Top 10 Day Trips to Add to Your Cairns Itinerary

Be one with nature in the city of Cairns. Its tropical climate and access to endless natural wonders, like the Great Barrier Reef, makes it a popular destination for both adventurous tourists and locals. Set your sights for the great outdoors with these exciting experiences and attractions where you can make lasting memories whether you’re there for a getaway or if you're just doing a day trip in Cairns.

Here’s a list of the ten best things to do in Cairns, even if it’s just for a day: 

Since Cairns is considered the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, what day trip in Cairns would be complete without experiencing the natural wonder in person? Explore the Great Barrier Reef in style onboard a 35-metre superyacht that will take you to two exclusive reef sites. Take advantage of five hours of reef time to snorkel or scuba dive into the world’s largest coral reef system. After your underwater adventure, fuel up with a hearty barbie right on the yacht. On the way home, sit back, relax, and take in the great ocean blue with a complimentary glass of wine and some afternoon tea.

Visit the charming village of Kuranda to learn about and experience First Nations customs and traditions. The trip will be anything but ordinary as you travel to the village aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Simply kick back in your seats and have your camera ready for the views as you weave through the lush green forests of Australia. Hop aboard a World War II Army Duck for an exciting journey into the Kuranda rainforest to gain some insight about various flora and fauna. You can even visit a tropical fruit orchard, with over 60 species of tropical fruit trees. 

Unwind on pristine white sand beaches of Fitzroy Island and feel the breeze on your face as you soak in the crystal clear waters and live the island life. Or if you prefer something more exciting, explore the island’s beauty through various water activities, such as paddle boarding, snorkelling, and rowing on a glass boat. You’ll get to observe vibrant coral reefs up close in its surrounding reef system that forms part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. 

Take the ultimate plunge with this thrilling skydive experience. Cairns Skydive Experience is something every adrenaline junkie must add to their Cairns itinerary. Get a one-of-a-kind perspective of the city from either 7,500 feet or 15,000 feet high. Be sure to keep your eyes open for the whole journey because you won’t want to miss out on impressive views of some iconic landmarks, like the Great Barrier Reef, the World Heritage Rainforest, and the Trinity Inlet. There’s nothing to fear as you have a tandem jump master to make sure you have a fun and safe fall through the skies.

One of the best things to do in Cairns for families is Cairns Aquarium. Cairns Aquarium is a dazzling home to more than 15,000 marine animals. Get to know North Queensland’s ecosystems, reefs, and rainforests, as well as some of the creatures that make up Australia’s marine life and land animal species. Explore 70 different exhibits, live shows, and have up-close and personal encounters with pythons, upside-down jellyfish, grey reef sharks, and more! 

Make your way to Barron Gorge National Park for an exciting and exhilarating adrenaline rush. Feel your heart with every twist and turn at this white water rafting adventure through the rapids of the Barron River. Hold on tight for the thrilling currents, and the exciting drop when you go over Rooster Tail. There’s nothing to worry about except having fun as you’ll have professional and certified River Guides and safety equipment to keep you safe every step of the way. 

Set your sails for Green Island on this scenic catamaran cruise. Prepare to explore Green Island Reef and its beautiful coral cay up close with a little snorkelling, or marvel at the underwater treasures through a glass-bottom boat. If you prefer to stay dry, you can just laze on the white coral sands, or stroll through the island’s rainforest boardwalk for some one-on-one time with nature. You can do all of these and more with all the hours you have to unwind on Green Island. 

If you want a snappy croc-tastic time, head out to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventure where you can see these ravenous creatures eat, sleep, and bare their teeth at you. Famously known for their live crocodile feeding shows, Hartley’s strikes the balance between entertaining and educational as you learn all about crocodiles on Hartley’s Lagoon Cruise. If you’re not a fan of crocs, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventure also has a Cassowary walk and Predatory Bird Aviary where you can marvel at the many colorful and giant birds of the rainforest. Guests can also book a premium experience to be able to have breakfast at the park with a cuddly Koala! 

Are you brave enough to take on the world’s first wildlife park challenge ropes course? If so, check out Cairns ZOOM & Wildlife Dome. They’ve got something for guests of all ages! From educational Australian wildlife presentations to a zipline that hangs right over a 4-metre saltwater crocodile. Visitors can test their courage and take on the challenge of the Power Jump, a 13-metre free fall drop, or try out the Dome Climb to be rewarded with spectacular views of the city. They’ve got various exhibits and challenging rope courses for friends and families to try. So, don’t forget to add this attraction to your Cairns itinerary. 

Get the best of both worlds on this Cape Tribulation and Daintree Wildlife Tour as you explore rainforests and wildlife and walk along a dazzling beach. Meet and interact with some furry creatures at Wildlife Habitat where the animals are free to roam around the entire sanctuary. After that, the mesmerising coastline of Cape Tribulation is waiting for you! With its seemingly untouched beach, you’ll never want to leave this tropical paradise. The breathtaking views of the ocean and rainforest you’ll see from Alexandra Lookout will make this trip unforgettable.

Stop living vicariously through photos! Book your tickets to the attractions that piqued your interests the most now. Cross some items off your bucket list, or try something you’ve never done before. The city of Cairns is waiting for you.