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.

The Cayman Turtle Centre is a conservation facility and tourist attraction that welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors per year. Although the facility was initially used to breed the endangered green sea turtle for commercial purposes and still continues to operate as a farming operation, its importance as a research and conservation facility cannot be overstated.

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.

Cross this bridge on foot or by bike and take in the views of the city as you pass. The view of the bridge itself from below also makes for a nice photograph. The bridge has been distinguished by several architecture and engineering awards, and commemorates the old aboriginal trading route once in existence here via themed carvings.