The quintessential Aussie experience encompasses not just the Uluru and the Gold Coast, but also Cairns in Queensland. Considered the gateway to Australia's Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is a laid-back city best enjoyed outdoors.
The beautiful city of Cairns has become a base of sorts for people traveling to visit places nearby including the Great Barrier Reef. But there is so much more to Cairns than just this. Here’s a list of must see attractions in Cairns:
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The Great Barrier Reef
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If snorkeling the barrier reef isn’t your style or have already seen the marvel up close, why not view it from the skies, with a helicopter tour for a different perspective.
Mission Beach
With pale gold sands that stretch for miles, the Mission Beach with its palm lined coast is best viewed at sunrise as it lies in the east, making for spectacular photos!
Devil’s Pool
The rush of water as it spills over rocks into the Devil’s Pool is truly a sight to behold. As the rain lessens though, it transforms into the perfect place for a dip or dive, making it one of the most popular tourist spots in Cairns.
Babinda Boulders
The blue waters of Babinda Boulders is a popular swimming hole for both tourists and locals, and for good reason. Clear enough to see the bottom of the lake, these waters are warm, inviting and wonderful!
Josephine Falls
Sit at the banks of the lake into which these falls empty out for a wonderful experience of the beauty of nature. The sandy shores all along the rainforest offer several spots for a refreshing dip, should you want to dive in!
Tully River
Get an adrenaline rush with a white water rafting experience at the Tully River. Making for a full day activity, not only do you get to see wonderful views of the water, but also beautiful flora and fauna in the forest.
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Did you know that the oldest rainforests in the world are here in Cairns, Queensland and the skyrail that runs though is possibly the best way to experience them!
Ziplining in Daintree
If you’re a bit more if a daredevil, zipline over the jungles of Daintree Rainforest. With a whole gamut of safety features that make it a fun experience, this is not for the faint of heart!
Getting There
Being an international hub, Cairns is accessible through flights from within Australia and outside and the best time to visit is from April to September, when the weather is most suitable.