Activities in Cairns, Australia

Cairns is famous for its natural beauty, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy here. One of the most popular activities is snorkeling or diving on the Great Barrier Reef, which is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. You can also take a scenic railway ride through the rainforest, go whitewater rafting, or take a hot air balloon ride over the Atherton Tablelands.

In addition to the Great Barrier Reef, there are plenty of other attractions to check out in Cairns. You can visit the Cairns Esplanade, which is a beautiful parkland area that features a swimming lagoon, a boardwalk, and plenty of places to relax. You can also check out the Cairns Botanic Gardens, the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and the Kuranda Scenic Railway.

Cairns has a diverse food scene, and there are plenty of great restaurants to choose from. Some local favorites include Ochre Restaurant, which offers a modern take on Australian cuisine, and Barnacle Bill's Seafood Inn, which serves up fresh seafood in a casual atmosphere. For something sweet, be sure to stop by Nitrolato, which offers delicious nitrogen ice cream.

Cairns is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that kids will love. You can take a trip to the Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome, which offers zip lining, a ropes course, and plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with local wildlife. You can also visit the Cairns Aquarium, which features a wide variety of marine life, or take a trip to the Crystal Cascades, which offers swimming and hiking in a beautiful natural setting.

Cairns is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the area. In addition to snorkeling or diving on the Great Barrier Reef, you can also take a trip to the Daintree Rainforest, which is the oldest rainforest in the world. You can also go hiking in the Atherton Tablelands, or take a scenic drive along the Captain Cook Highway.

While there are no beaches in Cairns itself, there are plenty of beautiful beaches within a short drive of the city. Palm Cove is a popular destination, with its palm-lined beach and plenty of restaurants and shops. Trinity Beach is another great option, with its calm waters and beautiful views. If you're willing to drive a bit farther, you can also visit the stunning beaches of Port Douglas.

The best time to visit Cairns is from June to October, which is the dry season. During this time, you can expect warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, making it the perfect time to explore the natural beauty of the area. Keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so be sure to book your accommodations and activities in advance.

Cairns has a wide variety of accommodations to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. Some popular options include the Pullman Cairns International, which offers stunning views of the harbor and city, and the Shangri-La Hotel, which boasts a beautiful pool and spa. If you're on a budget, be sure to check out the Cairns Central YHA, which offers affordable accommodations in a convenient location.

There are plenty of great day trips to take from Cairns, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding area. You can take a trip to the Daintree Rainforest, where you can see crocodiles, birds, and other wildlife. You can also visit the Kuranda Scenic Railway, which takes you through the rainforest and offers stunning views of the area. Another great option is the Atherton Tablelands, where you can see waterfalls, lakes, and other natural wonders.

Cairns has a variety of shopping options, from markets to malls. Some popular destinations include the Cairns Night Markets, which offer a variety of souvenirs, clothing, and food, and the Cairns Central Shopping Centre, which features a wide variety of stores and restaurants. If you're looking for something unique, be sure to visit the Rusty's Market, which offers fresh produce, crafts, and other goods.