Things to Do in Cairns: The Gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef

The gateway to the Great Barrier Reef in the north of Queensland is the city of Cairns. It is a great place to base yourself in, if you are planning on exploring this amazing part of Australia. It is also a relaxing town to just enjoy some time off in. There is no need to be formal here, put on your shorts and relax, you are in Cairns now!

Here’s our list of the 5 best things to do in Cairns...

1. Take a tour of the Great Barrier Reef​

No visit to Cairns is complete without getting out onto the Great Barrier Reef, one of the most stunning natural wonders of the world. The reef has over 3,000 individual reef systems with over 400 different types of corals in a myriad colours. There is also diverse marine life that includes dolphins, rays, mollusks, fish and more than 200 varieties of birds.

You have several different options to get out on the reef from Cairns. You can take a day-trip on a large boat or sign up for luxury and hire a private yacht for a few days. Once on the reef, get into your bathing suit and jump into the warm, turquoise waters. Snorkelling is the best way to see what is going on under the surface. You can also learn how to scuba dive here if you have a few days in hand. And, for those who aren’t comfortable in the water, there are several boat operators in Cairns, offering glass-bottomed boats.

2. Visit the Daintree Rainforest​

My favourite region of Far North Queensland is the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation. This untouched beauty is simply a feast for your senses. It is believed that the rainforest has survived for over 100 million years, existing in harmony with the neighbouring reef. Spread over 1200 square kilometres, Daintree Rainforest is home to the widest range of flora and fauna on earth. If Mother Earth had a home this would surely be it!

There is plenty to do in this region; hike through the rain forest, relax on the secluded beach or cool off in a fresh water-swimming hole. Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch so you can enjoy it whilst surrounded by the beauty of this natural wonderland.

3. Ride on the Kuranda Scenic Railway​

There is nothing better than a great train journey and the Kuranda Scenic Railway is one of the most unique railway adventures in Australia. Enjoy the verdant landscape as the train makes it way through the tropical rainforest, which is a treasure trove of exotic plants and flowers. From your window, you will see tall rugged mountains that give way to deep valleys and waterfalls that look inviting in the warm weather. The scenery is truly breathtaking!

This historic train line was built between 1887 and 1891 and still has a charming timber cabin train carriage that rattles its way along the tracks. The heritage-listed station at Kuranda is picturesque and is considered by rail aficionados to be one of the most beautiful railway stations in the world.

4.  Explore the Cairns Esplanade

The Cairns Esplanade is a popular meeting place and a great place to spend a laid-back afternoon. Wander along the Esplanade or swim in the unique saltwater lagoon that stretches across an incredible 4,800 square metres. This artificial lagoon lets you enjoy the feel of swimming in the sea without fearing the large waves or riptides. There are several timber decks too, where you can relax on as you watch everyone else splashing about in the water.

Along the esplanade you will also find some of Cairns best restaurants, an interesting market to pick up local crafts and some high street shopping malls. Wander through the many nearby streets and see what special trinkets you can find as mementoes of your visit to Cairns.

5. Learn about Aboriginal history at Tjapukai Cultural Park​

Aboriginal culture is one of the oldest in the world. Whilst it isn’t possible to learn everything about this ancient civilization in a few hours, you can immerse yourself in it for a while at the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park.

Designed to celebrate the history of Australia’s indigenous population, here you will experience the joy of ancient music, try your hand at boomerang throwing and even learn how to hunt in a rainforest. There is even a didgeridoo-playing exhibition and kids can have their face painted the traditional aboriginal way too.

This cultural park offers both day and night experiences that are quite interesting. During the day, you can watch a professional theatre production and even try your hand at throwing spears. At night, the Dreamtime comes alive with a traditional Tjapukai corroboree and amazing fire-making show. Sit around the campfire and hear ancient stories that date back to thousands of years.

So what are you waiting for?

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