Fiona Harper

Happily wedged between two UNESCO World Heritage icons (the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest), this Queensland city is no shrinking violet when it comes to showing visitors a good time – and the best things to do in Cairns prove just that. A sunny tropical city with a laid-back vibe, Cairns is all about outdoor adventures, whether on land or sea. What’s more, the beautiful Tropical North Queensland regions of Port Douglas, Palm Cove and the Atherton Tablelands are all easy day-trip hotspots. Our Travel and News Editor, Melissa Woodley, spent a sunny week exploring the city and has compiled this ultimate list of the best things to do in Cairns. Snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef and going on a Dreamtime Walk at Mossman Gorge are her two top picks, but she also recommends checking out the local markets and going for a dip in Cairns Esplanade. When’s the best time to visit Cairns? We recommend visiting Cairns during the dry season from May to October, when the weather is cooler (temperatures range from 17 to 26 degrees) but still warm enough to swim. Minimal rainfall during this period also makes it ideal for exploring the region’s outdoor attractions. The shoulder months of April and May or September and October are best if you want to dodge the crowds. ☀️ The best hotels in Cairns🏝️ Everything to do in Port Douglas🌊 The top places to go in Queensland