Best Things to Do in Cairns

Cairns is one of Australia’s best tropical holiday destinations, offering easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, ancient rainforest, island day trips, waterfalls, wildlife, markets, food, culture and outdoor adventure. Located in Tropical North Queensland, it is a relaxed city where many of the best experiences happen on the water, in the rainforest or in the surrounding highlands.

For first-time visitors, Cairns is often used as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, but the city itself also has plenty to offer. You can swim at the Esplanade Lagoon, browse night markets, take a scenic railway to Kuranda, visit tropical islands, chase waterfalls on the Atherton Tablelands or simply enjoy warm evenings by the waterfront.

This guide covers the best things to do in Cairns, including reef tours, rainforest experiences, island escapes, family attractions, day trips, food ideas, suggested itineraries and practical travel tips.

Why Visit Cairns?

Cairns is a destination where reef and rainforest meet. It is one of the most convenient places in Australia to experience the Great Barrier Reef, and it is also close to the Wet Tropics rainforest, Kuranda, Port Douglas, Mossman Gorge, the Daintree and Cape Tribulation.

The city has a casual, holiday-friendly feel. Instead of big-city sightseeing, Cairns is about outdoor experiences, day tours, tropical scenery and relaxed evenings. It suits families, couples, solo travellers, retirees, backpackers, snorkellers, divers, nature lovers and anyone wanting a warm-weather Queensland escape.

Best Things to Do in Cairns

1. Visit the Great Barrier Reef

A Great Barrier Reef tour is the number one reason many travellers visit Cairns. From the city marina, you can join day cruises to outer reef pontoons, snorkelling sites, dive locations, reef platforms and island-based reef experiences.

First-time visitors often choose a full-day reef cruise that includes snorkelling, lunch and time at one or more reef sites. More experienced travellers may prefer scuba diving, small-group snorkelling trips, liveaboard dive boats or scenic flights.

• Best for: snorkellers, divers, families, couples and bucket-list travellers.
• Top things to do: Snorkel, dive, take a glass-bottom boat tour, join a semi-submersible tour or book a scenic helicopter flight.
• Travel tip: Choose your reef tour carefully. Outer reef trips usually offer a bigger reef experience, while island trips can be easier for families and nervous swimmers.

2. Spend the Day on Green Island

Green Island is one of the easiest Great Barrier Reef island trips from Cairns. It is a small coral cay with rainforest, sandy beaches, coral gardens and tour options suited to both swimmers and non-swimmers.

Visitors can snorkel from the beach, take a glass-bottom boat tour, walk through the island’s rainforest, relax by the water or add optional activities depending on the tour package.

• Best for: families, beginner snorkellers, non-swimmers, day-trippers and first-time reef visitors.
• Top things to do: Snorkel, take a glass-bottom boat tour, walk the island boardwalk and relax on the beach.
• Travel tip: Green Island is a good choice if you want a gentler reef experience without committing to a full outer reef cruise.

3. Escape to Fitzroy Island

Fitzroy Island is another popular island day trip from Cairns. It has rainforest, walking tracks, clear water, coral beaches and snorkelling close to shore. It feels more rugged and natural than Green Island, making it a great choice for travellers who want both beach time and walking trails.

Nudey Beach is the island’s most famous beach and is often photographed for its clear water and tropical setting. Visitors can also kayak, snorkel, walk to lookouts or simply relax by the water.

• Best for: couples, active travellers, snorkellers, walkers and tropical island escapes.
• Top things to do: Visit Nudey Beach, snorkel from shore, kayak, walk to the summit and enjoy a beach picnic.
• Travel tip: Wear reef shoes or sturdy sandals, as some beaches have coral rather than soft sand.

4. Swim at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

Cairns does not have a typical swimming beach in the city centre, so the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is one of the best places to cool off. This large public swimming lagoon sits beside the waterfront and is popular with locals, families and visitors.

The surrounding Esplanade area has walking paths, picnic areas, public art, fitness stations, playgrounds, cafes and views over Trinity Inlet. It is an easy place to start or end the day.

• Best for: families, budget travellers, relaxed afternoons and easy city swimming.
• Top things to do: Swim, walk the Esplanade, enjoy a picnic, visit nearby cafes and watch the waterfront activity.
• Travel tip: The lagoon is especially useful on arrival day or when you want a low-cost activity between tours.

5. Ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway

The Kuranda Scenic Railway is one of the most memorable experiences near Cairns. The historic train travels from Cairns up through rainforest-covered mountains to the village of Kuranda, passing steep gorges, waterfalls and scenic viewpoints along the way.

This is a classic Tropical North Queensland day trip and a good option for travellers who want scenery without a strenuous hike. Many visitors combine the railway in one direction with the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway in the other.

• Best for: families, couples, photographers, railway lovers and rainforest scenery.
• Top things to do: Ride the historic train, visit Kuranda village, browse markets and return by Skyrail if your ticket allows.
• Travel tip: Book a combined Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail package for two different views of the rainforest.

6. Take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is a spectacular way to experience the rainforest canopy between Cairns and Kuranda. Gondolas glide above the treetops, with stops where visitors can walk through rainforest and learn more about the Wet Tropics environment.

The views are a highlight, especially over the Barron Gorge area. This is one of the best activities for travellers who want a scenic rainforest experience without needing a long walk.

• Best for: rainforest views, families, couples, photographers and first-time Cairns visitors.
• Top things to do: Ride above the canopy, stop at rainforest boardwalks, enjoy Barron Gorge views and combine the trip with Kuranda village.
• Travel tip: Allow a full day if combining Skyrail, Kuranda village and the scenic railway.

7. Explore Kuranda Village

Kuranda is a small rainforest village in the mountains above Cairns. It is known for markets, wildlife attractions, galleries, cafes, local crafts and rainforest surroundings.

The village is easy to explore on foot once you arrive. Depending on your interests, you can browse the markets, visit butterfly or bird attractions, enjoy a relaxed lunch or take short walks in the surrounding area.

• Best for: markets, families, wildlife attractions, relaxed day trips and rainforest atmosphere.
• Top things to do: Browse Kuranda markets, visit local wildlife attractions, enjoy cafes and combine the visit with Skyrail or the scenic railway.
• Travel tip: Check attraction opening times before you go, especially if visiting outside peak periods.

8. Visit the Daintree Rainforest

The Daintree Rainforest is one of the most important natural attractions accessible from Cairns. It is part of the Wet Tropics region and offers ancient rainforest, rivers, wildlife, boardwalks, beaches and guided cultural experiences.

Many travellers visit the Daintree on a long day tour from Cairns, often including Mossman Gorge, the Daintree River and Cape Tribulation. If you have more time, staying overnight in the Daintree or Port Douglas allows a slower experience.

• Best for: nature lovers, photographers, birdwatchers, rainforest walks and eco-travel.
• Top things to do: Walk rainforest boardwalks, take a Daintree River cruise, visit Mossman Gorge and continue to Cape Tribulation if time allows.
• Travel tip: A guided tour is useful if you do not want to manage the long drive, ferry timing and rainforest roads yourself.

9. Discover Mossman Gorge

Mossman Gorge is a beautiful rainforest area north of Cairns and close to Port Douglas. It is known for clear water, giant boulders, walking tracks and lush rainforest scenery.

The gorge is one of the best places to experience the rainforest in a relatively accessible way. Visitors can walk, join guided cultural experiences and enjoy the cool, green atmosphere of the rainforest.

• Best for: rainforest walks, cultural experiences, couples, families and nature lovers.
• Top things to do: Walk the rainforest trails, visit the gorge area, join an Indigenous-guided experience and combine it with Port Douglas.
• Travel tip: Wear sturdy shoes, bring insect repellent and check current swimming and safety advice before entering any natural waterway.

10. Take a Day Trip to Port Douglas

Port Douglas is a stylish tropical town north of Cairns, known for Four Mile Beach, Macrossan Street, restaurants, markets and reef tours. It has a more polished resort-town feel than Cairns and makes an excellent day trip or overnight extension.

The drive between Cairns and Port Douglas is one of Queensland’s most scenic coastal routes, with ocean views and rainforest-covered mountains along the way.

• Best for: couples, resort atmosphere, dining, beach walks and scenic drives.
• Top things to do: Walk Four Mile Beach, browse Macrossan Street, visit the Sunday markets and enjoy lunch by the coast.
• Travel tip: If your itinerary allows, spend one or two nights in Port Douglas rather than rushing it as a day trip.

11. Chase Waterfalls on the Atherton Tablelands

The Atherton Tablelands are one of the best day trips from Cairns for waterfalls, lakes, rainforest, country towns and cooler highland scenery. This region feels very different from the coast and is ideal for travellers who enjoy scenic drives and nature stops.

Popular places include Millaa Millaa Falls, Lake Eacham, Lake Barrine, Yungaburra, the Curtain Fig Tree and various waterfall circuits. The area is also known for local produce, dairy, coffee and wildlife.

• Best for: waterfalls, swimming holes, road trips, families, photographers and nature lovers.
• Top things to do: Visit Millaa Millaa Falls, swim at Lake Eacham, stop in Yungaburra and explore rainforest viewpoints.
• Travel tip: Hire a car or book a waterfall tour, as many of the best stops are spread across the region.

12. Visit Cairns Aquarium

Cairns Aquarium is a useful indoor attraction for families, wildlife lovers and rainy days. It focuses on the habitats of Tropical North Queensland, including reef, rainforest, rivers, mangroves and coastal ecosystems.

It is a good way to learn more about the animals and environments you may encounter on reef and rainforest tours. It also works well as a lighter activity after a busy day trip.

• Best for: families, rainy days, wildlife lovers, education and relaxed city sightseeing.
• Top things to do: Explore reef and rainforest exhibits, learn about local marine life and add it to an easy Cairns city day.
• Travel tip: Visit before your reef tour if you want a better understanding of the marine life you may see.

13. Browse the Cairns Night Markets

The Cairns Night Markets are a popular evening stop in the city centre. They offer souvenirs, casual food, massages, gifts, clothing and a relaxed tropical holiday atmosphere.

This is an easy activity after a day tour, especially if you are staying near the Esplanade. It is not a full-day attraction, but it is convenient and fun for a casual evening.

• Best for: evening browsing, souvenirs, casual dining and budget-friendly activities.
• Top things to do: Shop for gifts, try casual food, book a quick massage and walk the Esplanade afterwards.
• Travel tip: Pair the markets with dinner nearby or a sunset walk along the waterfront.

14. Enjoy Rusty’s Markets

Rusty’s Markets are a Cairns favourite for fresh tropical fruit, local produce, flowers, coffee, snacks and casual food. They are especially good if you want to try tropical fruits or pick up picnic supplies.

The market has a lively local feel and is a good contrast to the more tourist-focused activities around the marina and Esplanade.

• Best for: food lovers, local produce, tropical fruit, casual breakfasts and market atmosphere.
• Top things to do: Try tropical fruit, enjoy coffee, buy fresh produce and sample casual food stalls.
• Travel tip: Visit earlier in the day for the best selection and a more local market feel.

15. Walk or Cycle the Cairns Esplanade

The Cairns Esplanade is one of the best places to enjoy the city without spending much money. The waterfront path is popular for walking, jogging, cycling, birdwatching and relaxed evening strolls.

Along the Esplanade you will find the lagoon, parks, public facilities, cafes, playgrounds and views across the mudflats and inlet. It is especially pleasant early in the morning or near sunset.

• Best for: budget travellers, walkers, families, birdwatching and relaxed city time.
• Top things to do: Walk the waterfront, swim at the lagoon, use the picnic areas and enjoy sunrise or sunset views.
• Travel tip: Bring water and sun protection, as Cairns can be hot and humid.

16. Try White-Water Rafting

Cairns is one of Australia’s best bases for white-water rafting, with tours operating on nearby rivers depending on conditions and operator schedules. This is a good choice for adventurous travellers who want something more active than a standard sightseeing tour.

Rafting experiences can range from beginner-friendly to more exciting river sections, so choose a tour that matches your comfort and fitness level.

• Best for: adventure travellers, groups, active couples and thrill-seekers.
• Top things to do: Join a guided rafting tour, enjoy rainforest river scenery and add an active day to your Cairns itinerary.
• Travel tip: Check age, fitness and swimming requirements before booking.

17. Take a Scenic Flight

A scenic flight is one of the most memorable ways to appreciate the scale and colour of the Great Barrier Reef, rainforest and coastline around Cairns. Flights may include reef views, islands, rainforest, waterfalls or combinations depending on the operator.

This is a premium experience, but it can be worth it for photographers, honeymooners or travellers wanting a once-in-a-lifetime view.

• Best for: photographers, couples, special occasions and bucket-list experiences.
• Top things to do: Take a reef flight, helicopter flight or combined reef-and-rainforest scenic tour.
• Travel tip: Morning flights can sometimes offer smoother conditions, but always check with the operator.

18. Visit Palm Cove

Palm Cove is a relaxed beachside village north of Cairns, known for palm-lined streets, beachfront dining, resorts, spas and a slower tropical pace. It is one of the best nearby places for a quieter coastal escape.

The beach is scenic, and the village is perfect for a long lunch, spa treatment or gentle afternoon away from the city.

• Best for: couples, spa escapes, relaxed lunches, beach walks and tropical atmosphere.
• Top things to do: Walk the esplanade, enjoy beachfront dining, book a spa treatment and relax by the water.
• Travel tip: Always follow local swimming advice in Tropical North Queensland, especially during marine stinger season.

19. Explore the Northern Beaches

The Cairns Northern Beaches include areas such as Trinity Beach, Clifton Beach, Kewarra Beach and Palm Cove. These suburbs offer a more relaxed coastal feel than the city centre and can be a good base if you want beach atmosphere.

They are quieter than Cairns city but still close enough for reef tours, airport access and day trips. Trinity Beach and Palm Cove are especially popular with visitors.

• Best for: families, couples, longer stays, beach atmosphere and quieter accommodation.
• Top things to do: Walk the beaches, dine by the water, stay in a resort or apartment and use the area as a relaxed base.
• Travel tip: A car is useful if staying at the Northern Beaches, especially for exploring beyond your accommodation.

20. Join an Indigenous Cultural Experience

Tropical North Queensland has deep Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural connections, and Cairns is a good base for learning more through guided tours, art, storytelling, food, rainforest walks and coastal experiences.

Cultural tours may be available around Cairns, Kuranda, Mossman Gorge, Port Douglas and the Daintree region. These experiences can add meaning and context to the landscapes you are visiting.

• Best for: cultural travellers, families, nature lovers and visitors wanting a deeper connection to place.
• Top things to do: Join a guided cultural walk, visit Indigenous art spaces or choose tours led by local Traditional Owner guides.
• Travel tip: Book with reputable operators and follow cultural protocols during guided experiences.

Best Things to Do in Cairns by Travel Style

Best for First-Time Visitors

• Take a Great Barrier Reef day tour.
• Ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
• Swim at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon.
• Visit Fitzroy Island or Green Island.
• Take a Daintree Rainforest or Mossman Gorge day trip.

Best for Families

• Cairns Esplanade Lagoon.
• Green Island day trip.
• Cairns Aquarium.
• Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail.
• Wildlife and rainforest tours suited to children.

Best for Couples

• Fitzroy Island beach day.
• Port Douglas day trip.
• Palm Cove long lunch or spa day.
• Scenic reef flight.
• Sunset walk along the Esplanade.

Best for Adventure Travellers

• Scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef.
• White-water rafting.
• Skydiving, bungy or adventure tours if available.
• Waterfall chasing on the Atherton Tablelands.
• Rainforest hikes and mountain bike trails where suitable.

Best for Rainy Days

• Cairns Aquarium.
• Cairns Night Markets.
• Rusty’s Markets.
• Local cafes and restaurants.
• Art galleries, cultural experiences and indoor attractions.

Best Free or Low-Cost Things to Do

• Swim at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon.
• Walk or cycle the Esplanade.
• Browse the Night Markets.
• Visit Rusty’s Markets.
• Explore beaches and lookouts if you have transport.

Suggested Cairns Itineraries

One Day in Cairns

• Morning: Walk the Esplanade and swim at the Cairns Lagoon.
• Midday: Visit Cairns Aquarium or enjoy lunch near the waterfront.
• Afternoon: Browse shops, relax by the lagoon or take a short local tour.
• Evening: Visit the Cairns Night Markets and have dinner near the Esplanade.

Three Days in Cairns

• Day 1: Explore Cairns city, the Esplanade Lagoon, Rusty’s Markets and the Night Markets.
• Day 2: Take a full-day Great Barrier Reef tour.
• Day 3: Ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail, with time in Kuranda village.

Five Days in Cairns

• Day 1: Cairns Esplanade, lagoon, aquarium and markets.
• Day 2: Great Barrier Reef outer reef cruise.
• Day 3: Kuranda Scenic Railway, Skyrail and Kuranda village.
• Day 4: Fitzroy Island or Green Island day trip.
• Day 5: Atherton Tablelands waterfall tour or Port Douglas and Mossman Gorge day trip.

Seven Days in Cairns

• Day 1: Arrive, swim at the lagoon and enjoy the Esplanade.
• Day 2: Great Barrier Reef snorkelling or diving tour.
• Day 3: Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail.
• Day 4: Fitzroy Island or Green Island.
• Day 5: Atherton Tablelands waterfalls, lakes and country towns.
• Day 6: Port Douglas, Mossman Gorge or Palm Cove.
• Day 7: Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation, or a relaxed final day in Cairns.

Best Day Trips from Cairns

Great Barrier Reef

The most famous day trip from Cairns, suitable for snorkelling, diving, reef pontoons, scenic flights and island-based experiences.

Kuranda

A classic rainforest day trip using the Kuranda Scenic Railway, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway or a combination of both.

Fitzroy Island

A beautiful island escape with snorkelling, beaches, kayaking and rainforest walks close to Cairns.

Green Island

A beginner-friendly reef island trip with snorkelling, glass-bottom boat tours and easy beach access.

Atherton Tablelands

A scenic inland region with waterfalls, crater lakes, rainforest, country towns and local produce.

Port Douglas

A stylish tropical town with Four Mile Beach, restaurants, markets and reef access.

Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation

A longer nature-focused day trip featuring rainforest, river cruises, boardwalks and wild tropical scenery.

Where to Stay in Cairns

Cairns City Centre

Stay in Cairns city centre if you want easy access to reef departures, restaurants, the Esplanade, markets, tours and nightlife. This is the most practical option for first-time visitors without a car.

Cairns Esplanade

The Esplanade area is ideal if you want waterfront walks, lagoon access, restaurants and easy tour pick-ups.

Palm Cove

Palm Cove is best for couples, spa stays and travellers who want a quieter resort-style beach atmosphere.

Trinity Beach

Trinity Beach is a good choice for families and visitors wanting a relaxed beach base close to Cairns.

Port Douglas

Port Douglas is not in Cairns, but it is worth considering if you prefer a smaller resort town with strong reef, rainforest and dining options.

Travel Tips for Visiting Cairns

• Book reef tours early: Popular reef cruises, dive trips and island tours can sell out during busy periods.
• Plan around the weather: Cairns has a tropical climate, with a wetter season and a drier season.
• Use reef-safe behaviour: Do not touch coral, stand on reef or disturb marine life.
• Follow swimming advice: In Tropical North Queensland, pay attention to marine stinger warnings, crocodile signs and lifeguard instructions.
• Pack sun protection: Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and lightweight clothing.
• Bring insect repellent: This is especially useful for rainforest and evening activities.
• Consider motion sickness tablets: Reef trips can involve open water, so prepare if you are prone to seasickness.
• Allow rest days: Cairns tours can involve early starts and full days, so avoid overpacking your itinerary.
• Hire a car for flexibility: A car is useful for Palm Cove, Port Douglas, the Atherton Tablelands and self-guided exploring.
• Check tour inclusions: Some tours include lunch, equipment and transfers, while others charge extra.

Best Time to Visit Cairns

Cairns can be visited year-round, but the experience changes with the seasons. The dry season, generally from May to October, is often the most popular time for visitors because conditions are usually more comfortable for reef trips, rainforest walks and sightseeing.

The warmer wet season can bring humidity, tropical rain and lush landscapes. This time of year can still be rewarding, especially for waterfalls and rainforest scenery, but travellers should check weather, road conditions and tour availability.

If you are planning a reef trip, island visit or rainforest drive, always check current conditions close to your travel date.

Final Thoughts

Cairns is one of Australia’s best destinations for travellers who want reef, rainforest, islands, waterfalls and tropical adventure in one holiday. The Great Barrier Reef is the headline attraction, but the best Cairns trips include more than one experience.

For a first visit, combine a reef tour, Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail, Fitzroy Island or Green Island, the Esplanade Lagoon and either the Atherton Tablelands, Port Douglas, Mossman Gorge or the Daintree Rainforest. This gives you a strong mix of water, rainforest, scenery, wildlife, food and relaxed tropical atmosphere.

Whether you are travelling as a couple, family, solo visitor or group, Cairns offers an unforgettable introduction to Tropical North Queensland.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cairns best known for?

Cairns is best known as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Tropical North Queensland’s rainforest regions. It is also popular for island day trips, Kuranda Scenic Railway, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, the Esplanade Lagoon, markets, waterfalls and adventure tours.

How many days do you need in Cairns?

Three days is enough for a quick visit covering the reef, Kuranda and Cairns city. Five to seven days is better if you want to add Fitzroy Island, Green Island, the Atherton Tablelands, Port Douglas, Mossman Gorge or the Daintree Rainforest.

What is the number one thing to do in Cairns?

The number one thing to do in Cairns is visit the Great Barrier Reef. Most visitors choose a snorkelling, diving, reef pontoon or island tour departing from Cairns.

Is Cairns worth visiting?

Yes, Cairns is worth visiting if you want easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, rainforest, islands, waterfalls and tropical Queensland scenery. It is one of Australia’s most practical bases for nature-focused day trips.

Can you swim at the beach in Cairns?

Cairns city does not have a typical swimming beach in the centre. Most visitors swim at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, visit the Northern Beaches, take island day trips or follow local swimming advice at patrolled beaches and designated swimming areas.

Is Green Island or Fitzroy Island better?

Green Island is often better for beginner snorkellers, families and visitors wanting an easy reef island experience. Fitzroy Island is better for travellers who want a more rugged island feel, walking tracks, kayaking and beach scenery.

Can you do the Daintree as a day trip from Cairns?

Yes, the Daintree can be visited as a long day trip from Cairns, often including Mossman Gorge, a Daintree River cruise and Cape Tribulation. However, staying overnight in Port Douglas or the Daintree gives you a more relaxed experience.

Do you need a car in Cairns?

You do not need a car if you are staying in central Cairns and joining organised reef, rainforest and island tours. A car is useful if you want to explore Palm Cove, Port Douglas, the Atherton Tablelands, beaches and waterfalls at your own pace.

What is the best month to visit Cairns?

Many visitors prefer the dry season months from May to October because the weather is generally more comfortable for outdoor activities. However, the best month depends on your priorities, budget, tour plans and tolerance for heat or rain.

Is Cairns good for families?

Yes, Cairns is a good family destination. Families can enjoy the Esplanade Lagoon, Green Island, Fitzroy Island, Cairns Aquarium, Kuranda Scenic Railway, Skyrail and suitable reef or rainforest tours.

What should I pack for Cairns?

Pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sun protection, hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, reef shoes, a light rain jacket, reusable water bottle and motion sickness medication if needed for reef trips.

What are the best free things to do in Cairns?

The best free or low-cost things to do in Cairns include swimming at the Esplanade Lagoon, walking the Esplanade, visiting local markets, enjoying waterfront parks, exploring public art and relaxing by the marina or lagoon.

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Best Things to Do in Cairns

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Discover the best things to do in Cairns, including the Great Barrier Reef, Fitzroy Island, Green Island, Kuranda Scenic Railway, Skyrail, Daintree Rainforest, Atherton Tablelands, Cairns Esplanade Lagoon and more.