21 BEST Things to do In Cairns, Australia | Queensland Tourism & Travel Guide

Here are the top things to do in Cairns, Australia. Number 21. Great Barrier Reef The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world's most iconic natural attractions. Located just off Australia's northeast coast, it's home to thousands of species and offers a stunning underwater paradise full of wildlife, vibrant coral, and magnificent beaches that are perfect for swimming or snorkeling. You can also explore its vast array of dive sites, from shallow water reefs to dramatic deep walls. As well as take part in fishing trips or join an organized boat tour so you can take in all the beautiful sights. Number 20. Cairns Botanic Gardens Cairns Botanic Gardens is the perfect spot to relax, explore, and enjoy. Featuring lush gardens and tropical rainforest, it's an ideal place for nature lovers to visit. There are several walks and trails around the park which take visitors through a variety of exciting ecosystems. The upper section boasts spectacular views of Cairns City with eucalypt forests, rich birdlife, pandanus palm stands, as well as areas displaying Australian natives. You can enjoy a relaxing afternoon at this tranquil garden cafe or picnic in one of the many shady spots throughout the parkland. Number 19. The Esplanade Boardwalk The Esplanade Boardwalk is one of Cairns' top attractions, offering stunning views and a great place to relax. It stretches along the shoreline between Cairns Marina and Trinity Inlet, providing access to swimming spots, beach areas, playgrounds, and picnic spaces. From the boardwalk, you can admire the shimmering coral sea in all its beauty or take a jog in the paved and well-lit pathway. Bring your cameras too, there's plenty of panoramic photo opportunities to be had here. Number 18. Palm Cove Palm Cove is a stunning beach town located north of Cairns and south of Port Douglas. It features a paradisiacal white sand beach, warm turquoise waters, lush native gardens, and sensational sunsets, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, sailing, or fishing. There are many local cafes and restaurants nearby where you can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere while indulging in delicious cuisine from all over the world. For those looking for an extra special experience, there are plenty of pampering spa treatments available at one of the luxurious resorts dotted along Palm Cove's gleaming coastline. Number 17. Skyrail Rainforest Cableway The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is one of the main attractions in Cairns for visitors to enjoy. Taking riders on a 4.6 miles journey over and through lush rainforest, this cable car provides spectacular views from above and an exciting peek into the stunning tropical wilderness below. With options for a guided tour and plenty of activities located along the way such as lookouts, trails, and interactive exhibits, Skyrail is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to explore Cairns' unique landscape. Number 16. Cairns Zoom & Wildlife Dome Cairns Zoom & Wildlife Dome is a popular tourist attraction in Cairns. It consists of two distinct activity zones, the Zoom and the Wildlife Dome. In the Zoom zone, you can experience over 10 exciting challenges that involve rope bridges, zip lines, and suspended cargo nets. The Wildlife Dome provides an unmatched wildlife experience with tropical birds, reptiles, frogs, and marsupials living in a simulated rainforest environment. You can explore these fascinating creatures up close through special presentations and educational encounters. With so much to discover here, Cairns Zoom & Wildlife is definitely one of the top attractions to check out during your stay. Number 15. Carranda Scenic Railway Carranda Scenic Railway is one of Cairns' most iconic attractions. This ride takes you through tropical rainforest and covers 23 miles in 2.5 hours, offering spectacular views of the Barren Gorge and Stony Creek Falls along the way. An experience not to be missed, this journey showcases Queensland's beautiful mountain ranges and valleys as it travels between Freshwater Station near Cairns up to Carranda Village. The stunning vista includes lush vegetation, rolling hillsides, cascading waterfalls, and ravines, with over 15 tunnels at various stages along the route. The comforts of air-conditioned carriages make for an enjoyable trip, which finishes with a stop in Carranda, where passengers can explore shops, restaurants, or take part in local activities such as ziplining and bird watching. Number 14. Whitewater Rafting Whitewater rafting is one of the most thrilling and adventurous things to do in Cairns. If you're looking for an adrenaline-filled experience, then this could be the perfect option for you. You can explore the Barren River with exhilarating grade 3 and 4 rapids, or take a peaceful cruise down the Mulgrave River during your guided tour. Enjoy breathtaking views of lush rainforest and unique wildlife around every corner as you paddle along in a raft accompanied by your experienced guide. With all safety equipment provided, whitewater rafting gives you the opportunity to experience nature's beauty while getting your blood pumping at its most intense speed. Number 13. Crystal Cascades Crystal Cascades is a must-see attraction in Cairns. It is a series of cascading rock pools with crystal-clear water hidden away in the beautiful rainforest. Here, you can take part There are plenty of spots to enjoy a barbecue picnic with friends and family as well. The paths around the area lead to some stunning lookouts over the surrounding countryside, making it one of the best places to watch nature unfold on your Cairns adventure. Number 12. Parinella Park Parinella Park is a historic attraction located south of Cairns. This picturesque park was built in the 1930s and today stands as one of Australia's most unique attractions. It boasts stunning gardens, walking trails, waterfalls, a castle ruin, and plenty of other interesting features to explore. You can take part in educational tours of the grounds or simply stroll through the lush greenery for an unforgettable experience. Parinella Park also has its own waterfall, which adds to its beauty and charm. From this breathtaking vantage point, you can witness views stretching over large areas of rainforest that are home to wallabies, possums, and even platypus. The park is also known for having an abundance of native birds, including parrots and gallus, so it's no surprise why birdwatchers flock here too. By the way, if you want to learn how to save money on airfares, then click the link in the description below. This guide teaches you how to always get the cheapest flights. Number 11. Kerr Cow Farm Kerr Cow Farm is a popular tourist attraction situated in Cairns, Australia. Located on the outskirts of Carranda, Kerr Cow Farm offers travelers an opportunity to get close to Australian livestock and get hands-on experience with farm animals such as sheep, cows, and goats. You can also enjoy horseback riding, sip freshly brewed coffee or tea while admiring breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. With its spectacular country setting, knowledgeable staff, and friendly animals, this farm promises an unforgettable experience for all visitors. Number 10. Kerranda Koala Gardens Kerranda Koala Gardens is a delightful place to visit for an up-close encounter with Australia's iconic marsupials. Located north of Cairns, visitors can see wild koalas outside of their habitats and even hand-feed the friendly animals. The gardens also boast beautiful green spaces filled with gum trees and papaya plants, adding to its natural charm. With a playground and designated picnic areas, this is the perfect spot for families looking to experience true Aussie wildlife. Number 9. Australian Butterfly Sanctuary The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is another interesting attraction in Cairns. Located near the Koala Gardens, this butterfly sanctuary showcases the beautiful array of colorful tropical butterflies found in Australia. You have the opportunity to view free-flying butterflies up close as they wander around the grounds and see them feed on nectar or hovering around shady foliage. The sanctuary also provides guided tours which will help guests learn more about their fascinating life cycles and habitats. A great way to experience nature at its finest! Number 8. Bird World Kerranda Bird World Kerranda is an aviary like no other, offering visitors a glimpse of Australia's stunning birdlife. It's a great way to learn about the native species while giving them up-close experiences. The aviary houses over 200 birds from all around the country, and guests can get close enough to snap a memorable photo or even hand-feed some of them in designated areas. Bird World Kerranda also offers interactive experiences such as animal encounters, where you can get hands-on with various animals including lorikeets and possums. Number 7. Hot Air Balloon Rides Hot air balloon rides are one of the most popular activities in Cairns. With spectacular 360 views, you can admire tropical landscapes and breathtaking sunrises way above the clouds. From colorful hot air balloons, you get to appreciate a unique view of rainforests, cityscapes, and mountain ranges. Enjoy an adrenaline-filled tour with experienced pilots as they take you on an exciting venture through the skies of Cairns. Number 6. Hartley's Crocodile Adventures Hartley's Crocodile Adventures is an awesome waterfront wildlife adventure park located just 25 miles north of Cairns. Here, you can experience the amazing world of Australian wildlife and get up-close to iconic creatures like saltwater crocodiles, snakes, turtles, koalas, and many more native animals. With a focus on conservation education and entertainment value, Hartley's offers incredible encounters with crocodiles through their famous croc show as well as guided nature walks over a winding boardwalk that lets you take in Cairns' flora and fauna from land or water via kayak tours. You can also look out for birds such as brogas, ibis, jabirus, and even cassowaries if you visit during the winter months. Number 5. Helicopter Tour of Cairns For breathtaking views, take a helicopter tour over Cairns to see tropical islands, mountain ranges, and forests draped in eucalyptus tree canopies. See iconic landmarks like the Great Barrier Reef from above all while taking in fresh sea breezes. Onboard commentary will also provide you with added knowledge of this beautiful part of Australia. Number 4. Dain Tree Rainforest This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an incredible natural wonder located two hours north of Cairns. It offers a great adventure as you explore the lush vegetation and wildlife spotting opportunities with over 1,200 species of birds, reptiles, and frogs. This ancient rainforest is the oldest surviving tropical rainforest on Earth, making it a must-visit destination when exploring Cairns. You can go trekking along trails, take part in night safaris or tubing experiences, or simply relax at one of many picturesque locations offering stunning views of this unique ecosystem. Number 3. Cape Tribulation Cape Tribulation is a stunning spot located within the wet tropics of Dain Tree National Park. With its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and abundant wildlife, it's no wonder Cape Tribulation is one of Australia's best tourist spots. You can go swimming in crystal-clear waters or take part in activities like snorkeling trips to explore the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, bird-watching at Wangedi Beach, or exploring ancient tropical forests on guided walks. Kayaking tours are also available for those looking for an adventure that takes them up close to mangroves and waterfalls. Number 2. Tablelands The Atherton Tablelands is one of the many must-see attractions in Cairns. Situated on the Great Dividing Range, this lush green grassland provides breathtaking views of mountain peaks, waterfalls, and rivers. It's a great place to explore by car or by foot, enjoy swimming in natural watering holes and lakes, or explore local bushwalking trails. Wildlife viewing is also popular here, including platypus sightings and beautiful birds. Number 1. Mission Beach Mission Beach is a small but beautiful area with four stunning beaches. South Mission Beach, Wangaling Beach, North Mission Beach, and Bingo Bay. It's the perfect place for those wanting to relax or indulge in adventure. Swimming, surfing, sailing, snorkeling, and fishing are all popular activities here. The beaches have designated picnic spots alongside beachcombing opportunities which are great for families. Nature lovers will not want to miss out on the incredible array of wildlife in this part of Australia, including dolphins, sea turtles, and migrating whales. Click here for more things to do in Cairns.