Cairns is perhaps one of the most popular tropical destinations in Australia. And, it’s not hard to see why? This sunny getaway located along the northern Queensland coastline of Australia boasts of pleasant weather and proximity to world-famous attractions including the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest and the Cape Tribulation apart from stunning beaches, busy markets and brilliant restaurants and bars. Read on to know more about some of the best experiences to indulge in at Cairns.
Explore Great Barrier Reef
Dive into the crystal blue waters flowing along the coastline of Cairns to explore the largest coral reef system in the world – the Great Barrier Reef. You can snorkel, scuba dive, book a day cruise or go for a helicopter flight over the Outer Barrier Reef!
Ride the SkyRail Rainforest Cableway
Enjoy breathtaking views of Cairns and its surrounding dense rainforests from atop treetops by riding the SkyRail Rainforest Cableway. This cable car offers a 7.5km journey, which takes travellers from the rainforest to Kuranda, a ‘Village in the Rainforest’.
Get atop Walsh’s Pyramid
Adventure enthusiasts should not miss a chance to hike up to the top of the tallest natural pyramid in the world – the Walsh’s Pyramid, which is only a short drive away from Cairns. It takes around 4 to 6 hours to hike to the top of the mountain and return back, but the 360 degree views of Cairns and the adjoining rainforest will be rewarding enough.
Shop at the Markets
Cairn boasts of some great markets to shop at, including a few night markets. Visit the Saturday Esplanade market to shop for jewellery, clothing and locally made skincare products. Other interesting markets are the Friday Night Market at Palm Cove, Holloway Beach Markets, Tanks Market and Rusty’s markets.
Try Extreme Sports
More fun for adventure lovers! Don’t leave Cairns without trying some extreme sports including white-water rafting on the Tully River and Barron River, half-day tubing on the Mulgrave River, tandem skydives over the Great Barrier Reef and bungee jumping at AJ Hackett’s.
Take a Cool Dip in its Waterfalls
Head out and explore the waterfalls around Cairns. There are some picturesque waterfalls including the Crystal Cascades and Stoney Creek Falls close to Cairns, which can become your natural swimming pool.
Learn About Aboriginal Culture
A Cairns visit is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the rich Aboriginal heritage of Australia. Visit the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park and the Mossman Gorge Centre to get an insight into the oldest living culture in the world, which dates back to a whooping over 40,000 years!
Experience the Nightlife
Enjoy its happening nightlife scene, particularly around Spence, Grafton and Sheridan Streets areas. Don’t miss its energetic pubs, bars and nightclubs, which draw a rather youngish crowd from around the world.
