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Unique Things to Do in Cairns: Memorable Adventures, Markets, and Day Trips
- Maxine Reid
- 6 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Unique Things to Do in Cairns
Searching for unique things to do in Cairns? During a recent visit back to Cairns, I uncovered breathtaking scenery, fantastic dining spots, and various adventures..
Thrill-Seeking Adventures in Cairns
For those craving an adrenaline rush, Sky Park Cairns delivers the goods. This adventure park is a must for thrill seekers with activities like Bungy Jumping, Zip Lining through the rainforest, the daring Walk the Plank, and the exhilarating Giant Swing. Surrounded by lush tropical landscape, it’s not just about the thrills—it’s also a fantastic day out in nature.
Kuranda: A Scenic Journey and Market Experience
Hop aboard the iconic Kuranda Scenic Railway or soar above the rainforest canopy on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for a breathtaking journey to the mountain village of Kuranda. Once there, explore the Original Kuranda Markets, known for card readings, psychics, unique crafts, and bohemian treasures.
The Heritage Market is a more recent addition, filled with vibrant eateries, boutique fashion stores, and eclectic art galleries. If you’re driving, note that the scenic road is still undergoing repairs, with delays at several one-lane sections—so allow extra travel time.
Dining in Cairns: Flavours to Remember
Cairns is a foodie’s paradise with a seemingly endless selection of dine-in and takeaway options. The Cairns Wharf waterfront is lined with restaurants offering stunning views of the ocean and mountains—Ochre Restaurant is a personal favourite (I went four times!). Expect creative dishes with local ingredients and flavour combinations that truly surprise and delight the palate. For something casual and interactive, try Malatang in the town centre. It’s a build-your-own soup or stir fry spot where you choose your ingredients buffet-style, then select your broth or sauce. The Laksa broth is a standout! Backpackers love it too—affordable, generous portions, and perfect for leftovers.
Cairns Art Gallery: Celebrating 30 Years
The Cairns Art Gallery, now in its 30th year, offers a cultural feast. The current highlight is Notes of a Palm Sermon by Christopher Bassi, featuring highly detailed, Romanticist-style works that draw the eye in with close-cropped, intimate framing. Equally moving is Maljah Cathy Snow’s textile installation—a powerful and elegant expression of Indigenous culture and storytelling through vivid prints of flora and fauna, created in collaboration with Bobbie Ruben.
Day Trips from Cairns: Nature at Its Finest
Head an hour south to experience the serene beauty of Josephine Falls and The Boulders at Babinda. This was my second visit, and the scenery still left me speechless. At Bambinda Boulders Cairns, massive smooth stones shaped by centuries of water flow form a landscape so unique, it’s hard to put into words. Cool off in the crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush greenery—it’s pure tropical bliss.
An hour north along a picturesque coastal drive (again, expect roadworks and delays), you’ll reach Port Douglas, a charming resort town with boutique shops, art galleries, and laid-back pubs. The town feels exclusive yet welcoming, with a string of five-star resorts along the entrance.
Just a short drive further, Mossman Gorge awaits—an untouched natural wonder where you can swim safely in pristine waters (no crocs here!) and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Daintree rainforest.
Cairns CBD Accommodation
