Things To Do In Cairns for the Ultimate Tropical Getaway

Cairns is a drastically underrated tropical destination, hidden in plain sight, right on our doorstep. Whilst international visitors beeline to the gateway of the Great Barrier Reef, domestic travellers can often be found nipping off to Bali when a craving for tumbling waterfalls arises. But really, there’s no need to cross the sea for the dream tropical escape.

With seafood available fresh from the trawler, heritage railways winding their way through lush rainforest and stretches of yellow sand fringed by palm trees, Cairns is a reminder that paradise can be found in your own backyard. Sold? Read on for the best things to do in Cairns and get cracking on crafting your dream itinerary.

Things to do in Cairns: Explore

Kuranda Scenic Railway

One of the most iconic attractions in Cairns is the Kuranda Scenic Railway, an incredible feat of construction and engineering that stands the test of time. Constructed over several years in the late 1800s, the railway originally served as a means of transportation and a way to ensure that ample food and essential supplies could make their way to the various settlements across the region and coastline.

Nowadays, the train operates as a tourist attraction that winds around the craggy mountains and through the lush rainforest, stopping off at viewing platforms so that you can ogle at the Barron Falls lookout and snap some photos to remember your trip.

You’ll learn the history of the train and the land you’re passing through via the audio commentary played in your refurbished heritage carriage, as the train travels 37 kilometres and rises 327 metres above sea level.

Sitchu Tip: Make your train ride a little extra special by booking a gold-class carriage. You’ll get to enjoy morning or afternoon tea in your comfortable armchair-style seat, as well as a selection of wine or lager to sip while you ride.

Bunda Street, Cairns Railway Station, Cairns

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

If you take the Kuranda Scenic Railway up the mountain, why not experience the rainforest from a new perspective as you descend? The Skyrail Cableway is locally owned and operated and provides a thrilling way to explore this ancient rainforest without leaving so much as a footprint behind.

You can take the Cableway up to, and down from Kuranda, with platforms to stop off and explore Red Peak (Skyrail’s highest point at 545 metres above sea level) and Barron Falls during your trip.

We recommend allocating around two and a half hours for your Cableway experience if you decide on a round trip, not to mention the time you’ll need to explore all that Kuranda has to offer!

6 Skyrail Drive, Smithfield

Babinda Boulders

There truly is no better feeling on earth than the cool, calm immersion of a freshwater swimming hole. Team that with some tropical heat and a whole heap of exceptionally smooth natural sun-baking rocks, and you’ll find yourself in actual heaven. Surrounded by rainforest, it’s easy to see why the sacred location of the Babinda Boulders holds great significance for the custodians of the land.

Take a picnic and spend an entire day in this incredible oasis. But be careful where you swim, as ancient Indigenous magic is at play in these waters, so be sure to read up on the fated love story of Oolana and Dyga before you take a dip!

Babinda, Cairns Queensland

Paronella Park

Step back in time at Paronella Park, a 5-hectare tropical paradise containing the remnants of Jose Paronella’s dream. Built in the 1930s and powered by a hydroelectric generator off the waterfall, this Park was once a destination for tourists and locals to enjoy ice cream, picnics by the water and swimming.

Sadly, the Park met tragedy when floods and cyclones ravaged the buildings, but the current owners seek to protect and restore what remains standing. Explore the awe-inspiring gardens, marvel over the castle-like structures and revel in the romance of this stunning and unique experience in tropical North Queensland.

1671 Japoonvale Road (Old Bruce Highway), Mena Creek

Crystal Cascades

For a deep immersion in nature (just twenty minutes from the CBD!), head to Crystal Cascades. The name of this enchanting location is apt, consisting of a series of beautiful waterfalls and swimming holes enticing you in for a dip. Pack a picnic consider spending the day there, luxuriating in the rainforest’s cool embrace as you dip in and out of the pools.

Crystal Cascades, Lamb Range, Cairns

Trinity Beach

Beaches in Cairns are the kind of places you dream about while answering emails on a Monday morning. Here, rainforest meets soft sand, and we promise there is no place you would rather be. Safe year-round, Trinity Beach is one of the best for swimming, with designated swimming areas and lifeguards on duty. There is also a paved esplanade travelling the length of the beach, so don your joggers and stretch your legs along this stunning tropical expanse.

Trinity Beach, Cairns

Hike Up Walsh’s Pyramid

Feeling a little athletic? Take a hike! Walsh’s Pyramid is a short drive or tour bus from the heart of Cairns and is a popular destination for a day hike. Famous for being the world’s tallest freestanding natural pyramid, the view from the top is spectacular, making the 3-4 hour hike genuinely worth it.

If you’re on the fitter side, you could even opt into “The Great Pyramid Race”, which happens annually in August. The fastest to scale the pyramid and back wins a cash prize (and boasting rights).

Walsh’s Pyramid, Wooroonooran, Cairns

Helicopter the Reef

If you want to see as much of the gorgeous reef as you can, then we recommend taking to the skies for the experience of a lifetime with Nautilus Aviation.

If you are going to splurge on a helicopter ride, this is the place to do it. And if you really fancy splashing some cash, opt for a half-day trip that allows you to land and snorkel the vibrant coral reefs. Keep your camera handy!

Green Island Day Tour

Fancy taking a day trip out to a little island offshore? Green Island is a short catamaran ride off the coast of Cairns and is packed full of once-in-a-lifetime activities! Opt for snorkelling with tropical fish (and maybe a turtle or two if you’re lucky!), diving, scenic helicopter flights, parasailing, a Wunyami cultural walking tour or visit enormous hundred-year-old crocodiles at Marineland Melanesia. Or if you want to take it easy, hire a beach lounge and umbrella and lie back with a cold drink and a great book.

Ports North, 1 Spence Street, Cairns

Millaa Millaa Falls

Get your camera ready, because Millaa Millaa Falls is one of Cairns’ most Instagrammable locations! You might want to stay offline and connect with nature instead, so pack your togs and a towel so that you can swim right up to the falls and bask in the wonder of this truly stunning part of the tropics.

You’ll spot fish and turtles (and perhaps a platypus if you’re really lucky) in the crystal-clear water, and there’s plenty of room to spread out on the grass and enjoy a picnic.

Theresa Creek Road, Millaa Millaa, Atherton Tablelands Area

Sample Local Delicacies

There are few places in the world where you can find seafood fresher than in Cairns so be sure to make the most of it. Accompanied by fresh produce from the surrounding Hinterland, the food-obsessed amongst us will have a grand time tasting their way around town.

You can find all of our favourite restaurants here, but if you’re short on time, just be sure not to miss dining on fresh seafood on the Prawn Star trawler. Think oysters and sashimi delivered ocean to table. It’s all about friendly vibes and good food at this cosy joint, floating atop the Coral Sea. If you’re looking to sample your way through native Australian ingredients like Davidson Plum and warrigal greens, make a booking at Ocre.

Enjoy a Holiday Sip

The only thing that can beat a day of beach-hopping is an evening sipping on cocktails. For waterfront views and topical bevvies, head to Salt House. For live music (Fridays and Saturdays) Conservatory Bar is your best bet.

If it’s the freshest and coldest brews in town you’re after, local favourite Hemmingway’s Brewery is a real treat. With over 20 beers on tap, the heritage-listed venue also serves a selection of bottled craft beers from all over the world. Is beer not your thing? Then opt for the craft gin-tasting paddle

Loved this edit of the best things to do in Cairns and looking for more local recommendations? You can check out more of the best bars in Cairns in our Sitchu-approved shortlist. Looking for some day trips from Cairns? Take a peek at our edit of things to do in Port Douglas.