Serious about Cairns day journeys so as to add much more journey to your go to? On this submit, we’ll cowl 16 nice concepts for memorable day journeys from Cairns!
Cairns, in Tropical North Queensland, is understood for the superb tropical gateways, lush landscapes, towering waterfalls and naturally for being the launching pad for adventures to Australia’s Nice Barrier Reef.
The city is an excellent place to base your self to discover the this space, and whereas there are such a lot of incredible things to do in Cairns, many of the high points of interest are literally outdoors of town.
There are tonnes of day excursions from Cairns that provide guests the possibility to study extra about locations just like the Nice Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest or about our Australian Aboriginal individuals and their land.
From stunning seashores to quick flowing waterfalls and quite a few World Heritage Websites, the realm up right here in Far North Queensland is well one of the distinctive locations in all of Australia
And with so many Cairns excursions you may select from, the place do you even begin?
Proper right here, on this skilled article…
The Greatest Day Journeys from Cairns, Queensland
Get out of town with these greatest Cairns day journeys crammed with nature, journey and tonnes of enjoyable.
One of the simplest ways to get round is to lease a automotive and discover by yourself! We advocate Rental Cars, which has the biggest vary of automobiles for one of the best worth available on the market.
1) Palm Cove
- Distance from Cairns – 78km a method (1 hour and 15 minutes)
Palm Cove is an exquisite little coastal city discovered simply half an hour north from Cairns.
It’s so quaint, you may need bother believing it’s actual! This stunning tranquil village is the proper surroundings for anybody on the lookout for a soothing seashore getaway whereas nonetheless having a number of exploring that may be performed within the space.
The realm is filled with lush rainforest trails the place you would possibly discover wallabies hopping about in addition to some beautiful waterfalls simply ready to be found.
The waterfront stretches for miles with swaying palms to match the shoreline. Or marvel the streets and decide up some nice souvenirs or items from native artists.
Palm Cove is ideal for spending a soothing morning on the seashore. Whereas later spending the afternoon exploring nature trails by foot by way of old-growth forests of towering palms draped in lush vines.
Chances are you’ll need to watch out heading into the ocean although. Whereas they appear invitingly blue from afar, Queensland coasts can maintain some harmful surprises too.
Nevertheless, there may be an space that’s netted and patrolled by lifeguards the place you may safely swim.
Different locations than might be added on at the present time journey:
- Port Douglas
- Mossman Gorge
- Daintree River
2) The Nice Barrier Reef
- Distance from Cairns – 1.5 – 2 hours to get on the market by boat a method.
Visiting the Nice Barrier Reef is well one of the widespread day journeys you are able to do from Cairns. And the easiest way to get on the market (until you personal your individual boat) is to jump on a guided tour.
The reef covers an enormous expanse from japanese Australia and all the best way as much as New Guinea.
The Nice Barrier Reef is likely one of the best wonders and mysteries in our world that stretches for over 2,900 kilometres and holds an space that’s almost 344,400 sq. kilometres!
Because the world’s largest coral reef, it’s residence to over 400 various kinds of coral, 1,500 species of fish and 4,00 forms of molluscs.
If you’re fortunate, you could spot a big inexperienced turtle or a dugong, also called the ocean cow, that are each threatened with extinction. There are such a lot of causes this reef must be protected.
The Nice Barrier Reef was awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site standing again in 1981 for its excellent pure magnificence and scientific curiosity. However now, the reef is beneath risk and in want of safety.
There are lots of boat firms providing snorkelling, scuba diving excursions out on this big underwater marine world. However notice that if you do e-book a tour out to the reef, be sure the tour firm is accountable and cares for the reef.
You possibly can enterprise southwards in the direction of Queensland or head northward alongside the coast relying upon your location inside Cairns metropolis limits!
If you happen to’re going to Cairns, don’t depart with out exploring the Nice Barrier Reef. The day excursions are a full day from both Cairns, Port Douglas or Cape Tribulation seashore.
BONUS – Reserving forward of time ensures you received’t miss out on the tour, and get one of the best value too! And only for NOMADasaurus readers, if you happen to use the Klook low cost code “NOMADS10” on the website when testing, you’ll get $10 off your first reserving!
3) Cape Tribulation
- Distance from Cairns – 111km a method (1 hour and 45 minutes)
Cape Tribulation is a tropical paradise identified for its pretty white sand seashores, lush rainforest and superb wildlife!
Stepping straight onto the seashore from the rainforest is a really particular expertise up right here.
This superb stretch of the Daintree National Park has a lot to supply. You possibly can discover the rainforest on a number of hikes then climb aboard a quick boat and discover the Nice Barrier Reef all in at some point!
You’re going to get area on the seashore to your self, the place you may discover the driftwood and shells that wash as much as kind pure sculptures.
Sadly, wanting on the ocean is the one factor you are able to do right here. These waters should not for swimming as there are crocodiles.
Please hold again from the water at the least 5 metres as it is a croc’s putting distance and they’re quick. However getting the possibility to identify crocs within the wild is an expertise of its personal!
Skilled hikers can spend the day admiring spectacular views from Mount Sorrow, whereas these much less skilled will take pleasure in shorter walks taking in these pure wonders.
Australia’s richest range of natural world is discovered right here. If you’re on a day tour, your information will clarify the intricacies behind this historic surroundings filled with various wildlife like peppermint stick bugs or Boyd’s forest dragons.
Guided excursions on non-public properties can help you see animals which will in any other case be tough or inconceivable to search out, in addition to crops usually out of attain for most individuals.
If you’re fortunate you could spot a Cassowary out in its personal habitat. We had been fortunate sufficient to identify 2 on our journey there. One was in a carpark and one ran out in entrance of us on the highway. Undoubtedly take care driving and decelerate!
Not solely are you able to visit this amazing Rainforest and lookup on the cover but additionally you may take part in distinctive tastings within the space.
From unique fruits, to Jackfruit burgers and durian ice cream and extra.
You possibly can attempt issues up right here you by no means thought existed. Don’t be shy now!
BONUS – Reserving forward of time ensures you received’t miss out on the tour, and get one of the best value too! And only for NOMADasaurus readers, if you happen to use the Klook low cost code “NOMADS10” on the website when testing, you’ll get $10 off your first reserving!
Different locations than might be added on at the present time journey:
4) Daintree River
- Distance from Cairns – 111km a method (1 hour and 45 minutes)
The Daintree River is an extended, meandering waterway that begins within the hinterland, winding up by way of the Daintree Rainforest after which heading out into the ocean.
This space is the world’s oldest rainforest, which is protected by a World Heritage Web site standing, and it gives important habitat for native wildlife.
The river presents a refuge for varied wildlife in addition to boat excursions looking for crocodiles in certainly one of Australia’s most stunning pure landscapes.
If you wish to see some wildlife, that is your greatest place. Go to certainly one of many boat excursions seeking crocodiles and pythons.
The Daintree River is an Australian nationwide treasure with a wealthy cultural historical past that’s not to be missed as one of many superb day journeys from Cairns.
We did a tour down the Daintree River with an organization known as Solar Whisper, that are essentially the most eco-centred firm within the space. Their boats are operated by photo voltaic and they don’t make wakes.
This implies their boats don’t contribute to the river banks’ corrosion. They’re additionally very quiet so the animals should not frightened of them.
We received up so near the birds, crocodiles and snakes we noticed as they weren’t phased at our presence. The homeowners have a lot data concerning the space and this was simply top-of-the-line excursions we did up within the Daintree Nationwide Park.
Different locations than might be added on at the present time journey –
- Mossman Gorge
- Cape Tribulation (this might be a giant day although)
5) Atherton Tablelands
- Distance from Cairns – 93km a method (1 hour and 30 minutes)
The Atherton Tablelands is a big inexperienced plateau with a number of locations to discover. Discovered at a a lot larger altitude than Cairns, the Atherton Tablelands are worlds other than their coastal counterpart.
Solely an hour and a half inland, you may simply go to the Atherton Tableland from Cairns. You’ll not see every thing on a day journey.
However you may get a style of an escape from the standard tropical Queensland trip on the seashore. Benefit from all that nature has to supply on some mountain climbing trails or waterfalls close to Cairns!
The cool and breezy local weather of this area is well-suited to agriculture and farming. You’ll discover loads of cheese factories, native dairy farms and even bat hospitals if that’s your factor!
Cease off at a tea plantation or view the platypus within the rive or go to the variety of stunning waterfalls within the space just like the well-known Millaa Millaa Falls.
There’s a lot to do and see within the Atherton Tablelands and visiting is a good highway journey from Cairns. You are able to do it in a giant full day or break it up over two days and keep in one of many cute cities alongside the best way.
Try our information right here on the Atherton Tableland Waterfalls.
Different locations than might be added on at the present time journey:
- City of Kuranda
- Waterfall Circuit
walks within the lush inexperienced rainforest.
6) Mossman Gorge
- Distance from Cairns – 78km a method (1 hour and 15 minutes)
Mossman Gorge is such a tremendous place. At 56,000 hectares and a World Heritage Listed website, this place is an space greatest identified for its spellbinding magnificence.
It’s a spot the place crystal-clear waters tumble over historic granite boulders into mossy inexperienced depths that lead up in the direction of tree-clad mountains rising sharply from their banks.
Lush rainforests cloak the steep mountainsides from the riverbanks as much as the rugged japanese slopes of the Most important Coast Vary. Right here is the place you may see superb views whereas mountain climbing by way of magnificent trails that may make your mouth drop in awe!
The Mossman Gorge Centre, part of the Daintree Nationwide Park, is simply 20 minutes north of Port Douglas. But it appears like a very completely different world.
Catch the courtesy bus from the centre on to your vacation spot. Then take a simple 10-minute stroll alongside the elevated boardwalk that meanders by way of this beautiful decrease cover earlier than returning alongside Rex Creek.
Be amazed by vivid butterflies or catch sight of Boyd Forest Dragon clinging on tree trunks!
The Kuku Yalanji individuals are completely satisfied to share all about themselves right here by way of a Dreamtime stroll or certainly one of their different excursions.
If you happen to’re trying to e-book a round-trip to Mossman Gorge from Cairns, be sure you take a look at this awesome tour here.
BONUS – Reserving forward of time ensures you received’t miss out on the tour, and get one of the best value too! And only for NOMADasaurus readers, if you happen to use the Klook low cost code “NOMADS10” on the website when testing, you’ll get $10 off your first reserving!
Different locations than might be added on at the present time journey:
discover out extra concerning the space.
7) Port Douglas
- Distance from Cairns – 67km a method (1 hour)
Port Douglas is a beautiful city on Queensland’s east coast and is a simple drive of 1 hour north from Cairns.
You’ll discover every thing right here for the adventurous and luxury-loving alike: wildlife encounters, wellness remedies in lush landscapes, or thrilling adventures into two World Heritage Websites proper subsequent door to one another (Daintree Rainforest Nationwide Park and Nice Barrier Reef Marine Park).
This seaside oasis gives loads of superb eating places to cease in for lunch, in addition to nice strolling tracks that lead straight to 4 Mile Seaside.
Right here you’ll discover security nets so you may benefit from the ocean with out worrying about getting stung by jellyfish or different sea creatures.
READ MORE: Driving round? Try our epic itinerary information for a perfect Brisbane to Cairns road trip!
There’s additionally an unimaginable fringe reef simply minutes away from Port Douglas. Vacationers will love how shortly they’ll have the ability to discover this distant space close to the Nice Barrier Reef!
There are lots of day excursions provided from Cairns to Port Douglas if you happen to don’t have your individual set of wheels.
Different locations than might be added on at the present time journey –
8) Fitzroy Island
- Distance from Cairns – 29km a method (45 min pace boat)
Fitzroy Island is just a little piece of paradise that’s discovered only a brief boat journey away from Cairns.
The tourism business thrives right here because of its proximity to the coast, and many individuals come for day trips with their associates or members of the family.
The seashore right here is mind-blowing and you’ll snorkel or scuba dive within the coral reef. And if you wish to study extra about turtle conservation there’s a wonderful sanctuary on the resort on-site the place they provide excursions day-after-day into marine life rehabilitation.
You’ll additionally discover unique flora, like Sheoak, Indian Beech and even native orchids in your bush stroll.
Fitzroy additionally has two principal strolling trails that result in stunning lookouts. Sheoak Forest Path and Monkey Mia Lookout Stroll are simply among the choices guests have!
For some fast exploring, attempt The Secret Backyard Stroll for nearly an hour of trekking by way of rainforest-filled paths earlier than reaching lookout factors overlooking the Coral Sea beneath you.
For spectacular views, go up Fitz Roy Mountain at sundown by following Lighthouse Path all the best way to the summit.
Right here it reveals spectacular views over Cairns from excessive above ocean waves crashing into the shore in entrance of the resort’s non-public white sand seashore
9) Chillagoe Caves
- Distance from Cairns – 17km a method (22 minutes)
The Chillagoe Caves within the Australian Outback is a little bit of a journey from Cairns, however a visit that’s so value it!
The panorama right here is stark and dry with scattered vegetation. However it’s normally calm outdoors of an occasional mud storm or whirlwind that blows by way of on occasion.
The Chillagoe Caves may be very completely different from the reef-filled coastlines which have their very own particular magnificence. These caves supply up one thing fully new – a shocking underground system of karst rocks and caverns amid miles upon miles of nothingness.
The limestone has slowly dissolved over time to create caverns with ceilings embellished by calcite stalactites, stalagmites and flowstones which were deposited there as water penetrates by way of the rock. It’s completely stunning!
The rocks right here had been initially laid down as calcareous mud in a shallow sea the place Chillagoe is at present. Subsequent tilting, folding and erosion uncovered the limestone that towers over the encircling plains. Scientists imagine this occurred about 400 million years in the past!
Animal bone fossils, together with these of the extinct big kangaroo, have been discovered within the caves. And there are Aboriginal work within the Nationwide Park left behind by the hunters and gatherers who made the attractive cave drawings.
The caves of Chillagoe are a well-liked location for a lot of species of animals, together with bats and swiftlets.
Get in your automotive and go on this highway journey from Cairns. Or possibly spend the evening within the city of Chillagoe.
Different locations than might be added on at the present time journey:
- Kuranda Scenic Railway OR
- City of Kuranda OR
- Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and the Tijapukai Aboriginal Cultural Centre
10) Kuranda
- Distance from Cairns – 17km a method (22 minutes)
Kuranda is understood for its cool and tropical local weather in addition to the World Heritage-listed rainforest surrounding it.
It’s the conventional residence of the Djabugay individuals, who name it Ngunbay or “place of the platypus”.
The village has many spectacular issues to do, together with walks alongside Barron River the place you may even see majestic fig timber.
It additionally consists of walks round Kuranda itself, which boasts vibrant parrots in almost each tree with an artist’s gallery that options Aboriginal artwork made by native members of Djabugay tribe.
You may as well go to a butterfly conservatory crammed with butterflies of all colors, nice markets filled with native meals, in addition to plentiful alternatives for recreation like fishing, mountain climbing and extra!
Simply outdoors Kuranda, close to Barron Falls, might be discovered as certainly one of Australia’s strongest waterfalls.
It has quite a lot of tiers that cascade over tumbling rocks and thru rainforests because it falls down from excessive cliffs into deep valleys beneath.
That is an unimaginable sight to behold and there are even panoramic view factors for optimum viewing!
Throughout dry season occasions when torrential rains dwindle away, this waterfall turns into simply one other trickle. However after heavy rainfall there may be a lot highly effective water cowl off the highest, it’s unimaginable and loopy on the identical time.
READ MORE – Try our article on Cairns Waterfalls.
Different locations than might be added on at the present time journey:
- Kuranda Scenic Railway OR
- City of Kuranda OR
- Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and the Tijapukai Aboriginal Cultural Centre
11) Kuranda Scenic Railway
- Distance from Cairns – 29km a method (30 minutes)
I put this rail journey as a day journey in itself as you may travel out to Kuranda on the Original Kuranda Scenic Railway if you happen to like. This journey contains unsurpassed views of dense rainforest, steep ravines and picturesque waterfalls throughout the World Heritage-listed Barron Gorge Nationwide Park.
The well-known rail journey winds its approach from Cairns to Kuranda with stops at Barron Falls Station for a chicken’s eye view of falls earlier than persevering with by way of 15 hand-carved tunnels and 37 bridges.
The journey takes you into beautiful Barron Gorge whereas passing by some superb surroundings in between. The Railway is a really stress-free and scenic journey value doing as a day journey from Cairns.
When you get to Kuranda you may get a bus switch again to Cairns or keep the evening in Kuranda and discover.
Different locations than might be added on at the present time journey:
- City of Kuranda
- Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and the Tijapukai Aboriginal Cultural Centre
- Barron Falls
12) Barron Gorge Nationwide Park
- Distance from Cairns – 17km a method (22 minutes)
The Barron River is a tributary of the Pacific Ocean that carves out deep and exquisite gorges. It begins excessive within the mountains, inland from Cairns, earlier than flowing all the best way right down to empty into its namesake waterfall at Barron Gorge.
You possibly can go to Stoney Creek or cease off to view Barron Falls on foot. Or you may head to Glacier Rock the place you may get equally beautiful views.
You possibly can see this breathtaking sight whereas driving by on one of many scenic drives or be a part of whitewater rafting excursions for an adventurous day journey!
Or you may take a look at the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which spans 7.5km and goes over and thru among the most distant areas in Queensland.
What a approach to uncover Australia’s world heritage listed rainforest within the Barron Gorge Nationwide Park.
Different locations than might be added on at the present time journey:
- Kuranda Scenic Railway OR
- City of Kuranda OR
- Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and the Tijapukai Aboriginal Cultural Centre
13) Babinda Boulders
- Distance from Cairns – 58km a method (1 hour)
The Babinda Boulders are big boulders with dramatic gorges that you just’ll need to discover and are undoubtedly not need to miss.
There are areas the place you may safely swim watch the river stream over smoothed granite rocks. And also you’ll discover a path following the gorge that you would be able to discover stopping off at completely different view factors.
Please don’t transcend the fence. Individuals have died within the space after getting swept away.
You will see that the Babinda Boulders close to Josephine Falls so you may be a part of the 2 on the identical journey to benefit from your day journey from Cairns.
Different locations than might be added on at the present time journey:
- Josephine Falls and Mission Seaside OR
- Waterfall Circuit within the Atherton Tablelands.
and discover out extra concerning the space.
14) Josephine Falls
- Distance from Cairns – 75km a method (1 hour and 15 minutes)
The cascading waterfall, Josephine Falls, is discovered to the south of Cairns, hidden away within the Daintree Rainforest.
It’s a spectacular sight to behold, and shouldn’t be missed if planning an superior Queensland road trip!
The falls are particularly spectacular throughout moist seasons after they turn into thundering torrents that may take your breath away with their pure magnificence and energy.
Josephine Creek begins as a delicate trickle excessive on the southeast aspect of the summit of Bartle Frere earlier than it falls into Josephine Falls, which is fed by rains falling from Queensland’s highest peak.
The decrease plunge pool presents a refreshing respite from the sticky jungle-like surroundings. However after heavy rain, it might get hit with flash floods so beware!
The waterfalls are situated in Wooroonoram Nationwide Park and supply spectacular views alongside their 1.2 km return stroll.
It is a comparatively straightforward stroll on gravel path and boardwalks that leads by way of humid timber and foliage to a number of viewing platforms that provide completely different angles from which you’ll be totally amazed by this cascading waterfall’s a number of tiers.
It’s a waterfall to not miss. It is a nice day tour from Cairns with Babinda Boulders and Mission Seaside added on to benefit from the day journey.
Different locations than might be added on at the present time journey:
- Babinda Falls and Mission Seaside
15) Mission Seaside
- Distance from Cairns – 139km a method (2 hours)
Mission Seaside is a string of 4 seashore villages linked by 14 kilometres of large golden sands, located halfway between Townsville and Cairns.
This stunning coastal space blends vibrant artwork and tradition with distinctive tourism points of interest to ask you to calm down or unwind for the proper vacation expertise.
The 4 villages supply one thing for everybody. Whether or not it’s on the lookout for romantic getaways, household holidays, wildlife sightings or backpackers, there are various adventure-seekers and campers who will discover a good spot right here too!
Mission Seaside is a surprising place to go for a stroll at sundown and watch the waves roll in. Seize some fish and chips from the restaurant on the caravan park and sit on the seashore.
You would possibly meet the native movie star, the Cassowaries, that wander the realm. There’s certainly one of these guys that wanders by way of the caravan park and isn’t fazed by individuals.
If you happen to do see him, simply please hold your distance as that is nonetheless a wild animal.
Notice that other than this, there may be not lots to do within the space. My recommendation could be so as to add this vacation spot to a day journey with Babinda Boulders and Josephine Falls to make a full day tour from Cairns.
Different locations than might be added on at the present time journey:
- Babinda Boulders and Josephine Falls
16) Inexperienced Island Nationwide Park
- Distance from Cairns – About 27km from Cairns (45 minutes by boat)
Green Island is one other one of many Cairns day journeys you can not miss.
This island a few 40-minute boat journey, making it an ideal day journey from Cairns, and is understood for its white-sand seashores, superb snorkelling and nice meals!
Inexperienced Island is an exquisite coral cay that’s discovered hidden away within the Nice Barrier Reef, with an abundance of pure marvel on land or sea.
The island has been known as “a tropical paradise” with improbable snorkelling throughout the shoreline.
It’s straightforward to take pleasure in whether or not you’re an skilled swimmer or simply need to hold your head above water!
The Aboriginal individuals, Guru-Gulu Gungandji, are the standard homeowners of this island as they’ve lived right here for hundreds of years.
Captain James Cook dinner visited the island and named it after his ship, HMS Inexperienced Endeavour because it seems to be inexperienced from afar on clear days.
There’s a lot to see and study concerning the stunning island. While exploring its depths would possibly greatest be performed snorkelling across the shoreline (with each fish to see in addition to sunken wrecks), there are additionally glass-bottom boat excursions that discover the encircling coral.
You are able to do a Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel which is able to take you exploring the Nice Barrier Reef’s Dreamtime with Indigenous sea rangers on a day tour.
It’s an effective way to study what’s beneath the water and the way their individuals survived dwelling on the water.
You will get shut up views of some unimaginable marine life comparable to big clams and turtles swimming about whereas smaller reef fish gracefully glide by way of colleges of shiny corals beneath them. That is actually a wide ranging sight for divers at any degree.
One of the simplest ways to get there may be book onto an organised tour, which maximises your time there.
An ideal Cairns day journey that you are able to do on a tour.
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