The Best Things To Do In Cairns

Winter is well and truly on the way, and if we're being honest—we're already not coping. For most of the year, we live in a land of perpetual summer, but those darned polar blasts have brought the winter chill to our doorstep. If you just can’t face a few months of cold winter mornings, chapped lips, and 5pm sunsets, don’t stress—here at Urban List we’re here to help.

We’ve found the perfect place to enjoy a tropical getaway, even when tmost of Australia is shivering through sweater weather. But it gets even better—we’ve rounded up all the best things to do in Cairns when you get there. Pack your bags and chase the sun north, here’s all the best things to do in Cairns in the great Tropical North Queensland. 

Skypark By AJ Hackett

Feeling the need for something extreme after months of staying safely indoors? AJ Hackett has you covered. Venture into the world's oldest rainforest just a short drive from Cairns to find Australia's most intense adrenaline-junkie hub. Partake in bungee jumps, jungle swings, and BMX bungee jumps from 50 metres above the glorious rainforest. Not ready for that much extreme? They also boast Cairn’s highest lookout which is free to climb up to and, more importantly, safely climb down from—no bungee jumping necessary.

Mamu Tropical Treetops 

 Truly immerse yourself in Queensland’s tropical rainforests at the Mamu Tropical Skywalk. Nestled amongst the trees in Wooroonoon National Park, the Canopy walkway transports you safely atop the rainforest so that you can fully admire and respect the natural surroundings without damaging the land as you go. 

Relax and Unwind at Eléme Day Spa

Let's be real — while there's plenty of fun and adventures to be had in Cairns — sometimes you just want (and need) to zen out and relax. The perfect place to do that? Eléme Day Spa at Crystalbrook Flynn and Crystalbrook Riley. Prepare for instant calm and tranquillity to wash over you as soon as you enter their beautiful establishment and treatment rooms. All of their massages and facials are simply heavenly but if you're after something a little bit different, book in for their Bust & Booty treatment that enhances the health and firmness of breast tissue and the gluteal muscles. 

Mandingalbay Ancient Indigenous Tours

Mandingalbay Ancient Indigenous Tours are an authentic and insightful way to learn about the Traditional Owners and the land they have been living on for thousands of years. In a small group, Mandingalbay Yidinji Guides will cove topics of cultural significance and lead interpretative walks, showcasing the traditional use of natural resources used for medicinal purposes and sustenance. A grounding and memorable experience that shouldn't be missed while in Cairns. 

Embark on an Underwater Adventure on Fitzroy Island

Home to some of the best beaches in Australia (if not the world), a day trip to Fitzroy Island is an absolute must when adventuring up north. Book yourself in for a day tour and enjoy a gentle cruise out to the island, where you can enjoy plenty of activities in the crystal clear shallow waters of the Great Barrier Reef. We’re talking glass bottom boat tours, snorkelling, rainforest walks, secret beaches—you name it. Trust us, a trip to Fitzroy Island truly is a day in paradise. 

Adventure Amongst the Treetops with the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Take yourself on an unforgettable journey above Australia's World Heritage-listed Tropical Rainforests with a trip on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. This award-winning 7.5-kilometre tourist experience offers breathtaking views of Queensland’s Wet Tropics all the way up to Kuranda, in the Atherton Tablelands. On the way home, opt to take the scenic railway and journey through some of the oldest and grandest rainforests the world has to offer.   

Paronella Park

What if we told you Australia was actually home to a Spanish-inspired castle? Paronella Park is a magical place which will give you Spanish castle vibes meets Spain iconic Irati Forest (but really, it's in far north Queensland). As the brainchild of José Paronella who built a castle here back in 1930, it’s located right on Mena Creek, next to Mena Creek Falls. The falls descend over seven million-year-old basalt rock and you can access the top of the cascades from a suspension bridge that spans the waterfall.

Take a Road Trip Down to the Babinda Boulders

Book yourself a hire car and load up a podcast for the hour-long drive to the Babinda Boulders. Nestled amongst the lush wet tropical rainforests of Far North Queensland, the granite boulders can be found peppered throughout the bubbling Bandina Creek, making for a popular tourist attraction. Once you’ve taken in the sights, stop in at the popular Babinda Bakery for some mouthwatering baked goods before heading to nearby Josephine Falls for a quick dip before you make your way home.

Looking for more local escapes? Grab your mates and rent this entire private island in the Whitsundays. 

Image credit: Tourism & Events Queensland, Wolf Lane, Crystalbrook, The Chambers