Top 10 things to do in Cairns

Here’s a taste of what’s on offer, from the rainforest to the reef.

Ride the Skyrail

It doesn’t come much better than gliding over the canopy of the rainforest before descending gently to explore the forest floor. Marvel at the oldest continually surviving tropical rainforest in the world.

Make the return trip to Kuranda on the Skyrail, or come back on the Scenic Railway.

Explore the Daintree close up

The World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest is as magical as everything you’ve heard. Take a walk in the world’s oldest tropical rainforest and you could spot a cassowary family out for a walk, or be surrounded by a swarm of giant tropical butterflies. Feeling adventurous? How about a saltwater crocodile-spotting cruise?

Zipline at Cairns Zoom

Fancy ziplining over the home of a four-metre crocodile? The world’s first challenge ropes course in a wildlife park gives you the chance to meet the local wildlife and challenge yourself at the same time. Learn the ropes on the mid-Zoom then test your mettle on the hi-Zoom. Enjoy spectacular views from the dome climb and finish off with a power jump to earth!

Dip into the Cairns Aquarium

Enter the world of stingrays, sharks and turtles at the Cairns Aquarium. The twilight tour is a highlight, offering a glimpse into the nightlife of these beautiful marine creatures. You can also dine ‘under the pier’ at Dundees Cafe and Restaurant, featuring a stunning 70,000-litre saltwater aquarium.

Kuranda

The journey to Kuranda via Skyrail or Scenic Railway is half the fun. Just 25km from Cairns, this mountain village in the rainforest offers a mix of natural and earthly delights. Get close to gorgeous tropical butterflies in Australia’s largest butterfly sanctuary, cuddle a koala in the koala gardens, marvel at the tropical birds, then chill out at the local market and cafes.

Explore Cairns Botanic Gardens

Stroll through tropical palms, giant bamboo plants and colourful tropical butterflies. You’ll spot plenty of native wildlife with pelicans, ducks and turtles cruising the Saltwater Lake. Make time for a visit to the nature playground where young imaginations can run wild..

Action stations on the Cairns Esplanade

Take a free fitness or yoga session, enjoy a dip in the lagoon and explore the waterfront artworks. The kids will enjoy exploring the three different playgrounds. Like to take life a little faster? Put on the roller skates or hire a scooter or cycle and head for the boardwalk.

Fantastic Fitzroy Island

All aboard the Fitzroy Flyer for the 45-minute journey to this national park set in the sheltered waters of the Great Barrier Reef. Scuba dive or snorkel the vibrant coral reef straight off the beach, take a glass-bottomed boat and study the marine life, explore the five nature trails (watch for goannas!). Don’t miss Nudey Beach (no, it’s not what you think!), voted one of Australia’s most beautiful beaches.

Don’t miss the Great Barrier Reef

On the bucket list for people all over the world … the world’s largest coral reef is one of the wonders of the natural world, with thousands of coral cays and over 100 islands. Snorkel, scuba dive, sail, swim with dolphins and giant turtles, watch for whales or just settle back and cruise the crystal clear waters.

Glam times at Palm Cove

The living is easy at this glamorous beach village 30 minutes north of Cairns, an exquisite mix of old and new. Shop at top boutiques, wander the esplanade, drop a line off the jetty or just relax at one of the many classy restaurants, cafes and bars on the palm-fringed beach.

Take it easy in a cabin or even a house, set up your own motor home or caravan on the riverfront, or enjoy the tranquillity at an unpowered campsite nestled among the trees.

Cairns Cool Waters offers the best of both worlds: just minutes from town, yet set in a tranquil space surrounded by natural delights.

There’s a fully equipped camp kitchen, free gas barbecues and an on-site cafe. The kids can let off steam in the playground and recreation room. And the whole family can relax in the saltwater pool, spa or crystal clear creek.