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.

Consider this your cheat sheet to holidaying on Hamilton Island with the clan.

Keeping everyone in your crew happy on holidays is no small feat. Yet ask any parent who’s been and they’ll unanimously agree Hamilton Island multi-gen travel overdelivers – for many reasons.

Taking the family to this premier island destination is a rite of passage for many Aussie parents. Not only is Hamo stuffed to the brim with fun activities to suit all ages, but it’s accessible, safe and super easy to get around thanks to its relatively small size. And I suppose the fact that it’s undeniably stunning doesn’t hurt either.

Whether you’re spending time together creating magical memories or relaxing while giving the young ones some kids’ club time, this guide breaks down everything there is to know about holidaying on Hamilton Island for families.

Getting there, and around

Hamilton Island multi-gen travel on a buggy — Hire a buggy and explore at your own pace.

The easiest and most fuss-free way to get to Hamilton Island is to fly to Great Barrier Reef Airport, located on the island. Qantas, Virgin and Jetstar offer short, direct flights from most major Australian cities, including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Cairns. Alternatively, fly to Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP) near Airlie Beach, then take a ferry from Shute Harbour with Cruise Whitsundays, which operates services daily.

Once you’re here, rental buggies make it easy to zip around from A to B (not to mention being a fun activity in themselves – the kids will love it).

Where to stay

Reef View Hotel Pool Terrace hamilton island multi-gen travel — Reef View Hotel offers pool and sea. (Credit: Kara Rosenlund)

Part of what makes Hamilton Island so appealing is its diverse range of family-friendly accommodation. Many include return airport or marina shuttles, along with complimentary use of non-motorised watersports equipment – making it easy to relax as soon as you step foot on the island.

Reef View Hotel is one of the most popular picks due to its spacious suites perfect for larger families and proximity to the island’s resort centre – a happening hub of restaurants, pools and water activities.

Meanwhile, families looking for something more self-contained can check into Palm Bungalows. Each modern bungalow is enveloped by lush tropical gardens and offers a kitchenette, bar fridge, microwave and coffee facilities – plus a private balcony for card games and evening drinks.

pool and sup boarders at The Sundays hamilton island — Take in pool and sea at The Sundays.

The Sundays is another fantastic option for families. The newest hotel on Hamilton Island, it has serious bragging rights thanks to its coastal chic design and stellar location at the end of Catseye Beach. Opt for one of the Family Connect Rooms for extra breathing room.

For that relaxed, home-away-from-home feeling, Hamilton Island Holiday Homes hit the nail on the head. Choose from more than 100 self-catering homes dotted around the island that accommodate both large groups and smaller families. From waterfront luxury to spacious villas, there’s something for everyone.

Family tip: Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows and The Sundays all participate in Hamilton Island’s Kids Stay Free program, earning themselves a reputation as some of the best family-friendly accommodation on Hamilton Island. No extra charge is added for up to one or two (dependent on the hotel) children under 12 who are sharing a room with parents and using existing bedding.

Where to eat

coca chu on hamilton island — Sit down to a feast at coca chu.

Hamilton Island’s foodie scene is seriously worth its salt. From just-caught seafood to family-friendly staples, even the fussiest of eaters will be satisfied.

Start at coca chu, one of the best Hamilton Island restaurants for families. Spotlighting vibrant Southeast Asian flavours, it offers a lively, high-ceiling setting overlooking Catseye Beach. Nearby is Catseye Pool Club, Josh and Julie Niland’s breezy coastal venue that’s at once elevated and laidback. Dishing up the likes of charcoal tiger prawns with lemongrass marinade and Greek-style lamb shoulder, it’s the perfect place to celebrate birthdays or milestone moments with older kids.

Got young ones who recoil at the sight of vegetables? Not to worry. Head straight to Romano’s for please-all pizza, or Marina Tavern for hearty pub classics in a relaxed atmosphere complete with an outdoor deck.

Catseye Pool Club hamilton island — Grab some tasty bites by the pool at Catseye Pool Club.

For brekkie or lunch, Bob’s Bakery is a family favourite for affordable pastries, sandwiches and pies, while Marina Cafe serves up bacon and egg rolls and salads with fresh smoothies. And Popeye’s does a mean fish and chips to go.

Sails Restaurant is the place to be for poolside bites with views of the Whitsundays’ famous turquoise waters. The kids can splash in the pool while parents sip spritzes and graze on mezze plates of za’atar pita, hummus and olives. The menu leans Mediterranean and Middle Eastern, though you’ll also find plenty of kid-friendly crowd favourites such as ham and cheese toasties. For something extra special, book in the Piper Package – expect exclusive access to a king-size sunbed with a shaded umbrella, plus a chilled bottle of Piper-Heidsieck NV Champagne and a showstopping seafood platter (I still have dreams about it).

Where to explore

hamilton island couple running on trail — Explore the island’s walking trails.

There are bucket loads of family-friendly activities on Hamilton Island that the whole clan can do together. First stop: hiring a buggy and taking your time to explore the island at your own pace. Next stop: getting active and creating memories together in the process.

One of the best activities on Hamilton Island for families is tackling one (or more) of its beautiful bush and walking trails, with the one-hour hike to Passage Peak a standout for panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Morning is a great time to go to beat the heat (and other walkers).

For the active and adventurous, the all-new E-mountain biking facilities make for an adrenaline-packed experience your teens won’t be able to stop talking about. It’s a self-guided trail taking riders to some of the island’s quietest and most scenic pockets, and the knowledgeable staff at Hamilton Island Trails HQ will fit you out with all the gear you need for a safe adventure.

E-mountain biking on hamilton island — Check out the all-new E-mountain biking facilities.

Come sunset, you’d be silly not to head up to One Tree Hill at least once during your stay. Offering breathtaking 360-degree views as the sun brushes the horizon with gold, it’s a popular place for groups and families to come together and enjoy a drink from the pop-up cocktail van.

Family tip: If you’re staying at the Sundays, Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows or Hamilton Island Holiday Homes, you’ll enjoy complimentary access to a range of water activities, including catamarans, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and snorkel equipment at Catseye Beach. Keep an eye out for the turtles that love to hang around the shallow fringing reef.

Where to play

heart reef — Take the family on a day tour to places like Heart Reef.

Kids are sure to have a field trip thanks to the island’s abundance of child-centric offerings.

Parents in need of some ‘me time’ can drop little ones between six months and 12 years off at the Clownfish Club, located near the Resort Centre and Pool. Overseen by trained professionals, the nursery offers a calm space for toddlers and babies with a balance of gentle play and rest. Meanwhile, older kids can unleash their imaginations with age-appropriate craft, games and group activities.

Parents seeking a stress-free night out can also make use of Hamilton Island’s babysitting services, which start from $40 an hour.

Hamilton Island Wildlife is another must-visit stop. Fun for children of all ages (and adults too!), the centre provides up-close encounters with a variety of cute and fascinating Aussie animals. Think marsupials, snakes, lizards, koalas and kangaroos, along with a giant saltwater crocodile. Catch the 10am or 2pm daily tours (included with entry) guided by expert keepers, or opt for a 30-minute private or small-group VIP encounter with an animal of your choice.

More kid-friendly entertainment awaits at Palm Valley Activities, where you can race around the go-karting track and reach up to 45 kilometres per hour. Kids under 16 can ride as passengers in double go-karts. Or perhaps try your hand at mini golf at the HI Fitness Club, navigating palms, playful challenges and pathways that wind through lush tropical gardens.

Keen to explore further afield? A wide range of Hamilton Island day trips promise endless excitement, from snorkelling on a Great Barrier Reef tour and chartering a boat to marvelling at the swirling sands of Whitehaven Beach from a scenic plane.

To plan your family island escape, visit hamiltonisland.com.au.