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

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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

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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.

Consider this your cheat sheet to holidaying on Hamilton Island with the clan.

Keeping everyone in your crew happy on holidays is no small feat. Yet ask any parent who’s been and they’ll unanimously agree Hamilton Island multi-gen travel overdelivers – for many reasons.

Taking the family to this premier island destination is a rite of passage for many Aussie parents. Not only is Hamo stuffed to the brim with fun activities to suit all ages, but it’s accessible, safe and super easy to get around thanks to its relatively small size. And I suppose the fact that it’s undeniably stunning doesn’t hurt either.

Whether you’re spending time together creating magical memories or relaxing while giving the young ones some kids’ club time, this guide breaks down everything there is to know about holidaying on Hamilton Island for families.

Getting there, and around

Hamilton Island multi-gen travel on a buggy — Hire a buggy and explore at your own pace.

The easiest and most fuss-free way to get to Hamilton Island is to fly to Great Barrier Reef Airport, located on the island. Qantas, Virgin and Jetstar offer short, direct flights from most major Australian cities, including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Cairns. Alternatively, fly to Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP) near Airlie Beach, then take a ferry from Shute Harbour with Cruise Whitsundays, which operates services daily.

Once you’re here, rental buggies make it easy to zip around from A to B (not to mention being a fun activity in themselves – the kids will love it).

Where to stay

Reef View Hotel Pool Terrace hamilton island multi-gen travel — Reef View Hotel offers pool and sea. (Credit: Kara Rosenlund)

Part of what makes Hamilton Island so appealing is its diverse range of family-friendly accommodation. Many include return airport or marina shuttles, along with complimentary use of non-motorised watersports equipment – making it easy to relax as soon as you step foot on the island.

Reef View Hotel is one of the most popular picks due to its spacious suites perfect for larger families and proximity to the island’s resort centre – a happening hub of restaurants, pools and water activities.

Meanwhile, families looking for something more self-contained can check into Palm Bungalows. Each modern bungalow is enveloped by lush tropical gardens and offers a kitchenette, bar fridge, microwave and coffee facilities – plus a private balcony for card games and evening drinks.

pool and sup boarders at The Sundays hamilton island — Take in pool and sea at The Sundays.

The Sundays is another fantastic option for families. The newest hotel on Hamilton Island, it has serious bragging rights thanks to its coastal chic design and stellar location at the end of Catseye Beach. Opt for one of the Family Connect Rooms for extra breathing room.

For that relaxed, home-away-from-home feeling, Hamilton Island Holiday Homes hit the nail on the head. Choose from more than 100 self-catering homes dotted around the island that accommodate both large groups and smaller families. From waterfront luxury to spacious villas, there’s something for everyone.

Family tip: Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows and The Sundays all participate in Hamilton Island’s Kids Stay Free program, earning themselves a reputation as some of the best family-friendly accommodation on Hamilton Island. No extra charge is added for up to one or two (dependent on the hotel) children under 12 who are sharing a room with parents and using existing bedding.

Where to eat

coca chu on hamilton island — Sit down to a feast at coca chu.

Hamilton Island’s foodie scene is seriously worth its salt. From just-caught seafood to family-friendly staples, even the fussiest of eaters will be satisfied.

Start at coca chu, one of the best Hamilton Island restaurants for families. Spotlighting vibrant Southeast Asian flavours, it offers a lively, high-ceiling setting overlooking Catseye Beach. Nearby is Catseye Pool Club, Josh and Julie Niland’s breezy coastal venue that’s at once elevated and laidback. Dishing up the likes of charcoal tiger prawns with lemongrass marinade and Greek-style lamb shoulder, it’s the perfect place to celebrate birthdays or milestone moments with older kids.

Got young ones who recoil at the sight of vegetables? Not to worry. Head straight to Romano’s for please-all pizza, or Marina Tavern for hearty pub classics in a relaxed atmosphere complete with an outdoor deck.

Catseye Pool Club hamilton island — Grab some tasty bites by the pool at Catseye Pool Club.

For brekkie or lunch, Bob’s Bakery is a family favourite for affordable pastries, sandwiches and pies, while Marina Cafe serves up bacon and egg rolls and salads with fresh smoothies. And Popeye’s does a mean fish and chips to go.

Sails Restaurant is the place to be for poolside bites with views of the Whitsundays’ famous turquoise waters. The kids can splash in the pool while parents sip spritzes and graze on mezze plates of za’atar pita, hummus and olives. The menu leans Mediterranean and Middle Eastern, though you’ll also find plenty of kid-friendly crowd favourites such as ham and cheese toasties. For something extra special, book in the Piper Package – expect exclusive access to a king-size sunbed with a shaded umbrella, plus a chilled bottle of Piper-Heidsieck NV Champagne and a showstopping seafood platter (I still have dreams about it).

Where to explore

hamilton island couple running on trail — Explore the island’s walking trails.

There are bucket loads of family-friendly activities on Hamilton Island that the whole clan can do together. First stop: hiring a buggy and taking your time to explore the island at your own pace. Next stop: getting active and creating memories together in the process.

One of the best activities on Hamilton Island for families is tackling one (or more) of its beautiful bush and walking trails, with the one-hour hike to Passage Peak a standout for panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Morning is a great time to go to beat the heat (and other walkers).

For the active and adventurous, the all-new E-mountain biking facilities make for an adrenaline-packed experience your teens won’t be able to stop talking about. It’s a self-guided trail taking riders to some of the island’s quietest and most scenic pockets, and the knowledgeable staff at Hamilton Island Trails HQ will fit you out with all the gear you need for a safe adventure.

E-mountain biking on hamilton island — Check out the all-new E-mountain biking facilities.

Come sunset, you’d be silly not to head up to One Tree Hill at least once during your stay. Offering breathtaking 360-degree views as the sun brushes the horizon with gold, it’s a popular place for groups and families to come together and enjoy a drink from the pop-up cocktail van.

Family tip: If you’re staying at the Sundays, Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows or Hamilton Island Holiday Homes, you’ll enjoy complimentary access to a range of water activities, including catamarans, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and snorkel equipment at Catseye Beach. Keep an eye out for the turtles that love to hang around the shallow fringing reef.

Where to play

heart reef — Take the family on a day tour to places like Heart Reef.

Kids are sure to have a field trip thanks to the island’s abundance of child-centric offerings.

Parents in need of some ‘me time’ can drop little ones between six months and 12 years off at the Clownfish Club, located near the Resort Centre and Pool. Overseen by trained professionals, the nursery offers a calm space for toddlers and babies with a balance of gentle play and rest. Meanwhile, older kids can unleash their imaginations with age-appropriate craft, games and group activities.

Parents seeking a stress-free night out can also make use of Hamilton Island’s babysitting services, which start from $40 an hour.

Hamilton Island Wildlife is another must-visit stop. Fun for children of all ages (and adults too!), the centre provides up-close encounters with a variety of cute and fascinating Aussie animals. Think marsupials, snakes, lizards, koalas and kangaroos, along with a giant saltwater crocodile. Catch the 10am or 2pm daily tours (included with entry) guided by expert keepers, or opt for a 30-minute private or small-group VIP encounter with an animal of your choice.

More kid-friendly entertainment awaits at Palm Valley Activities, where you can race around the go-karting track and reach up to 45 kilometres per hour. Kids under 16 can ride as passengers in double go-karts. Or perhaps try your hand at mini golf at the HI Fitness Club, navigating palms, playful challenges and pathways that wind through lush tropical gardens.

Keen to explore further afield? A wide range of Hamilton Island day trips promise endless excitement, from snorkelling on a Great Barrier Reef tour and chartering a boat to marvelling at the swirling sands of Whitehaven Beach from a scenic plane.

To plan your family island escape, visit hamiltonisland.com.au.

10 unforgettable day trips from Cairns

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

1. The Great Barrier Reef

2. Kuranda

3. Palm Cove

4. Port Douglas

5. Daintree Rainforest & Mossman Gorge

6. Atherton Tablelands Waterfall Circuit

7. Mission Beach

8. Cape Tribulation

9. Chillagoe-Mungana Caves National Park

10. Fitzroy Island

The dreamiest Airbnbs in Cairns to call home

Palm Cove is getting a breezy new resort just steps from the beach

The ultimate guide to the best accommodation in Cairns

13 hotels and resorts in Cairns you should know about

Why Hamilton Island is perfect for multi-gen travel

Consider this your cheat sheet to holidaying on Hamilton Island with the clan.

Getting there, and around

Where to stay

Where to eat

Where to explore

Where to play

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

1. The Great Barrier Reef

2. Kuranda

3. Palm Cove

AI Prompt

4. Port Douglas

5. Daintree Rainforest & Mossman Gorge

6. Atherton Tablelands Waterfall Circuit

7. Mission Beach

8. Cape Tribulation

9. Chillagoe-Mungana Caves National Park

10. Fitzroy Island

The dreamiest Airbnbs in Cairns to call home

Palm Cove is getting a breezy new resort just steps from the beach

The ultimate guide to the best accommodation in Cairns

13 hotels and resorts in Cairns you should know about

Consider this your cheat sheet to holidaying on Hamilton Island with the clan.

Getting there, and around

Where to stay

Where to eat

Where to explore

Where to play