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Top things to do in Cairns

Green Island Snorkelling & Glass Bottom Boat Day Tour
Tours • From Cairns

Green Island Snorkelling & Glass Bottom Boat Day Tour

Book now for tomorrow
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.4 (135) • 5K+ booked
From ¥ 13,566
Great Barrier Reef Snorkel, Dive & Helicopter Full Day Tour
Cruises • From Cairns

Great Barrier Reef Snorkel, Dive & Helicopter Full Day Tour

Hotel pick-up
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.6 (167) • 3K+ booked
From ¥ 41,699
Great Barrier Reef Day Tours
Cruises • From Cairns

Great Barrier Reef Day Tours

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Hotel pick-up
Small group
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.5 (170) • 4K+ booked
From ¥ 12,605
Klook Pass Australia Tours
Attraction passes • Northern Territory

Klook Pass Australia Tours

Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.8 (257) • 5K+ booked
From ¥ 30,468
¥ 51,596
Klook exclusive
Great Barrier Reef Full Day Tour from Cairns
Cruises • From Cairns

Great Barrier Reef Full Day Tour from Cairns

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Hotel pick-up
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.7 (224) • 5K+ booked
From ¥ 29,467
Green Island Reef Cruise Full Day Guided Tour from Cairns
Cruises • From Cairns

Green Island Reef Cruise Full Day Guided Tour from Cairns

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★ 4.5 (124) • 6K+ booked
From ¥ 17,708
Kuranda Scenic Railway Heritage Class Ticket
Parks & gardens • Cairns

Kuranda Scenic Railway Heritage Class Ticket

Instant confirmation
★ 4.6 (172) • 6K+ booked
From ¥ 6,371
Cairns Aquarium Ticket
Zoos & aquariums • Cairns

Cairns Aquarium Ticket

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★ 4.6 (160) • 8K+ booked
From ¥ 6,449
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Ticket
Observation decks • Cairns

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Ticket

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★ 4.6 (96) • 1K+ booked
From ¥ 11,898
Fitzroy Island Day Trip from Cairns
Cruises • From Cairns

Fitzroy Island Day Trip from Cairns

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★ 4.3 (27) • 1K+ booked
From ¥ 11,676
16 off
Sale
Moore Reef Full Day Tour
Cruises • From Cairns

Moore Reef Full Day Tour

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★ 4.3 (28) • 1K+ booked
¥ 32,803
Atherton Tablelands Waterfall & Rainforest Day Tour from Cairns
Tours • From Cairns

Atherton Tablelands Waterfall & Rainforest Day Tour from Cairns

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★ 4.8 (33) • 800+ booked
¥ 19,904
Green Island Ferry Transfer Ticket from Cairns
Ferries • Cairns

Green Island Ferry Transfer Ticket from Cairns

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Free cancellation
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★ 4.4 (5) • 400+ booked
¥ 12,121
Shared Cairns Airport Transfer (CNS) for Cairns
Airport trains & buses • Cairns

Shared Cairns Airport Transfer (CNS) for Cairns

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★ 4.1 (16) • 500+ booked
From ¥ 2,558
Cairns car rentals | Rent a car for Great Barrier Reef, Green Island, Kuranda
Car rentals • Cairns

Cairns car rentals | Rent a car for Great Barrier Reef, Green Island, Kuranda

Instant confirmation
5K+ booked
From ¥ 7,484
¥ 8,315
10 off
Shared Airport Transfer between Cairns, Port Douglas, Palm Cove
Airport trains & buses • From Cairns

Shared Airport Transfer between Cairns, Port Douglas, Palm Cove

Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.4 (402) • 5K+ booked
From ¥ 2,558
Fitzroy Island Ferry Transfer Ticket from Cairns
Ferries • Cairns

Fitzroy Island Ferry Transfer Ticket from Cairns

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Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.5 (33) • 1K+ booked
¥ 10,786
Airport Transfers from Cairns Airport (CNS) to Port Douglas
Private airport transfers • Cairns

Airport Transfers from Cairns Airport (CNS) to Port Douglas

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Free cancellation
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50+ booked
From ¥ 6,727
Cairns Private Car Charter
Car charters • Cairns

Cairns Private Car Charter

Customized itinerary
Free cancellation
100+ booked
From ¥ 53,375

Hotels in Cairns

The Abbott Boutique Hotel
Hotels • Cairns

The Abbott Boutique Hotel

Instant confirmation
★ 4.5 (944)
From ¥ 15,921
Shangri-La Hotel The Marina, Cairns
Hotels • Cairns

Shangri-La Hotel The Marina, Cairns

Instant confirmation
★ 4.4 (926)
From ¥ 20,729
Palm Royale Cairns
Hotels • Cairns

Palm Royale Cairns

Instant confirmation
★ 4.1 (985)
From ¥ 12,146
Crystalbrook Riley
Hotels • Cairns

Crystalbrook Riley

Instant confirmation
★ 4.6 (944)
From ¥ 20,411
Cairns Queens Court
Hotels • Cairns

Cairns Queens Court

Instant confirmation
★ 3.8 (971)
From ¥ 9,596
Hilton Cairns
Hotels • Cairns

Hilton Cairns

Instant confirmation
★ 4.4 (942)
From ¥ 22,277
Crystalbrook Bailey
Hotels • Cairns

Crystalbrook Bailey

Instant confirmation
★ 4.6 (725)
From ¥ 16,896
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
Hotels • Cairns

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

Instant confirmation
★ 4.2 (972)
From ¥ 19,049
Motel Nomad Cairns
Hotels • Cairns

Motel Nomad Cairns

Instant confirmation
★ 3.5 (138)
From ¥ 11,326
Green Island Resort
Hotels • Cairns

Green Island Resort

Instant confirmation
★ 4.5 (322)
From ¥ 45,840
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
Hotels • Cairns

Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

Instant confirmation
★ 4.4 (619)
From ¥ 19,028

Reviews of Cairns activities

CHU *****
2026-02-10 01:06:26
Fantastic 5.0
All the crew along the way were very friendly and professional, with staff of different nationalities, and even a very kind Hong Kong crew. Although it was raining inland, it was clear and sunny when we got to the center of the sea. We went to two reefs along the way, and an introductory dive was arranged. There was a detailed explanation first, and then an instructor took three guests, ensuring safety throughout the whole process. A photographer was underwater capturing everyone's photos all the time. I recommend adding the helicopter experience, which is definitely an unforgettable view. The facilities on the boat were cleaner than expected. I also strongly suggest buying seasickness pills for three Australian dollars per person in advance.
Judy **
2026-02-16 04:59:09
Fantastic 5.0
It was an enjoyable experience, and spending a day at the Barrier Reef is truly worthwhile. The staff were very helpful and polite, and all equipment was provided. Lunch was served midday, followed by wine and snacks at tea time.
Klook User
2025-11-29 10:42:06
Fantastic 5.0
We did the full-day tour with snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef and a visit to Fitzroy Island — an amazing experience! Everything was really well organised, the staff were great, and the reef itself was a true bucket list moment. Lunch was delicious and clearly labelled, which was perfect for my gluten-free partner. Fitzroy Island was beautiful. Plenty of freedom to explore the reefs as long as you follow the rules. Highly recommend!
Klook User
2025-10-24 01:35:53
Fantastic 5.0
Thisntour was amazing! The staff onboard the boat provided excellent service, educational presentations and wonderful buffet food. The snorkeling was absolutely beautiful and suitable for all levels of experience. If we travel back to Cairns, we’d definitely book this same tour again.
Lai *******
2025-12-26 04:03:10
Fantastic 5.0
Good scenery and nice weather. The tour guides Jimmy and Agatha for glass boat is professional and nice. The lunch box from Foxy's bar was tasty.
Klook会員
2025-12-15 06:06:23
Fantastic 5.0
I can't speak English at all, but there were 4 or 5 Japanese staff members, so I had no problems. Since I was participating alone, I was worried, but they spoke to me several times and were very kind. There were also a few Japanese participants. It's the same boat that goes to Green Island, so it stops at Green Island first, where about 80% of the people get off. Those going to the pontoon remain on the boat and head there. The rental snorkel set and wetsuit were clean. There was curry for lunch, which suited Japanese tastes well. I was hungry after swimming, so the curry was a welcome treat. You can't see much coral at Green Island, so I recommend the pontoon for those who want to see coral reefs.
Leteicha *****
2025-12-01 06:04:09
Fantastic 5.0
This half day trip was a great way to get out in the water and see some sea life. We primarily visited Cairns for a larger trip we booked on the reef, but this extra half day gave us some extra time snorkelling! Saw turtles on top of the water from the boat when we arrived, though weren’t lucky enough to see them under the water. Did see a ray, a reef shark, and plenty of fish! Team were kind and helpful to and from the island. It was nice to kick back with a beverage on the return.
Klook User
2025-10-20 03:01:25
Fantastic 5.0
An amazing adventure!! The whole experience from collection to drop off was fantastic and well organised. The trip around the reef in the submersible was incredible and was the highlight of the day for me. I really enjoyed the snorkelling but as I am not a strong swimmer it was quite enough to stay in the water for around 20 minutes- but what a privilege!! I can't praise the staff highly enough- they were very efficient and attentive! When you break it down it is amazing value for money. Thank you all for a wonderful day!!
Usuario de Klook
2025-11-23 08:18:53
Fantastic 5.0
Service: 10/10 very friendly and attentive Value for money: very good price, I would only improve the food Itinerary: a magnificent ending, the reefs were very well chosen Safety: everything very well controlled

Quick facts about Cairns

Local weather

  • JAN - DEC
    31°18°

General info
  • Time zone

    No time difference

  • Currency

    1AUD = 111.20JPY

  • Official languages

  • Best time to visit

    Pohoda Music Festival

    Christmas Markets in Bratislava

    Cairns Festival

  • Recommended trip duration

  • Flight time

    When departing from London

See popular activities on the map

What to know before visiting Cairns

Best Cairns Attractions

Great Barrier Reef

When you visit Cairns, exploring the Great Barrier Reef is a must. You can join a boat tour to snorkel or dive among bright coral and tropical fish. It’s one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty around Cairns.

Cairns Esplanade & Lagoon

The Cairns Esplanade is a popular waterfront area where you can walk, bike, or relax by the sea. You can cool off at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, a large saltwater pool that’s perfect for swimming year-round. When you’re in Cairns, this is one of the best free spots to enjoy the city’s outdoor lifestyle.

Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail

A trip to the rainforest village of Kuranda is one of the top things to do in Cairns. You can ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway, which takes you through waterfalls and mountains, then return on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, gliding above the treetops. This gives you amazing views of the rainforest near Cairns.

Cairns Botanic Gardens

The Cairns Botanic Gardens is the perfect place to see rare tropical plants and learn about the rainforest environment. When you visit Cairns, you can walk through shaded paths, explore different garden sections, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great spot for nature lovers and anyone looking for a quiet escape.

Cairns Aquarium

The Cairns Aquarium is a fun and educational attraction where you can learn about reef creatures and rainforest wildlife. When you're in Cairns, this is a great place to see sharks, rays, jellyfish, and even freshwater animals up close. It’s perfect for families and a great indoor activity on rainy days

Tips before visiting Cairns

Prepare for the tropical weather

Cairns has a warm and humid climate, so pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat. If you visit during the wet season, be ready for sudden rain and higher humidity

Plan your reef and rainforest tours early

Popular activities like Great Barrier Reef trips, Kuranda tours, and Daintree day trips can sell out fast. When you visit Cairns, it’s best to book these experiences ahead of time so you get the dates and times you want

Stay safe while swimming

If you're visiting during stinger season (November to March), always wear a stinger suit when swimming in the ocean. You can still swim safely at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon or on certain islands with protected swimming areas.

Get a convenient Australia eSIM

For easy internet access and navigation in Cairns, consider buying an Australia eSIM on Klook. It’s quick to set up on your phone and helps you stay connected during tours, driving, and exploring around the city

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