Winter is well and truly on the way, and if we're being honest—we're already not coping. For most of the year, we live in a land of perpetual summer, but those darned polar blasts have brought the winter chill to our doorstep. If you just can’t face a few months of cold winter mornings, chapped lips, and 5pm sunsets, don’t stress—here at OB真人视讯 we’re here to help.
We’ve found the perfect place to enjoy a tropical getaway, even when tmost of Australia is shivering through sweater weather. But it gets even better—we’ve rounded up all the best things to do in Cairns when you get there. Pack your bags and chase the sun north, here’s all the best things to do in Cairns in the great Tropical North Queensland.
Head Out To The Reef
If the vibrant reef scenes of Finding Nemo got you good, trust us when we say seeing it in real life is enough to bring a tear to even the driest eye—even if it is under a snorkel mask. Your options for getting out there are endless, as are the ways to see the magical underwater world itself. You can take a , see it from the air with a , or just keep it simple with a . Find even more options .
Dine On Fresh Seafood At Prawn Star
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If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind seafood adventure, is the dining experience for you. This prawn trawler-turned-restaurant has dropped its anchor in the picturesque Cairns Marlin Marina, and invites you to come aboard. Delight in ocean-fresh delicacies like Coffin Bay oysters, Moreton Bay bugs, and Tasmanian salmon sashimi, all served with a light spray of salty sea breeze.
Visit The Cairns Aquarium
is the only aquarium in the world to exclusively showcase the stunning aquatic wildlife from Tropical North Queensland’s two World Heritage-listed areas—the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest—so it’s well worth a visit. With 11 incredible ecosystems to explore, ranging from ancient rainforests to vibrant coral reefs, you'll encounter a whopping 71 different exhibits showcasing the rare and unique species of this region.
Stroll The Cairns Esplanade
Once upon a time, the Cairns Esplanade was a dense mangrove swamp teeming with mud and mosquitoes. But now, it's been completely transformed into a buzzing seaside strip adorned with upscale eateries, parkland, a boardwalk over the mangroves and of course, the iconic Cairns Lagoon. Tourists and locals alike can be spotted getting their steps in along the pathway, savouring their morning coffee, and this is exactly how you do it, maybe even with a scoop at at the end.
Go Bar Hopping
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Begin the bar-hopping journey of your life at , where award-winning beer, craft cocktails and a laid-back atmosphere set the tone. Next, dive into the speakeasy charm of and the multi-award-winning tropical gins and coffee liqueurs of . At , polished rooftop vibes, Middle Eastern fare and expertly made cocktails are on offer. For a change of pace, venture to for tropical-inspired drinks and lively vibes, then wind down your evening at with waterfront views and a relaxed atmosphere.
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Take A Dip At The Lagoon
The lagoon just off the esplanade is the perfect answer to a worry-free spot for a dip in Cairns. Free from the worry of stingers or crocs, with vigilant lifeguards on watch all day and amenities aplenty nearby, it's the go-to destination for a day out in the sunshine. Lots of locals and visitors alike set up a barbie for lunch, while little ones splash about in the shallows, and grown-ups lounge under the shade, lost in a good read.
Take A Scenic Helicopter Flight
Experience the unparalleled beauty of Cairns, Port Douglas and the Great Barrier Reef from what is definitely a unique perspective—the sky. On , you'll be able to see where two UNESCO World Heritage Sites meet: the reef and the rainforest. From above, marvel at the sprawling coral reefs, tropical islands, and sand cays against the backdrop of lush rainforest-covered mountains. Witness the grandeur of vast river systems and seasonal waterfalls, offering breathtaking views that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Eat Your Way Through Rusty’s Markets
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Though it may look like just a local fruit and veg market from the outskirts, Rusty's Markets is so much more. Open in the town centre every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, this weekly hotspot features over 180 stalls offering up a variety of exotic fruits, vegetables, flowers, fresh breads, dairy, and seafood as well as international food and drinks. You can shop for goodies to take back to your Airbnb, grab something to eat right there or even hop on a if you don’t know where to start.
Take A Dip At Crystal Cascade
A collection of natural pools and waterfalls in Freshwater Creek, and only a short 20-minute drive from Cairns CBD, Crystal Cascade is a stunning swimming hole known only to locals. Surrounded by rainforest and granite boulders, a brief 1.5-kilometer paved path guides you to multiple swimming spots, culminating in a waterfall. Additionally, there's a barbecue/picnic area and toilets, all managed by the Cairns Regional Council. Be on the lookout for native wildlife, both in the water and along the banks.
Hit The Beach
The Cairns foreshore may be serene, but let's face it—it’s no sandy beach. If you want to dip your toes in the tropical seas, you’ll need to get out of the centre of town—and find a net to keep you out of reach of both salties and stingers. Ellis Beach is one—regularly listed among Australia’s best beaches, it’s not only beautiful and relaxed, but there's a protective net and lifeguard station. A little closer to the city, Trinity Beach is a known family-friendly beach, thanks to its sheltered and gentle waves, and our last pick is Yorkeys Knob, which you’ll find perfectly nestled between Cairns and Palm Cove.
Go Canyoning
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Spend half a day immersed in exhilarating adventures like jumping, swimming, sliding, and ziplining in the stunning natural landscapes around Cairns with . With skilled instructors and top-notch equipment, your safety is guaranteed as you explore the canyons, gorges, and rock pools of Tropical North Queensland. You’ve got two half-day canyoning adventures to choose from—the morning option, departing at 6.30am, explores Crystal Canyon, while the afternoon option, departing at noon, ventures to Behana Gorge.
Visit The Night Markets
As the sun dips below the horizon, burst into life. Undercover and fully airconditioned, this is the way to market in the tropics, with more than seventy retail outlets and a plethora of food choices to explore. Find a souvenir then sit down to a quick and delicious dinner in the food court.
Get Hyped At Skypark By AJ Hackett
has the thrill seekers covered. Venture into the world's oldest rainforest just a short drive from Cairns to find Australia's most intense adrenaline-junkie hub. Partake in bungee jumps, jungle swings, and BMX bungee jumps from 50 metres above the glorious rainforest. Not ready for that much extreme? They also boast Cairn’s highest lookout which is free to climb up to and, more importantly, safely climb down from—no bungee jumping necessary.
Step Foot On A Cay
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You know those tiny white sand islands you see all over Instagram? Those are called cays—and you can set foot on one for yourself on . One for the bucket list, the 30 minute trip gives you the chance to put your toes in the sand and see stunning views of the surrounding coral reef. Not a chopper fan? You can also visit one on to Dunk Island and Beaver Reef.
Take A Road Trip To The Atherton Tablelands
Hire yourself a car and get ready to experienceone of Queensland’s most beautiful regions with a scenic drive through the Atherton Tablelands. Including the picturesque towns of Mareeba, Atherton Kuranda, Ravenshoe, Chillagoe, Millaa Millaa and more, this tropical, elevated area features endless waterfalls and lush farmland—so there’s plenty to both see and eat. Driving the Waterfall Circuit is a must, as is an afternoon cheeseboard at . Frankly, there’s too much for us to cover in one paragraph, so we’ll let you discover the rest for yourself.
Go On A Rainforest Hike
Daintree aside, avid hikers will be fascinated to uncover what lies slightly beyond the usual scope around the Cairns region—including some of Queensland's finest mountains to conquer. There are so many to choose from (are you noticing a theme here? It's all going on up north), but the popular faves are taking in the 360-degree view across the Wooroonooran National Park and beyond at the top of , cooling off with a mist from one of the most scenic waterfalls near Cairns, , and hiking along a meandering creek to that even has a swimming hole to cool down in.
Relax And Unwind At Eléme Day Spa
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Let's be real—while there's plenty of fun and adventures to be had in Cairns, sometimes you just want (and need) to zen out and relax. The perfect place to do that? Eléme Day Spa at and . Prepare for instant calm and tranquillity to wash over you as soon as you enter their beautiful establishment and treatment rooms. All of their massages and facials are simply heavenly but if you're after something a little bit different, book in for their Bust & Booty treatment that enhances the health and firmness of breast tissue and the gluteal muscles.
Find An Island Paradise At Fitzroy Island
Home to some of the best beaches in Australia (if not the world), a day trip to is an absolute must when adventuring up north. Book yourself in for a day tour and enjoy a gentle cruise out to the island, where you can enjoy plenty of activities in the crystal clear shallow waters of the Great Barrier Reef. We’re talking glass bottom boat tours, snorkelling, rainforest walks, secret beaches—you name it. Trust us, a trip to Fitzroy Island truly is a day in paradise.
Hop On The Kuranda Scenic Railway
A visit to the picturesque village of Kuranda is a must on any trip to Cairns, and the best way to get there is by rail. The is an experience in itself—you'll board a vintage train carriage and ascend up through the rainforest, with a stop at the impressive Barron Falls along the way. Upgrade to a Gold Class Carriage and you'll even get morning or afternoon tea served along the way.
Travel Over The Treetops On The Skyrail
On your way back from Kuranda (or vice versa), take yourself on an unforgettable journey above Australia's World Heritage-listed Tropical Rainforests with a trip on the . This award-winning 7.5-kilometre tourist experience offers breathtaking views from the comfort of a spacious gondola, several stops along the way for Barron Falls and rainforest strolls. For the ultimate experience, book a Diamond View gondola, which features a glass floor so you can look straight down to the forest floor below.
Explore Magical Paronella Park
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What if we told you Australia was actually home to a Spanish-inspired castle? is a magical place which will give you Spanish castle vibes meets Spain iconic Irati Forest (but really, it's in far north Queensland). As the brainchild of José Paronella who built a castle here back in 1930, it’s located right on Mena Creek, next to Mena Creek Falls. The falls descend over seven million-year-old basalt rock and you can access the top of the cascades from a suspension bridge that spans the waterfall.
Stroll Through The Treetops At Mamu Skywalk
Truly immerse yourself in Queensland’s tropical rainforests at the . Nestled amongst the trees in Wooroonoon National Park, the Canopy walkway transports you safely atop the rainforest so that you can fully admire and respect the natural surroundings without damaging the land as you go.
Take A Dip At The Babinda Boulders
Book yourself a hire car and load up a podcast for the hour-long drive to the Babinda Boulders. Nestled amongst the lush wet tropical rainforests of Far North Queensland, the granite boulders can be found peppered throughout the bubbling Bandina Creek, making for a popular tourist attraction. Once you’ve taken in the sights, stop in at the popular Babinda Bakery for some mouthwatering baked goods before heading to nearby Josephine Falls for a quick dip before you make your way home.
Uncover Culture On An Indigenous Tour
are an authentic and insightful way to learn about the Traditional Owners and the land they have been living on for thousands of years. In a small group, Mandingalbay Yidinji Guides will cove topics of cultural significance and lead interpretative walks, showcasing the traditional use of natural resources used for medicinal purposes and sustenance. A grounding and memorable experience that shouldn't be missed while in Cairns.
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