Things to do in Cairns

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

EMF9XA aerial view of tropical Cairns Australia
EMF9XA aerial view of tropical Cairns Australia
Flying over the reef in a helicopter will be an experience you'll never forget! #waterlust #colorful www.cheskiesgaplife.com
For only $88 you can get a return ferry to Fitzroy Island along with your snorkel gear! #waterlust #colorful http://www.cheskiesgaplife.com/?s=fitzroy+island
When in Australia, you will have to go and pay a visit to the Great Barrier Reef. Even just with snorkelling, there is a whole new magical world to explore. Like this turtle who swam with us for a good half an hour! Remember when travelling (and also at home) leave only footprints, only take photographs. #Aquatrove

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 {197 fun activities in Cairns fun activities in Cairns} are also worth a look.

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Cairns must see attractions

1. Cairns Esplanade

The Cairns Esplanade is the tree-lined boardwalk along the foreshore in the city of Cairns. It overlooks the Trinity Inlet and the Coral Sea on one side, and is lined with restaurants and gardens on the other. It has bike paths and walking trails, playgrounds, barbecues, exercise areas and a salt-water lagoon.
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Cairns Esplanade which includes a pool, swimming and a luxury hotel or resort

2. Palm Cove Beach

Experience the stunning beaches, resorts and scenery where the rainforest hugs the shores of the Great Barrier Reef at Palm Cove Beach. Swim or sunbathe beneath the warm Tropical North Queensland sun. Explore the waters on a kayak or sailboat and take in the views of forested hills rising up behind the beach’s string of swaying palm trees.
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Palm Cove Beach featuring a beach, tropical scenes and general coastal views

3. Cairns Marlin Marina

The Cairns Marlin Marina is where all your Great Barrier Reef adventures start, with tour boats coming and going throughout the day. Enjoy shopping, entertainment and dining along the waterfront promenade.
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Cairns Marlin Marina showing a sunset and a bay or harbor

4. Esplanade Lagoon

The Esplanade Lagoon is a water feature in Cairns where you can relax, cool off and socialise with other travellers. The lagoon is on the waterfront on the Cairns Esplanade and is surrounded by tropical gardens. Spend an entire day relaxing by the water, join a fitness class or cool off in the midday heat.
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Esplanade Lagoon featuring general coastal views, swimming and a pool

5. Cairns Night Markets

The Cairns Night Markets offer perfect spots to pick up items you need during your northern Australia trip or souvenirs and gifts to take home. One big plus for the market is that it is totally enclosed and fully air-conditioned. Come every evening to get cool after long hours in the sun or arrive midday for a pleasant brunch or lunch out of the heat.
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Cairns Night Markets showing markets as well as a small group of people

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.

 

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Popular day trips from Cairns

Mareeba featuring a small town or village and landscape views

Mareeba

Green Island, Cairns North Queensland on sunny day

Green Island

Cairns and Northern Beaches which includes signage

Kuranda

A 20 minute hike from the resort on Fitzroy Island, this beach is a must visit. Nudey only by name, nudity is illegal in Queensland. #LifeAtExpedia

Fitzroy Island

Barron Gorge at sunrise. I managed to get there before the white water rafters arrived.

Koah

If you're looking for an inexpensive but lovely way to spend an evening then hop on a sunset cruise with Cairns Harbour Cruises. At only $44 it's worth it to see the sun setting behind the mountains. #goldenhour www.cheskiesgaplife.com/a-delightful-evening-the-cairns-sunset-cruise

Portsmith

The road from palm Cove to Port Douglas is about as close as you can get to the ocean without driving on the sand. Enjoy the view but drive carefully as you wind through the bends in the road (also don't swim...croc are about!). This was taken in January - the tropical rains come and go every few minutes.

Wangetti

Barron Gorge National Park featuring a river or creek and forests

Speewah

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Cairns on a sunny day?
What to do in Cairns on a rainy day?
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?
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