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Oceania Australia Cairns Do & See Great Barrier Reef

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Great Barrier Reef

The guide was updated: 2024-07-10

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Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns

No trip to Cairns would be complete without a day spent exploring the Great Barrier Reef. Composed of roughly 3,000 individual reefs, nearly 900 islands and coral cays, and home to an unparalleled array of marine life, Australia's Great Barrier Reef is one of the richest and most complex natural ecosystems on Earth. Whether you're a diver, snorkeler, or nature lover, there are plenty of reasons to include this natural world wonder in your Australia travel itinerary.

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Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

The Esplanade

The Esplanade

The Esplanade is full of cafes and restaurants, BBQ areas where you can sit down with friends and use the big grills. Stroll along the promenade, splash around in the famous lagoon, enjoy some of the free events or just soak up the sun!

Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef

No trip to Cairns would be complete without a day spent exploring the Great Barrier Reef. Composed of roughly 3,000 individual reefs, nearly 900 islands and coral cays, and home to an unparalleled array of marine life, Australia's Great Barrier Reef is one of the richest and most complex natural ecosystems on Earth. Whether you're a diver, snorkeler, or nature lover, there are plenty of reasons to include this natural world wonder in your Australia travel itinerary.

White Water Rafting

White Water Rafting

There are three rivers in Cairns suitable for rafting, each with its own level of difficulty. It is a fun experience and also a team building exercise to face the impressive rapids together. Foaming Fury is a white water rafting specialist in Australia and they offer a wide range of tours.

Green Island

Green Island

Tropical and magical, Green Island is a unique part of the Great Barrier Reef, making it a perfect spot for a half-day or full day tour. There are plenty of options to snorkel, parasail, dive and swim in the clear ocean waters. Explore the Green Island National Park or just relax on the white sandy beach. Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises will take you to this small, beautiful island

Treetops Adventure in Cape Tribulation

Treetops Adventure in Cape Tribulation

Treetops Adventure is an exciting and adventurous way to experience the spectacular Daintree Rainforest with a guided zipline and tree platform tour. Being up there in the canopy gives you unparalleled access to the heart of the rainforest. Treetops Adventure is located on a private reserve 2.5 hours drive north of Cairns. The property borders the Daintree Cape Tribulation National Park and offers stunning rainforest vistas as well as views over the Great Barrier Reef.

Mossman Gorge

Mossman Gorge

The amazing Mossman Gorge lies 80 km north of Cairns. It is a river with magic blue-green waters surrounded by enchanting rainforest. The water is refreshingly cool and it is a peaceful place to go swimming — beware of the rapids though. This area is part of the traditional homeland of the indigenous tribe of Kuku Yulanji.

Cairns Botanic Gardens

Cairns Botanic Gardens

Learn about Aboriginal plant use and marvel at the flora and fauna at this tropical oasis of 38 hectares of native Australian gardens. The Cairns Botanic Gardens area is divided into four distinct areas: Flecker Gardens, Centenary Lakes, Mount Whitfield Conservation Park and Tanks Art Centre.

Daintree Rainforest

Daintree Rainforest

Experience the splendour of this World Heritage listed rainforest, this is the oldest tropical rainforest and a home to diverse and unique animals, plants and fungi. At around 1,200 square kilometres the Daintree is the largest continuous area of tropical rainforest on the Australian continent. A beautiful place for birdwatching and swimming, suntanning on calm beaches. Enjoy the wonder of nature while finding inner peace.

Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Board the famous Kuranda Scenic Rail for a breathtaking journey on one of the world’s most scenic operational rail journeys to the charming town of Kuranda and a return journey by cable car across the canopy of the rainforest. With the cable car, you will get amazing birds-eye views so make sure not to forget your camera.

Cairns Museum & Historical Society

Cairns Museum & Historical Society

The Cairns Museum houses an exhibition about the city's past starting with the Aboriginal and Islander beginnings and continuing to early timber, mining and agricultural industries. Staff are friendly and there will be to volunteers guide you.

Cairns Art Gallery

Cairns Art Gallery

Housed in a restored 1936 landmark heritage building, Cairns Art Gallery is the region's leading gallery, featuring historical and contemporary art made by national and international artists. There is also a permanent collection, showcasing unique history and living cultures of Far North Queensland. Gift shop and cafe are quite pleasant.

Muddy's Playground

Muddy's Playground

A water playground and parkland, Muddy's is located right on the Esplanade. It is a great place for the kids to run around, play and release some energy. There is a cafe for the adults to sit back and relax with a cup of coffee.

Cairns Golf Club

Cairns Golf Club

Located only five minutes from the city centre, the 18-hole course is set in tropical surroundings with lovely views and a rich bird life to enjoy while playing. There is also a driving range on site.

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