Visiting Cairns and the Tropical North for the First Time? Here's What to See and Do

Whether you’re a seasoned scuba diver or just looking to splash in the shallows, visiting the Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia’s most coveted experiences. The reef was deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981, and current environmental pressures mean that its conservation is more critical than ever.

Opt for a tour with a marine biologist to learn about the incredible diversity of the reef, or try a new activity with an introduction to scuba diving. If you’re not a fan of the water, a helicopter tour above the reef offers incredible views. Just make sure that you’re exploring the reef in a responsible way to protect this important natural space.

A visit to the Daintree rainforest is the perfect way to experience the Wet Tropics of Queensland. With its rich diversity and lush flora, this jungle has been a spiritual and cultural center for the Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people for thousands of years.

In 2021, they officially reclaimed the park as their territory. Let them welcome you with a traditional smoke ceremony, learn about the Kuku Yalanji’s connection to the forest with an interpretive forest walk and art class, or try out some typical hunting, fishing, and gathering techniques with an Aboriginal guide.

Cairns Aquarium boasts 10 different ecosystems where you can learn about Australia’s incredible marine diversity.

It’s also home to a turtle rehabilitation center. It’s a great destination for families, especially if your kids aren’t quite ready for the plunge of a snorkeling trip. Those after a thrill can hand-feed the Cownose Rays and watch the Barramundi feed.

Related: Things to Do in Cairns with Kids

After all the exploring, spend a day wandering along the esplanade and an evening enjoying the Cairns nightlife. Don’t miss out on learning about the city via a walking tour, or explore the Cairns Museum and Cairns Art Gallery, which highlight Cairn’s gold-rush beginnings and early settlement.

The waterfront promenade is a favorite among tourists and locals alike, with its Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, barbecue facilities, and night market, while the bar scene is buzzing with international visitors.

A 30-minute drive from Cairns, Kuranda Koala Gardens is home to koalas, wombats, wallabies, and more. This small wildlife park is located in scenic Kuranda Village. Surrounded by rainforest, this town is the perfect spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

You can spot some of Australia’s more timid creatures in the nocturnal habitat display, home to animals like the Greater Bilby and Mahogany Gliders. Add a touch of luxury to your trip and ride on the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway, which features stunning views of the rainforest canopy.

The lofty dream of a Spanish immigrant in Australia, Paronella Park is a magical space with lush gardens, moss-covered buildings, and a welcoming atmosphere. The park is run entirely from hydroelectric power produced by the park’s waterfall, following in the steps of the original owner, who installed the first privately-owned hydroelectric plant in Queensland.

This blend of romantic history and sustainability makes this park a unique, eco-friendly space.

Australians are known for their love of the ocean, so follow the lead of the locals and head out to sea.

There are plenty of day and evening cruises that depart from Cairns, so whether you’d like to learn more about the region’s rich marine life, want to admire fish through a glass-bottomed boat, or prefer a romantic sunset dinner cruise, there’s a marine adventure right for you.