25 Unmissable Things To Do In Cairns

The ultimate Cairns bucket list starts here.

Fresh seafood. Ancient rainforest. The world’s largest coral reef. Cairns packs more experiences into one destination than almost anywhere else in Australia.

From bustling markets and waterfront dining to rainforest walks, wildlife encounters and rich Indigenous culture, these are the experiences worth making time for.

In short

If you only do one thing in Cairns, explore the Cairns Esplanade. From the Lagoon and waterfront boardwalk to cafes, restaurants, playgrounds and public art, it’s the heart of the city and the perfect place to experience Cairns’ laid-back tropical lifestyle.

Best family activity: Cairns Aquarium
Best local experience: Rusty’s Market
Best free activity: Cairns Botanic Gardens
Best rainforest escape: Kuranda
Hidden gem: Cairns Museum
Best adventure: Hot air ballooning

Explore Cairns city

Waterfront walks, bustling markets, galleries and tropical day spas make it easy to fill a day without ever leaving the city centre.

1. Stroll along Cairns Esplanade

More than just a waterfront promenade, the Cairns Esplanade is the city’s social hub. Our favourite time? Sunrise, when locals are out walking before the tropical heat sets in. Start your morning with a coffee, wander the foreshore, cool off in the Lagoon or linger over lunch overlooking Trinity Inlet. The Esplanade also hosts regular markets, festivals and community events throughout the year.

2. Take a dip at Cairns Lagoon

the Cairns Lagoon — Cool off at the family-friendly Cairns Lagoon. (Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Need to cool off? The 4,800-square-metre saltwater lagoon is the closest thing to a beach in the city centre. It’s completely free, and aquatic wheelchairs are available for visitors to use in the Lagoon. It’s especially popular in the late afternoon when the weather cools.

3. Go back in time at Cairns Museum

inside the Cairns Museum — Gain insight into Tropical North Queensland at the Cairns Museum. (Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Discover the fascinating stories of Cairns’ past and present at Cairns Museum, where you’ll learn what it’s like to live in the tropics. From the railways and rainforest to cyclones and the rich histories of the region’s First Nations peoples, it’s a fascinating insight into Tropical North Queensland.

4. Get cultured at Cairns Art Gallery

Housed in a landmark heritage building, Cairns Art Gallery showcases an ever-changing program of historical and contemporary works by leading regional, national and international artists. Escape the heat and explore at your own pace, or join an art class, talk or special event.

5. Browse the Cairns markets

Peruse the rustic stalls at the Kuranda Original Rainforest Markets. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland/Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Whether you’re hunting for souvenirs, local produce or an easy dinner, Cairns’ markets have you covered. Browse more than 70 stalls at the bustling Cairns Night Markets, then join the locals at Rusty’s Markets, where colourful displays of tropical fruit, just-picked produce and artisan treats capture the flavours of Tropical North Queensland.

Good to know: Visit Rusty’s on Friday morning for the best produce selection.

6. Eat and drink your way around Cairns

Tuck into a seafood platter at Prawn Star Cairns. (Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Fresh local seafood, tropical produce and waterfront dining are all part of the Cairns experience. Spend the day cafe hopping, book a long lunch overlooking the marina or finish with cocktails as the sun sets over Trinity Inlet. For more inspiration, browse our guides to the best Cairns restaurants, cafes and bars.

Meet the wildlife

Cairns is one of Australia’s best places to encounter marine life, native wildlife and tropical species found nowhere else.

7. Discover the underwater world 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, 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.

Good to know: Allow at least two hours to explore.

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

8. Immerse yourself at Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome

the high ropes challenge course at Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome — Conquer the high ropes course at Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome

Got a rainy day to fill? Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome is an all-weather wildlife exhibit that immerses you in a rainforest environment while birds fly freely around you. 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, where you’ll zipline directly over the resident crocodile Goliath.

9. Get up close at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures

a big croc at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures — Experience feeding the big crocs for yourself. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Home to crocodiles, cassowaries, koalas and more, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures has been introducing visitors to Australian wildlife for decades. Daily activities include breakfast with the koalas, feeding the cassowaries, and a boat cruise to spot crocodiles. In between shows, make sure to wander the 2.5-kilometre boardwalk through the Melaleuca wetlands and eucalypt woodland to enjoy a wide variety of native and exotic animals.

Good to know: Arrive by 11am to catch the crocodile boat cruise and all of the wildlife presentations.

Adventure activities

Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or a new perspective, Cairns is Australia’s adventure capital.

10. Skydive, bungy jump or white-water raft

Go abseiling over a waterfall in Cairns. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland)

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 jet boat ride.

11. Rise above Cairns in a hot air balloon

hot air balloon in Cairns — Elevate your experience in Cairns with a hot air balloon ride. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland)

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.

Good to know: Tours depart before sunrise, so expect an early start.

12. Splash around at Cairns Wake Park

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

Explore the rainforest and nature

Ancient rainforest, freshwater swimming holes and tropical beaches are all within easy reach of the city.

13. Wander the beauty of Cairns Botanic Gardens

Admire the botanical displays in the Cairns Botanic Gardens Conservatory. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland)

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.

14. Walk the Red Arrow Trail

Lace up your runners and tackle the Red Arrow Trail, one of Cairns’ best free activities. Winding through rainforest on the edge of the Cairns Botanic Gardens, this popular 1.3-kilometre loop rewards walkers with lush tropical scenery, plenty of birdlife and sweeping views over the city. It’s a favourite with locals looking to start the day with a workout or escape into nature without leaving town.

Insider tip: Keep an eye out for colourful Ulysses butterflies along the track.

15. Cool off at Crystal Cascades

Just 20 minutes from the city centre, Crystal Cascades is where locals head when the tropical heat kicks in. This series of freshwater swimming holes, waterfalls and rainforest walking tracks offers a refreshing escape from the city, with plenty of spots to spread out for a picnic or take a dip. It’s free to visit and easily one of Cairns’ best natural attractions.

Insider tip: Visit early in the morning to enjoy the pools before they become busy on warm weekends and school holidays.

16. Chase waterfalls near Cairns

The magnificent Millaa Millaa Falls from above. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland)

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. 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.

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17. Explore the Daintree Rainforest

the Daintree Discovery Centre boardwalk — Stroll along the oldest surviving rainforest on earth. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Believed to be more than 135 million years old, the Daintree Rainforest is the oldest surviving rainforest on earth, and there are many ways to explore it. Venture along the family-friendly elevated boardwalk at the Daintree Discovery Centre, learn about different bush foods and medicines with Walkabout Cultural Adventures, join a guided tour at Mossman Gorge, 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.

18. Relax on a Cairns beach

Trinity Beach, Cairns — Unwind at Trinity Beach. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Golden sand, swaying palms and warm Coral Sea waters make Cairns’ beaches hard to resist. Pack up your Esky for a day of sun, sea and sand with Trinity Beach, Holloways Beach and Yorkeys Knob all offering their own laid-back slice of tropical paradise.

Experience the Great Barrier Reef

No trip to Cairns is complete without spending time on the Great Barrier Reef.

19. Dive or snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef

diving in Cairns — Dive into the depths of the stunning Milln Reef. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland)

There’s no better place to experience the Great Barrier Reef than in the water. Join an all-inclusive day tour where you can jump right in and snorkel or dive. For an added twist on your experience, pick your point of interest, 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.

20. Escape to a tropical island off Cairns

Fitzroy Island Resort from above — Fitzroy Island Adventures offers full-day ferry transfers. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland)

White sand, swaying palms and crystal-clear water await on the tropical islands just offshore from 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 simply relax.

21. Take a scenic flight above Cairns

a scenic flight to Vlasoff Cay with Nautilus Aviation — Admire the Great Barrier Reef from above on a scenic flight. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Seeing the Great Barrier Reef from above is something you’ll never forget. The signature helicopter tour with Nautilus Aviation is a journey of a lifetime. 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.

Explore beyond Cairns

One of the best things about staying in Cairns is how much you can see within an hour’s drive. These nearby destinations make easy additions to your itinerary.

22. Visit Palm Cove

The Reef House, Palm Cove — Dine in the award-winning restaurant at The Reef House. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Slow the pace in Palm Cove, where towering melaleucas, beachfront restaurants and boutique shopping create an instant holiday feeling. Spend a few hours strolling the esplanade, lingering over lunch or browsing the village’s boutique stores.

23. Explore Port Douglas

Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas — Unwind at the palm-fringed Four Mile Beach. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland)

An hour north of Cairns, Port Douglas blends excellent restaurants, boutique shopping and Four Mile Beach into one effortlessly stylish seaside town. After a long lunch and a spot of shopping, treat yourself to a day spa and sip sunset cocktails at the marina.

24. Ride the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Cairns — Ride the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to experience the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Gliding high above the rainforest canopy, the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is one of the most spectacular ways to experience the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. The 7.5-kilometre journey from Smithfield to Kuranda passes over Barron Gorge National Park, with stops where you can wander boardwalks and admire the mighty Barron Falls from scenic lookouts.

Good to know: Combine it with the Kuranda Scenic Railway for the classic round trip.

25. Explore Kuranda Village

a butterfly at the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary — The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is home to thousands of butterflies in the heart of Kuranda Village. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland/Tourism Australia)

Once you’ve arrived in Kuranda, take your time exploring this quirky rainforest village. Browse the famous Kuranda Markets, meet native wildlife, visit the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary or spend a few hours at Rainforestation Nature Park, where you can ride an Army Duck through the rainforest and experience the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience. It’s the ideal place to slow down before making the journey back to Cairns.

Noosa’s magic extends beyond the sun and sand. Uncover this popular region’s natural charms and secret spots to get more from your visit.

Wander through bushland and paperbark forests, linger on a curve of quiet beach, hit the water or hike up a mountain. Whether you’re seeking long languid lunches, savouring the region’s best food and wine, are ready to rejuvenate or are up for an active adventure, there are Noosa experiences for everyone.

Winter is the perfect time to visit – it’s still warm enough to bask in Queensland’s sunshine and mild temperatures while discovering the natural beauty and sustainable experiences that make this region so popular. It’s easy to see why Australian Traveller readers voted Noosa Australia’s top town to visit.

1. Explore the hinterland

Two women kayaking during a Noosa experiences. — Kayak through Noosa’s peaceful hinterland.

Choose your Noosa experience – kayaking, abseiling, rock climbing, camping or hiking – with Noosa-based Adventure Tribe. They host guided experiences throughout the region, including in Rainbow Beach, Cooloola and the stunning Noosa Everglades.

Small group tours with Joel’s Journeys combine hinterland villages with wine and cheese or chocolate tasting, a gourmet lunch, waterfalls, the Everglades and memorable views.

Plan ahead for the Great Noosa Trail Walk. This 56-kilometre three-day trek into the Noosa Biosphere will help you reconnect with nature over the October long weekend.

2. Accommodation to suit all budgets

The bedroom at Elysium Noosa Resort noosa experiences. — Book into Elysium Noosa Resort. (Image: Elise Hassey)

Indulge in luxury at one of Noosa’s premium resorts or bring the family for a laidback beach-focused holiday. Anywhere you choose will mean you’re never far from the vacation vibes of Hastings Street.

The recently rebranded Elysium Noosa Resort has given new life to one of the most central spots in Noosa Heads, while Number One in Hastings Street offers a range of luxury one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and exclusive penthouse suites, surrounded by the national park and boutique shopping.

Families will love the space and pools of Mantra French Quarter Noosa. Over at RACV Noosa Resort, a water park and games room compete with the beach for the kids’ attention while adults indulge in the day spa or hit the tennis court or gym.

For couples, Noosa Blue Resort’s studios and one-bedroom suites have sweeping river, bay and hinterland views from its perch atop Noosa Hill. With two outdoor heated pools, spa, steam room, yoga studio and more, it’s the complete package.

Travelling on a budget? Halse Lodge offers heritage-listed colonial-style accommodation for backpackers and budget travellers without sacrificing style or comfort, and is just a few minutes’ walk from the beach. Family-friendly Ivory Palms has three pools, a children’s playground, jumping pillow, tennis courts and more.

3. Reset and rejuvenate

the massage bed at Sensaura Day Spa, Noosa experiences — Unwind with spa treatments at Sensaura Day Spa.

Banish stress, slow down and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Noosa while indulging in pampering treatments. Reset and recalibrate with packages from one of the many day spas – try Sensaura Day Spa Noosa or Noosa Springs Spa.

Noosa Bespoke offers three thoughtfully designed packages that focus on wellness, active adventures and fresh local produce, all with a focus on sustainability, allowing guests to choose their own way of discovering Noosa.

For something different, try forest bathing and take a walk in Noosa National Park.

4. New dining experiences

Cibaria Noosa experiences — Enjoy authentic Italian at Cibaria Noosa. (Image: Elise Hassey)

Stroll Hastings Street to find your own dining vibe. For authentic Italian, head to Cibaria Noosa for everything from a coffee and pastry to amazing pasta and seafood platters.

Over in Noosa Junction, try something lighter at Atelier Wine Bar. Taste a selection of bar food and platters including charcuterie, cheeses, oysters and more. Then finish off with ‘dessert in a glass’.

Order out or dine in at Somedays Pizza, where all the ingredients for the organic, wood-fired pizzas are sourced from local farmers, artisans and winemakers.

5. Where the locals eat

Rickys River Bar And Restaurant noosa experiences — Enjoy waterfront views at Rickys. (Credit: Manuel Freudenmann)

Perennial favourites Bistro C, Season Restaurant Noosa and Sails are absolute beachfront dining options overlooking Laguna Bay. You can almost feel the sand between your toes as you enjoy some of the finest cuisine on offer.

Locale Noosa’s seasonal Italian menu features handmade pasta, traditional antipasti and delectable desserts. On the riverfront, Rickys River Bar and Restaurant has been luring the locals for years; come for the elegant setting and fabulous food and wine, and stay for the sunsets.

6. Spot humpback whales

humpback whale sighting noosa experiences — Spot whales from May to October. (Credit: The Edit Suite)

There are plenty of great places to watch the gentle giants of the sea make their annual migration from Antarctica to the warm waters of the Queensland coast between May and October.

To see whales at play and teaching their calves to breach and tail slap, head to Hell’s Gates or Dolphin Point in Noosa National Park, or to one of the many vantage points along the coast from Sunshine Beach to Peregian Beach. For closer encounters, book a whale-watching boat tour.

7. Take a country drive

Three people walking towards Pomona during a Noosa getaway. — Sample craft spirits at local distilleries.

Download the Noosa Country Drive map from the Visit Noosa website, or pop into the visitor information centre for a printed copy, then jump in the car to explore craft breweries, gin distilleries, bookshops, country pubs, scenic lookouts and cute cafes.

Through the villages of Cooroy, Pomona, Eumundi, Cooran and Kin Kin, look out for local markets and galleries for that special souvenir. Want to stay longer? There are farm stays, boutique B&Bs and glamping tents to rest your head. Take time to go horse riding or mountain biking, ride a steam train or explore a small museum. And don’t forget to pick up some fresh produce from a roadside stall.

8. Explore the eastern beaches

Sunshine Beach near noosa — Visit Sunshine Beach, just minutes from Noosa. (Credit: Amy Higg Photo)

Noosa’s near neighbour beaches, Peregian and Sunshine, are just a short drive south. Peregian Square has boutique shopping, vintage finds, homewares, day spas and antiques, and weekend markets are held twice a month in the beachside park.

Drop into the Peregian Beach Hotel for a meal and live music, or head to the Sunshine Beach Surf Life Saving Club for views of the patrolled beach. Grab a coffee or juice at plastic-free Sunshine Social and linger on the deck under the pandanus trees.

9. Discover the Noosa River

A scenic boat trip during a Noosa getaway. — Discover Noosa from the water on a scenic boat trip.

Taking time out on the Noosa River is a serene way of exploring more of this region. Whether by canoe or kayak, a small boat or scenic boat trip, being on the water gives a new perspective on Noosa.

Head to Terrace Marina for small boats and great coffee, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and jet skis to explore independently, or join Noosa River Cruise Co for a romantic gondola ride.

At sunset, board the Noosa Queen to cruise along the river – cool drink in hand – to the shores of Lake Cooroibah.

Start planning your Noosa getaway at visitnoosa.com.au.