Cairns is the gateway to Tropical North Queensland, and while the city itself isn’t particularly big, what it lacks in attractions it more than makes up for with the incredible places waiting to be explored nearby.
From lush rainforests and spectacular waterfalls to secluded beaches, tropical islands, natural swimming holes and the Great Barrier Reef, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in Cairns and beyond. Whether you love hiking, snorkelling, wildlife spotting or simply relaxing in paradise, this beautiful part of Queensland has something for everyone.
We’ve visited Cairns several times over the years, and I always find it an exciting place to return to. In fact, despite our many visits, there are still plenty of things on my bucket list!
In this guide, I’ll share some of the best things to do in Cairns and the surrounding region, including our favourite experiences, day trips and places worth exploring.
- Cairns City and Nearby Attractions
- The Great Barrier Reef and Tropical Islands
- North of Cairns: Beaches and Rainforest
- Inland: Waterfalls, Lakes and Wildlife
- South of Cairns: Swimming Holes and Tropical Beaches
- Best Day Trips from Cairns
- How Many Days Do You Need in Cairns?
- Best Time to Visit Cairns
- How to Get Around Cairns and Tropical North Queensland
- Where to Stay in Cairns
- FAQs About Visiting Cairns
Cairns City and Nearby Attractions
1. Explore Cairns City
Although most visitors come to Cairns to explore the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding rainforests, the city itself is worth spending some time in. It’s compact, easy to explore on foot and has a lovely tropical atmosphere, particularly along the waterfront.
Take a Dip in the Cairns Lagoon
One of the best free things to do in Cairns is to cool off in the beautiful Esplanade Lagoon. This huge outdoor saltwater swimming pool is right on the waterfront, surrounded by grassy areas and tropical gardens.
You might wonder why Cairns needs a swimming lagoon when it’s right beside the ocean. Well, the city’s foreshore is mostly tidal mudflats rather than sandy beaches, and swimming in the surrounding waters isn’t recommended due to saltwater crocodiles and dangerous marine stingers.
Thankfully, the lagoon provides a safe, lifeguard-patrolled place to swim all year round, and best of all, it’s completely free!
Walk Along the Cairns Esplanade
The Cairns Esplanade is a lovely 2.5-kilometre waterfront promenade, perfect for a morning walk, jog or simply enjoying the tropical scenery.
I’d highly recommend heading out at sunrise or early in the morning, before the tropical heat and humidity become too intense. It’s a beautiful time of day, with fewer people around and plenty of opportunities to spot birds along the mudflats.
Along the way, you’ll find parks, playgrounds, outdoor exercise equipment and plenty of places to stop for a coffee.
Visit the Cairns Botanic Gardens
Just a short drive from the city centre, the Cairns Botanic Gardens are well worth visiting, especially if you love tropical plants and nature.
The gardens are filled with lush vegetation, colourful flowers, towering palms and beautiful walking paths. They’re also a great place for birdwatching.
Entry is free, and you can easily spend an hour or two exploring.
Getting there: The gardens are located in Edge Hill, around a 10-minute drive from central Cairns. If you don’t have a car, you can also take a local Sunbus service, with a stop directly outside the gardens on Collins Avenue.
Browse the Cairns Night Markets
If you’re looking for something to do in Cairns after dark, head to the Cairns Night Markets.
Located just off the Esplanade, these undercover markets are packed with stalls selling souvenirs, clothing, jewellery, gifts and local products. There’s also a food court offering plenty of affordable Asian dishes and other takeaway options.
It’s a fun place to wander after dinner, pick up a few souvenirs or grab a casual bite to eat.
Explore the Marina and Enjoy Waterfront Dining
The Cairns Marina is another lovely area to explore, particularly in the late afternoon when the temperature starts to cool down.
Take a stroll along the waterfront, admire the boats heading out to the Great Barrier Reef and enjoy a drink or dinner overlooking the water.
There are plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from, but four worth mentioning are:
- Ochre Restaurant: Famous for its modern Australian cuisine featuring native ingredients and local produce, including dishes showcasing kangaroo, crocodile and seafood.
- Hemingway’s Brewery: One of my favourite spots for a relaxed drink by the water. Located in a historic wharf building, it’s a great place to enjoy a locally brewed beer and soak up the tropical atmosphere.
- Dundee’s on the Waterfront: A Cairns institution serving Australian cuisine with beautiful marina views. The menu features fresh local seafood alongside Australian favourites such as kangaroo and crocodile.
- Prawn Star: For a truly Queensland experience, enjoy fresh prawns and other seafood aboard a collection of fishing vessels moored at the marina. It’s casual, unique and perfect for seafood lovers.
It’s a lovely way to finish a day exploring Cairns before heading off on your next Tropical North Queensland adventure.
2- Discover Crystal Cascades
Just 25 minutes from Cairns, Crystal Cascades is a beautiful series of freshwater swimming holes and small waterfalls surrounded by lush tropical rainforest.
A paved walking path follows Freshwater Creek, passing several picturesque pools where you can cool off in the refreshing water. It’s a fantastic escape from the tropical heat and a lovely place to enjoy nature without travelling far from the city.
Best of all, entry is free! Just remember to swim only in designated areas and follow local safety warnings, particularly after heavy rain.
3. Explore Kuranda and the Rainforest
Just 30 minutes from Cairns, Kuranda is a charming rainforest village surrounded by lush tropical scenery.
One of the best ways to visit is by taking the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway through the rainforest, past waterfalls and spectacular mountain scenery, then returning on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which glides above the treetops with breathtaking views.
Once in Kuranda, explore the local markets, browse the shops and visit the spectacular Barron Falls, particularly impressive during the wet season.
Read more: Our guide to Kuranda for more tips on exploring this beautiful rainforest village.
The Great Barrier Reef and Tropical Islands
4. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef
No trip to Cairns would be complete without exploring the incredible Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders.
Numerous boat tours depart from Cairns Marina, taking visitors to the outer reef for snorkelling and diving among colourful coral, tropical fish and, if you’re lucky, sea turtles and reef sharks.
You can choose between traditional snorkelling and diving cruises or tours to an outer reef pontoon, where you can enjoy additional activities such as semi-submersible boat rides and underwater observatories.
Whether you’re an experienced snorkeller or a first timer, visiting the Great Barrier Reef is an unforgettable experience.
My very first snorkelling experience was actually on the Great Barrier Reef, from a pontoon off Cairns. Little did I know back then that I’d become completely addicted to snorkelling! Since that first experience, I’ve explored reefs around the world, but the Great Barrier Reef will always hold a special place in my heart.
In fact, my absolute favourite spot on the reef is Lady Elliot Island, further south on the Southern Great Barrier Reef, where we’ve enjoyed unforgettable encounters with manta rays, turtles and reef sharks.
5. Escape to Fitzroy Island
Just a 45-minute ferry ride from Cairns, Fitzroy Island is a tropical paradise with crystal-clear waters, lush rainforest and incredible snorkelling straight off the beach.
One of the highlights is the stunning Nudey Beach, often considered one of Australia’s most beautiful beaches. There are also some fantastic hiking trails, including the challenging Summit Track, which rewards you with spectacular island views.
If you can stay overnight, don’t miss the incredible sunset over the water. It’s one of the things we loved most about Fitzroy Island!
Read more: Our Complete Guide to Fitzroy Island for the best things to do, snorkelling spots and tips for planning your visit.
6. Take a Day Trip to Green Island
Just 45 minutes by ferry from Cairns, Green Island is a beautiful tropical coral caysurrounded by the Great Barrier Reef.
Unlike the mountainous Fitzroy Island, Green Island is relatively flat, with sandy beaches, rainforest walking tracks and opportunities to snorkel directly from the shore.
It’s an easy day trip from Cairns, although you can also stay overnight if you want to experience the island after the day-trippers have left.
Green Island is still on our list, but we’re planning to visit soon, so I’ll be updating this section with our own experiences and recommendations!
North of Cairns: Beaches and Rainforest
7. Relax at Beautiful Palm Cove
Just 30 minutes north of Cairns, Palm Cove is one of the most beautiful beaches in Tropical North Queensland. With its long stretch of golden sand, swaying palm trees and stunning ocean views, it’s exactly what you picture when you think of tropical paradise.
Palm Cove has a quieter, more upmarket atmosphere than Cairns, with boutique resorts, beachfront restaurants and lovely cafés lining the esplanade. It’s a fantastic alternative to staying in Cairns, especially if you’re looking for somewhere more peaceful and relaxing.
One of my favourite times to visit Palm Cove is at sunrise, when the first light illuminates the ocean and palm trees. It’s absolutely beautiful and perfect for photography. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach or grab breakfast at one of the waterfront cafés.
You can also wander along the iconic Palm Cove Jetty, relax beneath the palm trees or simply soak up the tropical atmosphere.
Swimming tip: During stinger season, generally November to May, only swim within the designated stinger-net enclosure when it’s open, and always follow local safety advice. Crocodiles can also be present in coastal waters.
Whether you visit for a few hours or stay a few nights, Palm Cove is definitely worth adding to your Cairns itinerary.
8. Discover Port Douglas
Just an hour north of Cairns, Port Douglas is a charming coastal town with beautiful beaches, boutique accommodation, great restaurants and a relaxed tropical atmosphere. The scenic coastal drive from Cairns is worth the trip alone!
We’ve only visited briefly, stopping for lunch and enjoying a walk along the stunning Four Mile Beach, a long stretch of golden sand lined with palm trees.
Other highlights include Flagstaff Hill Lookout, the cafés and shops along Macrossan Street, and the marina, where Great Barrier Reef tours depart.
Port Douglas also makes a fantastic alternative to staying in Cairns, particularly if you prefer somewhere quieter and more relaxed. It’s also a convenient base for exploring the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation.
9- Explore Beautiful Mossman Gorge
Around 1 hour and 15 minutes north of Cairns, Mossman Gorge is one of the most beautiful and accessible parts of the ancient Daintree Rainforest.
Here, crystal-clear water flows over enormous granite boulders, surrounded by lush tropical rainforest. It’s a stunning place to enjoy a rainforest walk, admire the scenery and learn about the area’s rich Indigenous culture.
You can explore the walking trails independently or join a guided Dreamtime Walk with a local Kuku Yalanji guide to learn about their connection to the rainforest.
A shuttle bus operates between the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre and the gorge, making it easy to visit.
Swimming tip: Although people do swim here, the water can be dangerous due to strong currents, slippery rocks and sudden changes in conditions. Swimming is not recommended.
Mossman Gorge is an easy addition to a visit to Port Douglas or a stop on the way to Cape Tribulation.
10. Explore the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation
Around two hours north of Cairns, the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation are among my favourite places in Tropical North Queensland. This incredible region is where ancient rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef, with pristine beaches, lush jungle and abundant wildlife.
I absolutely loved our time in Cape Tribulation, especially waking up to the sounds of the rainforest and watching the sunrise over the beautiful, deserted beaches. There’s something truly magical about this place!
Highlights include exploring the rainforest boardwalks, spotting wild cassowaries and taking a Daintree River cruise to see crocodiles in their natural habitat.
Although you can visit Cape Tribulation on a day trip from Cairns, I’d strongly recommend staying at least one night. It’s a long drive for just a few hours of exploring, and the real magic of Cape Tribulation happens early in the morning, before the day-trippers arrive. Waking up to the sounds of the rainforest, watching the sunrise over an almost deserted beach and enjoying the peaceful surroundings were some of my favourite memories. Trust me, it’s worth staying overnight!
Read more: Our complete guide to Cape Tribulation for the best things to do, wildlife experiences and tips for planning your visit.
Inland: Waterfalls, Lakes and Wildlife
11. Explore the Atherton Tablelands
Just over an hour’s drive from Cairns, the Atherton Tablelands are a beautiful region of lush rainforest, spectacular waterfalls, volcanic crater lakes and charming country towns.
Highlights include the stunning Millaa Millaa Falls, Lake Eacham, the famous Curtain Fig Tree and the picturesque village of Yungaburra. It’s also a fantastic destination for wildlife lovers, with opportunities to spot tree kangaroos, platypuses and colourful tropical birds.
You can visit on a day trip from Cairns, but with so much to explore, I’d highly recommend staying a night or two if you have the time.
Read more: Our Atherton Tablelands guide for the best waterfalls, wildlife spots and places to visit in this beautiful region.
South of Cairns: Swimming Holes and Tropical Beaches
12. Cool Off at Babinda Boulders and Josephine Falls
Around an hour south of Cairns, Babinda Boulders and Josephine Falls are two beautiful freshwater swimming spots surrounded by lush tropical rainforest. Both are free to visit and perfect for escaping the tropical heat.
Babinda Boulders, approximately 65 km from Cairns, features crystal-clear freshwater pools surrounded by enormous granite boulders. It’s a lovely place for a refreshing swim, a picnic or a short rainforest walk.
Just 20 minutes further south, Josephine Falls is a spectacular multi-tiered waterfall cascading over smooth granite rocks. A short rainforest walk leads to several viewing platforms and a designated swimming area.
Both attractions can easily be combined into a half-day trip from Cairns or visited on the way to Mission Beach.
Safety tip: Only swim in designated areas when conditions are safe. Both locations can experience dangerous currents and flash flooding, particularly after heavy rain. Never swim at Devil’s Pool at Babinda Boulders.
13. Venture South to Mission Beach
Around two hours south of Cairns, Mission Beach is a beautiful tropical paradise known for its long, palm-fringed beaches, laid-back atmosphere and wild cassowaries.
If you’re lucky, you might spot a cassowary wandering through the rainforest or even along the roadside!
While you could visit on a day trip from Cairns, I’d highly recommend staying at least one night to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, beautiful sunrises and opportunities for wildlife spotting without rushing.
Read more: Our guide to Mission Beach for the best things to do and where to spot cassowaries in the wild.
Best Day Trips from Cairns
Cairns is the perfect base for exploring Tropical North Queensland, with plenty of incredible destinations within easy reach. Whether you’re looking for tropical islands, rainforest adventures, waterfalls or beautiful beaches, there’s a day trip for everyone.
Here are some of the best options and how to combine them:
| Day Trip | Travel Time from Cairns | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Fitzroy Island | 45-minute ferry | Snorkelling, beaches and hiking |
| Green Island | 45-minute ferry | Snorkelling and relaxing |
| Kuranda | 30-minute drive | Rainforest, Skyrail and Scenic Railway |
| Palm Cove & Port Douglas | 30–70-minute drive | Beaches, cafés and coastal scenery |
| Port Douglas & Mossman Gorge | 1–1.5-hour drive | Rainforest walks and coastal villages |
| Atherton Tablelands | 1–1.5-hour drive | Waterfalls, crater lakes and wildlife |
| Crystal Cascades | 25-minute drive | Freshwater swimming |
| Babinda Boulders & Josephine Falls | 1–1.25-hour drive | Swimming holes and waterfalls |
My tip: Although Cape Tribulation and Mission Beach can technically be visited on a long day trip, I’d strongly recommend staying overnight. Both deserve more time, especially if you want to enjoy the peaceful early mornings and spot wildlife.
How Many Days Do You Need in Cairns?
I’d recommend at least 4–5 days in Cairns to experience the highlights, including the Great Barrier Reef, Kuranda, nearby beaches and the Atherton Tablelands.
However, if you want to explore more of Tropical North Queensland, 7–10 days is ideal. This gives you time to visit Fitzroy Island, Port Douglas, the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation without rushing.
If you have two weeks, even better! You can venture further south to Mission Beach and enjoy a more relaxed road trip through this beautiful region.
Personally, I never seem to have enough time in Tropical North Queensland. No matter how many times we visit, there’s always somewhere new to explore!
Only have 4 days in Tropical North Queensland? Don’t waste precious holiday time figuring out where to go! Check out our 4-Day Tropical North Queensland Itinerary to discover how to fit some of the region’s most beautiful beaches, rainforests and must-see attractions into one unforgettable trip!
Best Time to Visit Cairns
The best time to visit Cairns is during the dry season, from May to October, when temperatures are generally more comfortable, humidity is lower and there’s less rainfall. It’s ideal for hiking, exploring the rainforest and enjoying the Great Barrier Reef.
The wet season, from November to April, brings hotter, more humid weather and heavy tropical downpours. However, the rainforest is incredibly lush, the waterfalls are spectacular and there are generally fewer tourists.
Keep in mind that marine stinger season usually runs from November to May, so extra precautions are needed when swimming or snorkelling.
My tip: I’d aim for May, June, September or October for a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds than the peak July school holidays.
How to Get Around Cairns and Tropical North Queensland
Cairns is easily accessible by air, with domestic and international flights arriving at Cairns Airport, just a 10-minute drive from the city centre.
Once in Cairns, the city centre is compact and easy to explore on foot. However, I’d highly recommend hiring a car if you want to discover the surrounding region at your own pace.
Having your own vehicle makes it much easier to visit places like the Atherton Tablelands, Mossman Gorge, Babinda Boulders and Cape Tribulation, particularly if you enjoy stopping for photographs and exploring less-touristy places.
If you prefer not to drive, there are other options:
- Public buses: Connect Cairns with suburbs and northern beaches, including Palm Cove.
- Organised tours: A convenient way to visit Kuranda, the Daintree Rainforest and the Atherton Tablelands.
- Ferries: Depart from Cairns for Fitzroy Island, Green Island and other reef experiences.
- Shuttles and taxis: Available for airport transfers and travel between Cairns and Port Douglas.
My tip: If you’re planning a Tropical North Queensland road trip, allow extra time for the scenic drives. Some of the best experiences are the unexpected stops along the way!
Where to Stay in Cairns
Choosing where to stay in Cairns depends on the type of holiday you’re planning. While Cairns city is the most convenient base for sightseeing and reef tours, the nearby beach towns offer a more relaxed tropical escape.
- Cairns City: Best for first-time visitors, restaurants, nightlife and easy access to Great Barrier Reef tours. I’d recommend staying near the Esplanade or marina so you can walk to most attractions.
- Palm Cove: Perfect for couples and anyone looking for a quieter, more upmarket beach holiday. Expect beautiful beachfront resorts, lovely cafés and spectacular sunrises.
- Port Douglas: A charming coastal alternative with beautiful Four Mile Beach, excellent restaurants and convenient access to the Daintree Rainforest.
- Trinity Beach: A more laid-back option, particularly popular with families and travellers looking for beachfront apartments.
If you’re planning lots of day trips, I’d choose Cairns city for convenience. But if you prefer somewhere quieter with a beautiful beach, Palm Cove would be my pick!
Recommended Hotels in Cairns City
- Oaks Cairns Hotel – Great Location: A modern hotel right on the Esplanade, within walking distance of the lagoon, marina and restaurants. It also has a lovely rooftop bar. We’ve booked this hotel for our next visit!
- Crystalbrook Riley – Luxury Option: A stylish five-star resort overlooking the Esplanade, featuring a huge lagoon-style swimming pool, beautiful rooms and a rooftop bar. Perfect if you’re looking to treat yourself.
- Il Palazzo Boutique Apartments – Self-Catering Option: Centrally located near the Esplanade, these spacious apartments offer kitchen facilities and a swimming pool. We’ve stayed here before, and it’s a great option if you prefer the convenience of an apartment.
Recommended Hotels in Palm Cove
- Alamanda Palm Cove by Lancemore – Luxury Beachfront Escape: A beautiful, upmarket resort with spacious apartments, three swimming pools and direct beach access. Perfect for a relaxing tropical getaway.
- Paradise on the Beach Resort – More Affordable Option: A lovely boutique resort right opposite the beach, surrounded by tropical gardens and within walking distance of restaurants and cafés. We’ve stayed here before, and it’s a great choice if you want a fantastic location without paying luxury resort prices.
Stay on a Tropical Island
For something a little different, why not spend a night or two on one of the beautiful islands just off Cairns?
- Fitzroy Island Resort: Surrounded by rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, this island resort is perfect for snorkelling, hiking and enjoying spectacular sunsets. We’ve stayed on Fitzroy Island and absolutely loved the experience, especially the peaceful atmosphere once the day-trippers had left.
- Green Island Resort: A beautiful boutique resort surrounded by tropical rainforest and coral reefs. Staying overnight allows you to experience the island after the day-trippers depart, with more time for snorkelling, relaxing and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Both islands are accessible by ferry from Cairns and make a wonderful addition to a Tropical North Queensland holiday.
FAQs About Visiting Cairns
Is Cairns worth visiting?
Absolutely! Although Cairns itself is relatively small, it’s the gateway to some of Australia’s most spectacular natural attractions, including the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest, tropical islands and beautiful waterfalls. It’s a fantastic destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Do you need a car in Cairns?
Not necessarily. You can explore central Cairns on foot and join organised tours to many popular attractions. However, hiring a car gives you much more flexibility, especially if you want to explore the Atherton Tablelands, Cape Tribulation and the surrounding beaches.
Can you swim at Cairns beaches?
Yes, but you need to be cautious. Cairns city itself doesn’t have a sandy swimming beach, although you can swim at the free Esplanade Lagoon. Nearby beaches such as Palm Cove and Trinity Beach have designated swimming areas. Always follow local crocodile warnings and marine stinger advice, particularly during stinger season from November to May.
Is Cairns a good base for visiting the Great Barrier Reef?
Definitely! Cairns is one of the best gateways to the Great Barrier Reef, with numerous snorkelling and diving tours departing daily from the marina. You can visit the outer reef, spend a day on a tropical island or enjoy a pontoon experience, making it suitable for different budgets and swimming abilities.
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