Cairns Queensland is a tropical paradise with something for everyone. Those who seek adventure will be thrilled by the opportunity to go skydiving, and scuba diving and enjoy other thrilling activities. However, those who prefer more relaxed vacations can also find their bliss in Cairns. The city has a lot of beautiful beaches and markets where you can spend a lazy afternoon. There are several museums and art galleries where you can learn about the rich local culture and history. And there are many places to enjoy nice coffee or cocktails with friends after a long day at the beach.
Cairns has much to offer any traveler looking for an exciting vacation that straddles the line between urban amenities and natural beauty. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to the top things to do in Cairns Queensland as well as some insider tips on how to make your stay even more enjoyable.
Skydiving in Cairns Queensland
If you are looking for the most thrilling thing to do in Cairns, skydiving is a great choice. It is a thrilling experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Cairns is in the perfect position for skydiving, as you can see the Great Barrier Reef and rainforest from above. If this is your first time skydiving, you should know that you will jump from an airplane at an altitude of 10,000 feet. You will experience a free fall around 60 seconds before your parachute opens.
You can choose your own skydiving adventure in Cairns:
Tandem Skydiving
- Tandem skydiving is great for beginners, as the instructor takes control of the parachute
Solo Skydiving
- Solo skydiving is a perfect adventure for those who want to experience the full rush of skydiving without a partner.
First-Jump Course
- A first-jump course is a great way to try skydiving without any experience.
Scuba Diving in Cairns
Cairns is a world-class Scuba Diving destination, so if this is your thing, you should not miss the opportunity to dive in Cairns. There are many Scuba Diving spots in Cairns; the most famous one being the Great Barrier Reef. It is the world’s largest living organism, so you can imagine what it is like to dive into the Great Barrier Reef. The reef itself is home to colorful corals and a wide range of marine life, including sharks and dolphins.
The Great Barrier Reef is a Unesco World Heritage Site, so you can explore the underwater world without disturbing the ecosystem. In addition to the Great Barrier Reef, there are also many other diving spots near Cairns, such as the Ribbon Reefs, the Hervey Bay, and the Hinchinbrook Island. You can choose between scuba diving and snorkeling depending on your skill level. If you are a beginner, we recommend that you try snorkeling to see the underwater world without the risk of becoming overburdened by equipment.
Also, there are many options when it comes to renting or purchasing a snorkel mask. Therefore, you should be able to find one that fits your face and needs. With a snorkel mask, you can dive right into the water and experience the ocean. You can look at fish and other aquatic life, swim near reefs, and perhaps even try swimming with a stingray. You can even try a diving course if you want to get serious about snorkeling.
Many people love the ease of this activity and the fact that it can be done at any age. The only thing you really need to have is a love of the water.
Cairns Rainforest Walk
The Cairns Rainforest Walk is one of the best things to do in Cairns if you want to enjoy the rich biodiversity of the Tropical Rainforest. The walk is a 1-hour trail that passes through lush and green rainforest. During the walk, you will learn about the different plants and trees in the rainforest and about their medicinal values.
You can also try the delicious tropical fruits that you can find in the forest such as mango, banana, and papaya. The highlight of the walk is the view of the Mossman River from a suspension bridge. You should take the time to appreciate the beauty of the river from above.
Turtle Monitoring Program
If you are passionate about marine turtles, you should visit the Turtle Monitoring Program in Cairns. This program studies and protects the Green Sea Turtles near the city. You can participate in the monitoring program and help save endangered species. During the visit, you will learn about the different life stages of sea turtle and how they are connected to the environment.
You will get to visit the hatchery where the eggs are incubated before they are released into the ocean. You can also enjoy the view of the Great Barrier Reef from the observation deck. You can also visit the turtle rehabilitation center where these animals are treated after they have been injured and are unable to go back to the sea.
Reef Life Monitoring Program
The Reef Life Monitoring Program is similar to the Turtle Monitoring Program, but it focuses on the reef fish. You will learn about the different types of fish and how they interact with each other and the environment. You should visit the program during the fish feeding time, which is a great chance to see the fish up close.
You can also learn about the correct way to feed the fish so that you don’t disrupt their habitat. The Reef Life Monitoring Program is a great place to visit with children.
This program is designed to help protect and maintain the health of aquatic ecosystems. It also teaches children about the importance of protecting the environment. There are many things that you can do at home with your children to help them learn about the importance of protecting and maintaining the health of aquatic ecosystems.
Other Activities to try in Cairns
Cycling in Cairns
- If you love cycling, you should visit the Tropical Cycles in Cairns. This cycling tour takes you through the Northern Beaches with a spectacular view of the Great Barrier Reef.
Kayaking in Cairns
- You can also go kayaking in Cairns. This trip takes you through the mangrove forests and the sparkling waterways near the city.
Horseback Riding in Cairns
- If you like horseback riding, you can visit Sporthorse Outback and ride in the rainforest.
Paintball
- If you like adventures, you can try paintballing near Cairns.
Sky Trek
- If you want to try something a bit more extreme, you can go sky trekking in Cairns.
Scenic Flights
- You can also go on scenic flights over the Great Barrier Reef and the rainforest.
Rock Climbing
- If you are an experienced climber, you can go rock climbing in Cairns.
- If this is your first time, you can climb with a guide. There are several places to go, from easy climbs to challenging routes. You may be required to reserve in advance. There are several places to go, from easy climbs to challenging routes. You may be required to reserve in advance.
Sightseeing in Cairns
Cairns Botanic Gardens
When you visit the Botanic Gardens, you can see over 2,500 species of plants. The gardens are also home to many tropical birds. You can also go on a guided walk in the rainforest.
Cairns Tropical Zoo
Another great place to visit in Cairns is the Tropical Zoo. You can see local animals such as cassowaries, koalas, and kangaroos. You can also try the Tropical Wings Bird of Prey Experience where you can fly a bird of prey.
Cairns Central Shopping Centre
If you are interested in local art, you should visit the Cairns Central Shopping Centre. The center is home to several art galleries, where you can admire paintings, sculptures, and more.
Cairns Esplanade
If you want to admire the local architecture and design, you should visit the Esplanade. Here, you can see the Cairns Tropical Swimming Centre.
Cultural Excursions
Kuranda Scenic Railway
If you want to experience a unique Australian tradition, you should visit Kuranda via the scenic railway. This train takes you through the rainforest and over a bridge overlooking the Great Barrier Reef.
Gumbay Aboriginal Art and Culture Gallery
If you are interested in Aboriginal culture, you can visit the Gumbay Aboriginal Art and Culture Gallery. Here, you can learn about Aboriginal art and culture.
Cultural Tours to the Aboriginal Village
If you want to immerse yourself in Aboriginal culture, you should take a tour of the Aboriginal Village. Here, you can learn about Aboriginal traditions and visit important cultural sites.
Conclusion
Cairns is a tropical paradise with something for everyone. Those who seek adventure will be thrilled by the opportunity to go skydiving, and scuba diving and enjoy other thrilling activities. However, those who prefer more relaxed vacations can also find their bliss in Cairns. The city has a lot of beautiful beaches and markets where you can spend a lazy afternoon.
There are several museums and art galleries where you can learn about the rich local culture and history. And there are many places to enjoy nice coffee or cocktails with friends after a long day at the beach.
