Looking for the best things to do in Cairns? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re a local on a staycation or visiting for the first time, this region is full of adventures — from reef tours to rainforest swims. Here’s your go-to guide.
Quick answer: what’s the best thing to do in Cairns?
Start with the Great Barrier Reef — no trip to Cairns is complete without it. From there, the region offers everything from rainforest swimming holes to wildlife encounters, adrenaline adventures and a genuinely great food scene.
Key takeaways
- The Great Barrier Reef is the headline act — snorkelling, diving and pontoon experiences at Moore Reef and Fitzroy Island.
- Free and low-cost swimming options abound, from the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon to rainforest swimming holes like Crystal Cascades and Josephine Falls.
- Adrenaline seekers can add skydiving, white-water rafting or a scenic helicopter flight to their trip.
- Cairns Aquarium and the Skyrail to Kuranda (with its Butterfly Sanctuary and Birdworld) make for great wildlife encounters beyond the reef.
- The food scene starts at Rusty’s Markets and extends through a growing café, seafood and food-truck culture.
1. Explore the Great Barrier Reef
No list of things to do in Cairns is complete without the reef. With Sunlover Reef Cruises, you can snorkel coral gardens, slide off a floating pontoon, or take a guided intro dive. Moore Reef and Fitzroy Island are both packed with marine life and incredible views.
2. Swim like a local
Want a break from the saltwater? Try the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon — it’s free and perfect for families. If you prefer fresh water, head to Crystal Cascades or Josephine Falls for rainforest swimming that feels like a secret escape.
3. Adventure, your way
Adrenaline junkies, rejoice. Skydiving, white-water rafting on the Barron River, or a scenic helicopter ride will give you serious bragging rights. These are just a few of the thrilling things to do in Cairns if you like your heart racing.
4. Meet local wildlife
Visit Cairns Aquarium to learn about reef ecosystems. Or, for something different, take the Skyrail to Kuranda and stop by the Butterfly Sanctuary or Birdworld. Cairns is a hub for unique animal encounters, on the reef and off it.
5. Taste Tropical North Queensland
Start your food journey at Rusty’s Markets, then explore the region’s growing café scene, seafood restaurants and food trucks. If you’re joining a Sunlover tour, you’ll also get to enjoy gourmet buffet options catered by Tropic Spirit Catering, a beloved local provider.
Connect with the region
From sunrise hikes to underwater adventures, the best things to do in Cairns are all about connection. Our reef tours do more than show you coral — they help protect it, and your visit makes a difference. Whether you’re here for a day or a month, there’s no shortage to explore. Start with the reef, and let the adventure unfold from there.
What is the number one thing to do in Cairns?
What can I do in Cairns for free?
What’s a good day trip from Cairns besides the reef?
Where can I try local food in Cairns?
Start with the reef
See the best of Cairns from the water first — snorkelling, diving and pontoon fun for every age.
