In February 2023, we left our Workaway near Bunbury, and took the four hour flight from Perth to Cairns. Our main reason for visiting Cairns was to study for a few weeks at the Great Barrier Reef International Marine College, and we had decided to stay for the whole of February and March and pick up jobs in bars. For various reasons, finding work was very difficult, and so we ended up with a lot of free time on our hands. We ended up doing a lot of exploring and squandered a lot of our hard-earned cash, but we both agree it was our best two months in Australia. Here are our favourite bits!

Kuranda Scenic Railway

This is at the top of our list of essential activities in Cairns for a very good reason. The vintage railway was carved into the landscape in 1891, and today offers tourists a chance to step back in time while viewing some of the most dramatic landscape Australia has to offer. The track follows the Barron River, passing waterfalls, weirs, and stunning panoramic views. The village of Kuranda is very quaint and quiet, but there is plenty to do for day-trippers who disembark the train, including the Butterfly Sanctuary, the market, the Koala Gardens, and a good selections of bars and cafés.

We upgraded on the day to a Gold Class ticket, and did not regret it. We were treated to snacks and bottomless drinks, and our host doubled as a photographer and an incredibly enthusiastic tour guide. Alternatively, it is possible to return to Cairns via sky rail, but we couldn’t resist the allure of bottomless red wine on the train. We were also given an impromptu tour of the station master’s signal box, which was a lovely touch. Daisie still says this was the best day of her life (so far).

Waterfall Tours

Cairns is famous for its waterfalls, but you won’t realise quite how breathtaking they are until you visit them in person. There are a few tour operators in Cairns (such as Uncle Brian’s) who specialise in waterfalls, and these all have a great reputation. However, we opted to hire a car over two days so that we could travel both north and south of Cairns. Whichever way you chose to do it, you will have a fantastic day viewing some of the world’s best waterfalls.

Our favourites to the north of Cairns were Crystal Cascades at Redlynch (where you can go for a swim if conditions permit) and Behana Gorge (which involves a bit of a walk, but is worth it for the view). South of Cairns, we would recommend seeing Ellinjaa Waterfall, Nandroya Falls (which again involves a hike but is stunning), and of course the world-renowned Millaa Millaa and Josephine Falls. Try and fit in as many as you can, and don’t be afraid to go for a dip if the water conditions are right- you won’t regret it!

The Great Barrier Reef

As one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Great Barrier Reef is unmissable. You can’t begin to imagine the diversity and scale of life under the waves of the coral sea until you are swimming in it. We decided to invest in our PADI open water scuba diving certificates while in Cairns, which included spending three nights on a live-aboard dive boat on the reef (we did this through ProDive Cairns, and would highly recommend them). It is also possible to go on snorkelling trips to the barrier reef, or to snorkel or dive from Green Island or Fitzroy Island.

We cannot stress this enough- if you are in Cairns, make time to go to the Great Barrier Reef. It is absolutely incredible (our photos don’t do it any justice whatsoever).

Cairns Botanic Gardens

These beautiful botanic gardens are located at the southernmost edge of the city. We would highly recommend hiring a bicycle (which will come in handy in Cairns anyway) and heading up to explore the lakes, forests, greenhouse and flowerbeds which are a magnificent combination of art and conservation. The rainforest boardwalks will take you to another time and place, while the Centenary Lakes and the Chinese Friendship Garden offer a space for some peace and quiet, and the art centre and flower gardens will give you plenty of amazing sights and smells.

The Daintree Rainforest

The Daintree Rainforest is some of the oldest rainforest on the planet. Exploring this area really does give you a sense of travelling back to the time of the dinosaurs, and the untouched landscape is absolutely breathtaking. The sheer diversity and scale of the plant and animal species in the wild rivers and under the thick canopies of this rainforest will blow you away. This is a truly unique experience in Australia.

We booked onto a crocodile tour with Daintree River Cruises (there are plenty of other companies available) and even though the heavens opened and we got soaking wet without seeing any crocs, we had a great time and would still recommend the experience.

Mossman Gorge

This is a very special place and, as part of the Daintree Rainforest, gives visitors a feeling of the ancient and spiritual power of nature. Self guided walks are available on accessible boardwalks and paths, and the sights and smells of Australia’s untouched wilderness promise a unique and unforgettable experience. We visited the gorge during torrential rain, and absolutely loved it. However, we do hope we get a chance to revisit Mossman Gorge and the Daintree in the sunshine at some point!

The Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre is located at the entrance to Mossman Gorge, and offers Ngadiku Dreamtime Walks (guided by members of the Indigenous community), and the chance to learn about the Kuku Yalanji culture and history.

The Beaches

If you head north from Cairns towards Port Douglas, you will pass some absolutely sublime beaches. We rented a car for this, but the public busses are very good and cover most of the best beaches. The road itself is also great for driving and has plenty of lay-bys and viewpoints.

Our favourites were Trinity Beach, Holloways Beach, and Four Mile Beach. Remember, though, that there are crocs everywhere so be careful. Also take care to follow official advice and only swim in netted areas, and wear a stinger suit where appropriate.

Walking Routes

For avid hikers, the Red Arrow, Blue Arrow and Green Arrow walking tracks meander across the slopes of the Mount Whitfield Conservation Park. Varying in degrees of difficulty, these tracks are brimming with native flora and fauna, dramatic landscapes, and fantastic views. The hike to the Lumley Hill Lookout is particularly challenging, but worth it for the view. Just remember to bring plenty of water and Aerogard, and watch out for snakes!

Pubs, Bars and Restaurants

Last but not least, Cairns is packed to the rafters with food and drink. In the tropical heat of Northern Queensland, you will soon work up a thirst which can only be quenched by a pint of Great Northern, or perhaps a glass of South Australian Sauvignon Blanc. From hearty Australian beer and pub food, to Asian and Mexican delicacies and everything in between, Cairns contains a spectacular variety of cuisines.

The city also has a bouncing nightlife, with a range of pubs, clubs and bars. Or if that’s not your scene, you can choose a seat at dozens of fantastic restaurants on the Esplanade, and enjoy a good meal and a quiet drink overlooking the stunning sand and sea of the harbour.

Please bear in mind, this is not an extensive list! Although these were our favourite activities, Cairns has much much more to offer. We had a brilliant two months here, and would recommend putting a trip here on the itinerary to any tourist travelling in Australia. From water sports and diving, to chasing waterfalls, to sightseeing and exploring in nature, Cairns really does have something for everybody! What are your favourite places and activities around Cairns? Let us know in the comments!