Best Travel Guide Cairns | ArrivalGuides.com

CairnsGuide was updated: 2025-08-18

People have been flocking to Cairns in search of treasure since the first gold rush. However, the prospectors of today come to mine the abundance of natural and environmental treasures that surround the city. With the tropical rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef in close proximity, Cairns attracts a young and intrepid crowd that adds to the vibrancy of this lively and welcoming city.

Do & See

Cairns offers endless possibilities to explore, learn and meet interesting people. The nature is breathtakingly beautiful and the people friendly and helpful. There’s always something exciting going on and if you’re all adventured out, there are plenty of options when it comes to taking it easy, and hey — why not get a nice tan while you’re relaxing?

The Esplanade

The Esplanade is full of cafes and restaurants, BBQ areas where you can sit down with friends and use the big grills. Stroll along the promenade, splash around in the famous lagoon, enjoy some of the free events or just soak up the sun!

Do & SeeRead more →

Book now

Great Barrier Reef

No trip to Cairns would be complete without a day spent exploring the Great Barrier Reef. Composed of roughly 3,000 individual reefs, nearly 900 islands and coral cays, and home to an unparalleled array of marine life, Australia's Great Barrier Reef is one of the richest and most complex natural ecosystems on Earth. Whether you're a diver, snorkeler, or nature lover, there are plenty of reasons to include this natural world wonder in your Australia travel itinerary.

Do & SeeRead more →

Book now

White Water Rafting

There are three rivers in Cairns suitable for rafting, each with its own level of difficulty. It is a fun experience and also a team building exercise to face the impressive rapids together. Foaming Fury is a white water rafting specialist in Australia and they offer a wide range of tours.

Do & SeeRead more →

Book now

Green Island

Tropical and magical, Green Island is a unique part of the Great Barrier Reef, making it a perfect spot for a half-day or full day tour. There are plenty of options to snorkel, parasail, dive and swim in the clear ocean waters. Explore the Green Island National Park or just relax on the white sandy beach. Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises will take you to this small, beautiful island

Do & SeeRead more →

Book now

Treetops Adventure in Cape Tribulation

Treetops Adventure is an exciting and adventurous way to experience the spectacular Daintree Rainforest with a guided zipline and tree platform tour. Being up there in the canopy gives you unparalleled access to the heart of the rainforest. Treetops Adventure is located on a private reserve 2.5 hours drive north of Cairns. The property borders the Daintree Cape Tribulation National Park and offers stunning rainforest vistas as well as views over the Great Barrier Reef.

Do & SeeRead more →

Mossman Gorge

The amazing Mossman Gorge lies 80 km north of Cairns. It is a river with magic blue-green waters surrounded by enchanting rainforest. The water is refreshingly cool and it is a peaceful place to go swimming — beware of the rapids though. This area is part of the traditional homeland of the indigenous tribe of Kuku Yulanji.

Do & SeeRead more →

View all Do & See →