Explore The North: Your Ultimate List of Things to Do in Cairns

14 Best Things to do in Cairns

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Looking for things to do in Cairns? I’ve spent quite a few months living in Cairns, so here are my top recommendations for things to do in Cairns

With so many things to see in Cairns, it’s truly a tropical haven where adventure awaits you at every turn. It’s a backpacker’s dream. So when it comes to things to do in Cairns, it never disappoints.

So what are the top activities to do in Cairns & the tropical north?

Let’s explore them together!

Spend the Day in The Kuranda Rainforest

Situated just a short drive from Cairns, this majestic little mountain town is filled with artsy cafes and shops that will immediately make you want to explore.

Let’s not forget the abundance of wildlife as well. Kuranda has hundreds of wild bird species waiting for you to take a picture.

Best way to get there: The ideal way of getting from Cairns to Kuranda would be taking the bus from Cairns, as you can always get on the train once you arrive or you can always take the Kuranda Sky Rail.

Last but not least renting a car for the day is not out of the question, and while you’re there try to stay the night in the neighboring towns like Trinity Beach, etc…

Distance from Cairns: 33 minutes – 28km

Recommended Kuranda Tours: N. Queensland: Kuranda Rainforest Full-Day Tour

Make sure to pre book your tickets book your ticketst in advance during the summer months as this place get very busy with all the tourist.

Admire Baron Falls

One of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Australia. This day trip can be combined while visiting Kuranda, as it’s simply a 3 min drive by car.

Try to visit Barron Falls during the wet season if you can, as the water is flowing freely and with strength. During the dry season…not so much, but the view is still pretty cool, making a pretty sweet Cairns day trip nonetheless.

Always come prepared when going for a hike as well.

Best way to get there: The simplest way is with a rental car.

Distance from Cairns: 40 minutes – 34km

Recommended Tours: Half-Day Barron River White-Water Rafting

Dive the Great Barrier Reef

On the assumption that you’re an amateur or avid diver, Cairns is one of the best places in the world to dive, and there’s no better way of experiencing the Great Barrier Reef than on a Liveaboard.

From my personal experience, I went with Pro Dive (it was a pure affordable luxury) it’s simply one of those things to do in Cairns that you just cannot skip!

Do not forget to bring your anti-nausea medication if you’re prone to motion sickness. You don’t want to puke your brain out in the back of the boat.

Best way to get there: Taxi or walking to the marina from your hostel or hotel.

Distance from Cairns: 3 hours

Go Snorkeling in Port Douglas

Just a stone’s throw away from Cairns, Port Douglas makes for one of the most relaxing things to do in Cairns.

Port Douglas also makes for quicker options when visiting the Great Barrier Reef as the outer reefs are easily accessible from that region. While you’re there do a sunset cruise.

Best way to get there: A rental car will do if you want to explore by yourself.

Distance from Cairns: 1:10 hour – 68km

Recommended Tours: Outer Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise & Transfer

Go on Fitzroy Island Day Trip

Definitely one of the most tropical things to do in Cairns is to escape to Fitzroy Island for the day.

Assuming you love outdoor activities, Fitzroy has you covered. Rent a kayak and explore the island with your snorkel gear, or if you rather stay dry, explore the island on foot.

And while you’re there make sure to check out the turtle sanctuary where you will learn all about wildlife conservation.

Best way to get there: There’s only one way to get there, and that’s by Fitzroy Island ferry.

Distance from Cairns: 45 minutes

Go Swimming at Josephine Falls

Nestled away in the rainforest, Josephine Falls is regarded as one of the best waterfalls near Cairns and one of the laziest things to do around Cairns.

Be aware of the warning signs, and lastly, flash floods do happen during the rainy season, so be careful.

While you’re there, slide down the rocks on your bum.

Best way to get there: Renting a car for the day is a great option for this day trip.

Distance from Cairns: 1 hour – 75km

Bungee Jump at AJ Hacket Cairns

If you’re an adrenaline junkie like me, then you do not want to miss your chance at bungee jumping in the rainforest, right here in Cairns! This is totally is one of best things top to do in Cairns.

While you’re there, check out the other thrill seeker activities they offer.

Best way to get there: They offer free return transfers or you can rent a car.

Distance from Cairns: 18min – 17km

Go Shopping at The Cairns Night Markets

Wondering what things to do at night in Cairns? Head down to the Esplanade for a seafood feast at one of the many restaurants, and afterward make your way to the market where you will find all sorts of Aussie souvenirs.

Lastly, to top off the night. If you’re a gambler head on over to the nearby Cairns Casino and test your luck.

Listed below are a few restaurants I recommend.

Dundee’s at the Cairns Aquarium (seafood)
Bellocale Italian Seafood Restaurant (Italian Seafood)
Piato Cairns Restaurant (Mediterranean)

Explore The Daintree Rainforest

Looking for adventurous things to do in Cairns? Look no further than Daintree. Known as the oldest rainforest in existence, Daintree is the best place to see crocodiles in the wild.

It is critically important that you do not visit this place without a tour guide, as it can be extremely dangerous.

Best way to get there: Organized tour

Distance from Cairns: 2:10 hours – 125km

Recommended Daintree Tours: River Drift Snorkelling Tour in the Daintree.

Swim at Mossman Gorge

Located in Daintree National Park. Mossman gorge is known as a scenic hike, so make sure to come prepared. (comfortable shoes and pants)

Don’t forget your swimsuit as you may want to cool off in the pools.

Best way to get there: There’s a local bus that runs every 15 minutes. (13$ round trip from Cairns)

Distance from Cairns: 2:15 hours – 80km

Sky Dive Mission Beach

This world-famous beach will bring out the thrill-seeker in you.

With a picture-perfect coastline, skydiving here is one of my favorite things to do in Cairns.

Best way to get there: There’s a local bus that runs every 15 minutes. (13$ round trip from Cairns)

Distance from Cairns: 1:45 hours – 80km

Explore Cape Tribulation

Are you looking for a wild nature experience? Then, Cape Tribulation is 100% one of those things to do in Cairns.

Located in the furthest northern part of Australia, this peninsula is known for its wildlife and prehistoric animals such as the Cassowary. (yes they can kill you)

When visiting Cape Tribulation, I highly recommend getting a tour as this place can be unforgiving. You do not want to get into any danger. (always obey the signs)

Best way to get there: Renting a car for the day is a great option for this day trip.

Distance from Cairns: 3 hours – 145km

Unwind At The Atherton Tablelands

If you’re looking to escape all the hustle and bustle for the day, head on over to the Atherton Tablelands where you will find villages, wildlife, and lots of wine.

Making this one of the most memorable things to do in Cairns.

So if you’re a wine lover, make sure to check out one of their wine tours.

Best way to get there: There’s a local bus that runs every 15 minutes. (13$ round trip from Cairns)

Distance from Cairns: 3:30 hours – 245km

Recommended Tours: Atherton Tablelands: Boutique Foodie Tour.

Explore The Chillagoe Caves

Probably one of the most Aussie things to do in Cairns is visiting the Chillagoe Caves.

Once known as a thriving mining town, Chillagoe is now a very popular tourist attraction, surrounded by over 1000 caves just waiting to explore.

There are caves for every adventure level from easy, moderate, and difficult.

Let’s not forget the 100-year-old Outback pub! You don’t want to miss this one.

Best way to get there: Get a tour.

Distance from Cairns: 2:45 hours – 211km

Recommended Chillagoe Caves Tours: Chillagoe Caves and Outback from Cairns Full-Day Tour

Transportation in Cairns

Getting around Cairns is very easy. It’s such a small town that renting a pedal bike is ideal as everything is close by unless you head out of town.

If heading out of town to one of the adventures listed above, I recommend a rental car or simply a paid tour.

Read: The best ways of traveling around Australia

Where to stay in Cairns

With so many things to do in Cairns, there is no shortage of places to stay. View the map below to see what is available.

Are you looking for hostel instead? Check out my full article on youth hostels.

Looking for other Queensland articles? Here are some of my favorites.

Never travel without travel insurance!

As a digital nomad I always use SafetyWing, because it covers everything, and it's super affordable. The best part is that you can actually order the insurance if you already left for your trip. You can read my full review here

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