Best things to do in Cairns, Tropical North Queensland

Warm and scenic — what more could we ask for? A lot if you're visiting Tropical North Queensland. Delicious meals inspired by the outback and the ocean. Joy rides through old landscapes. More water activities than you could poke a stick at. And a few crazy animal encounters to top things off.

TNQ is even better than it looks, with activities to suit both relaxed and energetic trips. Whether you've been a bunch of times or you're taking your first trip, this list will take the fuss out of planning and booking.

From Kuranda to Cairns and Cape Tribulation. Get excited for your next trip to paradise.

Visiting the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns? Grab this one-day tour that covers both the iconic reef and Green Island, giving you a true sense of what's off the coast of TNQ. This trip is great for non-swimmers and those travelling with little ones, as you can view the coral playground from the air-conditioned semi-submersible and underwater observatory.

For visitors wanting a dedicated snorkelling trip, you'll find it in this snorkel cruise that gives five full hours of water time over two brilliant reefs, with a barbecue lunch to keep you fuelled. Experienced, professional dive instructors are on hand to give you a full run-down of diving and snorkelling tuition and safety. With all that swimming, the free snack and glass of wine for the return journey will go down a treat.

A favourite for both adults and kiddies, Kuranda is a guaranteed fun day out. With so much to see and do in this UNESCO World listed region, this tour will take you to tick off the main highlights, including the Scenic Kuranda Rail and Skyrail Cableway. Plus, it includes a guided tour at Red Peak Station and free time in the gorgeous village. Just remember to charge your phone – the scenery is unreal, so you’ll want to take heaps of snaps!

A trip to TNQ isn't a trip to TNQ without seeing a croc snap its jaw—an experience that's guaranteed at Hartley's Crocodile Adventures. A half-day tour here takes out all the fuss, with return transfers from Port Douglas and more safety than a hopeful search through the wild. Once at the park, you can see these fascinating and frightening creatures up close, taking the wetlands cruise to watch them eat a meal. You can also keep an eye out for water birds, turtles and wallabies to round out the trip.

Step into the lungs of the earth—the ancient Daintree Rainforest. A visit to this part of Tropical North Queensland is unforgettable; a chance to see nature in all her glory. For the best experience, take a full-day tour that includes Cape Tribulation and Mossman Gorge. This will see you learning about the ecosystem's history and significance while going deep under the green canopy of ancient flora and fauna. A trip to the Alexandra Range Lookout and Cape Tribulation Beach are also on the agenda, as is a BBQ lunch and Indigenous walk. Not a thing will be missed when you visit the world's oldest continually living rainforest with a guide.

Looking for something out of the box? Jump in a basket and experience the Cairns countryside from above. A 40-minute hot air balloon flight is yours to enjoy over the Atherton Tablelands, a patchwork of farms, forests and rivers. A gentle and jaw-dropping way to start a day, complete with a commemorative certificate and a glass of sparkling wine. Holidays are made for stuff like this.

Looking for an unforgettable experience? Embark on a 40-minute scenic flight over Great Barrier Reef and keep your eyes peeled for marine life as you soar high above colourful coral formations and crystal-clear waters. Experience breathtaking views that will leave you in awe. Don’t miss this opportunity to see the Great Barrier Reef from a whole new angle!

TNQ isn't well-known for its food scene. But the secret will be out soon enough. The muggy climate pairs with the nearby outback to give unique meals you'll need more of. To taste the best of it, jump onto an outback tasting tours. This excursion takes you to all kinds of local farms and producers, offering samples of exotic fruits, cheeses, coffee, chocolates, wine, spirits—the list goes on. A full day out packed with great tastes and agricultural heritage. What's not to love about that?

Strapped for time? You can cover the iconic Great Barrier Reef and still make it back before the day’s gone with a half day trip from Cairns. Enjoy two hours of dedicated snorkeling time as you jump between the beautiful Upolu Reef and Beaver Cay. The friendly staff onboard provide all the necessary equipment and serves complimentary tea, coffee and muffins, so you just need to bring the essentials like a towel, sunscreen and clothes.

If you’re visiting Cairns, the Cairns 4 Park Attraction Pass is a must-do. Giving you entry to four of the most popular attractions in the region, there’s plenty to see and do for the whole fam with koalas, crocodiles, kangaroos, Australian native wildlife, butterflies and more. All this for one great, low price – that screams value to us!

Take the tribe on an exciting tubing adventure in nature’s theme park located in the heart of Cairns. Enjoy the two-hour ride as you drift down the Mulgrave River and Behana Gorge, taking in the scenery and zipping through rapids. Return transfers are included, so you don’t need to stress about transportation, which we love. There are also shoes and water spray jackets available to hire if you want to stay dry.

If it’s an unforgettable Great Barrier Reef experience you want, you’ve got to visit Reef Magic. Board a catamaran and discover a treasure trove of marine fun when you reach this all-weather pontoon. There is something for all ages – seriously, you can snorkel, scuba dive, visit the underwater observatory, or do a glass bottom boat tour. It also includes a buffet lunch and all equipment. This place has it all!

Enjoy a 30 minute scenic helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef and see this incredible Natural Wonder up close. Experience the vibrant corals and unique marine life as you fly over beautiful reef islands, clear turquoise waters, and stunning coral cays. Check out local favorites like Green Island, gaze down at Arlington Reef teeming with marine life, and pass over Vlasoff and Upolu Sand Cays. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!