Things to do in Cairns

Things to do in Cairns

Whether you’re a local, or one of the many people visiting this beautiful part of Queensland, we’ve got you covered for fun things to do in Cairns with a huge range of the best adventures and activities.

Understandably, one of the main Cairns attractions for many visitors is getting out to see the world’s largest and longest coral reef system – the iconic Great Barrier Reef.
 
A reef tour is a must-do Cairns experience, particularly if you’re a first-time visitor. But with the variety of marine life that calls it home (and the fact it remains beautiful on that second and third visit), it’s well worth a return visit for those of you who’ve been in the past.
 

Great Barrier Reef snorkelling and scuba

We have a range of Cairns reef tours to choose from, including snorkelling and scuba diving for certified divers and those looking for an introductory dive experience. These are the perfect way to spend a day exploring this natural wonder of the world, and no previous experience is needed to snorkel or enjoy an introductory scuba dive.

Of course, if you’ve dived before then just pick an appropriate tour and take your dive certification along with you. With a certified dive trip the length of your dives at some of the Great Barrier Reef’s best dive locations is at your discretion.

These full-day cruises typically include everything you need to snorkel or scuba dive, including wetsuit, life jackets, masks and fins. There are also knowledgeable instructors to give you all the information you need about safety and techniques.

Helicopter rides

Cairns is the perfect place to tick a helicopter ride off your bucket list. Choose from a range of helicopter flights here at Adrenaline, all offering breathtaking views. There’s so much to see in this part of Australia, so get up in the air and get a look at it all! Fly over the Great Barrier Reef, rainforest and some stunning stretches of sand. The choice is yours.

Bungy jump

This one-of-a-kind bungy jump in the rainforest is a real must-do Cairns activity. Take a leap from 50-metres, experience the rush of freefall and get this exhilarating experience well and truly ticked off your bucket list. For an added shot of adventure, there’s also a jungle swing available at the same location.

Adventure capital of Australia?

Cairns has such a variety of thrilling experiences that it wouldn’t be unreasonable to call it the adventure capital of Australia! For an aerial ride at a more leisurely pace, how about going hot air ballooning? Everyone should experience a hot air balloon ride at least once, and a journey over the glorious Atherton Tablelands

Arguably the most exhilarating experience on offer in Cairns is skydiving. All the professional instruction and equipment you need is included, as well as some of the best views imaginable. With a tandem skydive you’ll experience the rush of freefall from 15,000ft, hitting speeds of around 200kph. Then the instructor will open the parachute for a far more serene ride and awesome aerial views of reef, rainforest and beyond.

And don’t miss your chance to visit the stunning Cape Tribulation and the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest. This incredible spot is around 150km north of Cairns and a scenic coastal drive of around three hours.

Fun things to do in Cairns for families

Cairns is a great place for people of all ages, and there are plenty of fun things to do for families. From jet boat rides and cruises, to sea kayaking and high ropes and ziplines. Looking for a great all-weather activity? Head to Cairns Aquarium, where you’ll gain a better understanding of North Queensland’s unique ecosystem and the marine life that calls it home. It’s open 365 days a year, and with daily presentations, animal encounters and a variety of exhibits, it’s one of the best things to do in Cairns with kids. 

Give a gift voucher for Cairns experiences

You can give our Cairns experiences as a gift. What better way to show someone you care than by gifting them an incredible adventure? Not sure what to choose for that special someone? Get a gift voucher at the value of your choice and let them decide what they’d like to do and when.

Best experiences around Queensland

Don’t forget to check out our other adventures around Queensland, including the Whitsundays and Airlie Beach, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, and Gold Coast.