Things to Do in Cairns
Things to do in Cairns - Cairns Arts and Culture
Just 4kms from the CBD is the Tanks Art Centre. Renovations to this World War II building have transformed the space into a multi-faceted arts centre. National touring artists feature regularly, with varied workshops.
The Cairns Regional Art Gallery is an artwork itself. This original colonial building has been restored into a modern and classic Queensland landmark. Exhibitions are always changing, showcasing regional and national talent. A great place to visit in Cairns.
Things to do in Cairns - Guided Tours in Cairns
The Flecker Botanical Gardens is an encounter with a range of tropical and exotic plants. Featuring orchids, bromeliads and ferns. A short stroll from the centre of the Gardens leads to a network of boardwalks.
The Savannahlander motor-rail service offers a four day round trip from Cairns to Forsayth. An outback adventure can be taken in style and comfort, on this Finalist for the 2007 North Queensland Tourism Awards. With overnight stays in local hotels.
Things to do in Cairns - Spotlight on The Great Barrier Reef
Just an hour from Cairns, The Great Barrier Reef is a must-see. Over 2000 kms (6561 feet) of coral reef stretches along Queensland's north coast. The rich tropical waters of this World Heritage Area and National Marine Park are home to 400 types of coral, 1500 species of fish and over 4000 types of mollusk.
Guided tours can be booked in Cairns city, home base for many Reef tour operators. Trips to the Great Barrier Reef range from day trips on a catered cruise, to snorkeling expeditions. Many tour operators offer scuba training, and diving for beginners to experience.
Things to do in Cairns - Kuranda Railway
Another rail adventure that takes only one day to experience is the The Kuranda Railway journey. Travel along this 100-year old railway. This railway winds through rainforest, across the Barron Gorge, past waterfalls, coming to a gentle rolling-stop 300 km (186 mi) later.
Things to do in Cairns - Day Trips
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. View a World Heritage listed rainforest from the comfort and safety of one of the 114 cable car cabins. With a 7.5 km (4.7 mi) trip over this unique and endangered environment, your trip to Cairns will be unforgettable.
Things to do in Cairns - Beaches in Cairns
Holloways Beach is about 15 minutes drive from the city centre, and has horse-riding, fishing and shops.
Yorkey's Knob (also York Beach), features a 200-berth marina, shopping centre and excellent golf course.
Trinity Beach is also a destination for the beach-lover, with a shopping centre, tennis and squash courts, and plenty of restaurants.
Palm Cove is the beach for leisurely, boutique shopping, and a selection of restaurants and bars.
Things to do in Cairns - Island Day Trips
Fitzroy Island lies 25 km from Cairns. Take the half an hour catamaran trip to this rainforest island. Snorkeling and scuba diving is conducted from the beach. You can get a look at a quiet corner of the Great Barrier Reef.
Green Island is one of the most popular coastal destinations outside of Cairns. This 15 hectare Island is a 45 minute cruise from Cairns, take in the wildlife without getting wet, in a glass-bottom boat, or in a semi-submersible. A trip to Green Island can be a mini-holiday, with luxury accommodation available on the island.
Lizard Island is a flight away. Being 240km from Cairns, resort accommodation hides within this National Park, of 1000 hectares. A glass-bottom boat also operates here, as well as deep-sea fishing expeditions.
