Day Trips & Adventures

Great Barrier Reef

No trip to Cairns is complete without visiting the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system. Dive into the underwater world by snorkelling or scuba diving or stay dry and explore via a glass-bottom boat. Witness vibrant coral gardens, tropical fish, and maybe even spot Nemo!

Distance from Pacific Hotel Cairns: Tours depart from the Reef Fleet Terminal, just minutes from the hotel.

 

Crystal Cascades

Located about 20 minutes from Cairns, Crystal Cascades is a secluded freshwater swimming spot perfect for a refreshing dip. For thrill-seekers, Cairns Canyoning offers tours with ziplining, abseiling and rock sliding — an action-packed adventure for the whole group.

 

Green Island

Just 27 km off the Cairns coast, Green Island offers white sandy beaches, lush rainforest walks and snorkelling directly from the shore. A day here is ideal for families, couples or solo travellers looking to escape the city without venturing far.

 

Fitzroy Island

A 45-minute ferry from Cairns brings you to Fitzroy Island, a tropical paradise perfect for a full-day escape. Hike to Nudey Beach, paddleboard from the main beach, or sip cocktails at Foxy’s Bar while soaking in the island views.

 

Atherton Tablelands

Explore the Atherton Tablelands, famous for volcanic crater lakes, rainforest walks and wildlife.

Highlights include:

• Lake Eacham & Lake Barrine: Scenic walks, lakeside views, and a Devonshire Tea at Lake Barrine Teahouse.
• Curtain Fig Tree & Cathedral Fig Tree: Iconic ancient rainforest trees.
• Mt Hypipamee Crater & Dinner Falls: Dramatic geological formations with nearby swimming spots.
• Malanda Falls & Mungalli Creek Dairy: Enjoy wildlife spotting and locally sourced treats.

 

Waterfall Circuit

Experience one of Australia’s most scenic drives with the Millaa Millaa Waterfall Circuit, featuring:

• Millaa Millaa Falls: Famous for its “hair flick” photo opportunities
• Zillie Falls & Ellinjaa Falls: Stunning natural attractions
• Optional extended visit: Nandroya Falls, Wallicher Falls, Tchupala Falls
• Nearby culinary stops include Mungalli Creek Dairy for farm-fresh produce and Nerada Tea Plantation for locally grown teas.

 

Palm Cove & Trinity Beach

Relax at Palm Cove, a beachside village with sun-soaked shores and a tree-lined esplanade. Stop at one of the many beachfront restaurants or cafes before returning to Cairns.

Nearby Trinity Beach is another local favourite, perfect for swimming, sunbathing and casual dining.

 

Port Douglas & Daintree Rainforest

Port Douglas: Boutique shopping, beaches, and Sunday markets; a perfect stop en route to Cape Tribulation.

Daintree & Cape Tribulation: Explore the world’s oldest rainforest where the reef meets the forest. Boardwalks, mangrove tours, and crocodile-spotting river cruises make for unforgettable adventures.

 

Adventure & Hiking

Tropical North Queensland offers trails and outdoor experiences for every fitness level:

• Lambs Head Track: 12.6 km hike with panoramic views over the Tablelands
• Walshs Pyramid: Challenging 6 km climb with rewarding summit views
• Behana Gorge & Clamshell Falls: Short walks with natural swimming holes
• Glacier Rock Lookout: Moderate 7 km hike with city views
• Stoney Creek & Old Weir Falls: Relaxed day of rock-hopping and swimming

 

Kuranda & Rainforest Experiences

• Scenic Rail & Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: A unique way to experience the tropical rainforest from above and below
• Kuranda Original Rainforest Markets: Handcrafted goods, tropical gardens, and local gourmet food
• Rainforestation Nature Park: Army Duck Rainforest Tours and the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience

 

Extreme Adventures

• Tully River Rapids: White-water rafting with Raging Thunder for adrenaline seekers
• Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures: See crocodiles up close, wildlife shows, and lagoon cruises
• Walkabout Cultural Adventures: Learn about Indigenous bush foods, medicine, and cultural history with a Kuku Yalanji guide

 

Scenic & Relaxed Escapes

• Granite Gorge Nature Park: Hand-feed wild Mareeba rock wallabies and enjoy nature walks
• Mission Beach: Palm-fringed beaches and local wineries, with a chance to spot the rare cassowary
• Paronella Park: Explore a Spanish-style castle set in lush rainforest, about 1.5 hours south of Cairns
• Ravenshoe & Historic Village Herberton: Step back in time with historic buildings, antique machinery, and charming cafes

 

Stay in the Heart of Cairns

After a full day of adventure, return to Pacific Hotel Cairns, conveniently located on the Cairns Esplanade, just minutes from the Reef Fleet Terminal and city attractions. Enjoy modern rooms, resort-style amenities and easy access to the region’s best day trips, making it the ideal base for your Cairns holiday or tropical adventure.