things to do with kids in Cairns

purpose-built aquarium showcasing North Queensland marine life from the reef to the rainforest. touch tanks and turtle hospital.

free saltwater swimming lagoon with lifeguards, sandy beach areas, and a huge waterfront playground.

series of freshwater swimming holes and waterfalls in the rainforest — a 20-minute drive from Cairns.

boat cruise through croc lagoons, wildlife shows, and a cassowary walk in a tropical wetlands setting.

free tropical gardens with bamboo forests, a butterfly house, and easy walking tracks through native rainforest.

coral cay island 45 minutes by boat — glass-bottom boat tours, snorkelling, and a croc park on the island.

beautiful tiered waterfall with natural rock slides — about 75 minutes south, great as a half-day trip.

heritage train through World Heritage rainforest with waterfalls and gorge views. combine with Skyrail return trip.

glide above the canopy on the 7.5km cableway to Kuranda with rainforest boardwalk stops along the way.

massive waterfront playground on the Esplanade with water play, slides, climbing structures, and shade covers.