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Wie man Cairns und den tropischen Norden als ersten Timer angeht

Von der Erkundung des Regenwaldes und des Riffs bis hin zu den Sehenswürdigkeiten des Ferienortes sind dies unsere Muss für Erstbesucher.

Friends enjoy a beach view in Cairns.
Hi, I'm Diane!

Based in Vancouver, B.C., Diane Selkirk enjoys writing stories where science, history, or social justice intersect with travel. Her work has appeared in BBC Travel, National Geographic Travel, and The Globe and Mail.

Thanks to its tropical climate and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns has long been a favorite for visitors looking to explore Australia’s stunning natural beauty. Home to some of Australia’s most iconic experiences, visitors can explore the Daintree rain forest, snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef, stroll along the Cairns Esplanade, and view koalas and wallabies.

First-time travelers shouldn’t get overwhelmed by the sheer breadth of activities to do and attractions to see. Follow this guide for the must-do classics and a few local, hidden favorites.

1. Discover the Great Barrier Reef

A snorkeler swims in the Great Barrier Reef.
Get in the water to explore the Great Barrier Reef.Bildquelle: Andrew Watson / Viator

Cairns is the gateway to this famous natural wonder.

Whether you’re a seasoned scuba diver or just looking to splash in the shallows, visiting the Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia’s most coveted experiences. The reef was deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981, and current environmental pressures mean that its conservation is more critical than ever.

Opt for a tour with a marine biologist to learn about the incredible diversity of the reef, or try a new activity with an introduction to scuba diving. If you’re not a fan of the water, a helicopter tour above the reef offers incredible views. Just make sure that you’re exploring the reef in a responsible way to protect this important natural space.

2. Wander the rain forest

Hikers head through the lush Daintree National Park.
It's lush in Daintree National Park.Bildquelle: Andrew Watson / Viator

Daintree National Park is an easy day trip from Cairns.

A visit to the Daintree rain forest is the perfect way to experience the Wet Tropics of Queensland. With its rich diversity and lush flora, this jungle has been a spiritual and cultural center for the Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people for thousands of years.

In 2021, they officially reclaimed the park as their territory. Let them welcome you with a traditional smoke ceremony, learn about the Kuku Yalanji’s connection to the forest with an interpretive forest walk and art class, or try out some typical hunting, fishing, and gathering techniques with an Aboriginal guide.

3. Visit the Cairns Aquarium

Visitors watch the fish at Cairns Aquarium.
Cairns Aquarium is where to see fish with ease.Bildquelle: Ian Hitchcock / Shutterstock

See more than 70 marine exhibits.

Cairns Aquarium boasts 10 different ecosystems where you can learn about Australia’s incredible marine diversity.

It’s also home to a turtle rehabilitation center. It’s a great destination for families, especially if your kids aren’t quite ready for the plunge of a snorkeling trip. Those after a thrill can hand-feed the Cownose Rays and watch the Barramundi feed.

Related: Things to Do in Cairns with Kids

4. Sightsee in the city

Two people enjoy the water on a calm evening at Cairns Esplanade Lagoon.
Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is a serene escape.Bildquelle: Navigator-tour / Shutterstock

Cairns has chill vibes and friendly locals.

After all the exploring, spend a day wandering along the esplanade and an evening enjoying the Cairns nightlife. Don’t miss out on learning about the city via a walking tour, or explore the Cairns Museum and Cairns Art Gallery, which highlight Cairn’s gold-rush beginnings and early settlement.

The waterfront promenade is a favorite among tourists and locals alike, with its Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, barbecue facilities, and night market, while the bar scene is buzzing with international visitors.

5. Visit Kuranda Koala Gardens

A koala at Kuranda Koala Gardens.
Who will you meet at Kuranda Koala Gardens?Bildquelle: Katie Purling / Shutterstock

Get up close and personal with some of Australia’s most beloved wildlife.

A 30-minute drive from Cairns, Kuranda Koala Gardens is home to koalas, wombats, wallabies, and more. This small wildlife park is located in scenic Kuranda Village. Surrounded by rain forest, this town is the perfect spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

You can spot some of Australia’s more timid creatures in the nocturnal habitat display, home to animals like the Greater Bilby and Mahogany Gliders. Add a touch of luxury to your trip and ride on the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway, which features stunning views of the rain forest canopy.

6. Wander the grounds of Paronella Park

A big waterfall at Paronella Park.
Paronella Park is known for its magical gardens.Bildquelle: yuta-jp / Shutterstock

This dreamy park has a romantic (and rebellious) past.

The lofty dream of a Spanish immigrant in Australia, Paronella Park is a magical space with lush gardens, moss-covered buildings, and a welcoming atmosphere. The park is run entirely from hydroelectric power produced by the park’s waterfall, following in the steps of the original owner, who installed the first privately-owned hydroelectric plant in Queensland.

This blend of romantic history and sustainability makes this park a unique, eco-friendly space.

7. Spend the day on the water

A turtle in the Coral Sea.
Turtles can be seen in the Coral Sea.Bildquelle: Andrew Watson / Viator

Relax during a sail on the Coral Sea.

Australians are known for their love of the ocean, so follow the lead of the locals and head out to sea.

There are plenty of day and evening cruises that depart from Cairns, so whether you’d like to learn more about the region’s rich marine life, want to admire fish through a glass-bottomed boat, or prefer a romantic sunset dinner cruise, there’s a marine adventure right for you.

8. Check out the Botanic Gardens

A pond at Cairns Botanic Gardens.
Cairns Botanic Gardens is home to a plethora of tropical plants.Bildquelle: Alexander Jung / Shutterstock

Relax amid lush greenery.

Located just outside downtown Cairns, the Cairns Botanic Gardens are full of fascinating tropical plants. Visit the Aboriginal Plant Use Garden where you can learn about the medicinal properties of rain forest plants (some of which have been used for over 40,000 years,) or the Gondwanan Heritage Garden which tracks the evolution of plants through different zones. Kids will love the Nature Playground, where they can scramble over ropes and marvel at the fairy garden, while parents can enjoy a peaceful stroll over the rainforest boardwalk.

9. Stock up on snacks at Rusty’s Markets

People shopping for produce at Rusty's Market.
Head to Rusty's Market for Australian delicacies.Bildquelle: Ben Wehrman / Shutterstock

Make like a local and head to this long-running farmers market.

Running Friday to Sunday, this huge farmers market is where you can fuel up for the day ahead, and discover Australian favorites including meat pies. You’ll find fresh fruit galore (keep an eye out for ones exclusive to the tropics such as the sapote and sapodilla), coffee, artisan pastries, and more. For the folks back home, jewelry and clothing are also on offer, along with plenty of other souvenirs.

10. Take a day trip to Palm Cove

The sandy shoreline of Palm Cove.
Visit Palm Cove for some tranquility.Bildquelle: Martin Valigursky / Shutterstock

This quiet neighborhood is perfect for a beach day.

If you’re after peace and quiet, head north to the neighborhood of Palm Cove. Here, a long, sandy beach invites you to lounge, while the titular palm trees offer welcoming shade. It’s a great spot for dining options as well—you’ll find plenty of nearby restaurants highlighting fresh seafood and regional ingredients.

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