Located in the Tropical North Queensland, Cairns is known for its peaceful atmosphere and tropical climate. As the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, this city of 150,000 inhabitants offers various activities that will make your visit to Cairns unforgettable. Between the artificial lagoon, paradise islands, parachute jumping, diving among the corals, stroll through the city and beautiful botanical gardens; you can be sure that your stay will be memorable! Here is our selection of activities to do for 2 days in Cairns (plus a little extra 🙂)
Table of Contents
Stroll through the city centre of Cairns (Day 1 – morning)
Start your first day by visiting Rusty’s Markets. Here, you will find a variety of fresh local produce at very attractive prices as well as small stalls selling fast food and sweet treats. It is the ideal place to discover tropical fruits and sample a few from the region. The best day to visit is Sunday, although traders sell their fruit and vegetables all week, Sundays offer the best deals!
After that, continue your morning stroll through Cairns shopping streets and the large shopping malls such as Cairns Central Shopping Center. The Cairns Museum is also a great stop for an hour or two. Also make sure to visit the Doongal on the Esplanade gallery in central Cairns, which showcases local Aboriginal artists. The gallery also has locally made didgeridoos or boomerangs.
To finish your morning, sit in one of the many terraced restaurants and enjoy the tropical climate while having lunch.
Stroll in the botanical garden (Day 1 – afternoon)
After lunch, visit the Cairns Botanic Garden – the perfect place to escape the sunshine of Queensland and enjoy the shade from the towering trees. This place is a real tropical paradise. There are more than 4000 species of flora from around the world with many birds and insects also populating the garden. Best of all, it is accessible to all and is totally free.
For hiking enthusiasts, Mount Whitfield right next to the Botanical Garden will be a great way to spend your afternoon. Several trails are available depending on your ability. Each trail provides a panoramic view of Cairns and its surroundings. The walks are mostly shaded and there is plenty of flora and fauna to be admired on route.
You can also spend your afternoon getting lost on the Rainforest Boardwalk, right in front of the Botanical Garden. This trail leads to a freshwater lake covered with lily pads in which several crocodiles live. You can also observe the surrounding mangrove and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.
Enjoy the artificial lagoon (Day 1 – afternoon)
What better way to end your day than a refreshing swim in the free artificial lagoon in the heart of Cairns? This must-see place was introduced by the city to help people fight against the tropical heat. It was also needed as bathing in the sea in Cairns is totally forbidden due to the abundance of crocodiles and jellyfish that populate these waters. To remedy this, the lagoon is the perfect place. The lagoon offers everything you need – a pleasant view of the sea, a sandy area to bask in the sun and many amenities such as toilets, BBQ & picnic areas.
The esplanade around the lagoon is also equipped with barbecues, benches, tables, showers and lockers for your belongings. You can end your day like a local, with a barbecue using the fresh products purchased from this morning’s market.
There is another popular way to end your day. The city of Cairns organizes free daily physical activities for everyone such as water aerobics, zumba or yoga. You can check out the timetable here.
Discovering the Great Barrier Reef (Day 2)
No trip to Cairns would be complete without a visit to the Great Barrier Reef – the largest coral reef system in the world. So big in fact, it’s larger than the UK! There are two ways to explore this world-famous landmark – by sea or by the sky. If you have time – do both! Definitely a must-do during your 2 days in Cairns.
By Sea
Cairns is one of the world’s most coveted diving destinations, certifying the highest number of PADI Open Water divers in the world. Many companies offer daytime dive trips. Whether you are a beginner or fully qualified, there is an overwhelming choice of underwater spots to choose from. In case you do not want to dive, snorkelling is also a very rewarding alternative. It will also provide a magnificent glimpse of the colourful coral gardens and vibrant fish that call the Great Barrier Reef home.
There are a variety of organised tours available, whether you have time for just an afternoon boat trip or a full excursion to one of the many paradise islands that surround Cairns. Northern Queensland is teeming with deserted islands that should not be missed, especially Fitzroy Island and Frankland Islands which offer incredible snorkel and dive experiences.
Fitzroy Island
A 45-minute ferry ride from Cairns, Fitzroy Island is a tropical paradise ideal for day trips or overnight stays. The island offers excellent snorkeling and diving spots, hiking trails leading to stunning lookouts, and the chance to visit the Fitzroy Island Turtle Rehabilitation Centre.
Fitzroy Island brings together all the clichés of island paradise: white sand, translucent water, palm trees, corals, surrounding jungle and more. This island offers many things to do such as hiking, kayaking, swimming or snorkeling. The main hike on the island will reward you with an amazing 360 ° panoramic view. There is also some restaurants and even a hotel if you don’t want to leave (which will be likely!) To reach Fitzroy, there are various ferries departing from Cairns Harbor daily.
Frankland Islands
Frankland Islands are quite simply, heaven on earth. To date, only one company offers day trips to get there. Once there, there is no infrastructure such as roads, only a few benches to admire the epic views. It’s an ideal day trip to escape tourists and crowds. While exploring the surroundings, you are almost guaranteed the chance to come across turtles, sharks and clownfish who frequent the Frankland Islands.
By Air
If you’re more of an adrenaline junkie or simply don’t fancy getting wet, you can skydive over the world’s largest ecosystem. A tandem skydive is very popular with backpackers and tourists with many companies offering this service in Cairns. It is expensive but worth every penny for the breathtaking view. Not to mention a once in a lifetime experience!
Alternatively, you can also observe the Great Barrier Reef without leaving the safety of your seat on a panoramic flight by plane or helicopter. Again, many companies offer flights from Cairns and there are many discounts and promotions worth keeping an eye out for!
The main activities at the Great Barrier Reef
The trips to the Great Barrier Reef offered by tour operators are often quite similar to each other. Prices usually include everything you will need for the day: food, hot and cold drinks, toilets, showers and diving equipment (mask, snorkel, wetsuits, etc.).
Some of the most popular things to do in Cairns include:
Stroll in the Night Markets (Day 2 – evening)
After a day of adventures, enjoy your evening at the Night Markets – one of the most popular Cairns attractions. With more than 70 stands, there is something for everyone. Between souvenirs, clothes, local products, gadgets, massages and tattoos – you really can find everything. You can also grab something to eat at the neighbouring food court which offers dishes inspired by cuisine from all over the world.
Best period to visit Cairns
The tropical climate in Cairns and its surroundings is ideal for 9 out of 12 months, from April to December. December to March are the rainiest months as it is the monsoon season. Rainfall can be frequent during this period.
The sea temperature is pleasant all year round, ranging from 23 to 30°C. The best season for swimming is from April to October, as from November, it is jellyfish season!
If you have more time…
Venture into the lush Daintree rainforest
The Tropical North Queensland is full of lush forests including the famous Daintree Rainforest but also Kuranda Rainforest. No trip to Cairns would be complete without a day trip to explore these jungles if you have some time left!
The Daintree Rainforest, part of the Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Site, is the oldest continuously surviving tropical rainforest on Earth. It is a 2-hour drive from Cairns, passing by the Captain Cook Highway, one of the most beautiful roads of Australia thanks to its incredible view of the Pacific. If you have time for a photo opportunity, stop at Rock Stacks. This place is home to many sculptures made of rocks and is a fascinating break to admire this free, natural art.
To reach the forest, you will need to take the short Daintree Ferry across because there is no bridge giving access. It is also recommended taking a cruise on the Daintree River to observe the crocodiles in their natural environment. This forest is also home to one of the most diverse population of plants and animals on earth. Including the famous cassowary that is endangered but you may be lucky enough to see. Many boardwalks have been set up in the forest to discover its fauna and flora in complete safety and to avoid tourists wandering off-track destroying the natural landscape.
The main point of interest here is Cape Tribulation, where the reef meets the rainforest. It is also recognised as the most Northerly point of Queensland and the most Northerly part of the East coast of Australia that you can access by car. This beach is as beautiful as it is impressive and owes its name to James Cook who ran aground nearby in 1770.
Kuranda – a city in the tropical heights
A former mining town, Kuranda is also famous for its rainforest. It can be reached via the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, one of the main attractions in the area. Aboard this cabin, you will fly over the rain forest and make various stops passed waterfalls, allowing you to wander through the lush vegetation. Upon your return from Kuranda, take the scenic train known as the Kuranda Scenic Railway. It meanders along mountains, valleys and waterfalls – allowing for some breathtaking photos!
Discover the wildlife and landscapes of the Atherton Tablelands
On the road from Atherton don’t miss the Curtain Fig tree. One of the largest trees in the area. A huge fig tree with 15m drooping roots forming a curtain.
At an altitude of 700m west of Cairns, you can admire superb landscapes and abundant wildlife, including the rare Tree Kangaroo. The artificial lake Tinaroo is one of the most visited attractions in the area. Water sports, hiking and fishing are the most popular activities.
If you go deeper inland, head to Undara Volcanic Park. Located 3 hours by road from Atherton (4h15 from Cairns), you can discover lava tubes, among the longest in the world. You can also admire ancient volcanoes such as the Seven Sisters.
Atherton is also known to be home to many waterfalls including the most famous and impressive Millaa Milla Falls.
Mossman Gorge and Aboriginal Culture
77km north of Cairns, don’t miss Mossman for a walk in the gorges with a suspended bridge at the end. You can also swim so don’t forget your bathing suits!
The Mossman Gorge Center is worth a visit with its Aboriginal art gallery, a restaurant and a souvenir shop. You can also join a ‘Dreamtime walk’ to better understand the Aboriginal culture.
Alexandra Range lookout offers you a magnificent view of the rainforest and the coral reef!
You can also learn about the rich Indigenous culture of the region by visiting the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park or joining a guided tour led by Indigenous guides. These experiences provide insight into the traditions, stories, and connection to the land of the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Practical Information
How to get to Cairns?
By Air: Cairns International Airport connects major cities in Australia and Southeast Asia. It is close to the city center and hostels sometimes offer a free shuttle service.
By Bus: Several bus companies connect Australia’s major cities, including Greyhound.
By train: The train station is located in the city center and is very easy to reach. Train journeys are often very long.
By Car: This is the solution that most travelers choose because the scenery along the Australian East Coast is simply unbelievable.
Accommodation
If you live in your converted vehicle, some hostels offer a charge per night. This is the case at JJ’s Backpackers, which offers accommodation with access to facilities (showers, toilets) and breakfast..
Food
In terms of restaurants, Esplanade Street offers a wide choice. Choose the one that suits you best.
