Things to do in Cairns

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Skyrail Rainforest Cableway which includes rainforest and landscape views
Palm Cove Beach showing swimming, a beach and tropical scenes
Cairns showing signage and street scenes
Cairns featuring general coastal views, tranquil scenes and a bay or harbor
Cairns featuring forest scenes, a cascade and a river or creek

Cairns Attractions

They say the best things come in small packages, and this delightful city is no exception. From amazing tourist attractions to exciting activities, there are countless things to do in Cairns.

If you're ready to explore Cairns, join one of the top tours & day trips on offer, and have a friendly local show you the most popular landmarks. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our {186 fun activities in Cairns fun activities in Cairns} are also worth checking out.


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Most popular activities in Cairns

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What to do in Cairns

Free Things to Do in Cairns

A visit to Cairns doesn't have to break the bank. You can leave your wallet behind if you check out:

The Cairns Museum - Roam around and explore the fascinating exhibits and well-curated collections at this respected museum.

Muddy's Playground - Loosen up and add some extra good times to your time here.

Cairns Marlin Marina - Discover for yourself why both visitors and locals are enchanted by the ambiance of this place.

Esplanade Lagoon - Draw a deep breath — nothing tops being beside the water for some peace and relaxation.

Cairns Night Markets - Speak to a few locals and find out why many travelers stop to visit this place.

St Monica's Cathedral - Spend a moment in prayer or meditation at this place of worship.

Red Arrow Walk - Bring your camera and let Mother Nature spark a sense of wonder in you.

Centenary Lakes Botanic Gardens - Recharge your mind, body and soul by spending a bit of time with Mother Nature.

Things to Do in Cairns with Kids

There's fun for the entire family no matter where you wander in Cairns. Here are a few family friendly experiences to enjoy together that are certain to make your getaway unforgettable:


 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Cairns

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Cairns

Palm Cove showing a beach, a garden and tropical scenes

Palm Cove

Relax on sandy beaches and swim in turquoise waters at a resort town between the Great Barrier Reef and the rain forests of tropical Far North Queensland.

Palm Cove
Cairns which includes a city

Cairns Central Business District

4.5/5(264 area reviews)

Come to an exciting downtown area with much to explore, from waterfront parkland to an indoor rainforest with high-ropes courses.

Cairns Central Business District
Trinity Beach showing landscape views, tropical scenes and a beach

Trinity Beach

Unwind on this tranquil stretch of golden beach, relax under the shade of swaying palm trees and explore Tropical North Queensland at your leisure.

Trinity Beach
Cairns Esplanade which includes a luxury hotel or resort, swimming and a pool

Cairns North

Beaches and abundant dining options are well-reviewed features of Cairns North. Make a stop by top sights like Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland while you're exploring the area.

Cairns North
Clifton Beach featuring mountains, a luxury hotel or resort and golf

Clifton Beach

For a pleasant beach vacation without a crush of tourists, this Queensland town serves nicely, with sun, sand and the right amount of surf.

Clifton Beach
Yorkeys Knob showing tranquil scenes and mountains

Yorkeys Knob

A long stretch of gorgeous beach is the highlight of this small town north of Cairns along the shores of the Coral Sea.

Yorkeys Knob

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Cairns

Frequently asked questions

Is Cairns worth visiting?
Cairns offers an interesting mix of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into history, nature or local culinary flavors, there's plenty you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Cairns?
When you've checked off key attractions like Yorkeys Knob Beach and Cairns Aquarium, spend the rest of your day enjoying Cairns's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Cairns?
Yorkeys Knob Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Cairns and should feature high on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Cairns?
Three days will give you plenty of time to tick off many city sights, like Cairns Aquarium, The Cairns Museum and St Monica's Cathedral. The average stay in Cairns is three days. If you feel the urge to extend your getaway, Fitzroy Island isn't far away.
Is Cairns a walkable city?
That comes down to what you want to do and see in Cairns. Several top sights, like Cairns Aquarium and The Cairns Museum, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Cairns's best neighborhoods, Cairns Central Business District is 0.2 miles away from downtown, while Cairns North is 2 miles away from the center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Cairns with kids?
What to do in Cairns for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Cairns, with entertainment for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Cazalys Cairns or Australian Armour and Artillery Museum.
Are there free things to do in Cairns?
One of the easiest ways to discover free things to do in Cairns is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on exciting neighborhoods, parks and other major attractions you can experience without reaching into your pocket. The Cairns Museum is one spot that doesn't charge an admission fee.