The best things to do in Cairns
Cairns is a beautiful city located in the Far North Queensland region of Australia. Known for its tropical climate, natural beauty, and abundance of outdoor activities, it’s the perfect destination for those looking for a little adventure. Whether you’re interested in exploring the Great Barrier Reef, taking a rainforest hike, or just lounging on the beach, Cairns has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the top things to do in Cairns.
Explore the Great Barrier Reef
One of the top things to do in Cairns is to explore the Great Barrier Reef. This natural wonder is home to an abundance of marine life and colorful coral, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. There are a number of tour operators in Cairns that offer both half-day and full-day trips to the reef, so you can choose the option that best suits your schedule and budget.
Take a Rainforest Hike
Another popular activity in Cairns is taking a hike through the rainforest. The region is home to several national parks, including the Daintree Rainforest and Kuranda National Park, which offer a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. These trails will take you through lush vegetation, passing by cascading waterfalls, and giving you a chance to spot some of the local wildlife.
Visit Kuranda Village
Kuranda is a charming mountain village located in the rainforest, just a short drive from Cairns. The village is known for its arts and crafts markets, where you can find unique souvenirs and gifts. You can also take a scenic train or cable car ride to Kuranda, which offers stunning views of the rainforest and Cairns.
Relax on the Beach
Cairns is surrounded by beautiful beaches, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up some sun. Some of the most popular beaches include Palm Cove, Trinity Beach, and Clifton Beach. These beaches offer a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Go on a Night Tour
Cairns is also home to a diverse array of nocturnal creatures, so going on a night tour is a must. There are several tour operators that offer guided night walks and spotlight tours, where you can spot animals such as tree kangaroos, possums, and sugar gliders. It’s also a great opportunity to see some of the unique birds and insects that are only active at night.
Try Skydiving
For the more adventurous, skydiving is a must-do activity in Cairns. The region offers some of the most scenic skydiving locations in the world, with views of the Great Barrier Reef and rainforest. There are several skydiving companies that operate in Cairns, offering both tandem and solo jumps.
Visit the Botanic Gardens
For a more relaxed activity, consider visiting the Cairns Botanic Gardens. These beautiful gardens feature a diverse array of tropical plants and flowers, as well as a number of walking trails. The gardens also offer a variety of educational programs and events, making them a great option for families.
Take a Boat Tour
Cairns is surrounded by water, so it’s no surprise that taking a boat tour is a popularactivity. There are a variety of boat tours available, from reef and island hopping tours to sunset cruises and fishing charters. You can also take a scenic boat ride to the nearby islands, such as Green Island and Fitzroy Island, which offer beautiful beaches, snorkeling and diving opportunities, and a chance to spot some of the local marine life.
Visit the Cairns Esplanade
The Cairns Esplanade is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The esplanade features a large swimming lagoon, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a variety of food and drink options. It’s also a great spot to watch the sunset and catch a glimpse of the local street performers.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
For a truly unique experience, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the Cairns region. This activity offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a great way to see the Great Barrier Reef and rainforest from a different perspective.
In conclusion, Cairns offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. From exploring the Great Barrier Reef to taking a rainforest hike or skydiving, there’s something for everyone in this tropical paradise. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Cairns is the perfect destination for your next vacation.
