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.

Explore some of Australia’s most stunning coastlines on this epic route.

This scenic, 1800-kilometre Brisbane to Port Douglas road trip takes in some of Australia’s most beautiful landscapes, from the wildlife on Bribie Island to the rainforests of Far North Queensland. Our advice? Slow it down, take your time and really get to know this part of Australia.

Day 1: Brisbane to Noosa

Wake up in the luxurious Sofitel Brisbane Central , enjoy a hot buffet breakfast and a swim in the outdoor pool before hitting the road to travel north. Take the exit to Bribie Island to view the abundant wildlife.

aerial view of bribie island — Enjoy the beauty and animals of Bribie Island. (Image: TEQ)

In the afternoon, check into Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas hidden near Noosa National Park and spend the afternoon relaxing at the luxury Aqua Day Spa. Daredevils can book a seat on an Ocean View Helicopters tour and experience the adrenaline of exploring the Glasshouse Mountains from the air.

Before dinner, head to the Original Eumundi Markets just 25 minutes away or explore the nearby trails in the national park. For dinner, book a table at Park & Cove located just near your hotel and feast on a locally-sourced menu that changes with the seasons.

table spread at Park & Cove Novotel Sunshine Coast — Refuel at Park & Cove.

Day 2: Noosa to Bundaberg

Wake up to sounds of the rainforest outside your window and take the opportunity for a quick swim before you dive into a freshly cooked buffet breakfast at Park & Cove. After breakfast and an expertly brewed coffee, stroll down the hill and spend the morning shopping along Hastings Street in the various boutiques, or hire a kayak or surfboard and conquer the waves.

After lunch, head north for the three-hour drive to historic Bundaberg . If you feel like feeding a kangaroo or wallaby, visit the Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary . Once in Bundy, head to Spitter’s Farm just outside of town. This 160-acre property offers a unique experience in their deluxe glamping safari tents, where you can listen to the cows mooing as the sun sets.

baby kangaroo at australian wildlife Sanctuary — Say hello to the adorable creatures of Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. (Image: Jewels Lynch)

Day 3: Bundaberg to Rockhampton

Before getting back on the road, take time to visit the many museums, and, of course, the famous Bundaberg Rum Distillery for a tour. Then head to the Beef Capital of Australia, Rockhampton.

Although, ‘Rocky’ is surrounded by beef cattle farms, your first stop should be to the impressive Rockhampton Museum of Art , which features an art collection valued at over $16 million. Rest your head at the centrally-located Mercure Rockhampton overlooking the mighty Fitzroy River. Grab a quick swim in their outdoor pool before enjoying a steak at their in-house restaurant.

Day 4: Rockhampton to Mackay

Grab a strong coffee at your hotel and drive the short distance to the nearby Capricorn Caves for a morning tour of these natural limestone beauties. Then hit the road for the four-hour drive to Mackay.

Reward yourself with a swim in the large, resort-style pool at the Mantra Mackay . Overlooking the marina, it’s the perfect location from which to explore the city, before enjoying a sundowner and dinner at the popular Latitude 21 on the hotel terrace.

woman exploring the Capricorn Caves in queensland — Explore the Capricorn Caves. (Image: TEQ)

Day 6: Mackay to Townsville

Grab your breakfast to go, then head just out of town to Finch Hatton Gorge. Here, spend the morning ziplining 25 metres above the rainforest floor with Forest Flying . Head to Airlie Beach for lunch and a swim in the famous Airlie Beach Lagoon , before heading north to Townsville.

Hop on a 20-minute ferry – they leave regularly – and check into the stunning Peppers Blue on Blue Resort . Spend the evening swimming in their two pools with views across the private marina to Mount Cook National Park, before feasting on fresh seafood at their on-site restaurant, Boardwalk Restaurant and Bar.

aerial view of beach at Airlie Beach queensland — Dive into the crystal clear waters around Airlie Beach. (Image: TEQ)

Day 7: Townsville to Cairns

After a morning swim on one of Magnetic Island’s beautiful beaches, hop back on the ferry and travel north to the sleepy Mission Beach for lunch. You’ll be sandwiched by rainforest on one side, and the beach on the other.

Continue on to Cairns and check in at the centrally-located Novotel Cairns Oasis, where the lagoon-style pool and swim-up bar alone is worth the visit. Or continue north for 25 minutes to the coastal village of Palm Cove.

Once there it’s a tough choice between the luxurious, five-star Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple, or the beautifully designed Peppers Beach Club and Spa Palm Cove , where the pool has its very own beach.

two people in deck chairs by Novotel Cairns Oasis' lagoon-style pool — Relax by Novotel Cairns Oasis’ lagoon-style pool.

Day 8: To Port Douglas

No matter where you spent the night, your journey to Port Douglas will be one of the most scenic road trips you’ll ever experience. Following the coastline, travel past champagne-coloured beaches, offshore islands and submerged reefs, before rolling into town at Port Douglas.

Although you’ll be spoilt for choice with hotels, two of the best are Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas, which is closer to town (think stunning pool and walking distance to Macrossan Street) and the famous, five-star Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa , located a little further down the beach. If the 3000-metre-squared lagoon-style pool isn’t enough at this hotel, you’ll also find the exclusive Vie Spa and popular restaurant, Aluco Restaurant & Bar , widely known as being one of the finest restaurants in Port Douglas.

aerial view of pool at Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple — Revive from road-tripping in one of the best pools in Port Douglas.

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10 unforgettable day trips from Cairns