Things to do in Cairns

Find and book activities, attractions and tours
Cairns showing coral, tropical scenes and landscape views

Cairns Attractions

Not sure what to do in Cairns? There's no need to worry. We've got some fabulous recommendations for you. Awesome food, an intriguing history and remarkable attractions — this dynamic city has it all.

If you're ready to hit the streets of Cairns, sign up for a few of the top tours & day trips on offer, and let an experienced guide show you some of the most popular sights. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our top {215 fun activities in Cairns fun activities in Cairns} are also worth a look.

Most popular activities in Cairns

Tours & day trips

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Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise

Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise

Activity duration is 9 hours
5.0 out of 5 with 23 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $167 per adult
Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise

Adventure & outdoor

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Cape Tribulation & Daintree Wilderness Tour with River Cruise (TCT)

Cape Tribulation & Daintree Wilderness Tour with River Cruise (TCT)

Activity duration is 12 hours
4.4 out of 5 with 20 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $158 per adult
Cape Tribulation & Daintree Wilderness Tour with River Cruise (TCT)

History & culture

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From Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Trip with Lunch

From Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Trip with Lunch

Activity duration is 9 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is $145 per adult
From Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Trip with Lunch

Private & custom tours

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Herberton Historical Village Day Trip from Cairns - One of the best ever to...

Herberton Historical Village Day Trip from Cairns - One of the best ever to...

Activity duration is 10 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is $926 per traveler*
Herberton Historical Village Day Trip from Cairns - One of the best ever to...

Air, helicopter & balloon tours

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Full-Day Outer Great Barrier Reef & Helicopter Package

Full-Day Outer Great Barrier Reef & Helicopter Package

Activity duration is 9 hours
4.0 out of 5 with 20 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $244 per adult
Full-Day Outer Great Barrier Reef & Helicopter Package

What to do in Cairns

Free Things to Do in Cairns

Heading to Cairns on a budget? The following can be seen for zip.

The Cairns Museum - Bring the entire family and go on a journey of discovery through history together.

Muddy's Playground - Let your hair down and add a bit of extra fun to your getaway here.

Cairns Marlin Marina - This busy spot is a popular rendezvous point for visitors and locals alike.

Esplanade Lagoon - Get out of life's fast lane and treat yourself to a bit of time relaxing close to the water.

Cairns Night Markets - Make time to take a look at this place of local importance.

St Monica's Cathedral - Stop for some quiet contemplation and discover a few things about this site's religious importance.

Red Arrow Walk - Be treated to views that'll blow you away at this natural landscape.

Centenary Lakes Botanic Gardens - Refresh your body, mind and soul by spending a little time in nature.

Things to Do in Cairns with Kids

There are plenty of unforgettable experiences in Cairns that the whole gang will enjoy. These are some of the best family friendly experiences around.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Cairns? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Cairns on a sunny day?
When the weather’s fine, these outdoor experiences are impossible to resist:


What to do in Cairns on a rainy day?
If it’s pelting down during your stay, dry off your umbrella and try out these entertaining indoor activities:


What should I not miss in Cairns?
Bring your spirit of adventure and make a beeline for these top-rated sights:

  • Esplanade Lagoon
  • Mount Whitfield Conservation Park
  • Centenary Lakes Botanic Gardens

Are there cheap things to do in Cairns?
Keep more of your hard-earned dollars in your wallet with these cheap and fun experiences:


What can you do in Cairns for free?
You’ll hardly have time to grab your wallet out of your pocket with so many fantastic free things to do:

  • Esplanade Lagoon
  • Mount Whitfield Conservation Park
  • Centenary Lakes Botanic Gardens
  • Cairns Esplanade

Popular day trips from Cairns

Mareeba featuring a small town or village and landscape views

Mareeba

Green Island

Green Island

Cairns and Northern Beaches which includes signage

Kuranda

Photo by Lexi

Fitzroy Island

Photo by Mike from Cairns

Koah

Photo by Cheskie's Gap Life

Portsmith

Hartley\'s Crocodile Adventures which includes zoo animals, animals and rides

Wangetti

Babinda featuring signage and a small town or village as well as an individual femail

Babinda