crystal clear waters, sandy shores, and stunning views, it's the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.

Are you ready for an unforgettable nature experience? Then Hartley's Crocodile Adventures is the place for you! Located just 40 minutes from Cairns, this attraction offers the chance to see Australian crocodiles up close in their natural habitat. Marvel at the feedings and daily crocodile shows. But that's not all - Hartley's also features other native animals like koalas, snakes and cassowaries.

The Cairns Botanic Gardens are the ultimate tropical paradise that should be at the top of any nature lover's must-visit list. Just minutes from the heart of Cairns, you'll find a tranquil retreat with 38 acres of exotic flora from around the world. Strolling through the stunning gardens, you can admire world-class collections of plants from Southeast Asia, Africa and other countries. Don't miss the opportunity to join a guided tour, where you can learn little insider details about the fascinating plants and their origins. Also visit the nearby Centenary Lakes for a picnic or a relaxing walk in nature!

Dive into the depths of the ocean without getting wet at the Cairns Aquarium! With over 15,000 creatures and 71 different exhibits, visitors can experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef up close. Be awed by the fascinating jellyfish exhibit, mysterious deep-sea creatures and colorful coral gardens. Especially worth seeing is the state-of-the-art "Oceanarium" where you can watch large sharks and rays gracefully glide by above you. Don't miss the interactive touch tanks with rays, starfish and sea cucumbers. The Cairns Aquarium is located in the heart of the city, close to other attractions such as the Cairns Esplanade.

Want to experience breathtaking views of Cairns' lush tropical rainforest? Then the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is the place for you! Glide over the treetops on a 7.5km ride that takes you through the scenic Kuranda Ranges and over the Barron River. See the abundant wildlife up close and enjoy panoramic views of the Coral Sea and the city of Cairns. Don't forget to make two stops along the way, one at Red Peak and another at Barron Falls, where you can take a walk through the tropical vegetation and to the waterfalls.

Are you looking for a unique experience during your vacation in Cairns? Then the Australian Armour and Artillery Museum is the place for you. Here you can see some of Australia's most impressive military technology and history up close. There are more than 140 vehicles and artillery pieces on display at this indoor and outdoor museum, ranging from World War I to modern times.

Experience Australia's unique and fascinating wildlife up close and personal with a visit to the Wildlife Habitat in Cairns. This award-winning attraction offers visitors the opportunity to interact with native animals in their natural habitat. You can hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies, pet koalas, and even encounter crocodiles on an exciting boat ride. Don't miss the chance to see rare species like the endangered Cassowary bird.

Rainforestation Nature Park is a wonderland of lush rainforest and native Australian wildlife, ideal for nature lovers, families with children and adventure seekers visiting Cairns. The park offers a unique combination of eco-friendly tours and wildlife experiences. Visitors can ride an army duck, attend a traditional dance performance, and hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies. Plus, the park is just a short drive from other popular Cairns attractions like the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Kuranda Village, making it easy to incorporate into your Cairns itinerary. Don't miss out on this unique experience!

Immerse yourself in the rich Aboriginal culture at the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre in Cairns. This beautifully designed center houses an exhibition of contemporary and traditional Aboriginal art, artifacts and interactive exhibits that explain the stories and traditions of the Kuku Yalanji people. The center also offers a range of cultural performances, art workshops, and bush tucker (local food) that provide an authentic glimpse into local Aboriginal culture. After exploring the center, you can take a shuttle bus to Mossman Gorge where you can swim in crystal clear waters or take a guided rainforest hike. Don't miss this unique and unforgettable experience just 20 minutes from Cairns!

Looking for an unforgettable way to explore the beautiful rainforest of Cairns? Then the Kuranda Scenic Railway is for you! This historic railroad winds through the lush rainforest, past waterfalls and with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The journey begins in Cairns and takes you to the charming village of Kuranda, where you can browse local markets and experience the town's rich culture.

If you are looking for a quiet and picturesque place to escape the hustle and bustle of Cairns, Crystal Cascades is the perfect place for you. Located just 25 minutes from Cairns, this hidden gem offers a series of stunning natural waterfalls and crystal clear swimming holes that will take your breath away. Visitors can take a refreshing dip, snorkel in the cool waters, or hike the surrounding trails and admire the lush tropical landscape.

A visit to Granite Gorge Nature Park in Cairns is an opportunity to experience Australia's natural beauty firsthand. Granite boulders, tranquil waterholes, and fascinating wildlife await you when you venture to this breathtaking location. Don't forget to keep your eyes peeled for the friendly rock wallabies that are known to greet visitors! If you have time, combine your visit with a trip to the Mareeba Wetlands, just a short drive away, to see even more of Australia's incredible flora and fauna.

Get ready for an adventure in the beautiful Mount Hypipamee National Park! This park is a hidden gem and a must-see attraction in Cairns. The main highlight of the park is the stunning Mount Hypipamee Crater, a unique geological formation that is truly breathtaking. Take a walk along the breathtaking rainforest trails where you will encounter a variety of flora and fauna. Don't forget to look out for the impressive curtain fig tree. If you're feeling adventurous, take a dip in the refreshing waters of Dinner Falls. And when you're done exploring the national park, you can end your day trip with a visit to the nearby historic mining town of Herberton.

Located in the heart of the Daintree National Park, Mossman Gorge should be at the top of your list when visiting Cairns. This ancient rainforest offers an unforgettable experience with its crystal clear waters, lush surroundings and stunning scenery. Take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalks or test your skills on the Indigenous Cultural Walk Tour, where you can learn about the traditional culture and customs of the indigenous Kuku Yalanji people.

The Cairns Central Shopping Centre is an absolute must for shopaholics! With more than 180 specialty stores, cafes and restaurants, this shopping center is the ideal place for all your shopping needs. With big-name brands like H&M, Myer, and Big W, this center is the perfect place for fashion, beauty, and home goods shopping. Don't miss out on exploring the rooftop terrace, where you can get a bird's eye view of the city.

Are you looking for a unique and exciting adventure in Cairns? Then the Down Under Cruise and Dive is the place for you! This incredible experience offers visitors the opportunity to explore the Great Barrier Reef like never before. From snorkeling to diving and everything in between, there's no shortage of excitement on this tour. You'll also learn insider details and fascinating facts about this incredible natural wonder under the guidance of knowledgeable and friendly guides. Located near the Cairns Esplanade, be sure to visit the nearby Cairns Night Markets for more local treasures!

Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome! Located in the heart of Cairns, this unique attraction combines adventure activities with up-close encounters with some of Australia's most famous wildlife. Enter the dome and get up close and personal with crocodiles, koalas, snakes and more! You can even sail the zipline over the crocodile enclosure or climb the high ropes course for a bird's eye view of the city. Don't miss the opportunity to feed the friendly lorikeets and visit interactive exhibits.

When you travel to Cairns, one of the must-see attractions is "The Crystal Caves". This unique museum offers visitors an unforgettable opportunity to explore an incredible collection of natural and man-made crystals, fossils and minerals. The caves are an underground wonderland filled with shimmering formations of every shape and size. Don't forget to visit the replica of a giant amethyst geode - it's truly breathtaking!

Immerse yourself in the majestic underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef with Reef Experience! This Cairns-based tour operator will take you on an unforgettable journey filled with colorful coral, vibrant fish, and fascinating marine life. With a maximum of 50 passengers aboard their modern vessel, you are guaranteed personal attention and service. The company's eco-friendly approach ensures that your visit will have no negative impact on the reef's delicate ecosystem.

Looking for a breathtaking view of Cairns and the surrounding area? Then you must visit Trinity Bay Lookout! This lookout is just a short drive from Cairns city center and offers stunning panoramic views of the bay and the city. You can see the incredible mountains that surround the city and the lush rainforests that border it. Look out for a bird of prey or two soaring high against the backdrop of the clear blue sky. If you're lucky, you may even see kangaroos in the distance! After enjoying the incredible views from Trinity Bay Lookout, be sure to visit the nearby cafes and gift stores to stock up on local refreshments and souvenirs. Don't miss this incredible scenic experience during your visit to Cairns!

In the heart of Far North Queensland's lush rainforest lies the stunning Emerald Creek Falls. With its crystal clear waters pouring over moss-covered rocks, this natural oasis is the perfect place for a refreshing swim and a picturesque photo opportunity. Not only is the scenery breathtaking, but the waterfall also features a unique natural rock slide that will provide thrills.

Davies Creek in Dinden National Park is a real hidden gem of Cairns that you should not miss. The stunning scenery and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect place to relax and get in touch with nature. The crystal clear waters are great for swimming and there are plenty of shady spots to spread out a picnic blanket and enjoy the surroundings.

Take your Cairns adventure to new heights with a hot air balloon ride! Float above lush greenery, rolling hills and the glistening coastline as the sun rises and casts a warm glow over the breathtaking landscape. Enjoy unparalleled views of the Atherton Tablelands and capture unforgettable memories.