Things to do in Cairns
Explore top experiences
Top 10 attractions in Cairns
Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef stretches along the northeast coast of Australia, extending over 2000 km. It is one of the world's largest and longest coral reefs. Composed of hundreds of coral reef islands of varying sizes, the Great Barrier Reef dazzles with vibrant colors and boundless beauty. Its heart-shaped coral reef island has become a signature attraction of the Great Barrier Reef. 1. Attraction overview The Great Barrier Reef is home to vast coral kingdoms and countless marine creatures, as well as deep underwater cliffs, tunnels, and caves. Whether you admire the coral formations from a helicopter or dive deep into the ocean, you can truly appreciate nature's marvels. At the Great Barrier Reef, you can sign up for diving or semi-submersible boat tours to explore the underwater world. Of course, if you want to experience sailing, you can rent various vessels (from speedboats to catamarans) to ride the waves. You can also board a cruise, choosing based on your time and preferences. For a more flexible ocean experience, hop on a speedboat. In addition, taking a helicopter ride to overlook the Great Barrier Reef is one of the must-do activities here, offering an aerial view of the world-famous heart-shaped reef (Heart Reef); take a hot air balloon ride overAtherton TablelandOne experience of soaring to the sky and diving into the sea is never enough! 2. National parks There are many national parks near the Great Barrier Reef, in addition to theDaintree Rainforest, there are many secret gardens not to be missed waiting for you to discover slowly. At Cape Tribulation (Cape Tribulation) Explore wildlife sightings,Nara Inlet on Hook Island,Preserves the rock art left by the Ngaro people. Travelers can hire a specialized guide to take them into the rainforest and experience activities such as swimming and barbecuing in the national park. 3. Travel method To visit the Great Barrier Reef, you need to go out to sea, usually starting from Cairns or the Whitsunday Islands. The Great Barrier Reef is mainly divided into inner reef andOuter Barrier Reef, the inner barrier reef is close to the city,Outer Barrier ReefIt is farther from the city with less pollution, so carefully choose the area you want to visit based on personal needs.Cairns · >100km from downtown
Sunlover Reef Cruises
Everything you can experience at Moore Reef is beyond your imagination. The Sunlover Great Barrier Reef Cruise departs daily from Cairns Ferry Terminal to the new Moore Reef Offshore Platform, where you can discover and explore the unparalleled wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. On this offshore platform, you can spend a day participating in various interesting activities, as well as admiring the beautiful Great Barrier Reef from all angles. On this luxury offshore platform 40 kilometers from Cairns, you can explore the mysterious underwater world up close. Moore's Reef Platform is the world's premier marine experience platform, designed to accommodate visitors of all ages and abilities, allowing everyone to experience the magnificent Great Barrier Reef in comfort. Fitzroy Island, part of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, is one of Cairns' most accessible tropical getaways. Just a short 45-minute boat ride from Cairns, this lush rainforest island is celebrated for its coral beaches, fringing reefs, and vibrant marine life. Unlike typical continential islands, many of Fitzroy's beaches are formed from crushed coral, built up over thousands of years. These remnants of ancient reefs were gradually reshaped and displaced by hundreds of tropical storms, creating the island's uniquely textured shores that embody its deep connection to the Great Barrier Reef's natural history.Cairns · 1km from downtown
Cairns Aquarium
Cairns Aquarium is a very new and regional aquarium in Australia. It has won two awards in the tourism industry. This is an ecological exhibition hall in the world that brings together the essence of the world's two natural heritages - the Great Barrier Reef and the tropical rain forest. The whole museum is divided into 10 North Queensland ecosystems and 71 habitats. You can enjoy more than 15,000 North Queensland characteristic creatures in the fully air-conditioned museum, many of which are rare and protected species. The aquarium is located in the heart of Cairns, adjacent to major hotels in the city, with convenient transportation.Cairns · 381m from downtown
Reef Magic
If you are looking for a day trip from Cairns to the Great Barrier Reef, then the Dream Reef cruise is a better choice. In order to give you a refined and comfortable Great Barrier Reef experience, the Dream Reef cruise is limited to no more than 200 people. The Dream Reef cruise ship has exclusive access to the outer barrier reef platform, which has clear water, colorful corals and a variety of marine life. The comfortable, stable and fast catamaran of the Dream Reef reduces the travel time, increases the time spent on the Great Barrier Reef to 5 hours, and provides a variety of marine entertainment activities suitable for all ages, allowing you to fully enjoy the wonderful time of Moore Great Barrier Reef!Cairns · 1km from downtown
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is one of Cairns' most iconic rainforest experiences. The journey spans approximately 7.5 km, departing from Smithfield Terminal, passing through Red Peak and Barron Falls stations, and arriving at Kuranda Village. Guests can enjoy spectacular aerial views of the World Heritage-listed rainforest, with the opportunity to disembark at intermediate stations to walk, explore, and learn more about the rainforest ecosystem. This experience is suitable for families with children, seniors, couples, independent travelers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a relaxing way to experience Cairns' natural beauty. A popular option is to combine Skyrail with the Kuranda Scenic Railway for a full-day Kuranda experience, or simply enjoy a return Skyrail journey. Advance booking is recommended. Please note that the departure point is Smithfield Terminal (not Cairns city centre), and guests should arrange transport accordingly.Smithfield · 11.4km from Cairns
Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises
Green Island on the Great Barrier Reef is a popular tourist destination in Cairns. It only takes 45 minutes to take a cruise on the Big Cat to reach Green Island, a beautiful coral island on the Great Barrier Reef. It is a coral island surrounded by white sandy beaches, beautiful reefs and abundant marine life, and the island is covered with tropical rainforest vegetation. The Big Cat cruise ship has four voyages to Green Island every day, the full-day ferry departs at 9:00 and 11:00, and the half-day ferry departs at 9:00 and 1:00 pm. You can freely snorkel or swim in the crystal-clear waters of Green Island, you can also take a glass-bottom boat and a semi-submarine boat to visit the wonderful underwater world, you can also stroll along the tree-lined paths of the national park, or just lay leisurely. Enjoy the sun and white sand on the beach. If you want to learn more about the Great Barrier Reef, you can also book a snorkeling experience tour with Big Cat, aerobic snorkeling and no heavy equipment diving. Big Cat cruises have a range of options for families, couples, groups and charters. When you go to Green Island, you can freely start snorkeling from the beach. It doesn't matter if you can't swim, Big Cat has a semi-submarine on Green Island to take you to experience the beautiful underwater creatures.Cairns · 1.1km from downtown
Snorkeling or Scuba Diving in Cairns
Cairns is located at the northernmost tip of the east coast of Queensland, Australia. Here, you can not only witness the magnificent scenery of the Great Barrier Reef, the largest living coral area on the earth, but also get close to colorful tropical fish and marine life, and enjoy a double feast of vision and soul. Unique Creatures and Landscapes:Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, where dive sites are renowned for their spectacular coral reefs and rich marine life. Divers can swim with minke whales, explore the wall and deep-sea silver fin whales at Osprey Reef, or encounter giant potato cod at Lizard Island's Cod Holes. Excellent visibility:Cairns' waters are crystal clear, with diving visibility between 25 and 35 meters. June to November is the best diving season, when it is the dry season in Cairns, with little rain and high visibility. Comfortable air and water temperature:Cairns has a tropical climate, which is warm all year round. The water temperature changes from 29℃ in summer to 22℃ in winter, providing a comfortable diving experience. Beginner Difficulty:Cairns diving is relatively easy, with average depth of dive sites 17 meters, the water flow is weak, even the top flow has no pressure. Cairns has become a dream destination for diving enthusiasts around the world with its unique marine life, high visibility and suitable water temperature. Whether you are an adventure seeker or a nature lover who loves marine life, you can find your own diving fun here.Australia · Cairns
Rainforestation Nature Park
The Tropical Rainforest Park is located on the Kennedy Highway, only a 5-minute drive from the town of Kuranda and about half an hour from Cairns. It is one of the ancient and mysterious tropical rainforests in the world, a symbol of Kuranda, and a must-visit place in Cairns. 1. There is a fixed shuttle bus to and from the tropical rain forest park and the butterfly house every day. Drive to the rainforest park, opposite the visitor center and gift shop, you can sign up for various activities. Entering from the parking lot, you will first come to the wildlife park. The wildlife park is not far from the entrance, providing visitors with the opportunity to get in touch with cute animals. In addition to petting koalas, you can also feed kangaroos and take pictures with crocodiles. In the zoo is a saltwater crocodile that is more than 5 meters long. It has the title of "Devil Jack" because it killed 12 other small crocodiles in the park before. The built trail allows tourists to see his activities very clearly. 2. Near the Tropical Fruit Garden is Tropical Fruit Orchard. There are more than 40 kinds of tropical fruits. You can also taste fresh juice while learning knowledge! In the middle of the tropical fruit garden is the tropical supply station, which provides a variety of tropical juices, tropical fruit ice cream and snacks, allowing you to cool off in this hot tropical rainforest. 3. Amphibious vehicle Amphibious vehicle is a unique adventure rainforest experience, which is a unique project in the park. There are 12 military combat vehicles left over from World War II in the park, and the experience time is 45 minutes. This expedition has a dedicated guide explaining the flora and fauna of the rainforest, including Jurassic plants, fig trees, orchids, blue butterflies, chameleons and various birds. 4. Australian aboriginal performances In addition to this, there are also Australian aboriginal performances waiting for you. Professional Aboriginal guides will take you back in time in original costumes and gain insight into primitive life. Ancient culture tour, including half-hour dance performance and half-hour display of weapons and instruments. In the natural background of the tropical rainforest, the indigenous people play musical instruments, expressing their worship of nature incisively and vividly. They also imitate various animals, showing scenes of gathering and hunting. The professional demonstration and explanation of Huilibiao will also be included. The indigenous people use javelins to hunt animals, and you can also take pictures with them. Also, you can admire the drawing of pointillism or try face painting.Kuranda · 16.6km from Cairns
Hot Air Balloon Cairns
Hot Air Balloon Cairns is a highly popular activity where visitors can soar in a hot air balloon at dawn, marveling at the breathtaking views of the Atherton Tablelands from above while enjoying the serene beauty of sunrise. The hot air balloon ride typically begins before dawn, offering a 40–60 minute flight experience that allows visitors to admire the rolling hills, rivers, and farmlands from high above. During the flight, the pilot provides insightful commentary about the region, pointing out local highlights to enhance the educational and entertaining aspects of the journey. After the hot air balloon tour, visitors assist the pilot in deflating, rolling, and repacking the balloon, completing this unique adventure. To commemorate the experience, guests receive a souvenir certificate and enjoy a glass of sparkling wine or juice along with light breakfast snacks. Hot Air Balloon Cairns is not just a visual feast but also an unforgettable adventure, perfect for thrill-seekers and those looking for a romantic experience. At the end of the flight, visitors are transported back to their hotels, concluding a delightful hot air balloon journey.Cairns · 753m from downtown
Barron River Rafting
If you're into adventure, rafting on the Barron River is a great option. The intensity of rafting on the Barron River is level 2-3. You need to wear a helmet and a life jacket throughout the rafting process. There are many large drops in the middle, which is very exciting. On both sides of the rafting river is the Barron Gorge National Park, all covered by tropical rainforest, very quiet and beautiful. While admiring the natural scenery, feel the thrill of the snow-white waves.Caravonica · 1.6km from downtown
Traveller favourites curated for you
6D5N • Australia + Sydney + Cairns
The Blue Mountains are breathtaking, the Great Barrier Reef offers an authentic Australian experience, and the rainforest is the inspiration for Avatar. | We select highly rated hotels throughout the city, offer hotel upgrades and room type selection, and guarantee transparent service - all with a single vehicle accompanying you throughout your trip. | We offer full-service one-on-one concierge support, with a group chat available to answer any questions.From AUD 2,495
Experiences you can't miss in Cairns
Featured Day tours in Cairns
View all Day tours![Cairns Big Cat/Green Island Great Barrier Reef Cruise [Short Trip/Snorkeling/Glass Bottom Boat]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0350i12000qreqyusB151_C_568_320.png?_fr=wc)
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![Australia Kuranda Cable Car + Scenic Railway Half-Day Tour [Depart After Wake-Up with Transfers Included]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images//0586j12000rcl1yo53602_C_568_320.jpg?_fr=wc)
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Featured Water activities in Cairns
View all Water activities![Cairns Quicksilver Great Barrier Reef cruise [Agincourt Reef/snorkeling boat lunch/optional activities]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0356w12000p8ke40o5B27_C_568_320.jpg?_fr=wc)
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![Cairns Sunlover Reef Cruises Great Barrier Reef 1-day tour [optional double reef/buffet lunch/snorkeling]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0353l12000pbtagkyB4CA_C_568_320.jpg?_fr=wc)
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Australia: Cairns hotspot! Must-try Great Barrier Reef snorkeling experience (includes buffet lunch)
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![Cairns Great Barrier Reef Fishing Tour in Australia [Includes Full Fishing Gear + Lunch + Afternoon Tea]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0356k12000e8vuv6mAC2A_C_568_320.jpg?_fr=wc)
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More things to do
Cairns Cruises
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Private Tours in Cairns
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Free things to do in Cairns
Port Douglas
Port Douglas · 58.6km from Cairns
Kuranda
Kuranda · 18.2km from Cairns
Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
Cairns · 786m from downtown
Cairns Botanic Gardens
Edge Hill · 1km from downtown
Barron Falls
Kuranda · 16.7km from Cairns
Esplanade
Cairns North · 1.3km from downtown
Fig Tree Play Ground
Cairns · 1.1km from downtown
Green Island
Green Island · 28km from Cairns
What travellers say about Cairns
Anonymous user20 October 2026
5.0
The location is easy to find, and the service is excellent. The onboard buffet is good, we took the glass-bottom boat twice, the Great Barrier Reef is stunning, the snorkeling experience was pleasant, and the kids had a great time.
Great Barrier Reef
Anonymous user15 October 2026
4.0
There are staff members who speak Chinese, English, Japanese, and Korean. There are many Chinese staff members, so communication is not a problem. The sea is very beautiful, and the itinerary is well-planned, making it a great day trip!
Sunlover Reef Cruises
Anonymous user8 April 2026
5.0
The experience was excellent, and my child loved it. It wasn't crowded, so everyone could easily see everything. The Great Barrier Reef has a lot of marine life. There were guided tours every half hour starting at 10 am, covering different areas as we walked and observed. We learned a lot in just two hours, and my child thoroughly enjoyed it! 👍
Cairns Aquarium
Batigoal198727 June 2026
5.0
Highlight of the day trip is our helicopter experience over the great barrier reef. 10mins joy ride over the reef. Feels like in a James Bond Movie! Bucket List ticked =)
Reef Magic
_TI***y16 October 2025
4.0
The scene was definitely beautiful, we took the cableway around 3PM and was not too hot. Gaby was amazing, we originally purchased the wrong time and wrong departure location. She was able to help us make it right. We also missed our original booked time but the staffs allowed us to get on. Everyone is so nice here 😊
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Anonymous user29 April 2026
4.0
Overall, it was pretty good. The service was excellent; for those prone to seasickness, they provided bags, tissues, and ice. The environment has been severely damaged; the coral bleaching is quite bad, and there are no red corals left. Green Island is still quite beautiful. We were on a glass-bottom boat, so the view was a bit limited compared to a semi-submarine.
Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises
Anonymous user16 June 2026
4.0
The most impressive attraction to us is Army Duck Tour. The ranger was funny and knowledgeable. He introduced different plants and habitats in the rainforest. In addition, there were a few koala, wallabies and wildlife to see. Quite an interesting place to play a half day visit.
Rainforestation Nature Park
D29***9427 December 2025
5.0
Good and safe hot air balloon ride. Can see sunrise throughout. The driver and pilot and and staff were also caring and friendly!
Hot Air Balloon Cairns
部长大人好5 October 2019
5.0
The most fun rafting, no doubt about it. The journey lasted more than four hours, and it was exciting and combined with team spirit. Although it was tiring and sunny, the experience was absolutely invincible and it is a must-do rafting in life.
Barron River Rafting
