10 Best Day Trips to Take from Cairns

10 Best Day Trips to Take from Cairns

Last updated on April 23rd, 2024 at 04:00 pm

Cairns is a great base for exploring the surrounding area. From beautiful beaches and islands to lush rainforests and charming towns, there are plenty of day trip options for visitors to Cairns. Here are the 10 best day trips to take from Cairns:

1. Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef 2

A visit to Cairns is not complete without a trip to the Great Barrier Reef. There are plenty of tour operators offering snorkelling and diving trips to the reef, which is home to a stunning array of marine life.

2. Kuranda

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The charming village of Kuranda is located in the heart of the rainforest and is a great place to spend a day exploring. Visitors can take a scenic train ride from Cairns to Kuranda and then enjoy the local markets, wildlife parks, and rainforest walks.

3. Daintree Rainforest

Daintree Rainforest 2

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The Daintree Rainforest is one of the oldest rainforests in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Day trips to the rainforest typically include a guided tour and the chance to see exotic wildlife such as cassowaries, tree kangaroos, and crocodiles.

4. Port Douglas

Port Douglas Beach

The coastal town of Port Douglas is just an hour’s drive from Cairns and is a great place to spend a day relaxing on the beach, shopping in the local boutiques, and enjoying the local cafes and restaurants.

5. Atherton Tablelands

Atherton Tableland

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The Atherton Tablelands is a fertile plateau that sits atop the Great Dividing Range and is home to a range of natural attractions, including waterfalls, lakes, and rainforest walks.

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6. Fitzroy Island

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Fitzroy Island is a stunning island paradise located just a short boat ride from Cairns. The island is home to beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and rainforest walks, making it the perfect day trip destination.

7. Mission Beach

Mission Beach is a picturesque coastal town located about 2 hours south of Cairns. The town is home to beautiful beaches, local markets, and a range of outdoor activities, such as skydiving and white-water rafting.

8. Mossman Gorge

Mossman Gorge

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Mossman Gorge is a stunning natural attraction located just a short drive from Cairns. Visitors can take a guided walk through the rainforest and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Mossman River.

9. Paronella Park

Paronella Park

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Paronella Park is a unique attraction that offers a glimpse into the history of Queensland. Visitors can explore the ruins of a Spanish-style castle and gardens that were built in the 1930s.

10. Tully River Rafting

For adrenaline junkies, a day trip to Tully River offers the chance to experience some of the best white-water rafting in Australia. The Tully River is one of the most exciting rafting destinations in the world and is suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.

In conclusion, Cairns proves to be both a bustling destination in and of itself and an ideal starting point for discovering the many treasures that surround it. From the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef, where marine life presents itself in a kaleidoscope of colours, to the quaint village of Kuranda, tucked away in the heart of the rainforest and offering exploration of local markets, wildlife parks, and lush rainforest walks, the top 10 day trips from Cairns promise a tapestry of experiences.

Encounters with exotic species are available at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Daintree Rainforest, which envelops tourists in the majestic majesty of one of the oldest rainforests globally. Coastal getaways with bright boutiques, sandy beaches, and various outdoor activities may be found at places like Port Douglas and Mission Beach.

Cradled by lakes and dotted by walks through a rainforest, the Atherton Tablelands spread out across a rich plateau at the foot of the Great Dividing Range. A short boat ride away is Fitzroy Island, which comes with its breathtaking combination of beaches, coral reefs, and jungle. Mossman Gorge offers excellent swimming in the sparkling streams and guided walks through the beautiful rainforest.

Through the remains of a Spanish-style castle and gardens, Paronella Park offers a singular historical experience. Tully River Rafting offers thrill-seekers an exhilarating journey through some of Australia’s top white-water rafting. With Cairns acting as the starting point for these fantastic day tours, visitors can be sure that their discovery of the area will be filled with excitement and amazement.

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