Nestled in the far north of Australia, Cairns is a tropical paradise with an abundance of natural beauty and activities to explore. With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture, Cairns is the perfect destination for those looking for an unforgettable getaway. From snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef to exploring the ancient Daintree Rainforest, here are the top 20 places to see in Cairns.
1. Great Barrier Reef
The world’s largest coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef is one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world. Stretching over 2,300 kilometres along the Queensland coast, the reef is home to an abundance of marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and over 1,500 species of fish. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities, and visitors can also take a glass-bottom boat tour to explore the reef from above.
2. Kuranda Skyrail
The Kuranda Skyrail is a 7.5-kilometre cable car journey that takes visitors high above the rainforest canopy for stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, visitors can explore the rainforest on two boardwalks, as well as visit the Rainforestation Nature Park and the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary.
3. Daintree Rainforest
The oldest rainforest in the world, the Daintree Rainforest is a spectacular World Heritage-listed site. Home to an incredible array of wildlife, including the endangered southern cassowary, visitors can explore the rainforest on guided tours or take a self-guided walk along the forest trails.
4. Cairns Esplanade
The Cairns Esplanade is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. With its stunning beachfront location, the Esplanade is the perfect place to relax and take in the views of the Coral Sea. Visitors can also enjoy a range of activities, including swimming, fishing, and kayaking.
5. Cairns Botanic Gardens
The Cairns Botanic Gardens are a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city. Home to an array of tropical plants, including orchids, heliconias, and bromeliads, the gardens are a great spot to explore and admire the natural beauty of the region.
6. Atherton Tablelands
The Atherton Tablelands are a stunning region of rolling hills and lush rainforest, located just an hour’s drive from Cairns. Visitors can explore the area on a range of activities, including bushwalking, mountain biking, and horse riding.
7. Port Douglas
Port Douglas is a charming town located just an hour’s drive north of Cairns. With its stunning beaches and picturesque marina, this is the perfect spot for a day trip or weekend getaway. Visitors can also explore the nearby Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef.
8. Green Island
Green Island is a beautiful coral cay located just 45 minutes from Cairns. With its crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches, this is the perfect spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can also explore the island on a glass-bottom boat tour.
9. Palm Cove
Palm Cove is a stunning beachside town located just 30 minutes north of Cairns. With its palm-fringed beach and laid-back atmosphere, this is the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway. Visitors can also explore the nearby rainforest and Great Barrier Reef.
10. Fitzroy Island
Fitzroy Island is a stunning tropical island located just 45 minutes from Cairns. With its crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches, this is the perfect spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can also explore the island on a glass-bottom boat tour.
11. Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures
Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is a wildlife park located just 20 minutes north of Cairns. Home to an array of native wildlife, including crocodiles, kangaroos, and koalas, the park is a great spot to learn more about the local wildlife.
12. Mossman Gorge
Mossman Gorge is a stunning rainforest located just an hour’s drive north of Cairns. Home to an array of native wildlife, including wallabies, birds, and butterflies, visitors can explore the gorge on a guided tour or take a self-guided walk along the forest trails.
13. Cooktown
Cooktown is a charming town located just two hours north of Cairns. Home to an array of historic sites, including the James Cook Museum and the Endeavour River, this is the perfect spot for those looking to explore the area’s rich history.
14. Lake Barrine
Lake Barrine is a stunning crater lake located just an hour’s drive south of Cairns. With its crystal-clear waters and lush rainforest surroundings, this is the perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
15. Cairns Lagoon
The Cairns Lagoon is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Located in the heart of the city, the lagoon is the perfect spot for a swim or a leisurely stroll. Visitors can also take a boat tour to explore the lagoon from the water.
16. Trinity Beach
Trinity Beach is a stunning beach located just 20 minutes north of Cairns. With its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, this is the perfect spot for a day trip or weekend getaway. Visitors can also explore the nearby Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef.
17. Cape Tribulation
Cape Tribulation is a stunning region located just two hours north of Cairns. Home to an array of wildlife, including cassowaries, wallabies, and koalas, visitors can explore the area on a range of activities, including bushwalking, mountain biking, and horse riding.
18. Cairns Night Markets
The Cairns Night Markets are a great spot to explore the local culture and sample some of the region’s delicious cuisine. With over 100 stalls selling a range of local produce and souvenirs, the markets are the perfect spot to pick up a unique souvenir or two.
19. Mossman Gorge Centre
The Mossman Gorge Centre is a great spot to learn more about the region’s rich Indigenous culture. Visitors can take part in a range of activities, including bushwalking, art workshops, and cultural talks.
20. Kuranda Scenic Railway
The Kuranda Scenic Railway is a historic train journey that takes visitors through the stunning rainforest of the Atherton Tablelands. Along the way, visitors can admire the views of the rainforest and take in the sights of the nearby waterfalls.