29 Unmissable Things To Do In Cairns

Wondering how to fill your time in Cairns? Tick off these must-do experiences.

As the gateway to Queensland’s tropical north, Cairns is home to the iconic Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics, as well as idyllic beaches, bustling markets, delicious restaurants, and a deep connection with Australia’s Indigenous cultures. Check out our list of 29 things to do on your next visit to Cairns.

1. Stroll along Cairns Esplanade

Want to stretch your legs and explore Cairns at the same time? Feel the sea breeze and the sun on your face on a gentle walk along the picturesque 2.5-kilometre boardwalk , passing parklands, public artwork, a water play area, playgrounds, and al fresco dining spots.

tall palm trees along Cairns Esplanade — Chase stunning sunset views along the Cairns Esplanade. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

2. Take a dip at Cairns Lagoon

Along the esplanade, you’ll also find the man-made 4800-square-metre saltwater lagoon offering all-year-round safe swimming with views out to Trinity Inlet.

an aerial view of Cairns Lagoon and Esplanade — Lush views of the Cairns Lagoon and Esplanade. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Hosting sandy shores and beach volleyball courts for everyone to enjoy, this is the closest beach to the city centre making it a convenient spot to stop for a dip. Nearby you’ll find public toilets and showers, lockers and electric BBQs. Aquatic wheelchairs are also available for visitors to use in the lagoon. Best of all — it’s free!

Cairns Lagoon at sunset — Find a sandy spot to sit on the manmade shore. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

3. Dine at Cairns’ cafes and restaurants

Speaking of al fresco dining spots, Cairns has plenty of great cafes and restaurants to eat your way around. Whether you’re looking for relaxed waterfront views along the esplanade, scenic beachfront dining, or fresh seafood straight off the trawler, you’re spoilt for choice on where to taste Tropical North Queensland’s vibrant flavours.

a seafood platter at Prawn Star, Cairns — Feast on freshly cooked seafood at Prawn Star. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

4. Get cultured at Cairns Art Gallery

Spend a morning at Cairns Art Gallery , the city’s only visual art museum. Housed in a heritage building, the gallery holds around 30 exhibitions throughout the year ranging from sculpture to photography to installation, with a strong focus on local and Indigenous artworks.

5. Immerse yourself at Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome

Got a rainy day to fill? Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome is a fantastic all-weather wildlife exhibit that immerses you in a rainforest environment while birds fly freely around you.

a person trying the zipline at Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome — Conquer your fear of heights at Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Here you can have your photo taken with a koala, enjoy Australian wildlife presentations, be educated about the region’s native fauna, and have a go on the world’s first high ropes course in a wildlife park where you’ll zipline directly over the resident crocodile Goliath.

a person conquering the obstacle course at Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome — Test your limits on the thrilling obstacle course. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

6. Browse the Cairns markets

With so many diverse offerings in Cairns, there are plenty of markets to explore, from stalls along the beachside promenade to those out in the rustic country and more in between.

The Cairns Night Markets are especially popular as they’re open every night of the week and offer over 70 market shops to explore including a varied food court.

It’s the perfect place to grab dinner and hunt for a bargain. With its lively atmosphere, Rusty’s Markets are also highly favoured and considered to be the best place to browse the region’s local produce.

two women buying fresh fruits at Rusty's Market — Stop by Rusty’s Market for an array of tropical fruits and fresh produce. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/ Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

7. Relax on a Cairns beach

With some of Queensland’s most stunning coastlines right here in Cairns, you’re never short of a spot to lay your towel. From the tranquillity of Trinity Beach to the spacious Four Mile Beach, take your pick from these top beaches and pack up the Esky for a day of sun, sea and sand. If you’re willing to drive an hour for a unique swimming spot, head to Babinda Boulders to swim surrounded by lush rainforest and giant granite boulders.

Trinity Beach in Cairns, Tropical North Queensland — Visit the tranquil Trinity Beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

8. Explore Palm Cove

Alongside Cairns’ beaches are some beautiful coastal towns to discover. The resort town of Palm Cove is especially lovely, giving you that instant ‘on holiday’ feeling. Here you’ll be greeted by a gentle pace and its signature Melaleuca trees along the esplanade with an array of restaurants, cafes and boutique shops to explore.

an aerial view of the beach in Palm Cove — Stroll along the beautiful beaches in Palm Cove. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland/Tourism Palm Cove)

9. Get to know Port Douglas

Or for a coastal town with a more upbeat vibe, set your sights on a day trip to charming Port Douglas. Just an hour’s drive north of Cairns, this tropical mecca is a gourmet hotspot for the foodies among us. After a long lunch and a spot of shopping, treat yourself to a day spa and sip sunset cocktails at the marina.

an aerial view of the Port Douglas Chapel — Dreamy ocean views from Port Douglas. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

10. Bar hop around Cairns

From rooftop sunset drinks at Rocco by Crystalbrook and outstanding craft beers at Hemingway’s Brewery , to a quick pick-me-up along the esplanade at Flamingos Tiki Bar , or even a late-night boogie with your favourite tipple at The Woolshed , there’s no shortage of pubs and bars in Cairns to wet your whistle.

a waterfront bar at Hemingway’s Brewery — Grab a cold pint at Hemingway’s Brewery. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

11. Chase waterfalls near Cairns

There are countless sparkling waterfalls and swimming holes to explore in Cairns’ vast backyard, including in the Atherton Tablelands, a lush region of green rainforest.

the Zillie Falls in Cairns — Zillie Falls is just breathtaking. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

For three of the best, head to The Waterfall Circuit and take in the sights of Millaa Millaa, Zillie, and Ellinjaa Falls. When you’re ready for refreshments, the Atherton Tablelands also has an incredible food trail to work your way around.

a woman dipping in Millaa Millaa Falls — Dive into the refreshing waters of Millaa Millaa Falls. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

12. Rise above Cairns in a hot air balloon

As the sun rises, see Cairns from above on a scenic hot air balloon ride offering 360-degree views of the miniature world below. Receive a commemorative certificate and a glass of bubbles or juice with a breakfast snack on landing. Don’t forget your camera to capture the Queensland pre-dawn amber glow.

hot air balloons in Cairns — Elevate your experience in Cairns with a hot air balloon ride. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

13. Dive on the Great Barrier Reef

A visit to Cairns isn’t complete without an adventure on the world-famous Great Barrier Reef. Want to see the coral and marine life up close? Join an all-inclusive day tour where you have the opportunity to jump right in and snorkel or dive.

diving at Great Barrier Reef — Dive into the depths of the famed Great Barrier Reef. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

For an added twist on your experience, different operators offer different tours, such as a waterslide on the reef with Sunlover Reef Cruises , an educational Indigenous-led tour with Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel , or an underwater observatory with Quicksilver Cruises .

an indigenous guide teaching traditional dance to children on board Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel — Join an educational Indigenous-led tour with Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

14. Travel to the mountain village of Kuranda

Make your way to quirky Kuranda via Skyrail , a 7.5-kilometre cableway that rises high above Barron Gorge National Park — part of Australia’s Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. On arrival, there’s plenty of charm to explore, including the bohemian shops, galleries, cafes, and outdoor markets of Coondoo Street, a cultural experience at Rainforestation Nature Park , or a peaceful stroll at the Butterfly Sanctuary . Travel back via the Kuranda Scenic Railway, a 37-kilometre railroad that traverses through valleys, past waterfalls and around mountaintops.

an indigenous performance at Rainforestation Nature Park, Cairns — Be in awe of the indigenous performances at Rainforestation Nature Park. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

15. Discover the Daintree Rainforest

Thought to be over 135 million years old, the Daintree Rainforest is the oldest surviving rainforest on earth and there are many ways to explore it.

an aerial view of a couple standing on a hanging bridge at Daintree Discovery Centre — Take in natural wonders from the Daintree Rainforest. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Venture along the family-friendly elevated boardwalk at the Daintree Discovery Centre, or join one of the many Daintree tours on offer – from learning about different bush foods and medicines with Walkabout Cultural Adventures to a guided tour at Mossman Gorge.

children having their face painted during Walkabout Cultural Adventures — Walkabout Cultural Adventures offers Indigenous-led tours of the Daintree. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

You can also spot crocs on the river (or float down the river yourself), or enjoy the most scenic ice cream of your life at Daintree Ice Cream Company .

a handful of wild fruits at Daintree Discovery Centre — Learn about the fruit of the forest at the Daintree Discovery Centre. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

16. Seek adventure experiences in Cairns

It’s no secret that Cairns is the adventure capital of Queensland but you might be surprised at how many high-adrenaline activities there are to get stuck into. Don’t mind heights? Skydive over the Great Barrier Reef or take a giant leap into the rainforest on a bungy jump . If you prefer to make a splash, enjoy the thrill of white water rafting , abseil in waterfalls , or have some extreme fun on a Bad Fishy jet boat ride.

people enjoying a Bad Fishy jet boat ride — Embrace a rush of adrenalin on a ride with Bad Fishy. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

17. Go beach horse riding

Experience the beauty of Cape Tribulation on a guided horse-riding tour through the majestic Daintree Rainforest on your way to Myall Beach. On arrival, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the coastline with views of the Great Barrier Reef and walk your horse into the shallow waters — it’s the perfect holiday photo snap.

an aerial view of a guided horse-riding tour at Cape Tribulation — Journey through Cape Tribulation on a guided horse-riding tour. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

18. Escape to a tropical island off Cairns

If you’re dreaming of a white patch of sand, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear water, a tropical island paradise is exactly what you can find off the coast of Cairns. A couple of the most accessible to get to are Fitzroy Island and Green Island — both just 45 minutes away via ferry. Snorkel, bushwalk, order lunch with a cocktail, or just simply relax.

an aerial view of Fitzroy Island Resort, Cairns — Your well-deserved tropical getaway awaits on Fitzroy Island. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

19. Take a scenic flight above Cairns

Looking for the ultimate Cairns luxury experience? The signature helicopter tour from Nautilus Aviation is a journey of a lifetime flight to Vlasoff Cay. Departing Cairns in your private charter, soak in the amazing aerial views over the rainforest-clad coastline and across the waters of the Coral Sea before touching down on Vlasoff Cay, a major jewel in the Great Barrier Reef crown. Here you can enjoy the sand beneath your toes, relax in the shallows, or snorkel in the coral reef waters. A gourmet picnic hamper with sparkling wine is served under your private beach umbrella.

an aerial view of a helicopter touching down a beach in Cairns, Nautilus Aviation — Admire the beauty of Cairns on a scenic flight with Nautilus Aviation. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

20. Meet the marine life at Cairns Aquarium

Without having to get wet, spend the day exploring the world above and below the water at Cairns Aquarium . With more than 16,000 aquatic animals to meet and greet, it’s the ideal activity for marine life lovers, and you can see the habitats native to Tropical North Queensland too. While you’re there, get up close and personal with the rescued sea turtles on a rehabilitation centre tour.

a look inside the Cairns Aquarium — Get up close and personal with marine life at the Cairns Aquarium. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

21. Go back in time to Cairns Museum

Discover the interesting stories of Cairns’ past and present at Cairns Museum where you’ll learn all about living in the tropics. From the railways and the rainforest to cyclones and Indigenous resistance, it’s a fascinating insight into the region’s history.

a look inside the Cairns Museum — Get to know the fascinating history of the region at Cairns Museum. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

22. Explore the beauty of Cairns Botanic Gardens

Green thumbs rejoice. Just a short drive north of the city centre, Cairns Botanic Gardens is known as one of the best exhibits of tropical plants in the country. It also has a rainforest boardwalk, a freshwater lake, and a nature playground. Free guided tours are available and it’s a great spot to take the kids to burn some energy.

a woman in yellow admiring a butterfly — Spot diverse species of butterflies at Cairns Botanic Gardens. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

23. Do a spot of shopping in Cairns

If you’re a lover of quirky things then you’ll probably lose yourself down the little laneway that is Oceana Walk . This retail arcade is home to a collection of eclectic stores selling everything from boho-chic clothing to eco toys to vintage books and vinyl records. Be sure to stop by Blackbird Laneway espresso bar for a pick-me-up of fresh, locally roasted coffee. For big-name brands, head to Cairns Central Shopping Centre , the largest shopping centre in Tropical North Queensland with over 170 stores.

24. Splash around at Cairns Aqua Park

Watersports enthusiasts will love the inflatable water playground at Cairns Aqua Park — a lot of fun for the whole family! It’s a great way to cool off and burn some energy. There are even kneeboarding and wakeboarding lessons available.

25. Swim with Minke Whales

Did you know the Great Barrier Reef is the only place in the world where you can swim with dwarf minke whales ? Combine that with this only being available in June and July, which means it’s one of Cairns’ most exclusive experiences. To come face-to-face with these majestic creatures, hop onto a liveaboard expedition (typically for three to seven days) with Mike Ball Dive Expeditions , Divers Den or Pro Dive .

a minke whale swimming in the water — Come face-to-face with Minke Whales. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

26. Hear the stories of our Indigenous peoples

Queensland’s tropical north is the only place you’ll find both of Australia’s Indigenous cultures — Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Explore Mossman Gorge on the Dreamtime Walk where you’ll visit sacred sites and witness a traditional smoking ceremony; watch the Pamagirri Dance Show at Rainforestation Nature Park; try spear and boomerang throwing with Walkabout Cultural Adventures or learn from the Indigenous Sea Rangers on a Dreamtime Dive and Snorkel tour.

Mossman Gorge near Cairns, Tropical North Queensland — Explore Mossman Gorge in the Daintree. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

27. Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures

One of the oldest-running tourist attractions in the Cairns region is Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures . Daily activities include breakfast with the koalas, cassowary feeding, and a boat cruise to spot crocodiles.

a ranger pole feeding a crocodile during a crocodile feeding presentation, Hartley's Crocodile Adventures — Get a chance to spot salties up close. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

In between shows, make sure to wander the 2.5-kilometre boardwalk through melaleuca wetlands and eucalypt woodland to enjoy a wide variety of native and exotic animals.

a group of tourists feeding a crocodile in Cairns — Sign up for Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures and experience feeding the big crocs for yourself. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

28. Relax at a luxurious Cairns day spa

If you’re ready to kick back and sink into a massage, the good news is Cairns has plenty of pamper treatments to choose from. Palm Cove is particularly well known for its luxurious day spas including the Reef House Boutique Hotel & Spa ; their signature spa package includes a botanical body exfoliation, a full body hydration massage, and a seasonal spa facial. Or for something closer to the city centre, Eléme Day Spa at Crystalbrook Riley has a flexible menu so their therapists can personalise each treatment to best suit you.

Crystalbrook Riley Cairns, Tropical North Queensland — Visit Eléme Day Spa at Crystalbrook Riley. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

29. Hop aboard a Cairns Fishing Charter

Want to enjoy the luxury of having your own skipper and crew on a private fishing charter? Spend the day with Cairns Reef Fishing for an enjoyable deep-fishing experience chasing some classic reef species.

an aerial view of people fishing from Cairns Reef Fishing boat — Cast a fishing rod from your private boat with Cairns Reef Fishing. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

A full range of quality fishing gear is provided, and the knowledgeable crew is happy to help you learn if you’re looking to improve your fishing skills.

a couple taking photos of a fish they caught, while on a Cairns Reef Fishing tour — You might catch a big fish if you’re lucky. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Looking for more things to do? Check out the best tours in Cairns by interest.

City buzz, gourmet trails, surf breaks and art scenes are all at your fingertips.

When it comes to planning a trip, picking a holiday destination is the easy part. The real dilemma is where to set yourself up for the night. Do you go coastal, city, or countryside? Somewhere remote and rugged, or right in the action? Luckily, the Sunshine Coast, and huge number of amazing Sunshine Coast day trips, have kindly made the choice for you.

Ditch the hotel-hopping and suitcase-lugging. Instead, base yourself at Novotel Sunshine Coast or Mantra Mooloolaba , where big-city culture, vine-covered valleys, and theme parks are all within a two-hour drive.

1. Sunshine Coast to Brisbane

Drive time: 1 hour 20 minutes (105km)

Shake off the sand from your sandals and swap the beach for the throb of the Queensland capital. Ease in gently with a bougainvillea-filled stroll through South Bank, iced latte in hand, before cooling off at Streets Beach lagoon – Brisbane’s answer to the coast (but without the waves).

Once firmly in big-city mode, hit up the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) , home to Australia’s largest collection of modern and contemporary artworks. Dive into the past at the Queensland Museum, where prehistoric fossils of Australian dinosaurs and megafauna collide with First Nations cultural collections and interactive science exhibits.

All this learning got you hungry? Howard Smith Wharves calls. Here, riverside dining delivers breweries with meat-forward menus, Japanese fine dining and overwater bars. If you’ve got room for more, Fortitude Valley’s shopping boutiques await you and your wallet.

woman walking around Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) — Wander the Gallery of Modern Art. (Image: TEQ)

2. Sunshine Coast to the Scenic Rim

Drive time: 2 hours 15 minutes (170km)

Make your way inland to the Scenic Rim for the state’s best vineyards and age-old volcanic slopes. Start your day early (like, sparrow’s breakfast early) at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat in Lamington National Park . Here, take a treetop walk through the canopy and hand-feed the wild birds who flock here.

Next, it’s your turn to eat. Here, the food scene operates where locally sourced produce is an expectation, not an exception. Order a picnic basket crammed with regional wine and cheese to devour next to the creek at Canungra Valley Vineyards . Or perhaps a grazing platter of vegan and non-vegan cheeses at Witches Falls Winery .

Feeling bold? Tackle the Twin Falls circuit in Springbrook National Park. Or keep the gourmet life going with a Scenic Rim Brewery tasting paddle, best enjoyed while taking in the rise of the Great Dividing Range.

woman with cheese and wine at Witches Falls Winery — Enjoy a cheese platter at Witches Falls Winery. (Image: TEQ)

3. Sunshine Coast to the Gold Coast

Drive time: 2 hours (180km)

Surf, sand and sparkling skylines might be the Gold Coast’s MO, but there’s more to Surfers Paradise and beyond. Kick things off with a beachfront coffee at Burleigh Heads, then hike through Burleigh Head National Park to look over the ocean and whale sightings (dependent on the season, of course).

Cool off in the calm waters of Tallebudgera Creek before chowing down on the famously buttery Moreton Bay bug rolls at Rick Shores . Travelling with the kids? Then you can’t miss Australia’s theme park capital, with Dreamworld ’s big rides and Warner Bros. Movie World ’s Hollywood treatment at hand to keep the family entertained.

aerial view of Tallebudgera Creek — Dive into Tallebudgera Creek. (Image: TEQ)

4. Sunshine Coast to Tweed Heads

Drive time: 2 hours 15 minutes (200km)

Dare to cross enemy lines? Then welcome to New South Wales. Tweed Heads blends the laid-back attitude of the Northern Rivers with high-quality dining, experimental art, and farm-fresh indulgence – a combo worth the drive.

Start strong with a long, lazy brunch at Tweed River House , then swing by Tropical Fruit World for exotic finds like red dragon fruit, handfuls of lychees and black sapote. Next, hit M|Arts Precinct – an art deco hub of micro galleries, artist workshops and one-off boutiques.

Round off the day with sunset drinks at Husk Distillers among the glowing cane fields, and order one with their famous Ink Gin. You’ll thank us later.

exterior of Husk Distillers — Taste the famous Ink Gin at Husk Distillers. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Sunshine Coast Hinterland

Drive time: 1 hour (70km)

Strap on those hiking boots and make tracks inland, where volcanic peaks, misty rainforest and hinterland townships beckon. Ease in with the Glass House Mountains Lookout Walk, or, if you have energy to burn, tackle the Mount Ngungun Summit Walk for a 360-degree sight of the surrounding summits.

Next: Montville. This township delivers European-style architecture and old-world appeal. Nearby, settle in at Flame Hill Vineyard, where a large pour of estate-grown wine comes with encompassing views of the countryside.

Not ready to leave the hinterland villages just yet? Of course not. Meander past art galleries and indie shops at Maleny. Nab some fudge from Sweets on Maple for a sweet fix. Or go salty at Maleny Dairies with a farm tour and a chunky wedge of their deliciously creamy cheese.

End the day among the eucalypts and rainforests of Kondalilla National Park. Here, the Kondalilla Falls Circuit winds down through trees humming with life to a rock pool beneath a waterfall – as if designed for soaking tired feet before heading back to the coast.

view of Mount Ngungun on the scenic rim queensland — Take on the Mount Ngungun Summit Walk (Image: TEQ)

Start planning your Sunshine home base at all.com.