The ultimate Cairns bucket list

Far North Queensland is an outdoor lovers paradise. The area is jam packed with boundless natural beauty, unique wildlife and thrilling adventures. Cairns is the Northern metropolis of choice to visit if you wish to see the best of tropical Australia. From hopping to and fro tropical islands across the Great Barrier Reef, to hiking the oldest forest in the world, here is the bucket list to adventure the very best of Cairns.

1. visit the Great Barrier Reef
2. Visit Palm Cove

A picturesque village of paradise is located just 20 minutes North of Cairns, it is called Palm Cove. This is where you will find the best local and international cuisine in the area as well as bustling tiki bars and romantic coastal strolling paths along the wondrous palm tress and mangrove swamps that encapsulate the village centre and coastline.

3. Hike the oldest forest in the world
4. Admire the rare wildlife
5. Chase waterfalls

Cairns has twenty waterfalls within its region, all beautiful with their own character and personality. Some waterfalls such as Milla Milla are safe to swim in. However, be aware that some waterfalls, especially coastal may have crocs in them, which just isn’t worth that cheeky dip. The best times to visit are during the dry season when water still flows but at a much safer rate.

6. Visit a tropical island

As beautiful Cairns is, the swamp like beaches attract thousands of crocodiles. But not to worry! Out of 900 islands within the Great Barrier Reef, 5 can be found on the shores of Cairns. These islands are home to pristine waters that are croc free and filled with gorgeous corals and fish. Islands such as Fitzroy Island has its own resort and a plethora of out door actives which is the perfect place to stay if you’re wanting to escape the crowds. It is also home to a turtle sanctuary where you can swim with them in the shallow waters. 

7. Visit Paronella Park

Paronella Park is located about an hour south of Cairns. The park was originally bought as a property over a century ago by spaniard, Jose Paronella. His dream was to build a ‘castle’ to live in and for his wife to move into as she still resided in Spain. After many years of hard graft, Jose built a magnificently unique castle on his land which is surrounded by a magnificent waterfall and tropical forest land. For $42 you can explore the whole property and tour the museum.

I’m an Australian blogger based in Central West NSW who has spent the last few years exploring the four corners of the globe, living as an expat and falling in love with the world just a little bit more everyday. Here you can find my tips, guides and experiences to help inspire you for your next trip!

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