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)

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

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)

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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.

From poolside bites and tasting flights to seafood plates and dry-aged steaks, a foodie adventure on Hamilton Island is worth every bite.

Hamilton Island’s sun-lacquered shores have long magnetised travellers craving an escape from reality. But what’s less expected – and more interesting – is just how assuredly this Whitsundays idyll delivers on the culinary front. Dialling up the flavour as much as the barefoot allure, the Hamilton Island food scene offers world-class dining and drinking options, spanning slick fine-dining moments to just-caught seafood served within sight of the sea. Let’s dig in.

Catseye Pool Club

Framing the electric blues of Catseye Beach from The Sundays hotel, Catseye Pool Club is Hamilton Island’s latest culinary prodigy. Shown to our table, we thread through rattan chairs, Zellige tiles and tumbling greenery that opens up to Coral Sea shimmer.

The poolside restaurant is the brainchild of Sydney-based chef duo Josh and Julie Niland, who have brought their relaxed yet elevated dining ethos north. The menu – designed to bring people together – is made for sharing, each hero ingredient orbited by a palette of sides to mix, match and layer as you please.

My thyme cocktail – woody with scotch, lifted by lime leaf – pairs perfectly with the charcoal grilled prawns entree, which is served with tumeric and lemongrass marinade, macadamia satay sauce and a thai-leaning sour green mango salad. Each forkful lands differently, but all are a delight. Then comes the coral trout. True to Josh Niland’s ‘scale-to-tail’ philosophy, the fish is presented whole in a theatrical crescent, a tiny fork stuck into its cheek in a nod to Niland’s declared prize cut. Ribbons of zucchini resembling gauzy curtains bring brightness and snap, while kasundi lends depth and warmth. It’s tongue-tantalising, special occasion dining with humanity.

Sails Restaurant

A more casual poolside dining scene awaits at nearby Sails Restaurant, where Eastern Mediterranean flavours are dished up with an island twist. Chermoula chicken skewers and barramundi souvlaki lie on the more filling side of the menu, while the sumac squid and stone-bread flatbread with za’atar – arriving alongside pomegranate molasses, beetroot hummus and crushed macadamias – are perfect light bites after a dip in the pool. And don’t miss the garlic lemon scallops.

The setting is equally part of the draw. Sunlight floods the high-ceilinged dining room, while outdoor tables look out across the glittering expanse of Catseye Beach. Holidaymakers in oversized sunglasses sip spritzes beneath umbrellas, the gentle clink of plates mixing with splashes from the adjacent pool. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to linger long after lunch.

Bommie

Tucked into a sleek curved wing of the Hamilton Island Yacht Club, Bommie delivers experiential fine dining with a sense of occasion. Led by award-winning Executive Chef Ryan Locke, the seasonal menu champions local and native Australian ingredients whipped up into a modern display of creative precision.

Inside the dim-lit dining room, guests can choose between the Tasting Menu or Chef’s Signature Degustation. Sourdough with pine oil sets the tone for the six-course tasting menu, beautifully presented in a bed of pine needles alongside smoked paperbark butter. I love how the squid ink choux pastry is served with flavour-popping native finger lime, which our waiter encourages us to eat caviar-style. Standout moments continue with the wattle-seed-crusted venison elevated by red fruit and pickled beetroot swirls; the meat is perfectly pink in the middle and an homage to the island’s history as a deer farm.

Pebble Beach

Exclusive to qualia Resort guests for lunch and dinner, Pebble Beach is Hamilton Island’s most serene expression of seasonal island dining. Ocean-facing chairs dot a timber deck that spills straight onto the resort’s private beach, while crystalline turquoise waters stretch to meet distant islands – a scene far prettier than any postcard could capture.

The recently refreshed menu doubles down on seasonality and bright, layered flavours. While the more substantial T-bone steak with hazelnut honey carrots tempts, we go lighter: Coffin Bay oysters with Champagne foam and keffir lime dust kick us off splendidly, followed by Byron Bay burrata served with balsamic and caramelised figs. The fennel and orange salad topped with succulent grilled chicken is utterly delectable, but it’s the zingy, oh-so-fresh soft shell fish tacos that I can’t stop thinking about. It all goes down a treat with a glass of delicate Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve Champagne.

Beach Club Restaurant

A lunch or dinner table at Beach Club Restaurant is best booked in advance – and it’s easy to see why. Looking out over the hotel’s palm-fringed infinity pool, the restaurant spotlights elegant contemporary Australian cuisine with a stellar (also Aussie-leaning) wine list to match.

I am completely enamoured by the grilled Queensland prawns, which are brought to life with a smoked compound, local fried curry leaves and lime. Digging into the butter-soft lamb rump served atop pea ragout and parsley Paris mash feels like a warm, nostalgic hug. And dessert – vanilla bean ice cream drizzled with hot salted honey and apple gel – ends the night on a high note.

Expect warm and discreet service; our waiter Marco tells us that the tiny decorative starfish on our table are there to help the staff remember whether we prefer sparkling or still water, so they don’t need to bother us by asking multiple times.

Talk & Taste with Courtenay Morgan-Fletcher

There’s more to Hamilton Island’s foodie scene than restaurant reservations alone. For wine-curious travellers seeking something a little more immersive, Beach Club has recently introduced Talk & Taste – a tutored tasting hosted by Bommie Assistant Manager and wine enthusiast Courtenay Morgan-Fletcher. Held twice weekly for a maximum of eight guests, the experience explores Australian wine culture through four thoughtfully selected drops paired with native-inspired bites.

We opt for the white wine and seafood option. Alongside pours from Eden Valley and Launceston, a nibbling platter arrives featuring sashimi, salmon roe, Mooloolaba prawn ceviche and palate-cleansing ginger. The seafood is pristine and pared back, allowing the wines to take centre stage.

The real highlight, however, is discovering just how nuanced winemaking can be. Courtenay speaks of viticulture as both art and science: harvest grapes a week too late and ripeness tips into ruin; plant the same varietal on different elevations and the sun, slope and water flow will shape entirely different expressions. Pinot noir, she explains, with its delicate skin and high water content, yields lighter fruit-forward wines, while thicker-skinned shiraz delivers depth and structure. I leave feeling fascinated and inspired by Courtenay’s evident passion.

coca chu

Sweet and hot. Sour and salty. Dining at ever-popular coca chu is a sensation-swirling experience that’s not to be missed if you’re a sucker for punchy Southeast Asian flavours. Located at the Main Pool end of Catseye Beach, this lively hangout is all swaying lanterns, driftwood, high beamed ceilings and giant open windows that let in the balmy ocean breeze.

Drawing from hawker traditions, the grilled betel leaf is a neat, vibrant mouthful of chilli fried cashews and spiced beef. The tofu surprises – soft beneath a tumble of dill, mint and coriander, and glossed in moreish peanut sauce. The massaman curry is pure comfort: creamy, fragrant, fall-apart meat. It’s generous and expressive cooking that I, for one, cannot get enough of.

Marina Cafe

Sometimes, all you crave on holidays is a bacon and egg roll done properly and a creamy fruit smoothie. Boasting harbour views, an easygoing atmosphere and clean modern interiors, Marina Cafe is a popular local haunt for a reason. The casual menu lures families and couples alike with its all-day brekky, seasonal salads and sandwiches – from a roasted pumpkin bowl to prosciutto and rocket on herby focaccia.

The acai bowl, topped with toasted nuts and berries, is a refreshing start to my day. Whether you sit in or takeaway, it’s a good-vibes-guaranteed place to refuel before or after your Whitsundays adventures.

Discover your foodie getaway now at hamiltonisland.com.au.