Best Free Hidden Gems Of Cairns
The region of Cairns is a wonderland of natural marvels. Seriously, from the reefs to the rainforests, Tropical North Queensland is teeming with accessible National Parks, world wonders, and best of all, free experiences. And, with such a vast expanse of these unforgettable tropical environments, it’s not hard to get off the beaten track on a budget. Because really, all it is is getting back to nature and going bush!
So, let’s dive into the best, free hidden gems of Cairns from a local perspective. Learn how to visit the Atherton Tablelands, the Daintree, the Great Barrier Reef and Cape Tribulation in a free, non-touristy fashion, and the best-hidden gems to find along the way!
A non-tourist’s guide to:
- Off-peak seasons in Cairns
- Atherton Tablelands
- Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation
- The Great Barrier Reef
When is the quietest time to visit Cairns?
Before we dive into the best-hidden gems, it’s important to mention that Cairns has peak seasons, during which these lesser-known destinations will naturally be busier. So chase the tranquillity and travel off-peak! You can steer clear of the hoards of tourists and holidaymakers in Cairns by avoiding the school holiday periods in general.
When are the school holidays in Australia?
School holiday periods in Australia take place in December and January (Christmas), April (Easter), late June to early July (winter school holidays) and late September to early October. The Christmas school holidays are probably the busiest of these four periods, so definitely avoid the heat and crowds during December! The least busy time to visit the Cairns Region and the Great Barrier Reef is probably February and March (however you are faced with “wet season” rain), and late July, August and September (whale season as well!).
How to do the Atherton Tablelands for free
Getting around the Atherton Tablelands
To get off the tourist track and explore the lush, dense and green hinterlands of the Atherton Tablelands. The Tableland plateau (which is a part of the verdant Great Dividing Range) is a huge highland area, spanning over 31,000 km-squared of natural waterfalls, crater lakes, abundant rainforest and thriving agriculture. As such, the best way to explore the Atherton Tablelands is with your own car! Giving you the ultimate freedom and time efficiency, you can discover some of our favourite hikes, secret waterfalls and corners of rainforest if you have your own wheels. However, if you don’t have a car, it is hard to point you to a “free” option; you will probably need to rent a car or van, or join a tour, as public transport is limited.
Free Hidden Gems in the Atherton Tablelands
Secret Waterfalls of Cairns
One of the bucket list things to do in the Atherton Tablelands is chase waterfalls. And, with iconic cascades like Millaa Millaa and Zillie Falls (check out our self-drive waterfall circuit to hit these ever-popular spots), it’s hard not to hear about the magic! However, if you want to hang out in the cool, bubbling pools and refreshing mists without the crowds, there are plenty of less-popular waterfalls in Cairns (shhh!). Here are our favourites, all accessible by car and walks/hiking trails.
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Babinda Boulders (Din Din)
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Fairy Falls - a lesser-known swimming hole near the popular Crystal Cascades just out of Cairns
- Nandroya Falls
Check out our Waterfall Guide to Cairns for a wealth of other gorgeous cascades in the area!
Walshs Pyramid
Situated in the Wooroonooran National Park, Walshs Pyramid is a towering peak, nestled in the green foothills of the Atherton Tablelands. For the adventurous, you can actually summit Walsh’s Pyramid, taking about 5 - 6 hours through sprawling treetops. With a photogenic road leading straight to the pyramid of leafy trees, it’s also the perfect place to grab a quick photo as you feel like the only person on earth! With lush walks and waterfalls nearby such as Clamshell Falls in Behana Gorge, and quaint rural towns to stop in for a cuppa, this is a magical scenic drive into quieter parts of the plateau. Read more info and plan your day trip with our Complete Guide to Walshs Pyramid.
Yungaburra & Lake Eacham
A fantastic day trip filled with tranquil swimming opportunities, escape into the crystal waters and charming township of Yunguburra and the nearby lake Eacham. Home to the giant Curtain Fig Tree, explore the history of the region, hike through ancient forests, spot platypus and wander through local markets away from the tourists. For more insight into things to do in this exquisite region, read our local Guide to Yunguburra and plan an authentic day of exploring and hiking.
How to do the Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation for free
If you’re travelling to Cairns, the Daintree and Cape Tribulation are unmissable stops on the way. Cape Tribulation is an incredible area situated in the Daintree Rainforest, and it’s where the lush ancient forest meets the world-wonder Great Barrier Reef! It’s incredibly natural out here, as there is huge National Park protection preventing any development. As such, there are no large towns, making it feel really off the beaten path! While you can do rainforest tours of the Daintree and Cape Tribulation, it’s also an excellent experience to DIY, skip on the group, grab your own car and tread lightly as you explore breathtaking ecosystems on your own. So, here are our favourite experiences in the Daintree and Cape Tribulation, minus the crowds!
Daintree Rainforest Hidden Gems
Kimberley & Shipwreck Bay
Where the ocean meets the rainforest, this coastline makes you feel like you’re standing on the edge of a lush, tropical planet! A trifle of brilliant hues stacked on top of each other makes for some once-in-a-lifetime scenery. Crystal-clear waters, golden sands and dense palm-tree rainforests await. This area is less on the usual tour itinerary agenda than spots like Cooper Creek and Myall Beach, so soak up the peace and quiet.
Mossman Gorge
While slightly more on the tourist track, you can’t miss Mossman Gorge on your next visit to the Daintree. A short drive from Port Douglas, we can’t recommend enough the guided walks led by Indigenous locals. Learn more about the Kuku Yalanji land where Mossman Gorge is located, from the rich history to the amazing biodiversity of this ancient rainforest! These walks depart from the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre, where you can also find information on other hiking trails that will take you away from the tourist route.
Daintree Rainforest hiking
Walk amongst giants, spot incredible wildlife and breathe in the magic of the world’s oldest rainforest, minus the foot traffic! While there are heaps of tours that will take you to the highlights of Daintree Rainforest, and Cape Tribulation, there are a wealth of less-popular but maintained trails that don’t cost a thing! You will need to pay for the ferry across to the Daintree, however, there aren’t any further fees once you’re across the river. With tropical wildlife, native plant species, fertile and flourishing ecosystems and a type of silence only found in the plush rainforest, reset and experience the best of nature.
Get inspired with our exploring the Daintree Rainforest without a tour guide and plan your adventure beforehand.
How to do the Great Barrier Reef for free
Unfortunately, in Cairns, you can’t really experience the Great Barrier Reef for free as there are no off-shore snorkelling or diving spots. Unless you have your own boat, most travellers opt for a commercial boat trip or diving liveaboard. However, with a diverse range of tours departing from Cairns, Palm Cove, Port Douglas and even Mission Beach, there are some fantastic, non-touristy reef tours that are definitely worth the money! Get amongst the gorgeous, mystical marinelife and discover vivid coral reefs with a small group, learning with onboard dive instructors and marine biologists!
Check out our complete list of “non-touristy” and intimate tours, which focus on learning, slowing down and leaving less of a footprint in the underwater world of the reef.
