Cairns

Day 1:

Morning: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at one of the highly rated cafes on the Esplanade in Cairns. One popular option is Caffiend, known for its great coffee and tasty breakfast dishes. Enjoy a leisurely meal while taking in the beautiful views of the waterfront.

After breakfast, head to the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon for a refreshing swim. This man-made saltwater swimming pool is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Relax on the sandy beach or soak up the sun on the grassy areas surrounding the lagoon.

Afternoon: For lunch, make your way to Salt House, a stylish waterfront restaurant offering a diverse menu with fresh seafood options. Enjoy a delicious meal while enjoying the stunning views of the marina.

After lunch, take a stroll along the Esplanade boardwalk and explore the various shops and boutiques. You can also visit the Cairns Night Markets, which open in the late afternoon and offer a wide range of souvenirs, clothing, and local crafts.

Evening: For dinner, try Ochre Restaurant, known for its innovative Australian cuisine. This award-winning restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a focus on native ingredients and flavors. Indulge in dishes like kangaroo, crocodile, or barramundi.

After dinner, take a relaxing sunset cruise along Trinity Inlet. Enjoy the breathtaking views as the sun sets over the water, and keep an eye out for wildlife such as dolphins and turtles. It's a perfect way to end your first day in Cairns.

Day 2:

Morning: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Perrotta's at the Gallery, a charming cafe located within the Cairns Regional Gallery. This cafe offers a range of delicious breakfast options and is a great place to fuel up before a day of exploring.

After breakfast, head to the Cairns Botanic Gardens. Take a leisurely stroll through the lush gardens, admire the tropical plants, and learn about the diverse flora of the region. Don't miss the stunning Orchid House, which showcases a variety of beautiful orchids.

Afternoon: For lunch, head back to the Esplanade and try The Raw Prawn, a popular seafood restaurant known for its fresh and tasty dishes. Indulge in some local seafood specialties like prawns, oysters, or fish and chips.

After lunch, embark on an adventure to the Great Barrier Reef. Join a snorkeling or diving tour and explore the vibrant underwater world of the reef. Marvel at the colorful coral formations and encounter a variety of marine life, including tropical fish, turtles, and maybe even a reef shark.

Evening: After a day of adventure, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Dundee's Restaurant on the Waterfront. This waterfront restaurant offers a range of Australian dishes, including succulent steaks and fresh seafood. Enjoy your meal while taking in the beautiful views of the marina.

Day 3:

Morning: Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at C'est Bon, a French-inspired cafe located on the Esplanade. Indulge in some freshly baked pastries, crepes, or a classic French breakfast.

After breakfast, take a short drive to the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. This unique experience allows you to glide above the rainforest canopy, offering breathtaking views of the lush landscape below. Take your time to explore the various stops along the way and learn about the rich biodiversity of the region.

Afternoon: For lunch, head back to the Esplanade and try Barnacle Bill, a popular seafood restaurant known for its generous portions and friendly atmosphere. Enjoy some delicious fish and chips or try their famous seafood platter.

After lunch, visit the Cairns Aquarium, located on the Esplanade. Explore the various exhibits and get up close to a wide range of marine life, including sharks, rays, and tropical fish. Learn about the unique ecosystems of the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest.

Evening: For your final dinner in Cairns, head to Tamarind Restaurant, located within the Pullman Reef Hotel Casino. This award-winning restaurant offers a fusion of Asian and Western flavors, with dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Enjoy a memorable dining experience before bidding farewell to Cairns.

Remember to check the opening hours and availability of the recommended cafes and restaurants, as they may vary. Enjoy your time in Cairns!