things to do in cairns australia

Cairns, Australia is a popular tourist destination in tropical North Queensland, known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Here are some things to do in Cairns:

1. Snorkel or dive the Great Barrier Reef: The world’s largest coral reef system is just off the coast of Cairns, and numerous tour operators offer day trips to the reef.
2. Daintree Rainforest: Explore the oldest continuously surviving rainforest on earth, with guided walks, birdwatching, and opportunities to spot native wildlife.
3. Kuranda Scenic Railway: Take a scenic train ride through the rainforest to the charming town of Kuranda, known for its markets, art galleries, and Aboriginal culture.
4. Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: For a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest, take a cable car ride above the treetops.
5. Cairns Esplanade Lagoon: A popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnics, this man-made lagoon is a great place to relax.
6. Cairns Night Markets: Every night, the Cairns Night Markets offer a wide range of stalls selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food.
7. Fitzroy Island: A short ferry ride from Cairns, this island offers snorkeling, swimming, and hiking opportunities, as well as a historic lighthouse.
8. Tjapaltjarri Aboriginal Cultural Centre: Learn about the traditional culture and history of the local Aboriginal people at this interactive cultural centre.
9. Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome: For a unique wildlife experience, visit this dome-shaped zoo, where you can interact with koalas, crocodiles, and other native animals.
10. Great Barrier Reef fishing: Try your hand at catching some of the reef’s famous seafood on a fishing charter.
11. Bungy jumping: For the adventurous, take the leap of faith from a 45-meter tower overlooking the Coral Sea.
12. Cairns Museum: Discover the region’s history and culture at this museum, which features exhibits on the city’s early days, the Aboriginal people, and the natural environment.
13. Walsh’s Pyramid: Just south of Cairns, this 922-meter mountain offers hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
14. Barron Gorge National Park: Explore the park’s scenic lookouts, waterfalls, and hiking trails, which offer opportunities to spot native wildlife.
15. Green Island: A coral cay just off the coast of Cairns, Green Island is a popular spot for snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing.
16. Cairns Marine Tour: Take a guided boat tour to explore the marine life of the Great Barrier Reef, including sea turtles, rays, and colorful fish.
17. Cairns Art Gallery: Showcasing the work of local and regional artists, this gallery features a diverse range of exhibitions and installations.
18. Tropical North Queensland Wine Region: Visit the local wineries and vineyards to taste some of the region’s award-winning wines.
19. Cairns to Atherton Tablelands: Take a scenic drive through the hills and valleys of the Atherton Tablelands, known for its stunning views, waterfalls, and picturesque towns.
20. Hot air ballooning: For a unique and breathtaking experience, take a hot air balloon ride over the Atherton Tablelands at sunrise.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Cairns. The city and its surrounding areas offer a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to different interests and ages.