The 14 BEST things to do in Cairns, Australia

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about best things to do in Cairns, Australia!

Welcome to Cairns, Australia! Nestled in the tropical far north of Queensland, this vibrant city is known for its stunning natural beauty, laid-back atmosphere, and endless adventure opportunities. Whether you’re a thrill-seeking backpacker or a beach-loving family, Cairns has something for everyone.

Atmosphere / Vibes

Picturesque scenery of amazing cloudy sky over famous Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge at sunset
Photo by Ben Mack
The people of Cairns are known for their friendly and laid-back attitude, and the city has a laid-back, tropical vibe. The locals are always happy to chat and offer recommendations, and there’s a strong sense of community here. It’s the perfect place to relax, unwind, and soak up the laid-back Australian lifestyle.

Weather throughout the year

Brown Rock Formation on Sea in Cairns, Australia.
Photo by Pat Whelen
Cairns has a tropical climate, with hot and humid summers and mild, dry winters. The temperature hovers around 30°C (86°F) during the summer months and drops to around 20°C (68°F) in the winter. The rainy season runs from November to April, but even during this time, the rain is usually followed by bright sunshine.

Why Cairns, Australia is the best place to be

Tallebudgera Creek
Photo by Kai Craig
There are so many reasons why Cairns is the best place to be! The natural beauty of the surrounding area is simply breathtaking, with crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, and lush rainforests all within easy reach. The Great Barrier Reef is also just a short boat ride away, offering endless opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring. Plus, with a thriving arts and culture scene and a wide range of outdoor activities on offer, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in Cairns.

Cost of Travel

Green Grass Field Near Green Trees in Cairns, Australia.
Photo by Lucius Crick
Cairns is a popular tourist destination, and as such, prices for accommodation and activities can be higher than in other parts of Australia. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly options available, including hostels, camping grounds, and Airbnb rentals. It’s also worth considering traveling during the shoulder season (May to September), as prices tend to be lower during this time.

Top 14 best things to do in Cairns, Australia

Harbour Bridge, Australia in Cairns, Australia.
Photo by Rijan Hamidovic
  1. Explore the Great Barrier Reef
  2. Visit Kuranda, the “Village in the Rainforest”
  3. Hike through the Daintree Rainforest
  4. Relax on the beach at Palm Cove
  5. Go white water rafting on the Tully River
  6. Take a hot air balloon ride over the Atherton Tablelands
  7. Go skydiving over the coast
  8. Take a scenic drive along the Captain Cook Highway
  9. Visit the Cairns Botanic Gardens
  10. Explore the local markets and try some fresh tropical fruit
  11. Go on a crocodile-spotting tour in the Daintree
  12. Try your hand at fishing in the Cairns Inlet
  13. Visit the Australian Institute of Marine Science
  14. Take a day trip to the Atherton Tablelands

Conclusion

Volkswagen beetle
Photo by Felix Haumann
As you can see Cairns is an amazing destination with endless possibilities for adventure and relaxation. From exploring the Great Barrier Reef to hiking through the rainforest, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city. So why wait? Pack your bags and head to Cairns for the vacation of a lifetime!


Have you thought about staying in Cairns for a little longer and working remotely? Here is another blog post about becoming a Digital Nomad in Cairns

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in Australia, such as Sydney, Melbourne or Sydney.