Three days in Cairns, Australia – great day trips from Cairns

Cairns is located in the north of Queensland, and with its slogan being ‘where the rainforest meets the sea’ you know you are going to find some stunning places to visit. If you have three days in Cairns, this is the perfect amount of time to squeeze in some really epic adventures. There is no doubt Cairns will be a stop on your East Coast Australia itinerary, so here is how to spend the perfect three days in Cairns.

While there isn’t a huge amount to do in the city itself, it is the perfect base to explore some of the most stunning nature. Most people will head to Cairns as a stop to visit the Great Barrier Reef, and this undoubtedly does need to be on the list. However, there are also some other stops that need to be visited if you have three days in Cairns.

Day 1: Great Barrier Reef

To start off your three days in Cairns, it is time to tick something off your bucket list – snorkelling, or scuba diving, on the Great Barrier Reef.

There are a myriad of tours to choose from, and it can be hard to pick the one that is best for you. Things to look at are how many dives you get, the sustainability rating, and how long the tours are.

Snorkelling trip

The tour I went on had two dive sites, and you could either snorkel or scuba dive, if you are certified. It took around an hour from Cairns Marina to take you to the first dive spot. As soon as we were on board the boat there was tea, coffee and pastries available, which was a lovely way to start the day. We had a briefing to cover all safety aspects, and this was separated out between divers and snorkelers. After the first snorkel, there was a buffet lunch with plenty of options.

All snorkelling gear was provided – masks, fins, and stinger suits. Snorkelling can be tiring so there is also the option of having a noodle if you want a little help floating. At both dive sites you have two guides with you, who point out all the amazing things you can see in the water. The second dive site was slightly more vibrant than the first, but both were absolutely amazing. I couldn’t believe the amount of marine life I saw! They rotate around the sites that they dive in, to not put too much pressure on each area. Booking this tour gives you a full day and two dives on the amazing Great Barrier Reef.

Top Tip: If you wanted to see the Reef from both above and below, you can also look into a tour that includes a helicopter ride.

Day 2: Kuranda

Kuranda is a picturesque village located in the middle of a rainforest, and unlike any other place you might visit in Australia.

This day trip is a perfect addition to your three days in Cairns as it combines seeing the world’s oldest living tropical rainforest with a scenic rail journey, a wonderful village to wander and even a chance to get to cuddle a koala!

Start your day by catching the skyrail to Kuranda. Once there you can enjoy plenty of shopping opportunities and a delicious bite to eat in the wonderful Original Market. Take a scenic stroll along the river, before returning back to Cairns on the interesting and history Scenic Rail.

It really is the perfect day trip to relax, mooch and enjoy the beauty that Australia has to offer. To make the most of your day trip to Kuranda I recommend getting the Skyrail Rainforest Cable on the way there, and the Scenic Rail back. Why not try this package!

If you’re visiting Kuranda don’t miss this post which tells you all you need to know!
Things to do in Kuranda

Day 3: Mossman Gorge, Daintree & Cape Tribulation

For your final of the three days in Cairns, take a day trip to Mossman Gorge, Daintree and Cape Tribulation. There are some amazing things to see along the way!

Mossman Gorge

Mossman Gorge is located approximately 75 KM from Cairns, and is the gateway to the Daintree Rainforest, which is the world’s oldest rainforest. You could easily spend a whole day here, with plenty of walking trails to follow around the area. Take a dip in the waterfall, and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in the cafe.

Cruise on the Daintree River

Once you reach the Daintree make sure to take a cruise on the Daintree River to see if you can spot some of the iconic saltwater crocodiles. There is also the chance to see other local wildlife such as snakes, butterflies, and fish in their natural habitats. Knowledgeable guides will be on the boat to help you spot and give more information on these creatures.

Top Tip: If you are looking for a tour on the Daintree River, why not try this boat tour which adds a layer of local knowledge!

Daintree Ice Cream Company

In the heart of the Daintree you can find the Daintree Ice Cream Company, which makes the most delicious ice cream. The ingredients are sourced from the orchard around them, and therefore they use as much local produce as possible. The flavours are absolutely delicious and perfect to cool you down on a hot day!

Cape Tribulation

Found within the lush rainforest of North Queensland, you will eventually come across Cape Tribulation. It is a remote and stunning location. A long sweeping beach with mangroves growing out of the sea at one end. It was very peaceful when I visited later in the day. Take a stroll on either the Dubuji Boardwalk or the Marrdja Botanical Walk to enjoy the stunning scenery. Like the rest of northern Queensland, it is advised not to swim in the water due to the crocs!

Do you need a rental car?

There are plenty of tour companies that offer different trips to Cape Tribulation and the Daintree rainforest, so it is perfectly possible to do this day trip without a car. I went on THIS TRIP. It covered the main parts I wanted to see. However, if you have your own car you of course have that added flexibility. Many people also visit in a camper van, with Cape Tribulation really feeling like an end point in the adventure.

Cairns city centre – three days in Cairns

Some of the day trips might end mid-afternoon, or you might have a few hours when you arrive or before you leave. If you do, there are a few things to do in Cairns city itself you might want to visit:

• Cairns Esplanade Lagoon – A large salt water swimming pool located right by the ocean. As you can’t swim in the sea in Cairns here is the best place to come and chill.
• Rusty’s Market – The famous local market is open Friday – Sunday mornings. Perfect for a stroll and to pick up some fresh tropical fruit.
• Saint Monica’s Cathedral – Famous for a stunning stained glass window that shows the story of creation.
• Cairns Aquarium – Home to marine life from the Great Barrier Reef and tropical rainforests.
• Cairns Night Markets – Head here for your chance to grab some food and pick up souvenirs.

Is three days in Cairns enough?

While three days in Cairns will give you enough time to see some of the most amazing parts of this country, there is plenty more you might want to consider while you are staying here.

I should also point out that day trip after day trip can get tiring, and so you might want to factor in another day to relax and recoup. If you did have more time or wanted to extend the days you are staying in Cairns, there are plenty more things you could do! See below for more suggestions.

Alternative itinerary options for three days in Cairns

If you have more than three days in Cairns, here are additional or alternative activities you might want to consider:

Atherton Tablelands

A day trip to the Atherton Tablelands and the waterfalls is one of the most popular day trips from Cairns, and I do wish I had had time to do it. A vibrant green land of dramatic mountains, stunning and untouched rainforests, local produce and majestic waterfalls.

The unofficial waterfall loop takes you past several stunning waterfalls. One of which is known for being in the video for Peter Andres’s ‘Mysterious Girl’.

Top Tip: By FAR the most popular tour is this Uncle Brian’s one. Which is renowned for being the best day trip to the Atherton Tablelands.

Fitzroy Island

Fitzroy Island is a stunning tropical paradise located just 45 minutes by ferry from Cairns. This lush island is covered by a covered island and is surrounded by crystal clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef. Here you can find some amazing places to snorkel, kayak, or hike. One of its highlights is Nudey Beach, a secluded white coral beach often ranked among Australia’s best. You can explore scenic walking trails, or even visit the island’s turtle rehabilitation centre, or simply relax on the beach with breathtaking ocean views.

Port Douglas

Port Douglas is a charming coastal town which is about an hour’s drive north of Cairns, and known for its laid back atmosphere and stunning beaches. This tropical town has a mix of both luxury and nature. You can find five star resorts, boutique shopping, and lots of places to eat along Macrossan Street. Make sure to check out the iconic Four Mile Beach. With a relaxed vibe, Port Douglas is a perfect place to add on to your trip to Cairns. It is even worth considering spending the night there.

Where to stay in Cairns

HOTELS IN CAIRNS:
Higher end: Pullman Reef Hotel Casino – offers a luxurious stay with stunning waterfront views, a rooftop swimming pool, and world-class dining, making it perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
Mid range: Cairns Plaza Hotel – conveniently located just a short walk from the Esplanade and Lagoon and many rooms have ocean views.
Budget: Travellers Oasis – the perfect hostel. Cool, quirky, with plenty of kitchen areas, outdoor space, a pool and even outdoor rainfall showers!

So there you have it! How to spend the perfect three days in Cairns

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