12 Best Things To Do in Cairns in Winter [2024]
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Having lived in Townsville for half a year, I’ve experienced firsthand the magic that Queensland winters have to offer, especially in Cairns.
This period transforms the city into a paradise of mild weather and endless sunshine, making it the perfect escape from colder climates.
With its vibrant outdoor culture and breathtaking natural wonders, Cairns truly comes to life in winter.
It’s a season that invites adventure and relaxation in equal measure.
It allows visitors to dive into the Great Barrier Reef, wander through ancient rainforests, and enjoy balmy evenings by the seaside.
From my time in Queensland, I’ve learned that Cairns in winter is an experience not to be missed.
It offers a unique opportunity to explore and enjoy one of Australia’s most beautiful destinations.
Things To Do in Cairns in Winter
Winter in Cairns offers an idyllic escape from the cold, presenting a treasure trove of activities that cater to the adventurous spirit of those looking to explore Australia in a budget-friendly yet thrilling manner.
From the pristine beaches to unique outdoor experiences, Cairns in winter is a haven for those seeking both relaxation and adventure amidst nature’s finest settings.
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
1. Explore Cairn’s Beaches
Cairns, known for its stunning waterfront cityscape, offers much more beyond its urban charm. While the city itself lacks a beach, the real allure lies in the Northern Beaches, just a hop north.
These beaches epitomize the quintessential beach experience with their sandy shores adorned with palm trees and inviting swimming spots.
The winter season, with temperatures averaging in the mid-twenties Celsius, is the perfect time to explore these beaches. Stinger nets are removed during this period, making way for sunny, idyllic beach days.
For a safe swim, stick to beaches that lifeguards patrol and swim within the designated areas, either between the flags or within stinger nets during summer.
Palm Cove stands out as an iconic beach known for its picturesque seaside village vibe, luxurious resorts, and fine dining. It’s a perfect spot for a sunrise paddle or a romantic picnic by the sea.
Ellis Beach captivates with its tranquil waters and impressive rainforest backdrop, offering a serene escape with tasty food options like $1 oysters on Sundays at Ellis Beach Bar & Grill.
Machans Beach, although not ideal for sunbathing due to its rock-lined shore, offers a charming waterfront walk close to Cairns CBD.
Locals favour Trinity Beach for its active lifestyle options, including walking tracks and the challenging climb to Earl Hill’s summit.
Holloways Beach provides a cozy village atmosphere with cafes and restaurants right by the patrolled beach, perfect for a laid-back day out.
Yorkeys Knob, a hidden gem, is ideal for families and kite surfing enthusiasts, offering a range of accommodation close to amenities and the beach.
Kewarra Beach is the go-to for those looking to enjoy woodfired pizzas and live music in an idyllic setting.
Lastly, Clifton Beach offers an unspoilt coastal experience with its peaceful environment and convenience for self-catering with nearby facilities.
Looking for a Cairns itinerary? Check out my post on The Ultimate 5-day Cairns Itinerary.
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
2. Watch Outdoor Movies
Enjoy a movie under the stars at Cairns’ Moonlight Cinema.
Picture yourself wrapped in a blanket, with the cool winter air around you, watching your favourite films on a big outdoor screen.
Held in places like the Cairns Botanic Gardens, it’s a perfect way to experience the outdoors in a unique, cozy setting.
This activity combines great movies with beautiful Cairns scenery, ideal for a relaxed evening with friends or family.
Some great options are:
✔️ Night Walk in Cairns Botanic Gardens
Join a guided nature and photography walk along the Cairns Botanic Gardens’ rainforest boardwalk. With expert guides and photographers, explore how the garden awakens at night.
✔️ Mareeba Drive-in
Mareeba Drive-in is a nostalgic outdoor cinema located at 5303 Kennedy Hwy, Mareeba, Queensland, Australia.
The Mareeba Drive-in offers a special treat: the option to camp overnight after your movie ends, though you’ll need a car for this experience.
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
3. Experience AQUA Action
Winter is ideal for thrilling water activities in Cairns, from AQUA parks to snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef.
The cooler waters contrast with the warm sun, making for an exhilarating adventure among vibrant marine life.
✔️ Fitzroy Island SUP/Snorkel Tour
Fitzroy Island offers a full-day tour from Cairns, featuring stand-up paddleboarding, snorkelling around the UNESCO-listed Great Barrier Reef, and a self-guided hike to explore its natural beauty.
It includes hotel pick-up and boat transfers for a great-value experience. No prior experience is needed as full instruction is provided.
✔️ SugarWorld WaterPark
Located south of Cairns, this attraction features four tube slides, a pool, gardens, and an aquatic playground. It is open during school holidays and weekends when school is in session.
✔️ Jet Boating Ride
Experience a heart-pumping 35-minute jet boat adventure in the centre of Cairns.
With the excitement of a roller coaster on water, prepare for high-speed spins, slides, and stunts.
It’s an extreme and fun-filled ride. You might also catch a glimpse of the local wildlife, so stay alert!
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
4. Visit Cooktown via the Bloomfield Track
Travel to Cooktown via the Bloomfield Track for a journey through breathtaking wilderness and historical insights.
This winter adventure offers stunning views, isolation, and a peek into Australia’s rich culture and history.
✔️ Daintree via Bloomfield Track
The Daintree Rainforest is a magnificent companion throughout the Bloomfield Track. As you venture northward, this ancient rainforest envelops you in its lush green embrace.
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
5. Go Outdoor Camping
Camping in Cairns during winter offers the perfect conditions for outdoor exploration.
With a variety of beachfront and rainforest sites, it’s an ideal way to reconnect with nature and create lasting memories under the stars.
✔️ NRMA Cairns Holiday Park
This holiday park serves as an ideal starting point for discovering Cairns and nearby attractions. It features facilities like tour bookings, a swimming pool, and a camp kitchen.
With accommodation choices from studios to powered and unpowered caravan and camping sites, NRMA Cairns Holiday Park offers a cozy.
Also, it’s a peaceful setting for your beach camping trip, whether you’re with family or friends.
✔️ Tasman Holiday Parks
Nestled among rainforests and mountains, Tasman Holiday Parks – Cairns Cool Waters offers a serene getaway for families and couples in Far North Queensland.
Located just 7 kilometres from Cairns’ centre, it combines city convenience with tranquil surroundings.
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
6. Experience Cairns From Above
Experience Cairns from above with winter’s clear skies, ideal for hot air balloon rides or helicopter tours.
Witness breathtaking views of the Great Barrier Reef and beyond, enjoying the cooler air that makes this adventure even more comfortable and awe-inspiring.
✔️ Cairns Classic Hot Air Balloon Ride
Experience the beauty of Tropical North Queensland from above with a sunrise hot air balloon flight over the Atherton Tablelands.
Witness the dawn light illuminating farmlands, rivers, and forests from the sky.
✔️ Great Barrier Reef 30-Minute Scenic Helicopter Tour
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Great Barrier Reef from above on a 25-minute helicopter tour.
Marvel at this UNESCO-listed natural wonder, flying over landmarks such as Green Island and Upolo Cay.
As you soar across the vast reef, you will enjoy a birds-eye view of coral clusters and marine life, including tropical fish and rays.
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
7. Visit Paradise Island
Explore Fitzroy Island and Green Island, winter paradises with fewer crowds.
Enjoy snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and dense rainforests, offering a serene and rejuvenating escape into nature.
✔️ Fitzroy Island
Travel from Cairns by fast ferry and enjoy your day as you wish: snorkel in the reef, relax on white-sand beaches, or view the coral through a glass-bottom boat.
✔️ Great Barrier Reef
Enjoy activities like snorkelling and diving cruises, glass-bottom boat tours, and a buffet lunch, and you can enhance your adventure with diving or a scenic helicopter flight.
Don’t miss the reef’s only waterslide for a unique thrill!
✔️ Frankland Islands
Frankland Islands Reef Cruises is the sole operator of the untouched Great Barrier Reef. It offers a unique and private Great Barrier Reef experience, including a river cruise, short open-water crossing, and meals.
Experienced guides ensure a safe snorkelling adventure off the sandy beach, ideal for families and first-timers, with a chance to see marine life like clown fish and turtles alongside optional activities like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and guided island walks.
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
8. Discover Cairns’ Hidden Laneway Bars
A unique blend of bars offers experiences from eco-conscious brews to rooftop elegance and secretive laneways.
Hemingway’s Brewery stands out with its 7th Heaven Tropical Ale. This drink not only quenches thirst but also supports the Great Barrier Reef Legacy, donating half its profits to the conservation of Cairns’ most cherished natural wonder.
Elevating the bar experience, Cairns’ rooftop venues merge urban chic with tropical allure.
Rocco invites patrons to marvel at sunsets and sea views with sophisticated cocktails, while Whisky & Wine offers peeks of the bustling Esplanade through palm fronds.
Oak & Vine presents an opportunity to absorb the tropical atmosphere alongside views of the iconic Cairns Esplanade Lagoon.
Secretive yet inviting, the laneway bar scene is exemplified by Three Wolves, where the aroma of smoked Western Red Cedar infuses their signature ‘Smoke on the Water’ whisky cocktail.
A few steps away, Wolf Lane Distillery showcases globally recognized, locally-made gins, emphasizing regional ingredients.
For those drawn to the sea, Prawn Star offers an unmatched floating seafood bar experience with all-day happy hour deals.
Salt House is not far behind in popularity, renowned for its relaxed ambience, inventive tropical cocktails, and stunning vistas, embodying Cairns’ seamless blend of urban and natural charms.
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
9. Take a Hike with a View
Exploring Cairns and its surrounding landscapes offers some of the most breathtaking hikes in Australia, each presenting unique views and experiences. For those seeking unparalleled vistas, the following trails are standout choices:
⛰️ Mt Bartle Frere
As Queensland’s highest peak, this hike offers spectacular views over the Atherton Tablelands and the coast. It’s a challenging journey through the World Heritage rainforest, recommended for experienced hikers to tackle over two days to catch a memorable sunrise.
⛰️ Lambs Head (Kahlpahlim Rock)
This trail leads you through diverse landscapes, from old logging paths to rainforests and clear creeks, ending with expansive views over Lake Morris and the Cairns coastline. It’s a serene escape that feels miles away from civilization.
⛰️ Glacier Rock/The Douglas Track
Easily accessible from Cairns, this trail offers stunning city and ocean views as it winds through rainforests and across open paths. It’s a perfect mix of challenge and reward, with the top vista overlooking Cairns.
⛰️ Thorsborne Trail
The Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island encompasses a mix of mangroves, rainforests, rugged ranges, and isolated beaches for a multi-day adventure. Limited to 40 hikers at a time, it offers an intimate encounter with untamed wilderness.
⛰️ Walshs Pyramid
This distinct natural pyramid offers a steep but rewarding hike with views over sugarcane fields and rainforests. It’s an iconic Cairns hike, ideal for those looking for a quick but intense challenge.
⛰️ Fitzroy Island Summit
Combining rainforest beauty with reef views, the summit hike on Fitzroy Island offers 360-degree views of the Great Barrier Reef and the mainland coast. It is accessible via a ferry ride from Cairns.
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
10. Visit Kuranda (Village in the Rainforest)
Discover Kuranda, the ‘Village in the Rainforest’, via scenic railway or Skyrail.
Winter is the perfect time to enjoy its markets, wildlife parks, and trails, offering a mix of natural beauty and cultural richness.
✔️ Skyrail Cableway
Experience the best of Kuranda without the wait with the Skip the Line Kuranda Scenic Railway Gold Class and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway package.
Enjoy luxury and breathtaking views as you travel through the rainforest by train and cableway. This ensures a memorable journey with unparalleled scenic beauty and comfort.
✔️ Australian Butterfly Sanctuary
The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Australia’s biggest butterfly flight aviary and exhibit, houses over 1,500 stunning tropical butterflies, featuring the splendid green Cairns Birdwing.
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
11. Explore the Capes
Winter is ideal for exploring Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the reef.
Experience its untouched beaches, ancient rainforests, and snorkelling spots, embracing this World Heritage site’s biodiversity and natural beauty.
✔️ Cape York Peninsula
The Cape York Peninsula is a remote and rugged wilderness area in northern Australia.
It offers some of the country’s most untouched landscapes.
It’s a paradise for adventurers seeking to explore vast national parks, pristine beaches, and unique wildlife, providing an authentic outback experience.
✔️ Cape Tribulation
Cape Tribulation is where the world’s oldest rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef, offering a unique blend of stunning beaches and dense jungle.
This area is known for its scenic beauty and biodiversity, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
12. Chase Waterfalls
Exploring Cairns in winter leads you to the mesmerising beauty of local waterfalls, each offering a unique experience amidst nature’s serenity.
Old Weir Falls at Stoney Creek, a local favourite, is a mere 20-minute drive from Cairns, leading to a refreshing 25-minute walk through the rainforest to the falls.
Crystal Cascades, just 25 minutes away, offers a series of swimming holes and the thrill of Cairns Canyoning for the adventurous.
Fairy Falls, hidden within the dense rainforest near Crystal Cascades, promises a magical escape, reached by a short walk and some rock hopping.
Barron Falls (Djabugay: Din Din) near Kuranda, famous especially in the wetter months, showcases nature’s raw power with its impressive water volume. It is viewable from Skyrail Rainforest Cableway or Kuranda Scenic Railway.
Josephine Falls, an hour south of Cairns, is dubbed “nature’s playground” because it has a natural rockslide and accessible swimming holes.
Mena Creek Falls, by Paronella Park, offers a glimpse into a bygone era with its historic castle and hydroelectric plant story, though swimming is not allowed.
Ponytail Falls in Tully can be reached by driving or an exhilarating white-water rafting trip, perfect for those looking to combine adventure with the tranquility of cascading waters.
Each of these waterfalls provides a cool respite from the tropical warmth and a chance to immerse oneself in the lush landscapes that define Cairns in the winter.
Where to Stay in Cairns
When planning a visit, finding the perfect place to stay is crucial for an unforgettable experience.
Here’s a look at some of the best accommodation options in Cairns, tailored for every type of traveller.
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
🏨 Trinity Links Resort
- ⭐ Rating: 8.4 out of 10
- 🏆 Known for: Location, pool, good sized room
- 🏨 Check Rates & Availability on Booking.com
Trinity Links Resort, situated 6.7 km from the Cairns Convention Centre, provides a luxurious stay with its 4-star air-conditioned accommodations.
Guests at this aparthotel can enjoy stunning pool views and have access to a range of facilities, including an infinity pool, a spa and wellness centre, and a sun terrace.
Free WiFi, private parking, and an electric vehicle charging station are available for convenience.
The accommodations offer balconies with mountain views, a seating area, cable flat-screen TV, and a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, oven, microwave, toaster, fridge, and kettle.
Private bathrooms feature a walk-in shower and bathrobes, and units also provide bed linen and towels for guests.
The resort has its own coffee shop and minimarket for dining and shopping. Additionally, barbecue facilities, a garden, and a picnic area are available for guests’ use. The resort is well-positioned for guests interested in sightseeing tours.
Located 7 km from Cairns Station and 7.6 km from Cairns Regional Gallery, Trinity Links Resort is also conveniently close to Cairns Airport, which is 14 km away, making it a prime choice for travellers seeking comfort, luxury, and convenience in Cairns.
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
🏨 Crystalbrook Riley
- ⭐ Rating: 8.6 out of 10
- 🏆 Known for: Location, pool, facilities, views
- 🏨 Check Rates & Availability on Booking.com
Crystalbrook Riley, located at the northern end of Cairns’ waterfront Esplanade, offers a luxurious experience with 311 stylish rooms and suites, three dining venues including Cairns’ highest rooftop bar, Rocco, a vast lagoon pool with a private beach, Eléme Day Spa, event spaces for up to 400 people, and a 24-hour fitness centre.
It’s close to key attractions and just a 10-minute walk from the Great Barrier Reef Departure Terminal, with Cairns Airport only 5 km away.
Rooms and suites at Riley boast modern amenities like Apple iPad control centres, 55-inch Smart TVs with Staycast for video streaming, complimentary movies, rainforest shower heads, and Nespresso coffee machines. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout, enhancing the convenience for guests.
Dining options include the modern Paper Crane restaurant and bar, which offers 24-hour in-room dining. Guests can also enjoy Greenfields and Rocco, Cairns’ premier rooftop bar.
The resort provides various relaxation and fitness options, including a cabana-lined pool, a man-made beach, a lap pool, and a fitness centre. Additionally, guests can book Reef tours from the interactive lobby tour space.
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
🏨 Pullman Cairns International
- ⭐ Rating: 8 out of 10
- 🏆 Known for: Location, view, comfy beds
- 🏨 Check Rates & Availability on Booking.com
Pullman Cairns International is situated in the heart of Cairns. It boasts the city’s largest guest rooms, at over 40 square metres, each with large balconies offering harbour or mountain views. The hotel’s executive rooms feature separate living and dining areas, enhancing the luxury experience.
Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool set within tropical gardens or relax at the deluxe Vie Spa, which offers a range of treatments, including body scrubs, massages, and spa packages, in 10 treatment rooms.
Dining options include Coco’s Kitchen + Bar, which serves a variety of hot and cold buffet breakfasts and an à la carte dinner menu showcasing local produce. The Lobby Bar offers exotic cocktails and light snacks.
The hotel is Conveniently located, it is just a 5-minute walk from Cairns Convention Centre and 500 metres from Cairns Pier, making it an ideal choice for leisure and business travellers.
FAQs: Cairns in Winter
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
Is Cairns good in winter?
Winter in Cairns might be the locals’ best-kept secret. It’s almost paradise with its mild ‘cold season’, which boasts daily temperatures in the mid-20s, minimal rain, and low humidity. The evenings are warm enough to enjoy with the windows open, offering a perfect blend of comfort and tropical ambience.
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
Can you swim in Cairns in winter?
Swimming at Cairns beaches is possible in winter, but caution is advised from November to May due to potential dangers like crocodiles and jellyfish. Instead, many locals prefer the safety of swimming in freshwater lagoons, lakes, and waterfalls.
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
How many days in Cairns is enough?
A three-day visit to Cairns strikes the perfect balance for most. It allows you to dedicate a day each to the reef and the rainforest and relax or explore places like Kuranda. This suggested schedule ensures you make the most of your time in Cairns.
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS IN WINTER
Is it safe to walk in Cairns at night?
Cairns is relatively safe at night, especially compared to other major cities, with low rates of violent crime. However, to minimize risks like petty theft, it’s wise to avoid less populated, dimly lit areas and stick to well-lit, busier streets.
Final Thoughts: Winter in Cairns
Cairns in winter presents a diverse array of activities that promise both adventure and relaxation amidst Australia’s natural beauty.
From snorkelling in the pristine waters of the Great Barrier Reef with unique experiences like Frankland Islands Reef Cruises to the serene escapade of chasing waterfalls such as Old Weir Falls, Crystal Cascades, Fairy Falls, Barron Falls, Josephine Falls, Mena Creek Falls, and the adventurous Ponytail Falls, there’s something for everyone.
These activities offer an escape into nature and provide opportunities to create lasting memories in Cairns’s tropical paradise.
For those looking to explore further and dive deeper into what Cairns has to offer, check out my other posts about Cairns.
Discover more hidden gems, cultural experiences, and adventurous outings to complete your itinerary.
