Top things to do in Cairns
Looking for the top things to do in Cairns? Discover reef cruises, rainforest tours, Skyrail and Green island and Fitzroy day trips. Explore & book your ultimate Cairns experiences now!
Top experiences
Cairns
Green Island Full Day Trip + Snorkelling OR Glass Bottom Boat & Island Activities
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Cruise to Moore Reef Pontoon - Full Day
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Dive and Snorkel Cruise to 2 Reef Locations
Cairns
EXCLUSIVE FREE UPGRADE - Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Day Tour
Cairns
Fitzroy Island Adventure – 8:30am & 10:45am Departures
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Cruise to Reef Magic Pontoon
Cairns
Kuranda Skyrail Loop, Train & Cairns City Pick Up
Explore Cairns experiences
213 experiences found
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Cairns
EXCLUSIVE FREE UPGRADE - Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Day Tour
Cairns
Fitzroy Island Adventure – 8:30am & 10:45am Departures
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Cruise to Moore Reef Pontoon - Full Day
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Dive and Snorkel Cruise to 2 Reef Locations
Cairns
Green Island Full Day Trip + Snorkelling OR Glass Bottom Boat & Island Activities
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Cruise to Reef Magic Pontoon
Cairns
Kuranda Skyrail Loop, Train & Cairns City Pick Up
Cairns
Hartley's Crocodile Adventures Tickets
Cairns
Cape Tribulation, Daintree Rainforest and Wildlife Tour from Cairns, Palm Cove and Port Douglas
Cairns
Kuranda Scenic Rail and Skyrail from Cairns with transfers
Cairns
Green Island Full Day Trip + Snorkelling OR Glass Bottom Boat
Cairns
Fitzroy Island Package with Snorkelling, Glass Bottom Boat Tour & Lunch
Cairns
Kuranda Skyrail, Barron Falls Loop from Cairns
Cairns
Frankland Islands All-Inclusive Day Tour
Cairns
Half Day River Tubing Tours From Cairns
Cairns
Green Island Day Trip - Including return transfer
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef & Fitzroy Island Tour Full Day
Cairns
40 Minute Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight From Cairns
Cairns
Tully River Full Day White Water Rafting Adventure with Dinner
Cairns
Cairns to Fitzroy & Green Islands Cruise with Snorkelling
Cairns
Kuranda Army Duck, Wildlife and Scenic Railway from Cairns
Cairns
Green Island Full Day Trip + Snorkelling & Glass Bottom Boat
Cairns
Cairns Aquarium Entry Tickets
Cairns
Fitzroy & Green Islands Full-Day Cruise from Cairns
Cairns
Green Island Half Day Cruise 9am Departure
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Cruise to Upolu Cay and Outer Reef
Cairns
Cairns Great Barrier Reef Scenic Plane Flight - 40 Minutes
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Half-Day Snorkelling Tour
Cairns
Kuranda Self Drive Scenic Rail & Skyrail Tour with Queue Jump
Cairns
Cairns Guided Jetski Tour - 30 or 60 Minutes
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Dreamtime Cruise with Indigenous Sea Rangers
Cairns
Kuranda Skyrail & Railway Tour from Cairns
Cairns
Premium Great Barrier Reef Cruise to 3 Reef Locations
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Cruise & 10 Minute Scenic Heli Flight Combo
Cairns
Hartley's Crocodile Adventures Half Day Tour
Cairns
Cairns Tomb of the Pharaohs & Aquarium Admission - 1 Day
Cairns
Daintree Rainforest Full Day Tour with Wildlife Cruise
Cairns
Green Island Catamaran Tour - Half Day 1:00 PM
Cairns
Cairns Morning Estuary Fishing Tour - Half Day
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Cairns Afternoon Estuary Fishing Charter - Half Day
Cairns
Fitzroy Island Ferry & Snorkel Tour from Cairns - Full Day
Cairns
Night at the Aquarium Guided Tour - 90 Minutes
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Cairns Waterfalls Explorer Tour - Half Day
Cairns
Aquarium By Twilight Guided Tour - 2 Hours
Cairns
Cairns Bungy Jump and Giant Swing Combo Experience
Cairns
Marine Life Encounter Aquarium Private Guided Tour - 3 Hours
Cairns
Cairns Private Fishing Charter Estuary Adventure - Half Day
Cairns
Cairns Trinity Inlet Private Fishing Charter - Full Day
Cairns
Kuranda Skyrail, Rainforestation & Scenic Rail ex Cairns
Cairns
Cairns Koalas & Creatures Entry & Koala Photo - 20 Minutes
Cairns
Kuranda Scenic Rail Skyrail and Hartley's Crocodiles Experience
Cairns
Cairns Bungy Jump Experience - From 50m High
Cairns
Cairns Tomb of the Pharaohs General Admission - 1 Day
Cairns
Kuranda Scenic Railway + Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Cairns
Cairns 2x Bungy Jump Experience - Roof Launch
Cairns
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Return Ticket
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef AquaQuest Day Trip
Cairns
Fitzroy Island Adventures Half Day Trip
Cairns
Fitzroy Island Return Ferry with Picnic Lunch & Glass Bottom Boat
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Overnight Snorkel and Dive Sail Tour with Private Cabin
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight & Cruise Packages
Cairns
Night at the Aquarium Tour with 2 Course Dinner
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Sailing Cruise with Snorkelling at 2 Locations
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Cruise to Great Adventures Pontoon
Cairns
Cairns Aquarium Entry Ticket and Turtle Hospital Tour
Cairns
2 Day Cairns Liveaboard on OceanQuest
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Sail and Snorkel Cruise from Cairns
Cairns
Kuranda Skyrail & Scenic Railway Tour from Northern Beaches
Cairns
Cairns Reef and Island Guided Jet Ski Tour - 90 Minutes
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight and Snorkel - Full Day
Cairns
Green Island & Great Barrier Reef Sail and Snorkel Cruise
Cairns
Cairns Guided Crocodile Spotting Jet Ski Tour - 1 Hour
Port Douglas
Kuranda Scenic Train and Skyrail Tour
Cairns
Private Cairns Port Douglas Hot Air Balloon Experience
Cairns
Reef Magic Pontoon & Fitzroy Island - 2 Days
Cairns
Australian Armour and Artillery Museum Tour
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight, Boat & Snorkel - Half Day
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Small Group Snorkel Adventure - Full Day
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Tour with Morning Tea - Half Day
Cairns
Cairns Botanic Gardens Night Walk Adventure - 1 Hour
Cairns
Waterfall Wanderers Day Tour in Cairns - Full Day
Cairns
Tully River Rafting & Waterfall Combo from Cairns - 2 Days
Cairns
Rainforest, Waterfalls & Paronella Park Day Tour
Cairns
Tully River Rafting & Daintree Rainforest Tour - 2 Tours
Port Douglas
Hartleys Crocodile Adventures & Kuranda Combo - Full Day
Cairns
Grand Kuranda Rainforest Full Day Tour From Cairns
Cairns
Kuranda Railway, Wildlife & Culture Day Tour from Palm Cove
Cairns
Cairns Premium Night Nature Walk - 2.5 Hours
Cairns
Cairns Aquarium by Twilight and 3 Course Dinner
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Cairns Trinity Inlet Guided Jet Ski Adventure - 1 Hour
Cairns
Skypark Cairns Bungy Jumping and Giant Swing Combo
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Cairns Guided Jet Ski Tour to Double Island - 3 Hours
Cairns
Tomb of the Pharaohs Guided Evening Tour - 90 Minutes
Cairns
Cairns Tandem Skydive up to 14,000ft - Including Transfers
Cairns
Cairns Hot Air Balloon Flight, with Transfers, Sunrise & Glass of Bubbles.
Cairns
1965 White Convertible Mustang Chauffeur - For up to 4
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Pontoon Day & 10 Minute Helicopter Flight
Cairns
Fitzroy Island Stand Up Paddle Board or Snorkel 4 Hours Water Time
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Overnight Snorkel and Dive Cruise
Cairns
Spirit Of Freedom 4 Night Coral Sea Expedition
Cairns
Spirit of Freedom 7 Day Cod Hole And Coral Sea Expedition
Cairns
Beaver Reef & Dunk Island Tour from Cairns - Full Day
Cairns
Kuranda Rainforestation Nature Park Package
Cairns
Giant Jungle Swing including photo and video
Cairns
Reef Scenic 30 Minute Flight With Landing On Vlassof Cay
Cairns
Cairns Rainforest Scenic Flight - 30 Minutes
Cairns
Cairns Botanic Gardens Guided Night Walk - 2 Hours
Cairns
Crocodile Adventure Tour with Transfer - Half Day
Cairns
Fish Tales Charters Full Day Reef Fishing Tour - Cairns
Cairns
Kuranda Railway, Wildlife & Culture Tour from Port Douglas
Cairns
Kuranda Scenic Railway & Rainforestation Tour from Cairns
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Helicopter Flight Out & Cruise Return to Cairns
Cairns
Cairns City Sights Half Day Tour from Cairns Hotels
Cairns
4-Day PADI Open Water Dive Course - Learn to Dive
Cairns
Outer Barrier Reef Scenic Helicopter Flight from Cairns - 40 Minutes
Cairns
Cairns Reef and Rainforest Scenic Helicopter Flight - 60 Minutes
Port Douglas
Adventure Offroad Buggy Tour 1/2 tour from Cairns
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3 Day Cairns Liveaboard on OceanQuest
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Cruise to Moore Reef with Certified Dive & Lunch
Cairns
Cairns Tandem Skydive up to 14,000ft - Self Drive
Cairns
Cairns Koalas & Creatures Private Wildlife Tour - 1 Hour
Cairns
Daintree Rainforest & Great Barrier Reef Adventure - 2 Days
Cairns
Kuranda Railway, Wildlife & Culture Day Tour from Cairns
Port Douglas
Great Barrier Reef Cruise to Quicksilver Port Douglas Pontoon
Cairns
Full Day 4WD tour to Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation
Port Douglas
Kuranda Rainforest Budget Tour with Return Transfers
Cairns
Dunk Island Full Day Tour from Cairns
Port Douglas
Daintree and Mossman Gorge Full Day Tour
Port Douglas
Port Douglas Premium Great Barrier Reef Cruise to 3 Reef Locations
Cairns
Daintree & Cape Tribulation Rainforest Adventure - Full Day
Cairns
Daintree, Mossman Gorge & Wildlife Tour - Full Day
Cairns
Barron Gorge & Falls 20 Minute Rainforest Scenic Flight
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef and Fitzroy Island - 2 Day Combo Package
Cairns
Hartleys Crocodile Adventures Entry & Croc Feeding Experience
Cairns
Kuranda Full Day Tour from Cairns - Full Day
Cairns
Moore Reef Cruise and Introductory Dive with Lunch
Cairns
Hartley's Crocodile Adventures Breakfast with Koalas
Cairns
Kuranda Tour with Rainforestation Nature Park Entry
Cairns
Atherton Tablelands Waterfalls Day Tour
Cairns
2 Day Great Barrier Reef, Daintree and Cape Tribulation Tour
Cairns
Barron River Half Day Rafting with Cairns & Nth Beaches Hotel Transfers
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Sunset Tour on Cairns River with Wine - 1.5 Hours
Cairns
Cairns Waterfall and Rainforest Tour - Half Day
Cairns
Cairns Ochre Restaurant Six Course Tasting Menu - For 2
Cairns
Cairns Deadly After Dark Sunset Cruise with Canapes
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Cairns Self-Drive Pontoon Boat Hire - Half or Full Day
Cairns
Cairns Tandem Skydive up to 15,000ft with transfers
Cairns
Mission Beach Tandem Skydive up to 15,000ft with transfers
Cairns
Daintree Dreaming Aboriginal Cultural Adventure
Port Douglas
Outback Tasting Tour from Port Douglas
Cairns
Hartleys Crocodile Adventures with Port Douglas Transfers
Cairns
Paronella Park & Mamu Tropical Skywalk Admission - 2 Park Pass
Cairns
Private Cairns Tablelands Tasting Tour with Lunch - Full Day
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Trinity Inlet & Barron River Fishing Charter - Full Day
Cairns
One Way Transfer Cairns to Fitzroy Island
Cairns
Cairns Waterfall, Wetlands and Skyrail Day Tour
Cairns
PADI Advanced Open Water Course with 3 Day 2 Night Liveaboard Trip
Cairns
REEF & FITZROY ISLAND + FLY CRUISE - Full Day
Cairns
Chillagoe & Outback 4WD Day Tour From Cairns
Cairns
Cairns Aquarium & Tomb of the Pharaohs Combo
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Snorkel and Sailing Cruise - Full Day
Cairns
Cairns Botanic Gardens Guided Photography Walk - 2 Hours
Cairns
Spirit of Freedom – 3 Day Cod Hole Liveaboard | Experience Oz
Cairns
Frankland Islands SUP, Kayak, & Snorkelling Tour - Half Day
Cairns
Barron Falls & Kuranda Scenic Rail from Cairns - Full Day
Cairns
Kuranda Railway & Waterfalls from Northern Cairns - Full Day
Cairns
Daintree Rainforest Deluxe Day Tour with Lunch - For 2
Cairns
Tomb of the Pharaohs Guided Evening Tour & 3 Course Dinner
Cairns
Tomb of the Pharaohs Guided Night Tour - 90 Minutes
Cairns
Tomb of the Pharaohs Guided Night Tour & 2 Course Dinner
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Cruise Out & Return Helicopter Flight to Cairns
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef One-Way Helicopter Flight, Pontoon Tour & Return Cruise
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Tour with Intro Dive Special - 5 Hours
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Scenic Helicopter Flight - 30 Minutes
Port Douglas
Cairns Rainforest & Waterfall 4WD Tour - Half Day
Cairns
Trinity Inlet & Barron River Fishing Charter - Half Day
Atherton Tablelands
Atherton Tablelands Guided Coffee Farm Tour - 1 Hour
Cairns
Marineland Melanesia Crocodile Habitat Entry - Full Day
Cairns
Cairns Museum Admission and Flexible Exploration
Cairns
5-Day 2-Night PADI Open Water Course
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef Gold Class Cruise & Snorkel - Full Day
Cairns
Kuranda Rainforestation Tour with BBQ Lunch - Full Day
Cairns
Kuranda Rainforest & Aboriginal Culture Tour - Full Day
Other things to do in Cairns
Explore the best of Cairns
Cairns is one of Australia's best-loved travel hotspots and there’s plenty of excitement for the whole family, on land, sea and even in the air! With so much on it's doorstep, from the incredible Kuranda rainforest region to the world heritage site of the Great Barrier Reef, there are so many things to do in Cairns. Known as the adventure capital of Australia, this Tropical North Queensland region is an idyllic escape and we’ve got all the top things to do in Cairns available to book online here. Discover colourful sea creatures at the Cairns Aquarium before snorkelling with them on a Great Barrier Reef cruise to the outer reef, Green Island or Fitzroy Island. Soar over the rainforest on the Skyrail or Kuranda Scenic Railway or race through it on the ground on an incredible quad biking tour. If it’s adrenaline-pumping activities in Cairns that your soul desires, then try White Water Rafting in Cairns or leap from the skies on a Bungy jump or Skydive experience.
Top 10 Things to do Cairns
Tropical North Queensland's adventure playground is one of Australia's fastest-growing travel hotspots in terms of international recognition that makes up for its relatively small size with a wide array of activities and attractions both man-made and natural. While the chief attractions of note in Cairns are the stunning Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, Cairns offers numerous other adventures on land, sea, and even air - many of which are ideal for those who crave adventure.
The city features a bustling nightlife, plenty of accommodation on both ends of the economic spectrum, year-round warm weather and a slow but increasingly developing infrastructure as well as a compact size that combines to make it a pleasant balance between the laid-back and the upbeat.
Cairns is largely a city that has built its backbone on tourism and travel, and as a result, nearly every industry in operation in the city and its surrounds are oriented towards providing guests with opportunities for sightseeing or adventure in some fashion. This results in one of the highest number-of-things-to-do vs. city size ratios in Australia for visitors - but with so much to choose from in a limited itinerary, what are the best Cairns experiences overall?
The plethora of regions, natural landscapes and world heritage coral reefs and rainforests are a lot to cover in one visit - especially if you are a first-timer. Cairns tours can help you cover a lot of ground in a day and get the lowdown on the hidden gems that the locals like to keep a secret.
With a huge array of Cairns reef tours to choose from, it can be a little overwhelming. We take a detailed look at the Top 10 Things to do in Cairns & surrounds including the best attractions such as the Cairns Aquarium, Green Island, Fitzroy Island and more. With our handy guide to Cairns, you'll find yourself wanting to escape to Tropical North Queensland to tick off all the best things to do in Cairns.
1. Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Location: Cnr Captain Cook Highway & Cairns Western Arterial Road, Smithfield, Cairns outskirts, QLD
Hey there, adventurers! Are you ready for an unforgettable experience? The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is a must-do in Cairns! While the Great Barrier Reef usually steals the spotlight, Tropical North Queensland's ancient rainforests are equally amazing. There's no better way to explore them than by soaring high above the canopy on the Skyrail Cairns!
The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is more than just a ride – it's an adventure! Travel from the rainforest base to Kuranda (the Village in the Rainforest) and bask in breathtaking views of the lush landscape. You'll even catch glimpses of the Great Barrier Reef in the distance.
The journey is a 7.5km trip in a comfy, fully enclosed cable car (seating up to six people) with 360-degree views. There are two stops along the way:
● Red Peak Station: Take a guided rainforest walk with a ranger, learning about the area's history, ecology, and natural wonders.
● Barron Falls Station: Marvel at the spectacular Barron Falls from several stunning lookout points.
Once you reach Kuranda, you can explore this charming village nestled in the rainforest, grab a bite to eat, pick up a souvenir, or explore the local wildlife attractions.
Your Skyrail Experience:
● Duration: Allow about 1.5 hours each way for the Skyrail cableway journey.
● Diamond View Cabins: For a glass bottom view of the rainforest canopy at your feet, upgrade to a Diamond View cabin for a glass bottom!
● Return Trip: Choose to return to the base via Skyrail or take the Kuranda Scenic Railway for a different perspective.
● Getting There: The Skyrail terminal is a short 15-minute drive from Cairns. Shuttle buses also operate between Cairns and the terminal, making it easy to get there whether you're driving or using public transport.
While Kuranda is beautiful, the real highlight of the Skyrail is the journey itself. It's a truly unique experience, offering breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature in a way you won't forget. It’s a Cairns essential!
2. Fitzroy Island Day Trip
Just 45 minutes by ferry from Cairns, Fitzroy Island is a stunning Great Barrier Reef destination offering the ultimate day trip experience. This unspoiled paradise boasts crystal-clear waters, coral beaches, and lush rainforest trails, making it ideal for families, couples, and adventure seekers alike. Spend up to six hours exploring the island’s natural beauty. Snorkel straight off the beach to discover vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, including colourful fish and sea turtles. Prefer to stay dry? Opt for a glass-bottom boat tour for a unique view of the reef. On land, hike scenic trails through the National Park or relax on Nudey Beach – voted Australia’s best beach in 2018. Tours include return ferry transfers from Cairns Marina, with optional add-ons like snorkel gear hire, guided activities, and lunch packages. Whether you’re chasing adventure or simply want to unwind in paradise, Fitzroy Island offers something for everyone. Book your Fitzroy Island day trip today with Experience Oz and enjoy flexible options, great deals, and free cancellation. Escape to one of Queensland’s most accessible Great Barrier Reef islands for an unforgettable tropical experience!
3. Day Cruise to the Outer Barrier Reef
A Great Barrier Reef day cruise to the Outer Reef is an absolute must-do in Cairns. It's a bit further out, but trust us, it's worth every minute! The Outer Great Barrier Reef is simply stunning and generally considered more spectacular than the closer reefs. You'll see vibrant coral, dazzling tropical fish, and heaps of other amazing marine life. If you're not into chilling on a sandy beach, most tour operators have everything you need onboard.
Divers: Diving is the ultimate Barrier Reef adventure with many excellent dive sites, hand-picked for their incredible marine life. Located on the Outer Reef, operators like SilverSwift, Quicksilver, Down Under Cruise and Dive, Reef Magic and Great Adventures offer trips to spots like Flynn, Milln, Thetford, and Moore reefs.
Each dive site is unique, offering different underwater landscapes and marine species. Some boast amazing soft corals, others have a wider variety of fish, turtles, and rays. If you want the full Outer Reef experience, book a multi-day tour that explores several dive sites.
Snorkelers: Don't worry if you're not a diver; the Outer Reef is still incredible for snorkelling! You'll see the healthiest and brightest coral and marine life.
Everyone Else: You don't need to be a diver or a snorkeler. You can have a blast on board, whether kicking back to relax or enjoying the activity platforms. There's always plenty to do, including comfy sundecks, delicious buffet lunches, and underwater viewing windows.
How Long Will It Take? Great Barrier Reef cruises usually last 4-5 hours on the reef. However, if you're keen on an even longer adventure, there are 3-5 day trips with onboard accommodation, meals, and even diving lessons!
The trip to the Outer Reef from Cairns takes around 1.5 to 2 hours each way, depending on the boat and mooring site.
Is it Worth It? If you're serious about seeing the best coral, crystal clear waters, and unbeatable underwater encounters, you can't skip the Outer Reef. It should be at the top of your Cairns list for a truly unforgettable experience!
4. Kuranda Scenic Railway
Step aboard the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway for one of Australia’s most iconic rail journeys. Departing from Cairns, this unforgettable experience takes you deep into the World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics Rainforest, winding through lush greenery, hand-carved tunnels, and across spectacular bridges. Along the way, marvel at breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls and steep ravines as you climb toward the charming village of Kuranda. Built over 120 years ago, the Kuranda Scenic Railway is a true engineering masterpiece and a must-do for visitors to Tropical North Queensland. Enjoy informative commentary about the region’s history and natural wonders as you relax in heritage-style carriages. After exploring Kuranda’s vibrant markets and attractions, return to Cairns on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, gliding above the treetops for panoramic views of the rainforest canopy and Coral Sea. This one-way rail and one-way Skyrail combination offers the best of both worlds – an immersive rail journey and a breathtaking aerial perspective. Book your Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail experience today with Experience Oz for flexible options, great deals, and free cancellation. Discover the magic of the rainforest in the most memorable way possible!
5. Visit Green Island
Location: Coral Sea, 45 minutes from Cairns, QLD
If you're looking for a quick and easy way to experience the magic of the Great Barrier Reef, take a trip to Green Island Cairns. It's a short 45-minute ferry ride from Cairns, this stunning coral cay offers the best of the reef without breaking the bank or taking up too much of your time.
Green Island tours are popular for a good reason! The island is incredibly convenient, with beautiful scenery and a whole heap of fun activities.
Two of its biggest draws are the many sea turtles that call it home and its famous SeaWalker helmet diving experience. You might even spot Gavin, the local parrotfish who loves photobombing tourists!
The water quality and beauty of the coral cay makes for great snorkelling. Plus, Green Island and its tour operators make it super family-friendly. Kids will love the semi-submersible rides and glass-bottom boat tours, offering impressive views of the fish and turtles.
What to Do on Green Island:
● Snorkelling: Perfect for beginners, with snorkel hire packages often included in tours.
● Semi-Submersible Rides: Great for families, offering underwater views without getting wet.
● Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: Another fantastic way to see the reef's underwater wonders.
● Exploring: Wander through the lush rainforest on well-maintained walking tracks.
● Amenities: Enjoy the resort, shops, restaurants, showers, and there are lockers, too.
● Getting There: Green Island is easily accessible via ferry from Cairns. See our range of ferry trips and book online with Experience oz for convenient and affordable prices.
Is Green Island Right For You? If you're in Cairns and want a taste of the reef at less cost and less time commitment – or if you're travelling with kids – Green Island is a fantastic choice. If you do want to do both Green Island and the out Reef check out our popular combo tour. Whatever option you choose, it's a truly memorable Cairns experience!
6. Go White Water Rafting
Location: Barron, Tully & Russel Rivers, QLD
Cairns is so much more than the Great Barrier Reef! You'll find some of Australia's best whitewater rafting adventures if you head inland! The Barron, Tully, and Russell Rivers are all within easy reach of Cairns and offer exhilarating rapids and stunning rainforest scenery.
Each river provides a unique experience:
● Barron River: With gentler rapids, it's the perfect choice for shorter trips and families.
● Tully River: Known for its more challenging rapids, it's ideal for experienced rafters.
● Russell River: Offers a good balance of excitement and scenic beauty.
Our tours offer a range of trips to suit all skill levels, from scenic floats to adrenaline-pumping Grade 4 rapids. For a more gentles experience with young kids, check out the River Tubing experience. No matter which river you choose, you'll be in safe hands with experienced guides who prioritise safety while ensuring a fun and memorable adventure.
What to Expect:
● Safety First: You'll be provided with life jackets, helmets, and the necessary safety equipment. While capsizing is possible (especially on the Tully and Russell Rivers), it's always controlled and safe.
● Teamwork: White water rafting is a fantastic team activity, perfect for groups of friends or families.
● Duration: Barron River trips are shorter, ideal for those short on time. Tully and Russell River trips are longer, including lunch breaks.
● Transfers: Most tours include accommodation pick-ups and drop-offs, making it super easy to join the fun.
White water rafting Cairns is more than just an adrenaline rush; it's a chance to experience the beauty of Tropical North Queensland's rainforest from a unique perspective – ditch the beach towel and get ready to get wet and wild!
7. Bungy Jumping
Take your adventure to new heights with bungy jumping in Cairns, the only bungy site in Australia! Located in the lush rainforest just 20 minutes from Cairns, this world-class AJ Hackett site offers an unforgettable thrill for adrenaline seekers. Leap from a 50-metre tower surrounded by tropical scenery and feel the ultimate rush as you freefall toward the forest canopy. With 16 different jump styles, including the classic swan dive, backwards plunge, and even BMX bike jumps, this experience is perfect for first-timers and seasoned thrill-seekers alike. Safety is paramount, with professional instructors and state-of-the-art equipment ensuring a secure and exhilarating jump every time. After your jump, relax at the Bungy Bar, enjoy panoramic views, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic adventure spot. Whether you’re ticking off a bucket-list item or celebrating a special occasion, Cairns bungy jumping delivers an experience you’ll never forget. Book your bungy jump today with Experience Oz for flexible options, great deals, and free cancellation. Push your limits and discover why Cairns is Australia’s adventure capital!
8. Jet Ski ride Cairns
Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush with a guided jet ski tour in Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. This adventure combines speed, excitement, and stunning tropical scenery for an unforgettable experience on the water. Departing from Cairns, you’ll ride your own jet ski across the sparkling Coral Sea under the guidance of experienced instructors. No license? No problem! These tours are designed for beginners and thrill-seekers alike, with full safety briefings and easy-to-use equipment provided. Feel the freedom as you glide past lush rainforest coastline and spot marine life in crystal-clear waters. Your guide will share local insights and ensure you explore the best spots while staying safe. Whether you’re chasing high-speed thrills or a scenic cruise, this tour offers the perfect mix of adventure and natural beauty. Ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers, Cairns jet ski tours are a must-do for anyone visiting Tropical North Queensland. Book your jet ski adventure today with Experience Oz for flexible options, great deals, and free cancellation. Make your Cairns holiday unforgettable with this high-energy reef experience!
9. Kuranda Birdworld & Koala Gardens
Get ready for a wildlife adventure! Combine two of Tropical North Queensland's best wildlife experiences in one staggering day trip: Kuranda Koala Gardens and Kuranda Birdworld!
Located within easy walking distance of each other (and at the top of the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway), these two parks offer a fantastic opportunity to see some of Australia's most iconic animals.
● Kuranda Koala Gardens: Get up close and personal with adorable koalas and a host of other native animals. It's the perfect place to learn about these awe-inspiring creatures and their habitats.
● Kuranda Birdworld: Discover a vibrant world of colourful birds from around the globe and marvel at the diverse species, from playful parrots to majestic eagles. Don't miss the incredible collection at Birdworld Kuranda!
Save with Our Combo Pass: Want to visit both Kuranda Cairns Koala Gardens and Kuranda Birdworld? Save money and time with our convenient 2 Attractions combo pass!
10. Cairns Aquarium
Location: Florence Street, Cairns, QLD
Looking for fantastic Cairns Australia attractions? Last, but by no means least, the Cairns Aquarium. This must-see state-of-the-art aquarium opened in 2017 and is a spectacular showcase of the Great Barrier Reef's incredible marine life.
Located in the heart of Cairns, the aquarium is easily accessible and offers a fantastic experience for all ages. Spread over three levels, it features over 70 exhibits showcasing more than 15,000 awing sea creatures!
What to Expect:
● Incredible Diversity: Discover a wide range of marine life, from colourful fish to majestic sharks, playful seahorses, and even the iconic "Nemo" anemonefish.
● Up-Close Encounters: Get up close and personal with marine life in interactive touch tanks, perfect for kids! Feel the texture of starfish and sea cucumbers!
● Stunning Underwater Tunnel: Marvel at the breathtaking 300,000-litre underwater tunnel, offering incredible views of sharks, rays, and other reef inhabitants.
● Educational Talks: Learn fascinating facts about marine habitats and their inhabitants through daily talks and presentations.
● Unique Dining: Enjoy a meal with a view at the Aqualuna Restaurant, overlooking the main tank!
● Perfect for Everyone: Whether you're a family with young children, or simply want to experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef without getting wet, the Cairns Aquarium is the perfect choice.
It's a fantastic way to learn about the diverse ecosystems of Cape York, the Wet Tropics, and the Great Barrier Reef itself. It's a must-do on any Cairns itinerary!
Looking for what to do in Cairns? It's a long list, but no visit to Cairns is complete without a day tour or several to the Great Barrier Reef and nearby islands like Green Island or Fitzroy Island.
We acknowledge and pay respect to the Traditional Custodians of Country and their connections and continuous care for the skies, lands and waterways throughout Australia.