By Racheal Hundt – Celebrating Life Business Solutions
The smell of the rainforest is equally as desirable as the splashes of salt drifting through the ocean air. Cairns is surrounded by hiking tracks and waterfalls that are truly breathtaking. The animals, sunsets, starlit skies, outback planes, farmlands/tablelands, ranges and Great Barrier Reef are amongst the great selection of things that Cairns offers.
Great Barrier Reef
Off the coast of Cairns on the Great Barrier Reef, a breathtaking real life aquarium takes you away into a place you never thought would exist on earth.
There’s all sizes of fish and coral, different depths of ocean and all sorts of creatures popping out to say “Hi”. Visitors may be lucky enough to meet Wally the Maori Wrasse, a gentle giant and local reef legend who will swim gracefully around you while you explore the vibrant colours of the reef.
Fitzroy Island
Fitzroy Island is a tropical escape just 45 minutes from Cairns, offering crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and lush rainforest walking tracks including an easy trip to the summit. Part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, the island is perfect for snorkelling straight off the beach, relaxing on pristine shores, or exploring scenic trails with breathtaking coastal views. Don’t forget to swing by the beach shack for a well earned cocktail to finish your day.
Babinda Boulders
Babinda Boulders is a stunning natural attraction set within lush tropical rainforest at the base of Mount Bartle Frere. Featuring crystal-clear cascading falls, giant granite boulders, and tranquil swimming areas, it’s a peaceful spot to cool off and connect with nature. Babinda Boulders has significant indigenous heritage, so be sure to follow the safe swimming zones so visitors can continue to enjoy this iconic Far North Queensland destination.
Behana Falls
Behana Falls is a 3 km walking track through lush tropical rainforest. Along the trail to the falls, visitors are treated to refreshing swimming holes, scenic lookout points, and the sights and sounds of native flora and fauna, making it a perfect day trip for locals and visitors.
The Red Arrow
The Red Arrow Walking Track is a forest bathe just outside of Cairns city, winding through lush rainforest and offering views of the airport and Cairns City. The track takes you up mountain stairs into tropical greenery set across from the Botanical Gardens also worth the visit.
Crystal Cascades
Crystal Cascades is a beautiful freshwater swimming spot nestled in the rainforest of one of Cairns residential suburbs. Explore the lush tropical vegetation that leads you to cascading waterfalls and natural pools offers a refreshing escape from the heat of Tropical North Queensland.
Granite Gorge
Granite Gorge is approximately 1 to 1½ hours from Cairns, making it an ideal day trip to the Atherton Tablelands.
Nestled among rugged granite boulders, the gorge is famous for its scenic walking trails, rock formations, and resident wildlife, including friendly rock wallabies who often approach visitors. With picnic areas, swimming holes, and plenty of opportunities for photography and exploration, Granite Gorge offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and connection with nature.
Waterfall Circuit and Nandroya Falls
Just over an hour from Cairns, the Waterfall Circuit offers a scenic drive on the outskirts of the lush Atherton Tablelands. This day trip features several stunning waterfalls along the way, each with its own unique adventure to view. One of the highlights is ‘Nandroya Falls’, a picturesque cascade set deep within a rainforest. If you are looking for a peaceful connection with nature, prepare yourself with walking shoes and some water before setting foot into one of Earth’s natural wonders. This place will reset you completely with a new appreciation of what nature can offer.