10 Best Things to Do in Cairns

Looking for what to do in Cairns? Sitting between the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient rainforests of Tropical North Queensland, Cairns is one of Australia’s greatest adventure gateways. The city itself is relaxed and tropical, with waterfront promenades, open-air restaurants and warm weather year-round — but the real magic lies in the reef, islands, waterfalls and national parks surrounding it.

Whether you’re snorkelling vibrant coral reefs, riding the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway through mountains, walking boardwalks in the Daintree or swimming at idyllic lagoon beaches, Cairns offers a mix of nature, culture and adventure like nowhere else in Australia. Here are the 10 best things to do in Cairns, crafted to help you explore the region at its fullest.

1. Explore the Great Barrier Reef by Snorkel, Dive or Cruise

No trip to Cairns is complete without experiencing the Great Barrier Reef — the world’s largest coral reef system and one of the planet’s natural wonders. Dozens of reef trips depart daily from the Cairns Marina, visiting outer-reef pontoons, coral gardens and marine-life hotspots.

Snorkelers can glide over colourful coral bommies filled with reef fish, while certified divers explore deeper sections dotted with giant clams, sea turtles, rays and occasionally reef sharks. Glass-bottom boats and semi-submersibles offer options for non-swimmers. Choose a full-day cruise for the best visibility and access to more remote sites.

2. Visit Kuranda via the Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

The journey to Kuranda is just as impressive as the destination. The Kuranda Scenic Railway climbs through dense rainforest, past waterfalls, bridges and dramatic mountain scenery, offering a historic and atmospheric ride up to the village.

For the return journey, take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway — a spectacular gondola ride gliding over rainforest canopies, river valleys and lookout points with panoramic views. Once in Kuranda, explore the markets, wildlife parks, cafés and galleries that give the village its creative, laid-back charm.

3. Wander Cairns Esplanade and Swim in the Lagoon

The Cairns Esplanade is the city’s social heart, where locals and visitors walk, cycle and enjoy the sea breeze. At its centre is the Cairns Lagoon, a huge, sparkling swimming pool overlooking the Coral Sea — perfect for cooling off year-round.

Public artworks, playgrounds, fitness stations, grassy picnic spots and weekend markets make the waterfront a lively area from morning to night. As the sun sets, the boardwalk fills with joggers, families, street performers and diners settling into seaside restaurants.

4. Visit the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation

North of Cairns lies the Daintree — the oldest tropical rainforest on Earth, rich in biodiversity and home to plants and animals found nowhere else. Guided tours and self-drive routes take you across the Daintree River (keep an eye out for crocodiles) and into a world of dense canopies, mangroves, beaches and elevated lookout points.

At Cape Tribulation, rainforest meets the reef in a dramatic fusion of jungle and coast. Boardwalks like Jindalba and Marrdja allow you to explore ancient ecosystems at your own pace, while guided night walks reveal nocturnal creatures in one of Australia’s most untouched environments.

5. Take a Day Trip to Fitzroy Island

Fitzroy Island is the easiest island escape from Cairns — just a 45-minute ferry ride away. Its clear water, walking trails and coral beaches make it ideal for swimming, snorkelling and lounging in the sun.

Hike to the summit for sweeping ocean views, snorkel from the shore to see vibrant coral and turtles, or relax at the famous Nudey Beach — often ranked among Australia’s most beautiful beaches. The island offers both adventure and tranquillity in equal measure.

6. Discover Waterfalls Along the Atherton Tablelands

Southwest of Cairns, the Atherton Tablelands offer rolling farmland, crater lakes, rainforest and some of Queensland’s most photogenic waterfalls. The famous Waterfall Circuit near Millaa Millaa includes Millaa Millaa Falls, Zillie Falls and Ellinjaa Falls — each surrounded by lush greenery.

Lake Eacham and Lake Barrine provide tranquil swimming and walking opportunities, while food stops like dairies, fruit farms and coffee plantations showcase the region’s local flavours. It’s an easy day trip that reveals a completely different landscape from the coast.

7. Encounter Wildlife at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is one of the best wildlife parks in Tropical North Queensland, known for its crocodile lagoon boat cruises, feeding shows and conservation-focused exhibits.

You’ll see saltwater and freshwater crocodiles up close, learn about their behaviour, and watch keepers handle reptiles safely. Kangaroos, cassowaries, koalas and other Australian wildlife round out the experience, making it a great family outing.

8. Explore Palm Cove’s Beachfront and Restaurants

Palm Cove, just north of Cairns, is a serene seaside village lined with palm trees, boutique hotels and upscale restaurants. Its long sandy beach is perfect for sunrise walks, gentle swims in stinger-safe enclosures and relaxed afternoons beneath the palms.

The beachfront esplanade offers a mix of cafés, bars and fine-dining spots overlooking the Coral Sea. Palm Cove’s stylish yet peaceful vibe makes it one of the region’s best places for a romantic dinner or quiet day by the water.

9. Take a Helicopter Flight Over the Reef and Rainforest

For a truly unforgettable perspective, take a scenic helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef or the rainforest mountains around Cairns. From the air, the colours of the reef — turquoise, emerald and deep blue — become even more vivid, revealing coral formations you can’t fully appreciate from the water.

Flights often pass over Green Island, Arlington Reef, Vlasoff Cay and dramatic stretches of rainforest and coastline. Many travellers say this is the highlight of their entire trip.

10. Use Cairns as a Base for Northern Queensland Adventures

Cairns is the ideal base for exploring the wider region of Tropical North Queensland. Whether you head to Port Douglas for luxury resorts and reef cruises, the Atherton Tablelands for highland scenery, or Mossman Gorge for Indigenous culture and crystal-clear rivers, the experiences vary widely within short travel distances.

You can also journey to the remote Cape York Peninsula if you’re looking for off‑the‑grid adventure. Cairns’ mix of convenience, nature and coastal beauty makes it the perfect launching point for exploring one of the world’s most biodiverse destinations.