Awe-Inspiring Day Trips From Cairns

Get to know one of Queensland’s most adventurous cities.

A place of natural beauty, Tropical North Queensland has plenty of places to explore right on Cairns’ doorstep. Whether you want to glide above the ancient rainforest, dive on the Great Barrier Reef or relax on a tropical island, here are 11 incredible day trips from Cairns.

1. The Great Barrier Reef

Perfect for: Ticking off your bucket list

The coral reef that needs no introduction, this vast UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is best accessed from Cairns where a wide range of tour operators base themselves. Really, a visit to Cairns without at least one trip out into the blue would be criminal.

the Spirit of Freedom cruising along the Great Barrier Reef — The Spirit of Freedom is one of many cruise operators on the reef. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Some visitors commit days to exploring all that the Great Barrier Reef has to offer from a liveaboard, but you can easily get a taste with just a day to spare.

Swim, snorkel, sail or dive among the 400 types of coral and 1500 species of fish that the reef plays home to: you might even witness coral spawning, whales migrating or turtles nesting.

snorkelling with Divers Den at the Great Barrier Reef — Book a snorkelling trip with Divers Den to scour the barrier reef for marine life. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Distance from Cairns: Many boats depart from Cairns Marlin Marina (a five-minute drive from the city centre) or from Port Douglas. The reef boat journey can take between 45 minutes and two hours depending on your destination.

2. Kuranda

Perfect for: Nature and shopping

This mountain village of Kuranda is perhaps best known as the home of Skyrail: a seven-and-a-half-kilometre cableway that rises above the resplendent green canopy of Barron Gorge National Park – part of Australia’s Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.

train windows peeking through a waterfall at Kuranda Scenic Railway — Kuranda Scenic Railway winds through scenic valleys and past majestic waterfalls. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

It’s also home to the Kuranda Scenic Railway, a 37-kilometre-long railroad that traverses through valleys, past waterfalls and around mountaintops.

You can do both in one day with the combined railway and cableway round trip between Cairns and Kuranda.

the train at Kuranda Scenic Railway, Brett's Kuranda Tours — Journey through the rainforest on the Kuranda Scenic Railway. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

But beyond the big-ticket attractions, the town of Kuranda has some draws of its own too. Shop local in Kuranda Village around the bohemian shops, galleries, cafes and outdoor markets of Coondoo Street, enjoy a cultural experience at Rainforestation Nature Park , or take a peaceful stroll at the Butterfly Sanctuary .

a butterfly resting on a leaf at Australian Butterfly Sanctuary — The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary features a diverse range of butterfly species. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Distance from Cairns: 40 minutes to Kurnda directly. Alternatively, drive 20 minutes to Smithfield Terminal to catch the Skyrail there.

3. Palm Cove

Perfect for: Lazy relaxation

The coastal suburb of Palm Cove has become a destination in its own right – so much so that many catch the shuttle here straight from Cairns Airport and never venture outside of its postcode.

an aerial view of Palm Cove — Set foot on the sandy shores of Palm Cove. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

The balmy shores of this ‘tropical village by the sea’ are lined with palm trees, smart-casual cafes and restaurants, plus plentiful hotel spas and colourful boutiques.

While away an afternoon (or longer) exploring the colourful esplanade and strolling along the beach with ice cream, or hit the water by canoe, stand-up paddleboard, jet ski, or catamaran. And don’t leave without visiting the standout local restaurant Nu Nu (bookings highly recommended).

a woman drinking by the beach at Nu Nu Restaurant, Palm Cove — Dine on the sand at Nu Nu Restaurant. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Distance from Cairns: 30 minutes

4. Port Douglas

Perfect for: Tropical fun

Another nearby coastal town worth visiting is Port Douglas which is just as relaxing and luxurious as its Palm Cove cousin, yet it’s much bigger and its nightlife has far more energy.

sunrise at Port Douglas — Picture perfect scenes at Port Douglas. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

A day spent here can be easily filled by splashing in the warm waters of Four Mile Beach, dining at award-winning restaurants, shopping at the weekly markets, hopping on board a sunset cruise or creating your very own bar crawl.

a couple strolling along the beach in Port Douglas — Take advantage of the remote beauty and romance of Port Douglas. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Distance from Cairns: One hour

5. Daintree Rainforest & Mossman Gorge

Perfect for: Ancient culture

Part of the World Heritage Wet Tropics Rainforest, the Daintree is the world’s oldest tropical rainforest and a must-do experience when in Tropical North Queensland. When you’re not looking around in awe at this green wonderland, you can see a croc in the wild, enjoy a walking tour of the Daintree Ice Cream Company orchard or visit the Mossman Gorge Centre .

Learn more when you join a guided Indigenous ecotourism experience led by the Kuku Yalanji people as you walk among the thick of the forest, hear about the plants used as medicine, identify bush foods, and take part in a traditional smoking ceremony to ward off bad spirits on the Dreamtime Walk.

a young woman at rainforest creek at Mossman Gorge — Mossman Gorge is a green wonderland you’ll struggle to leave. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Distance from Cairns: One hour 15 minutes

6. Atherton Tablelands Waterfall Circuit

Perfect for: Easy-going wandering

For incredible scenery, magnificent waterfalls and delicious food all in one day trip, The Waterfall Circuit is for you.

Fit in as little or as much as you’d like, but some of the best itinerary items include grabbing freshly roasted coffee from the farm at Skyburry Cafe & Roastery , exploring the main trio of waterfalls (Millaa Millaa, Zillie and Ellinjaa), taking a break with Devonshire Tea at Lake Barrine Teahouse and tasting homemade ice cream at Mungalli Creek Dairy .

the Zillie Falls in Atherton Tablelands Waterfall Circuit — Zillie Falls is a beautiful cascade sandwiched between dense greenery. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Distance from Cairns: One hour and 40 minutes

7. Mission Beach

Perfect for: Exploring off the beaten track

Part of the Cassowary Coast, Mission Beach is full to the brim with natural beauty. It’s made up of four gorgeous beach villages (Bingil Bay, North Mission, Wongaling Beach and South Mission), all linked by 14 kilometres of golden beach so there is plenty to discover.

Aside from uncrowded beach time and local cafe gems, there’s a surprising amount of high-adrenaline activities to get stuck into. From tandem skydiving and white water rafting to exploring the Outer Great Barrier Reef , you’ll leave feeling like you’ve accomplished something unbelievable.

a couple relaxing at v — Take it slow in Mission Beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Or for something a bit more sedate but no less intriguing, nearby is Paronella Park. This surreal parcel of land has a stone structure that resembles a small castle hidden among a plethora of verdant foliage. The park’s ‘refreshment rooms’ were inspired by the late owner’s childhood memories of Catalan castles. Stay a while and stroll around the park, soaking up the abundant flora and fauna and admiring Mena Creek Falls.

Mena Creek Falls in Paronella Park — Paronella Park is renowned for the magnificent Mena Creek Falls. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/ Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Distance from Cairns: Two hours

8. Cape Tribulation

Perfect for: Scenic bushwalking

This remote headland is a wildly photogenic spot for a day trip. Known as the place where the rainforest meets the reef, go beyond the surface of Cape Trib with a bushwalk.

an aerial view of Kulki Beach — Embark on a bush walk to see sweeping views of Kulki Beach from above. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The easy Kulki Boardwalk is a great place to start as it’s just a 10-minute round-trip with promising views over the Coral Sea and Cape Tribulation Beach.

an aerial view of the Cape Tribulation Beach — Cape Tribulation Beach is where the rainforest meets the reef. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Otherwise, you can put your tastebuds to the test at a rare exotic fruit farm . Or, if you’d like to dial up the adventure a notch, then canter through the rainforest or the shallow waters of the sea on a guided horse ride .

Go on a guided horse ride at Cape Tribulation. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Distance from Cairns: Two hours 40 minutes

9. Chillagoe-Mungana Caves National Park

Perfect for: Exploring the unknown

The perfect tonic for hot sticky days when temperatures above ground are too much, join a ranger on a Chillagoe-Mungana Caves guided tour to discover spectacular limestone caves, small galleries of Aboriginal rock art, and a historically significant mining site.

the Balancing Rock in Chillagoe under the sky full of stars — The Balancing Rock in Chillagoe looks majestic under the night sky. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Whether you’re a budding geologist or travelling with curious kids, these subterranean limestone beauties are thoroughly engrossing. Wondering which cave to choose?

Donna Cave features beautiful columns and calcite crystals. Trezkinn Cave boasts an impressive ‘chandelier’ formation. And the vast Royal Arch Cave promises 11 different chambers, ancient marine fossils, and the novelty of carrying a hand-held lamp to explore. Good luck picking — you may as well do them all!

the Royal Arch Cave Chillagoe in Chillagoe-Mungana Caves National Park — Royal Arch Cave features spectacular stalactites. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Distance from Cairns: Two hours and 50 minutes

10. Fitzroy Island

Perfect for: Outdoor adventure

There are a few dreamy islands off the coast of Cairns but if we had to choose one that offers both paradise and adventure in equal measure, Fitzroy Island takes the prize.

a scenic aerial view of Fitzroy Island — Off the coast of Cairns is the stunning tropical paradise of Fitzroy Island. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Home to one of Australia’s best beaches (Nudey Beach), spectacular walking trails, easy access to the fringing reef and an abundance of island tours and activities, there is plenty to pack into a day here.

an aerial view of the turquoise waters of Nudey Beach — Slip into the turquoise waters at Nudey Beach. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Without question though, snorkelling is a real highlight and if you’re travelling light, you can hire equipment from the island’s resort. Peckish? Enjoy lunch on the outdoor terrace of Zephyr Restaurant or a cheeky cocktail at Foxy’s Bar & Cafe .

a couple enjoying a cocktail at Foxy’s Bar & Cafe overlooking Fitzroy Island — Sip a cocktail at Foxy’s Bar & Cafe with overlooking views of Fitzroy Island. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Distance from Cairns: A 45-minute ferry ride from the city’s Reef Fleet Terminal

Written by Chloe Cann with updates by Jemma Fletcher.

All day tripped out and want to flop on a Cairns beach? Check out the ultimate guide to Cairns’ beaches.

As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?

Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.

Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.

Noosa Rivermouth And Main Beach — Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.

Where to eat in Noosa

Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.

There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).

There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .

diners at Lucio's Marina in noosa in winter — Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)

Where to stay in Noosa

Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.

There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.

For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.

a beachfront swimming pool at Netanya Noosa — Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)

Things to do on land

There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.

A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.

Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.

woman enjoying the view after hiking through Noosa National Park, noosa in winter — Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)

Things to do in the water

Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.

You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.

Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.

For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.

women kayaking through Noosa everglades noosa in winter — Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)

Book your winter getaway in Noosa at visitnoosa.com.au.

10 unforgettable day trips from Cairns