Cairns, Australia Shore Excursions

Sitting between the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest, Cairns is one of the most spectacular gateways in all of Australia. From Yorkeys Knob, you’re just a short ride away from coral reefs alive with marine life, rainforests filled with waterfalls and wildlife and beach towns that capture North Queensland’s relaxed spirit.

Whether you want a day of adventure, wildlife or leisure, Cairns shore excursions offer something unforgettable.

Cairns Excursions to The Great Barrier Reef

Few experiences are as iconic as visiting the Great Barrier Reef, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. From Yorkeys Knob, excursions whisk you straight into this underwater paradise.

Great Barrier Reef Floating Platform

Hop aboard a catamaran for a scenic ride out to a floating pontoon on the outer reef. Once there, you can choose your adventure: snorkel among vibrant coral gardens, dive deeper with a guide, ride a glass-bottom boat or step into an underwater viewing chamber. With about four hours at the reef, there’s plenty of time to swim, explore and recharge over a buffet lunch.

Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef

For a more intimate outing, join a small-group snorkeling trip to carefully chosen reef sites. These excursions often reveal wildlife not seen at busier locations — from giant clams to reef sharks to rainbow-colored fish. Morning and afternoon tea, plus lunch, keep the day relaxed and social.

Cairns Rainforest Adventures

The rainforest that surrounds Cairns is just as breathtaking as the reef. Excursions into the mountains reveal waterfalls, lush villages and endless greenery.

Jungle Train and Skyrail

One of the region’s most famous excursions, this combines the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway with the modern Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. The train winds past waterfalls and through tunnels carved into the cliffs before you arrive in the rainforest village of Kuranda. After exploring its markets, aviary or butterfly sanctuary, you’ll glide back over the canopy in a gondola — views of the mountains and rivers stretching all the way to the coast.

Kuranda Village

If you’d like more time at your own pace, you can spend the day in Kuranda itself. Known for its cooler mountain climate, the village is filled with cafés, shops and arts and crafts. Stroll along fig tree–lined streets or sip coffee outdoors while the rainforest hums around you.

Rainforest Wildlife Encounters

At Rainforestation Nature Park, you can board an amphibious World War II Army Duck vehicle for a drive through the tropical forest, spotting wildlife along the way. It’s an adventurous twist on exploring the lush landscape.

Cairns Wildlife and Culture Tours

Cairns is as famous for its animals as it is for its scenery and a few excursions bring you up close with Australia’s most iconic species.

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures

Located just north of Cairns, Hartley’s is one of the best places to see crocodiles in their natural habitat. Boardwalks wind through wetlands and woodlands where you’ll spot crocs, cassowaries, koalas and kangaroos. A highlight is the boat ride across Hartley’s Lagoon, where massive saltwater crocodiles surface within arm’s reach.

Cultural Encounters

Some tours also include Aboriginal cultural elements — from art workshops to learning about bush foods and Dreamtime stories. It’s a chance to gain a deeper understanding of the land and its first people.

Cairns Beaches, Towns and Local Flavor

Of course, part of the charm of Far North Queensland is its beach towns and laid-back coastal life.

Palm Cove

This stylish beachfront town is lined with palm trees, boutiques and cafés. You can spend your day browsing the shops, strolling the Esplanade or dining at a waterfront restaurant. The wide sandy beach is perfect for a swim or just sinking your toes in the sand.

Port Douglas

An hour north of Cairns lies Port Douglas, a chic yet relaxed village that sits beside Four Mile Beach. The sand here is famously firm (planes once used it as a landing strip) and the beach is often dotted with kite surfers. After your walk, grab lunch in one of the many cafés or restaurants and soak up the tropical vibe.

Cairns Craft Beer & Spirit Tasting

If you’d rather stay in town, excursions that focus on Cairns’ small-batch breweries and distilleries are a great way to discover local flavors. From crisp craft beers to tropical-inspired spirits, it’s a taste of the city’s creative side.

Choose Your Cairns, Australia Shore Excursion

Excursions in Cairns, Australia include snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, riding the Kuranda Scenic Railway, gliding above the rainforest on the Skyrail, seeing crocodiles at Hartley’s and relaxing in beach towns like Palm Cove and Port Douglas. Whether you want high adventure or a laid-back day by the ocean, Cairns shore excursions bring you the very best of North Queensland.