A Local’s Guide To The Best Things To Do In Cairns

We speak to Cairns local, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway’s Khalia Pepper to find out the inside scoop on the best places to visit during your Tropical North Queensland adventure!

How long have you been in TNQ?
10 glorious years

If you were to sum up TNQ in 3 words what would they be?
Paradise, Unique and Adventure. TNQ is a dream destination for any adventurer!

For anyone visiting the Tropical North for the first time, what are the top 3 things they should do?
There are so many world-class features to do here that its difficult to narrow down to my top 3, but I would say Diving and snorkelling on the Outer Great Barrier Reef is a must, self drive and explore the Waterfall Circuit up at the Atherton Tablelands and discover World Heritage Listed Tropical Rainforest with Skyrail of course.

Is the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway suitable for everyone?
Yes, lots of fun for everyone, no matter what age.

What else is there to do near the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway?
The colourful quirky Kuranda village, Cuddle a Koala at Kuranda Koala Gardens but for a slice of beach paradise you simply have to visit Palm Cove. Absolutely beautiful and only 10 minutes away!

What types of animals can visitors hope to see?
One of the benefits of living or visiting the wet tropics, especially for those nature lovers amongst us, is that the whole area is a buzz with wildlife. Unique animals like Tree-Kangaroos, Cassowaries, Cairns birdwing butterflies, Flying foxes and lets not forget the crocodiles.

Where’s the best place in Cairns to grab dinner out?
Boatshed and Dundees Restaurant. Both on the waterfront, food, view and service if first class.

Where’s the best place to head out for a drink in Cairns?
Salt House. Harbour, mountain and ocean views, making it near impossible not to unwind and soak up the beauty of Tropical North Queensland!

Where’s the best place to stay if visitors are thinking of visiting for a week or so?
If on a budget id suggest Travellers Oasis Backpackers, Calypso Inn Backpackers, Cairns Central YHA or The Northern Greenhouse.

What is the best thing about living in Cairns?
Cairns relaxed lifestyle. It really isn’t too hard to guess why people come here on holidays and then end up staying for life.

When’s the best time of year to visit?
Every month of the year offers something different here in Cairns. Whilst the summer is hot and wet the waterfalls are in full splendour and the rainforest is amazing, everything is so Green. The bird life is also spectacular. Our winter offers mild temperatures and probably is the most popular time to visit..

Where’s the best place off the beaten track to visit?
Crystal Cascades- A popular swimming hole where locals spend the hot, sunny days swimming in cool mountain water at the bottom of a fantastic waterfall. The only way you’d know about this gem is by speaking to the locals – it’s not advertised to tourists.

Having read this, you should now have a better idea of some of the most important information about holidays in Cairns. Our aim is that you will be able to plan your next holiday in Cairns with perfect success by making use of the information that we have provided here.

For more things to do in Cairns visit skyrail.com.au

Travel further… Uluru to Cairns Tours also available in reverse