Things to do in Cairns

Activities, attractions and tours

A coastal town with dense forest, a mountain, and a large body of water.
A beach with people, palm trees, and a lifeguard flag.
A colorful building with a sign reading "Palace" and various businesses on the ground floor.
A marina with boats docked, surrounded by lush greenery and mountains in the background.
A waterfall in a forested area with rocks and a person sitting by the water.

Things to do

passengers aboard amphibious DUKW drive through jungles in Cairns

Army Duck Tour of the Rainforest

€21
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Army Duck Tour of the Rainforest
Ocean Spirit Michaelmas Cay & Reef Cruise

Ocean Spirit Sail to Michaelmas Cay on the Great Barrier Reef

€112
per traveller
100% of travellers recommend
Ocean Spirit Sail to Michaelmas Cay on the Great Barrier Reef
Cairns: Koalas and Creatures Entry Ticket

Cairns: Koalas and Creatures Entry Ticket

€13
per adult
Cairns: Koalas and Creatures Entry Ticket
relaxing at the deck of a ship in Australia

Full-Day Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise & Snorkeling Tour

€168
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Full-Day Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise & Snorkeling Tour
The Cairns Museum is two blocks walk from Cairns Esplanade and the Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal - Cnr Lake and Shields Streets, Cairns -

Skip the Line: Cairns Museum Single Admission Ticket

€9
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Skip the Line: Cairns Museum Single Admission Ticket
Kuranda Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise

Kuranda Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise

€18
per adult
Kuranda Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise
Couple snorkeling among abundant coral reefs and marine species at the Green Island Reef in Cairns

Big Cat Green Island - Great Barrier Reef Cruise

€61
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
Big Cat Green Island - Great Barrier Reef Cruise
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What to do in Cairns

Stay near popular Cairns attractions

A large public swimming pool with people swimming and playing, surrounded by buildings and mountains in the background.
Photo by Tourism and Events Queensland
Open Photo by Tourism and Events Queensland

Cairns Esplanade

9.2/10 (7,071 reviews)
A vibrant 2.5-kilometer waterfront promenade with the iconic Esplanade Lagoon overlooking the Coral Sea. Enjoy free fitness classes, picnic areas, or dine at waterfront cafés while watching the sunset.
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Where to stay in Cairns

Find the best Cairns areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A nighttime urban scene with a large tree, street lamps, and a multi-story building.

Cairns Central Business District

Cairns Central Business District is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Cairns Esplanade Lagoon and Cairns Marlin Marina.

A sunset over a calm pool with palm trees and a gazebo.

Cairns North

The beaches and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Cairns North. A stop by Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland or Cairns Mudflats might round out your trip.

The entrance to Cairns Botanic Gardens with a signboard, lush greenery, and a stone pathway.

Edge Hill

You'll enjoy the museums and parks in Edge Hill. You might want to make time for a stop at Centenary Lakes Botanic Gardens or Tanks Arts Centre.

An aerial view of a riverside resort with a circular water feature, a bridge, and lush greenery.

Parramatta Park

Parramatta Park is noteworthy for its shopping, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Cazaly's Stadium and Barlow Park.

A beach lined with tall palm trees and a clear blue sky.

Palm Cove

Palm Cove is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Palm Cove Beach and Kuranda National Park, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Cairns.

A coastal town with houses, roads, and a hilly backdrop.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Cairns worth visiting?
Cairns offers an interesting mix of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into history, outdoor activities or regional cuisine, there's a lot to enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Cairns?
After you've checked off major attractions like Yorkeys Knob Beach and Cairns Aquarium, spend some time discovering Cairns's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Cairns?
The top tourist attraction in Cairns is Yorkeys Knob Beach, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Cairns?
You can easily visit popular sights like Cairns Aquarium, St Monica's Cathedral and The Cairns Museum with a three-day break in Cairns. On average, many travellers book three days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stay a bit longer and check out Fitzroy Island.
Is Cairns a walkable city?
It depends on what you'd like to do and see in Cairns. Several key attractions, including Cairns Aquarium and St Monica's Cathedral, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Cairns's best neighbourhoods, Cairns Central Business District is 0.32 kilometres away from downtown, while Cairns North is 3 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Cairns with kids?
If you're searching for tours and attractions for all ages, here are some awesome ideas for what to do in Cairns with kids.

What to do in Cairns for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or fan of nature, there are loads of things to do in Cairns for adults including Cazalys Cairns and Australian Armour and Artillery Museum.
Are there free things to do in Cairns?
From visiting parks to wandering around hip neighbourhoods, it's easy to find free things to do in Cairns. If you need inspiration, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. St Monica's Cathedral is a great spot for anyone looking to save on their sightseeing activities.