Cairns is known as the adventure capital of Australia... The Great Barrier Reef, Bungy Jumping, White Water Rafting... Cairns really has it all! Here are my recommendations for the best things to do in Cairns.
Top 10 Things To Do in Cairns
1. Great Barrier Reef
This attraction needs no introduction... one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the largest living organism in the world and it has its very own postcode. The Great Barrier Reef begins south at 1770 and extends north of Cairns to Cape York but Cairns has forever been the most popular access point to the Reef. Day & Overnight Boat trips depart Cairns daily. You can choose from Snorkelling, to an Introductory Scuba Dive to any PADI Scuba courses.
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2. White Water Rafting
Tully River is one of the most popular places for commercial white water rafting in Australia offering Grade 4 to 5 Rapids. The day tour will guide you through 45 rapids and the views are stunning - you are literally in the middle of the rainforest. If this is a bit too scary - opt for Barron River which has Grade 3 rapids.
3. Atherton Tablelands
Located about 45 minutes south west of Cairns and 600km above sea level, the Tablelands is home to a number of waterfalls, natural swimming holes and lakes. Here you will find Millaa Millaa Falls - where Peter Andre filmed 'Mysterious Girl.'
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4. Hike the Pyramid
A local’s secret with amazing 360 degree views of Cairns and the ocean! You will need around 4 hours to hike up and down the mountain and your own vehicle.
5. Fitzroy Island
A cheap day out... this little touch of paradise is reasonably untouristy and a favourite amongst locals. It is just a short ferry ride from Cairns with walking trails, beautiful beaches, stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkelling and a trampoline in the ocean!
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6. Bungy Jump
AJ Hackett have a bungy site in the middle of the rainforest. Make sure you also try the swing!
7. Cape Tribulation
Two hours north of Cairns sits Cape Tribulation - where the rainforest meets the reef. This is as far north as you can travel without a 4WD vehicle. We recommend an overnight trip! Look out for Crocs!
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8. Skydive
I bet it's on your Bucket List! Skydiving in Cairns offers views of the Great Barrier Reef. If a beach landing is your thing - transfers from Cairns to Mission Beach are also possible.
9. Kuranda
This hippie town is nestled high in the mountains of the rainforest! You can take a scenic railway or cable car to Kuranda as well as a train ride past Barron Falls.
spaceodissey [CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons
10. Crystal Cascades
This is a local's secret and you will need your own vehicle to get here. Natural swimming holes and a great spot for rock jumping.