2 day itinerary for Cairns
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Itinerary
Cairns is a beautiful gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and has so much to offer. Let’s dive into a fun-filled 2-day itinerary that balances adventure, relaxation, and a taste of the local culture!
## Day 1: Explore the Great Barrier Reef
Morning:
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Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café like Caffiend or The Bean House. Try their famous avocado toast or a delicious smoothie bowl to fuel up for the day!
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Great Barrier Reef Tour: After breakfast, head to the marina for a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef. There are several tour operators, but Quicksilver Cruises is a popular choice. You’ll get to snorkel or dive among the vibrant coral and marine life. Don’t forget your underwater camera!
Afternoon:
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Lunch on the Reef: Most tours include lunch, so enjoy a meal on board while soaking in the stunning views of the ocean.
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More Snorkeling/Diving: Spend the afternoon exploring different snorkeling spots. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a guided dive to see some of the more spectacular underwater sights.
Evening:
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Return to Cairns: After a day of adventure, return to Cairns in the late afternoon.
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Dinner at the Esplanade: Head to the Cairns Esplanade for dinner. The Raw Prawn or Waterbar & Grill are great options for fresh seafood with a view of the water.
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Stroll Along the Esplanade: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Esplanade. You can enjoy the beautiful sunset and maybe even catch some live music or entertainment at the Esplanade Lagoon.
## Day 2: Rainforest Adventure and Local Culture
Morning:
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Breakfast at a Local Bakery: Start your day with a delicious pastry or pie from Cairns Patisserie or Cairns Central Bakery.
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Kuranda Scenic Railway: Take the scenic railway to Kuranda, a charming village in the rainforest. The journey offers breathtaking views of waterfalls and lush greenery.
Afternoon:
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Explore Kuranda: Once in Kuranda, explore the local markets, art galleries, and shops. Don’t miss the Kuranda Koala Gardens where you can cuddle a koala and see other native wildlife.
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Lunch in Kuranda: Grab lunch at one of the local cafes, like The Kuranda Hotel, which has a lovely outdoor area.
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Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: After lunch, take the Skyrail back down to Cairns. This gondola ride offers stunning views of the rainforest and the Coral Sea. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife!
Evening:
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Dinner at Rusty’s Markets: If you’re in Cairns on a Friday night, check out the night markets at Rusty’s. You can sample a variety of local foods and shop for unique souvenirs.
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Nightcap at a Local Bar: End your trip with a drink at a local bar like The Jack or P.J. O’Brien’s, where you can enjoy some live music and reflect on your amazing Cairns adventure!
And there you have it! A perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and local culture in Cairns. Enjoy your trip! 🌴✨
Places of interest
The Raw Prawn
Description:** The Raw Prawn is a popular seafood restaurant located in Cairns, known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a relaxed dining atmosphere. It offers a diverse menu featuring a variety of seafood dishes, as well as vegetarian options, all complemented by stunning views of the waterfront.
Waterbar & Grill
Description:** Waterbar & Grill Cairns is a vibrant waterfront restaurant offering a diverse menu featuring fresh seafood, grilled meats, and local produce, all complemented by stunning views of the marina. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for both casual dining and special occasions.
Cairns Esplanade
Cairns Esplanade is a picturesque waterfront promenade located in Cairns, Australia. It offers stunning views of the Coral Sea and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The esplanade features lush parklands, BBQ areas, swimming lagoons, playgrounds, and a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy walking, jogging, cycling, or simply relaxing by the water. With its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, Cairns Esplanade is a must-visit destination in Cairns.
Kuranda Scenic Railway
The Kuranda Scenic Railway in Cairns is a breathtaking train journey that takes you through the stunning rainforest landscapes of Far North Queensland. This historic railway offers a unique and immersive experience, showcasing the region's natural beauty and rich history.
Kuranda Koala Gardens
Description:** Kuranda Koala Gardens is a wildlife park located in Kuranda, near Cairns, Australia. It offers visitors the opportunity to see and interact with native Australian animals, including koalas, kangaroos, and various reptiles. The gardens provide an immersive experience in a lush rainforest setting, making it a popular destination for families and animal lovers.
The Kuranda Hotel
Description:** The Kuranda Hotel Cairns is a charming accommodation option located in the picturesque village of Kuranda, surrounded by lush rainforest and stunning natural beauty. It offers comfortable rooms, a relaxed atmosphere, and easy access to local attractions such as markets, wildlife parks, and scenic railway.
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Cairns is a scenic cable car ride that takes visitors on a breathtaking journey through the lush rainforests of Cairns, Australia. Offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Great Barrier Reef, this eco-friendly attraction provides a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the tropical rainforest from above.
Rusty’s Markets
Description:** Rusty’s Markets in Cairns is a vibrant and bustling marketplace that offers a wide variety of fresh produce, gourmet foods, handmade crafts, and local products. It's a popular destination for both locals and tourists, providing a unique shopping experience with a lively atmosphere.