Cairns is most famous as the gateway to Queensland’s stunning Great Barrier Reef. Thousands of tourists pour into town every day, and most instantly jump onto charter boats and yachts to head out for adventures among the fish and coral. But if you’ve resisted the reef (or are just too sunburnt for another day of snorkelling), here are ten more reasons to stay and play in this subtropical oasis – besides the food!
Kuranda Scenic Railway
Natural Feature
This is one of the region’s most iconic experiences, and a memorable way to experience the World Heritage Listed Daintree Rainforest. Board the historic train and relax as it winds through lush rainforest, past awe-inspiring waterfalls and over breath-taking gorges.
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Natural Feature
For a different perspective of the rainforest, jump aboard one of the glass-walled gondolas at Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. This unique experience will take you 7.5km into the heart of the rainforest, gliding just metres over the treetops the whole way. Take advantage of the stops at Red Peak and Barron Falls to explore the forest boardwalks and lookouts.
Ngadiku Dreamtime Walks
Let an indigenous guide introduce you to another pristine piece of the Daintree Rainforest on a Dreamtime walk through Mossman Gorge. After a traditional smoking ceremony, your guide will take you on a journey to secluded ceremonial sites where you’ll hear the Dreamtime legends.
Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park
Museum, Park, Historical Landmark
There’s more indigenous culture to discover at Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. By day, you can learn to play the didgeridoo, throw a boomerang, weave baskets, and craft traditional jewellery. Once the sun sets, sit back and enjoy a cultural dance celebration around a bonfire by the lake.
Flames of the Forest
Restaurant, Australian
If you didn’t get enough of the rainforest during daylight hours, return in the evening for a romantic outdoor dining experience. Flames of the Forest is a candle-lit dining experience among the towering trees. Indulge with a sumptuous six-course meal that features tropical flavours, accompanied by premium Australian wines. It’s an experience that is well worth the hour’s drive.
Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures and Johnstone River Croc Park
Park
Cairns’ subtropical climate is perfect for crocodiles, and no trip to the region is complete without a close encounter. Head north to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, in the heart of Kuranda National Park. Cruises along the croc-infested river leave three times a day, but the afternoon trip is the one not to miss – you’ll see the power of these monstrous beasts as they leap from the water to feed. If you’re south of Cairns, drop in to Johnstone River Croc Park – a smaller crocodile farm that lets you get up close and personal with the ancient lizards.
Paronella Park
Park
One of the top tourist attractions near Cairns is decidedly un-Australian. Set at the bottom of the stunning Mena Creek Falls, Paronella Park is Spanish-style castle built by a presumably eccentric Spanish immigrant in the 1930s. The castle has been lovingly restored, and it’s fascinating to walk through the distinctly styled garden paths that snake through the surrounding rainforest.
Australian Platypus Park
Park
For a far less intense animal experience, meet the peculiar platypus at the Australian Platypus Park. Set on the edge of the tranquil Tarzali Lakes, a guided tour through the park will ensure you get to meet and greet these iconic duck-billed, beaver-tailed, ever-so-cute mammals.
Cairns Zoom & Wildlife Dome
Casino
This attraction is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy an adrenaline rush without leaving town. It’s a rainforest-themed high ropes course, set in a bio-dome atop of the local casino. Test your mettle on the 65 crossings and ziplines, but be ware – one takes you directly over Goliath. Who’s he? Just the casino’s resident 4 metre-long croc…
Mud Park Australia
Park
If you’ve still got an itch for some action, you’ll find Mud Park Australia an hour out of town. They’ll give you the keys to a six-wheeled all-terrain-vehicle and full permission to let the throttle out on their massive, muddy course. Odds are that you’ll get very dirty.
Read Next
Made in Australia: 10 Influential Artists Past and Present
Unmissable Attractions in Regional Victoria, Australia
12 Iconic Australian Songs You Should Know
10 Things You Should Never Say to an Australian
Christmas in Australia: How to Celebrate
11 Historic Indigenous Australian Sites and Landmarks
A Two-Week Travel Itinerary to Australia's East Coast
Top 10 Iconic Bands Formed In Australia
The 10 Most Beautiful Towns You Should Visit in Australia
The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Australia
The Best Australian Beer Brands
The Best Snorkelling Spots in Jervis Bay, Australia
Winter Sale
Save up to $862 on our trips! Book now and secure your adventure!
