Choose from 143 Fun Things to Do in Queensland
ShowingFilter 21-40 of 143 listings.
Byron Main Beach
Suitably named, Byron Bay's Main Beach stretches along the front of the town and is the go-to destination for beach lounging, swimming or catching a wave. On a sunny day in Byron Bay, expect locals and visitors alike to be making the most at Main Beach – the town's closest beach outlet.
Main Beach is known for its beautiful surroundings, with views of the Julian Rocks, Cape Byron Light and grassy hills meeting the horizon line of white sandy beach and enticing water. Besides swimming and beach lounging, a popular activity is to snorkel out to the old shipwreck of the Tassie II just off-shore.
The reliable right and left-hand breaks at Main Beach make it a popular place for beginners to learn to surf. Several surf schools operate directly at Main Beach, but make sure to research this fact before making a booking. Surf schools must be authorized to operate at the beaches of Byron Bay or else they travel several minutes outside of the region for their lessons.
The Surf Club has called Main Beach home since 1906, and you can expect a patrolled beach during the summer month, but always remember to swim between the flags.
Main Beach is known for its beautiful surroundings, with views of the Julian Rocks, Cape Byron Light and grassy hills meeting the horizon line of white sandy beach and enticing water. Besides swimming and beach lounging, a popular activity is to snorkel out to the old shipwreck of the Tassie II just off-shore.
The reliable right and left-hand breaks at Main Beach make it a popular place for beginners to learn to surf. Several surf schools operate directly at Main Beach, but make sure to research this fact before making a booking. Surf schools must be authorized to operate at the beaches of Byron Bay or else they travel several minutes outside of the region for their lessons.
The Surf Club has called Main Beach home since 1906, and you can expect a patrolled beach during the summer month, but always remember to swim between the flags.
Address: Directly across from town, Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia
From $ 49
Centenary Lakes
It’s often the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef that draws visitors to Cairns, but the natural beauty found back on land is another great reason to visit. Lush, green, and with a touch of wilderness, this tropical city has a rainforest feel only a few miles from the coast. One of the best places to experience this scenery is at the Flecker Botanic Gardens—specifically inside the swampy section known as Centenary Lakes.
Connected to the main Botanic Garden by a boardwalk along the water, the Centenary Lakes house a flotilla of water lilies and over 130 species of birds. The park around the freshwater lake is perfect for a midday picnic, where ducks and turtles casually stroll the manicured, park-like grounds. The adjoining section with the salt water lake is where the park gets a little wilder, as dense mangroves and a rainforest boardwalk create a true wilderness surrounding. While rare, salt water crocodiles have sometimes been seen poking their eyes from the lake, which adds a legitimate degree of adventure to wandering the forested grounds.
Practical Info
The Centenary Lakes are within Flecker Botanic Gardens about 2.5 miles from the city center. There is no official admission fee, although donation boxes are scattered about the park to help with the upkeep and facilities. Opening hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on every day of the year, and the dry season from May-October is a comfortable time to visit.
Address: 132 Woodward Street, Edge Hill, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily
From $ 59
Cairns Night Markets and Food Court
On a trip to Cairns, chances are your days will be filled with adventures outside the city, from diving on the Great Barrier Reef to hiking in the Daintree Rainforest. If that sounds like you, the Cairns Night Markets and Food Court provide the perfect place to shop, eat and even get a massage after a full day of exploring.
The Cairns Night Markets has 130 stalls selling everything from touristy souvenirs and T-shirts to blown glass, local honey and classic Aussie leather hats. An entire aisle of the market is devoted to massage parlors with reasonable prices, which could be a welcome relief after an arduous day adventuring. In front of the night markets is the 200-seat food court—think fresh seafood and a variety of Asian options, everything from sushi and kebabs to Malaysian soups and curries.
Practical Info
The Cairns Night Markets and Food Court are located on the Esplanade, at the base of the Royal Harbour Hotel. The market is open daily from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. The food court is open during the day as well, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Address: 71-75 The Esplanade, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
Hours: Market: Open daily from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Food Court is open from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
From $ 598
Daydream Island Living Reef
The Living Reef, the star attraction of Daydream Island, is home to over 110 species of marine fish, including stingrays, star fish and clown fish, while also hosting over 70 different species of coral reef. Amazingly, the entire reef is artificial, built with the intention of showcasing a microcosm of the Great Barrier Reef itself. The sheer size, a massive 28,500 square feet (2,650 square meters), makes it one of the largest man-made reefs in the entire world. In total, over 7 million liters of sea water are circulated through the artificially grown reef every 24 hours.
Located at the entrance to Daydream Island Resort and Spa, the Living Reef serves as a great educational tool. It lets visitors gain a hands-on experience dealing with coral reef and the organisms that live within them and offers the opportunity to do hand feedings with the animals twice a day. Within the park, there are two different lagoons for people to visit: south and north. The north lagoon is unique in that night-time viewings are possible with the blue lighting within the coral making the underwater world glow to life in an insightful nocturnal experience.
Practical Info
Daydream Island is accessible via chartered boat or the ferry system that also connects Airlie Beach and Shute Harbour. The reef is found at the entrance to the resort on the island. Feedings take place twice a day, once at 10 a.m. and again at 2 p.m.
Address: Daydream Island Resort and Spa, The Whitsundays, Queensland, Australia
Hours: Daily
From $ 82
Gallery Walk
For many travelers to the Gold Coast hinterland, a trip to the interior means hiking, birding, or searching for thundering falls. In the case of Tamborine Mountain, however, a small town on an elevated plateau of about 1,700 feet, visitors travel from all over the Gold Coast for the chance to shop at the Gallery Walk. On this festive, shop-lined, action-packed strip, visitors will find over 70 stores full of crafts, clothing and art, as well as restaurants, wine shops, cheese shops, chocolate shops, coffee shops, and houses for tea. Peruse the boutiques for everything from crystals to original, Aboriginal art, or pick up imports like Nepalese scarves or fine, German made clocks. Given the number of visitors about town, it’s also common to find talented musicians performing out on the street, and if you’re completely smitten with the entire experience and one day isn’t enough, a number of charming bed and breakfasts are just a short walk away.
Practical Info
Tamborine Mountain and the Gallery Walk are located one hour from the Gold Coast and a little over an hour from Brisbane. Weekends, as expected, are busier than weekdays, and you’ll want to devote an entire day for the drive and time to explore.
Address: 142 Long Rd, Eagle Heights, Queensland, Australia QLD 4271, Australia
From $ 82
Australian Butterfly Sanctuary
More than 1,500 tropical butterflies—from the electric blue Ulysses to the green and yellow Cairns Birdwing—call this world-class aviary home. Stationed in the heart of the Kuranda rainforest, the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary has been impressing visitors with both its whimsical nature and state-of-the-art laboratory since it first opened in 1987.
Interested travelers can follow free 30-minute tours that include up-close looks at the caterpillar breeding nursery. Here, you can see newly born butterflies before they’re released into the aviary and learn about the stages of development that lead to the birth of these fanciful creatures.
The sanctuary’s laboratory is another popular stop that showcases efforts to keep the aviary well stocked. While just two percent of eggs survive in the wild, more than 80 percent mature here thanks to lab experts. Catch a peek at the hard-working scientists who keep this facility thriving.
Interested travelers can follow free 30-minute tours that include up-close looks at the caterpillar breeding nursery. Here, you can see newly born butterflies before they’re released into the aviary and learn about the stages of development that lead to the birth of these fanciful creatures.
The sanctuary’s laboratory is another popular stop that showcases efforts to keep the aviary well stocked. While just two percent of eggs survive in the wild, more than 80 percent mature here thanks to lab experts. Catch a peek at the hard-working scientists who keep this facility thriving.
Practical Info
The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is located in the center of Kuranda at 8 Rob Veivers Drive about a half hour from Cairns. It’s open daily from 9:45 a.m. until 4 p.m. with free guided tours.
Address: 8 Rob Veivers Drive, Kuranda, Queensland 4881, Australia
Hours: Open daily 9:45 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Admission: Adult: AU$19.00, Child: Adult: AU$9.50
From $ 15
Central Station Rainforest
Central Station Rainforest, once the central hub for the forestry department on Fraser Island, is a stunning and lush forest located on Wanggoolba Creek of Fraser Island - one of the most scenic areas on the island!
Since the logging industry's departure in the late 1950s, Central Station is a popular picnic and camping spot for tourists with an information center which provides a history of the island and tips on the flora and fauna in the area.
Home to many specifies of plants, Central Station rainforest houses the massive Angiopteris ferns, which has the largest fern fronds in the world. Giant satinay and kauri trees also grow around the forest
The massive kauris have a soaring trunk and branches only start at the very top; these trees were prized as masts in the days of sailing boats. Satinay trees are regarded as biological marvels since the sand they grow in contain very little nutrients.
The area around Wanggoolba Creek not far from Central Station is one of the loveliest swathes of rainforest. There are paths in the surrounding rainforest where you can get up close to the palms and learn about the creatures and plants that inhabit the area.
Since the logging industry's departure in the late 1950s, Central Station is a popular picnic and camping spot for tourists with an information center which provides a history of the island and tips on the flora and fauna in the area.
Home to many specifies of plants, Central Station rainforest houses the massive Angiopteris ferns, which has the largest fern fronds in the world. Giant satinay and kauri trees also grow around the forest
The massive kauris have a soaring trunk and branches only start at the very top; these trees were prized as masts in the days of sailing boats. Satinay trees are regarded as biological marvels since the sand they grow in contain very little nutrients.
The area around Wanggoolba Creek not far from Central Station is one of the loveliest swathes of rainforest. There are paths in the surrounding rainforest where you can get up close to the palms and learn about the creatures and plants that inhabit the area.
Practical Info
As Fraser Island is a sand island the only way to get around is by 4WD. Tour groups do travel around the island and most visit Central Station.
Address: Great Sand National Park, Fraser Island, QLD, Australia
From $ 141
Cairns Cruise Port
Cairns Cruise Port
One of Australia’s busiest cruise ports, Cairns may be best known for its close access to the Daintree tropical rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. Once the site of mangrove swamps and sand ridges, the city today is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia, offering a plethora of water and adventure activities.
How to Get to Cairns
The brand new cruise terminal at Trinity Wharf is located in the heart of the city, so you won’t have far to go to reach the center of Cairns. Larger cruise ships may have to anchor in the harbor, in which case tenders will carry you from the ship to the port.
One Day in Cairns
If you’re like many visitors with just a day to spend in Cairns, chances are you’ll choose to forgo the city itself and instead book an excursion to the Great Barrier Reef. Over 1,600 miles long and composed of nearly 3,000 individual reefs, the Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system. Swimming, snorkeling, diving or riding on a glass bottom boat are all possibilities to explore the incredible biodiversity of what has been called one of the seven great natural wonders of the world.
For those who choose not to visit the Reef, taking the Skyline Rainforest Cableway to the town of Kuranda is another great way to spend a day. In Kuranda, you’ll find a variety of arts and craft shops, as well as the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary. After taking a cable car to Kuranda, you can return to Cairns by bus.
Back in the city, head to the Cairns Esplanade to stroll along the Harbour Walk, explore the handicrafts market and enjoy live entertainment and public art displays. Art aficionados may also want to pay a visit to the Cairns Regional Art Gallery, featuring fine art from a variety of Australian artists, including Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders.
Another option for those who want to see more of the tropical rainforest would be to take a day-long guided tour to the Daintree Rainforest, about two hours north of Cairns.
Port Information
The official language is English and the local currency is the Australian dollar. ATMs are widely available and are the best way to obtain local currency. Most shops and restaurants will also accept credit cards.
One of Australia’s busiest cruise ports, Cairns may be best known for its close access to the Daintree tropical rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. Once the site of mangrove swamps and sand ridges, the city today is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia, offering a plethora of water and adventure activities.
How to Get to Cairns
The brand new cruise terminal at Trinity Wharf is located in the heart of the city, so you won’t have far to go to reach the center of Cairns. Larger cruise ships may have to anchor in the harbor, in which case tenders will carry you from the ship to the port.
One Day in Cairns
If you’re like many visitors with just a day to spend in Cairns, chances are you’ll choose to forgo the city itself and instead book an excursion to the Great Barrier Reef. Over 1,600 miles long and composed of nearly 3,000 individual reefs, the Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system. Swimming, snorkeling, diving or riding on a glass bottom boat are all possibilities to explore the incredible biodiversity of what has been called one of the seven great natural wonders of the world.
For those who choose not to visit the Reef, taking the Skyline Rainforest Cableway to the town of Kuranda is another great way to spend a day. In Kuranda, you’ll find a variety of arts and craft shops, as well as the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary. After taking a cable car to Kuranda, you can return to Cairns by bus.
Back in the city, head to the Cairns Esplanade to stroll along the Harbour Walk, explore the handicrafts market and enjoy live entertainment and public art displays. Art aficionados may also want to pay a visit to the Cairns Regional Art Gallery, featuring fine art from a variety of Australian artists, including Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders.
Another option for those who want to see more of the tropical rainforest would be to take a day-long guided tour to the Daintree Rainforest, about two hours north of Cairns.
Port Information
The official language is English and the local currency is the Australian dollar. ATMs are widely available and are the best way to obtain local currency. Most shops and restaurants will also accept credit cards.
Address: Australia
From $ 36
Gondwana Rainforest
Sprawling over more than 360,000 hectares, the Gondwana Rainforest is one of Australia’s most important ecological sites, famed for its abundance of rare and endangered wildlife.
Protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the rainforest areas are mostly found along the coastal region of southern Queensland and northern New South Wales and encompass more than 50 national parks, forests and reserves.
The most visited areas include the Lamington National Park, Tamborine Mountain National Park and Border Ranges National Park in Queensland, and Springbrook National Park, Dorrigo National Park and Mount Warning National Park in New South Wales. Within the parks, hiking, climbing and camping are among the favorite pastimes of visitors, with a vast network of walking trails and an abundance of natural landmarks, including the mighty Tweed Volcano. For nature enthusiasts, the main draw is the spectacular variety of wildlife, including endemic species like Hastings river mouse, spotted-tailed quoll and mountain tree frog, and rare birds including wompoo dove, marbled frogmouth and lyre bird.
Practical Info
The Gondwana Rainforest is located throughout southeast Queensland and northeast New South Wales.
Address: Australia
From $ 73
Behana Gorge Waterfall
When it comes to popular activities in Cairns, it’s the snorkeling, scuba diving, and Great Barrier Reef that often draw the most attention. Here at Behana Gorge waterfall, however, it’s obvious that Cairns has far more to offer than simply what’s out in the ocean. Once only known to Queensland locals, Behana Gorge has recently become a popular spot for visitors, who travel 35 minutes from Cairns to swim in the pools and splash in the water beneath the tumbling falls. The hike, however, is not for the timid, and a moderate degree of fitness is required to reach the falls at the end. Though the one-way distance is only 2 miles, expect to spend at least an hour on the steep, uphill trail, where the reward is the chance to swim beneath the falls and splash in the crystalline waters—enjoying a hidden corner of Cairns that very few visitors see.
Practical Info
The trailhead is located at the very end of rural Behana Gorge Road. When visiting in summer it’s best to start early to avoid the midday heat, and while jumping from rocks is extremely popular, be sure to use care on the slippery rocks and clambering around the banks.
Did You Know? While hiking up to the waterfall is a free, you can see even more of Behana Gorge on a guided canyoning tour, where you walk down the walls of Behana Gorge and get to approach the famous falls on a route that’s packed with adrenaline.
Address: Behana Gorge Road, Gordonvale, Queensland, Australia
From $ 133
Army Museum of North Queensland
Seeing as they guarded Queensland’s coast for over 100 years, it only make sense that Townsville’s military be given a proper museum. Here at the Army Museum of North Queensland, visitors will learn of Japanese attack and fear of Russian invasion, and also hear of Australia’s involvement in Korea and Vietnam. Collections include cannons, guns, and artillery that stood at Kissing Point Fort—some of which has only been discovered during recent, exceptionally low tides. Take a walk through re-created tunnels that were used in World War I, and hear the tales of North Queensland soldiers who fought, and died, in battle. With interactive displays, visitors of all ages can tour the museum and be entertained for hours, and a network of walking paths up Kissing Point Fort lies just outside the museum. For visitors with an interest in history, the museum offers gripping, first-hand accounts of Queensland’s soldiers and battles, and since Townsville is closer to Papua New Guinea than it is to Melbourne or Sydney, it geographically has somewhat fended for itself over all these years. Since the museum is only open a few hours, be sure to arrive early and allow ample time to tour this fascinating spot.
Practical Info
The Army Museum of North Queenstown is located in Jezzine Barracks, and is open on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday from 9am-1pm. Admission is free, and the museum is located on the northern end of Townsville’s scenic Strand.
Address: Jezzine Barracks, 1 Mitchell St, North Ward, Townsville, Queensland 4810, Australia
Hours: Weds, Fri, Sat 9am - 1pm
From $ 70
Cape York Peninsula
With its vast wetlands, rambling eucalyptus forests and sun-soaked beaches, the remote wilderness of the Cape York Peninsula is a heady concoction for adventure-seekers. Stretching up to the northernmost tip of Queensland, the region’s off-the-beaten-track location, annual monsoons and tropical climate keep the majority of tourists away. Those who do venture north, however, are rewarded with spectacular coastal views, miles of unspoiled jungle and an abundance of colorful wildlife.
The best time to visit the cape is during the dry season (May-November), when 4WD tours are the most convenient way to get around. At the southern end of the peninsula, highlights include the historic town of Cooktown, the tranquil Charlotte Bay and the Lakefield, Cape Melville and Starke National Parks. Further north, the Iron Range and Jardine River national parks are renowned for their unique wildlife, including endemic bird species like yellow-spotted honeyeater and golden-shouldered parrot. Marooned off the northernmost tip are the Torres Strait Islands, and the most popular, Thursday Island, is reachable by ferry from the mainland.
Practical Info
The Cape York Peninsula is located at the northern tip of Queensland, Australia.
Address: Cape York Peninsula, Far North Queensland, Australia
From $ 2,632
Australia Zoo
Formerly home to Steve Irwin, also known as “the Crocodile Hunter,” the Australia Zoo is one of Australia’s largest and most popular wildlife conservation facilities. Managed by the Irwin family, whose personalities are a major part of its continued success, the zoo has a huge collection of native Aussie animals as well as creatures from around the world.
The Basics
An Australia Zoo entry ticket includes access to the zoo’s many attractions and daily events such as zookeeper talks and animal-feeding demonstrations; additional extras include animal encounters and visits to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital. For those without a car, Croc Express day tours from Brisbane or the Gold Coast offer round-trip coach transport, including hotel pickup and drop-off. You can also combine a day trip from Brisbane with a rainforest walk in the Sunshine Coast hinterlands. One- and two-day zoo passes are also available.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lines can be long, especially in peak season, so it’s best to buy tickets in advance.
- On-site facilities include paid storage lockers, water fountains, ATMs, picnic areas, and a selection of restaurants, cafés, and gift shops.
- Most of the zoo’s exhibitions are outdoors and you will likely do a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and clothing, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and a refillable water bottle.
- The Australia Zoo is fully wheelchair accessible; wheelchair rentals are also available.
How to Get There
The Australia Zoo is located in Beerwah, Queensland, 37 miles (60 kilometers) north of Brisbane—about an hour drive along the Bruce Highway. On-site parking is free. The QR Citytrain runs to Beerwah from the Gold Coast and Brisbane; from there, free shuttle buses will take you to the zoo. Greyhound Australia buses run from Noosa and Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast.
When to Get There
The Australia Zoo is open daily year-round, but the busiest time is in summer (December and January) or during school holidays. To avoid the crowds, opt for a weekday visit off-season. If traveling by car, arrive early and head straight to the most popular exhibitions before the crowds roll in.
Animal Experiences at the Australia Zoo
In addition to Aussie animals such as kangaroos, koalas, dingoes, Tasmanian devils, and platypus, the Australia Zoo features fauna from other regions: rhinos, giraffes, and cheetahs in an African savanna exhibition; Sumatran tigers at the tiger temple (which also includes an incredible underwater observatory); and elephants in the colossal Elephantasia exhibition. There’s also a Wildlife Warriors show held daily at the Crocoseum, a birds of prey display, and various options for supervised animal encounters and zoo tours.
Address: 1638 Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah, Queensland 4519, Australia
Admission: Varies
From $ 46
Cairns Botanical Gardens
Travelers in search of a tropical paradise need look no further than Cairns Botanic Gardens. This horticultural wonderland is home to more than 4,000 different species of flora from around the world. Clearly printed labels and informational brochures make it easy for every visitor to become an expert.
The lush grounds of this popular destination are ripe with thick ferns and brilliant foliage. Mile-high palms and towering shade trees cast cooling shadows across the lawn, perfect for escaping the midday sun, and the area’s peaceful landscape and quiet surroundings draw bikers, joggers and walkers. Indigenous-birding tours and an extensive orchid collection, as well as exhibition halls filled with exotic plants, are well worth the price of admission—free!
Practical Info
The Botanic Gardens are located on Collins Avenue between McCormack Street and MacDonnell Street, about four kilometers from the center of Cairns. Entry to the gardens is free. They are open from 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. every day, and the Visitor Information Center is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. and on weekends from 10 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Between May and November, outdoor films are shown in the gardens during the fourth Wednesday of every month.
Address: Collins Avenue, Cairns, Australia
Hours: Open 7:30 am-5:30 pm every day, and the Visitor Information Center is open Monday-Friday from 9 am-4:30 pm and on weekends from 10 am-2:30 pm
From $ 59
Daintree Rainforest
From the dramatic jungle-clad gorges, wild rivers, and tumbling waterfalls of Daintree National Park to the deserted coast of Cape Tribulation along the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest is Australia’s largest stretch of rain forest, covering 460 square miles (1,200 square kilometers). A protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and a hiker’s paradise, the rainforest is renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity.
The Basics
The Daintree National Park is an adventure playground for nature lovers. Book a guided tour to get the most out of the rain forest. Most tours set out from Cairns or Port Douglas and take in highlights such as the Mossman Gorge, Cape Tribulation, or Marrdja Boardwalk. Adventurers can also discover the region’s rich Aboriginal culture, zipline through the rain forest canopy, take a 4WD safari, spot crocodiles on a Daintree River cruise, go horseback riding, or hike through the ancient rainforest.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Temperatures can reach upwards of 86°F (30°C) in summer, so pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as well as insect repellent and comfortable shoes.
- Facilities at the Daintree Rainforest Discovery Centre include restrooms, a shop and cafe, audio guides, and free WiFi.
- The Daintree Rainforest Discovery Centre offers wheelchair-accessible boardwalks, aerial walkways, and lookout towers, but not all park activities are accessible to those with limited mobility.
How to Get There
Daintree Rainforest National Park is located in North Queensland, about 62 miles (100 kilometers) northwest of Cairns and 35 miles (56 kilometers) north of Port Douglas. The best way to visit is by car or as part of an organized tour by 4WD or coach. The park is split into two main sections—south of the Daintree River, entered via the Mossman Gorge, and north of the river (crossed by cable ferry), where the main entry point is at the Daintree Rainforest Discovery Centre.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit the Daintree Rainforest is during the dry season (April to October), when the weather is cool and less humid—it’s best to make an early start during this time. To bypass the crowds, visiting in wet season (November to March) is a possibility, although flash floods and landslides do occur, and box jellyfish can appear along the coast.
Wildlife Spotting in the Daintree Rainforest
As one of the oldest stretches of tropical rain forest in the world, the Daintree Rainforest harbors some 430 bird species, more than a third of Australia’s mammals, and an impressive number of rare and endemic species. Top sightings include the endangered cassowary, Macleay's honeyeater, Boyd's forest dragon, white-lipped tree frog, paradise kingfisher, Bennett’s tree-kangaroo, and spectacled flying fox, while you might also spot echidna, platypus, and saltwater crocodiles.
Address: Mossman-Daintree Road, Daintree 4873, Australia
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 112
Cairns Lagoon
Despite its location on the Queensland coast, Cairns doesn’t have any beaches within the city (the closest are just to the north). But you can still enjoy the sun and sand downtown at the Cairns Lagoon. This 50,000-square-foot lagoon is the highlight of the Cairns Esplanade and the perfect place to relax, swim and sunbathe without worrying about the box jellyfish and saltwater crocodiles that sometimes makes appearances in the near-shore waters.
With a maximum depth of only five feet, it’s a safe and welcoming spot for kids, visitors and locals alike, complete with fountains, sunshades, sandy beaches and nearby lawns and tables that are perfect for a midday picnic overlooking Trinity Harbour. The myriad shops and restaurants of the Esplanade surround the lagoon, so it’s easy to enjoy an hour or two by the water amid a day of shopping and sightseeing in the city.
Practical Info
The Cairns Lagoon is free and open to the public. Lifeguards are on duty, and bathrooms and showers can be found nearby. The lagoon is open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., except Wednesdays, when it opens at noon to allow for weekly maintenance.
Address: Cairns Esplanade, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
Hours: Daily 6 a.m. - 9 p.m., Wednesdays noon - 9 p.m.
From $ 20
Eli Creek
A popular tourist attraction, Eli Creek features a serene beauty with its crystal clear fresh waters and pearly white sand bottom. With over four million liters of water pouring from its mouth every hour, it is one of Fraser Island’s largest freshwater streams. Along with its beautiful beach location people enjoy visiting Eli Creek for a relaxing float down its pure waters. Its gentle current makes it a safe option for both adults and children. For those not interested in getting wet a scenic boardwalk allows you to walk around the creek on land.
As Eli Creek is located along Seventy-Five Mile Beach, visitors to Eli Creek can enjoy other attractions onsite. Along with off-roading, fishing and sunbathing there’s the onshore Maheno wreck, which was once one of the fastest ships in the world and was used by the Australian Airforce for target practice during WWII. Additionally, the Champagne Pools provide safe saltwater swimming in an enclosed natural rock pool with foaming Champagne-like bubbles when the waves crash. Make sure to also go to Indian Head to see the many sharks, dolphins, stingrays and fish swimming through the water.
As Eli Creek is located along Seventy-Five Mile Beach, visitors to Eli Creek can enjoy other attractions onsite. Along with off-roading, fishing and sunbathing there’s the onshore Maheno wreck, which was once one of the fastest ships in the world and was used by the Australian Airforce for target practice during WWII. Additionally, the Champagne Pools provide safe saltwater swimming in an enclosed natural rock pool with foaming Champagne-like bubbles when the waves crash. Make sure to also go to Indian Head to see the many sharks, dolphins, stingrays and fish swimming through the water.
Practical Info
Eli Creek is located on Seventy-Five Mile Beach. From where the ferry drops you you can follow the designated sand pathways through the rainforest before coming to the beach. Be careful when driving through the creek when on the beach, as the water flows quickly and channels may be deeper than they appear. Keep your eye on the tide, as high tide can leave you stranded on the beach until it gets low again. Also, be aware of dingoes who are wild and unpredictable, and keep all food sealed tight and out of the open.
Address: Eli Creek, Fraser Island, QLD, Australia
From $ 141
Atherton Tablelands
Offering welcome relief from the sweltering temperatures of Queensland’s tropical north, the sweeping plateaus of the Atherton Tablelands lie within easy day-trip distance of Cairns. Covering an area of 20,000 square miles (32,000 square kilometers), the lush landscapes also provide scenic terrain for bush walking and bird-watching.
The Basics
The towns of Atherton, Yunaburra, and Malanda are the main gateways to the Tablelands region, and it’s possible to visit all three on a day trip from Cairns. Most tours combine a visit to the towns with one or more of the region’s waterfalls, such as Malanda Falls, Millaa Millaa Falls, Ellinjaa Falls, and Josephine Falls. Other popular activities include sunrise hot air balloon rides over the Tablelands and boat cruises on Lake Tinaroo.
The Tablelands form part of the UNESCO-listed Wet Tropics Rainforest. Guided night walks through the rainforest are available, offering a chance to see nocturnal creatures such as platypuses and Lumholtz tree kangaroos.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Temperatures can reach over 30°C (86°F) in summer months, so be sure to pack water and sunscreen, as well as insect repellent and comfortable shoes.
- Visitor Information Centers in Atherton, Yunaburra, and Malanda all offer maps, restrooms, charging stations, and free Wi-Fi.
- Some natural attractions including the Babinda Boulders, the Curtain Fig Tree, and Josephine Falls are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The town of Atherton is located 50 miles (80 kilometers) southwest of Cairns, about 1.5 hours away by car. Buses run to all the main towns from Cairns, but the best way to explore the region’s many attractions is to use your own transportation or join a guided tour.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit the Atherton Tablelands is during the dry season (April to October), when the weather is cooler and less humid. However, the region’s waterfalls can be even more impressive during the wet season (November to March). Wildlife is most active during the early morning or late evening.
Atherton Tablelands for Foodies
The fertile lands of the Atherton Tablelands naturally lend themselves to agriculture, so this region is home to a number of farms, orchards, and plantations. Many have opened their doors to visitors, and a food-themed tour of the area might include cheese and chocolate tasting at a dairy farm, a coffee plantation tour, lunch at local pub, or a visit to a macadamia nut farm. Popular stops include Mt. Uncle Distillery, the region’s only gin distillery; De Brueys Tropical Winery, where the wines and liqueurs are made from a variety of tropical fruits; and Emerald Creek Ice-Creamery, where the gelatos and sorbets are all made using local ingredients.
Address: Atherton Tablelands, QLD, Australia
From $ 82
Cairns Wildlife Dome
Aussie wildlife can be hard to spot at the peak of rainy season. Luckily, there’s the Cairns Wildlife Dome—an all-weather immersion exhibit that puts travelers smack in the middle of a real indoor jungle.
Turtles, snakes and kookaburras wander freely among the forest, and while an up-close look at these small wonders makes for a memorable visit, it’s the Cairns ZOOm that has visitors leaving the dome grinning from ear to ear. The high ropes course consists of more than 50 challenges, including high-flying ziplines that cruise over crocodile-filled waters. Helpful guides offer plenty of educational information, and popular wildlife shows entertain, especially ones involving hand-tamed birds and fuzzy koalas.
Practical Info
The Cairns Wildlife Dome is located on the roof of the Reef Hotel Casino at 35-41 Wharf Street between Spence and Abbott streets. It is open from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. daily.
Address: 35-41 Wharf Street, Cairns, Australia
Hours: Open daily from 9am to 6pm. Closed Christmas Day (25th December). Open 9am - 5:30pm other public holidays.
Admission: Entry Only: Adults $22, Children (4-14) $11. For Photo & Entry: Adults $37, Children (4-14) $27
From $ 18
Bundaberg
Bundaberg is most known for its sugar cane fields, rum production and outdoor recreation. Because of its subtropical climate, sugar cane grows in abundance, which creates the bi-product of molasses for their famous Bundaberg Rum. Visitors can tour the distillery to see how the delicious product is made firsthand before sampling some for themselves.
Bundaberg is also the home to The Bundaberg Barrel, one of "Australia's Big Things," and which houses Bundaberg Brewed Drinks known internationally for their ginger beer.
Bundaberg’s subtropical weather also allows for an array of fresh local produce and ingredients, some of which include avocados, macadamia nuts, pineapples, mangoes, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, cherry tomatoes, watermelons, citrus and much more. In terms of outdoor recreation the Burnett River is lined with parks, while sting ray-free beaches litter the coast. From August through October Bundaberg is a great place to go whale-watching, while November through March brings Giant Turtles to Mon Repos Beach.
Bundaberg is a great starting point for visiting Fraser Island, as you can take the Bruce Highway south to Torbanlea and follow the sign to Hervey Bay. You can take a ferry to Fraser Island from River Heads, located just south of Hervey Bay. Bundaberg is part of the Fraser Island district, and essentially runs parallel to Fraser Island’s northern tip.
Bundaberg is also the home to The Bundaberg Barrel, one of "Australia's Big Things," and which houses Bundaberg Brewed Drinks known internationally for their ginger beer.
Bundaberg’s subtropical weather also allows for an array of fresh local produce and ingredients, some of which include avocados, macadamia nuts, pineapples, mangoes, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, cherry tomatoes, watermelons, citrus and much more. In terms of outdoor recreation the Burnett River is lined with parks, while sting ray-free beaches litter the coast. From August through October Bundaberg is a great place to go whale-watching, while November through March brings Giant Turtles to Mon Repos Beach.
Bundaberg is a great starting point for visiting Fraser Island, as you can take the Bruce Highway south to Torbanlea and follow the sign to Hervey Bay. You can take a ferry to Fraser Island from River Heads, located just south of Hervey Bay. Bundaberg is part of the Fraser Island district, and essentially runs parallel to Fraser Island’s northern tip.
Practical Info
The journey from Bundaberg to Fraser Island takes approximately 1.5 hours. Take the Bruce Highway south to the Fraser Coast and turn off at Torbanlea, following the signs to Hervey Bay. From here take the main road toward River Heads, where you’ll be able to take a ferry over the island.
Address: Bundaberg, QLD, Australia
From $ 615