THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Cairns
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Things to Do in Cairns
Here, the star is the Great Barrier Reef-take your pick of snorkelling tours by day. By night, stroll the Esplanade. For beaches, head north or to Green Island. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Book these experiences for a close-up look at Cairns.
- fromper adultAU$249
Shore Excursionsfromper adultAU$209
Sightseeing Cruisesfromper adultAU$250
On the Waterfromper adultAU$255- fromper adultAU$198
- fromper adultAU$144
- fromper adultAU$229
- fromper adultAU$265
Full-day Toursfromper adultAU$253- fromper adultAU$249
Sports Complexes
Lagoon with sandy areas for children and park rides, complemented by grassy spots, BBQ spaces, and scenic marina views. Features shallow to 1.55m deep waters and lifeguard presence.
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Hiking Trails
Waterfront walkway with scenic views, diverse activities for all ages, including play areas, and a variety of dining options. Historic monuments and wildlife watching enrich the experience.
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Tranquil botanical haven with diverse tropical plants, themed gardens, and serene walking paths, featuring a unique Orchid House and scenic lake areas.
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Waterfalls
Scenic waterfalls set amid a rainforest with walking paths, swimming areas, and natural rock slides. Features multiple lookouts and wildlife encounters.
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Military Museums
Military history museum with an array of operational tanks and vehicles from different eras, highlighted by tank rides and a shooting gallery with vintage rifles.
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Helicopter rides provide stunning aerial views of the reef, complemented by snorkeling and diving amid vibrant marine life. Weather-dependent, eco-conscious tours enhance this unique experience.
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Points of Interest & Landmarks
Marine sanctuary featuring snorkeling and glass bottom boat tours amid diverse sea life, calm beaches, and informative marine presentations.
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Flea & Street Markets
Bustling market featuring a variety of fresh, local produce and a selection of breakfast foods. Stalls include exotic fruits and organic options, with cultural items like jewellery also available.
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Islands
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Scenic drives through diverse landscapes lead to natural wonders like waterfalls, rainforest, and wildlife habitats. Enjoy fresh produce, nature trails, and picturesque villages.
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Playgrounds
Child-centric water park with interactive play areas, shaded spots for relaxation, and a cafe. Ideal for picnics and watching kids enjoy imaginative play.
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Other Top Attractions around Cairns
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Tours, activities and experiences bookable on Tripadvisor, ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, popularity, user preferences, price, and bookings made through Tripadvisor.
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
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What travellers are saying
- Emma H9 contributionsWe loved the lagoon! The temperature of the water is perfect and there are lots of shade sails, sandy edges and platforms too if you don’t like the sand.
Lifeguards on duty at all times and open till 9pm.
We spent a few hours here and the cafe was reasonably priced too.
Lockers available, we paid $4 for 4 hours for a small one. You need gold coins only and they don’t take card.Written 10 October 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Andy FDevizes, UK1,397 contributionsWent here on a hot sunny day. It was good to dive into a cool, more shadowy place and get to see plenty of fish, eels, snakes and many other creatures too. Some huge tanks with great viewing galleries. Plenty of information and education boards around too. Loved it.Written 19 October 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Bianca S47 contributionsThe boardwalk is beautiful! It is clean and great views. Locals are really kind and welcoming. There are many places to sit and enjoy the ocean and animals, as well as great places for food and beverages.Written 28 November 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Jessica MNew York City, NY402 contributionsWe had a great time at Cairns Botanical Garden, even in the rain! A special shoutout to Catie who helped us navigate with a map and pointed out the best spots to explore.
The freshwater pond was a highlight—it was filled with lily pads, herons, and turkeys. The real stars were the baby frogs—there must have been a million of them! They were tiny and adorable, but do watch your step to avoid harming them.
We loved walking through the Chinese Gardens; the bamboo was stunning. Tank Four provided much-needed seating, though it lacked air conditioning, which might be worth noting on a hot day. Lastly, Gondwanaland was a treat—be sure to read the signs to get the most out of the experience.
Overall, this garden is a gem, rain or shine! Highly recommended.Written 28 November 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Ben KingLondon, UK330 contributionsVery cool swim spot for a couple hours. The waterfall is easily accessible with lots of parking and only a 700 metre walk. Waterfall is huge and there are lots of rocks for sitting, eating, and sunbathing. You can slide down part of the waterfall! But beware the water is COLD. Come and park up here on a sunny afternoon, it’s gets pretty busy!Written 27 October 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Welly kiwis49 contributionsFantastic huge place. Was very quiet (two or three other people). Only comment was the Humvee was the ride of the day which didn't appeal to us. Could do with a cafe but a superb place. Friendly staff too.Written 9 November 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Sue SInvercargill, New Zealand84 contributionsA unique experience. We went out to the outer reef and experienced snorkeling and the submersible. The staff were very helpful because we are seniors and neither of us had one snorkeling before. The fish life is amazing.Written 14 August 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Maureen M93 contributionsIf you’re not a fan of swimming or no snorkelling you can still do a half day trip to green island and enjoy the beautiful sand beach and glass bottom boat experience… they take you out to an area where they feed the fish and you will see some beautiful fish and coral . More than 1/2 a day I’d recommend renting beach chairs and umbrella.. not a lot of food options so bring snacksWritten 15 October 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Bianca S47 contributionsIt is so pleasant walking into Rusty’s Market. The smell of the fresh produce is amazing. There are many fresh produce options, as well as jewelry, food, dessert, and beverages. This market is delightful!Written 28 November 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- scvroseFiddletown, CA1,305 contributionsSeastar dropped us off before the island we swam in. Enjoyed watching the hundreds of birds making their nest on this slender piece of land. One of my highlights.Written 18 November 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- CarloHelmondHelmond, The Netherlands725 contributions
