Cairns Esplanade Visitor Guide
The Cairns Esplanade is a hotspot for travellers and locals of all ages in Cairns, Australia. If you're visiting Cairns, chances are you'll find yourself meandering down the Esplanade at some point. Whether you're looking for a place to watch the sunrise, grab a bite to eat, go swimming, or get some exercise, this location has it all! Here is a complete guide to the Cairns Esplanade, including the best things to do there and some popular FAQs.
What Is The Cairns Esplanade?
Located adjacent to the tropical waterfront in Cairns, the Cairns Esplanade is a fabulous outdoor recreation area comprised of walkways, parklands, and free attractions. There is truly something here for everyone, from families with kids to backpackers on a budget to older couples on a romantic anniversary trip. Here you can relax in the sunshine, have a group picnic or BBQ, go for a dip to escape the heat, or attend local events.
Is Cairns Esplanade free?
Yes, the Cairns Esplanade is free to explore! The Cairns Esplanade Lagoon swimming hole, volleyball courts, outdoor gym, skate park, and public BBQs are all free for anyone to use. If you're looking for ways to save money in Cairns, just head to the Esplanade and soak in all the sights! There are often free events here as well where you can walk around and absorb the culture. Some attractions like the Reef Eye Ferris Wheel and the nearby cafes do cost money, but the majority of the Esplanade is free for everyone.
How long is the Cairns Esplanade walk?
The Cairns Esplanade walk is around 2.5km one way, though you could continue walking past the Esplanade walkway to enjoy a longer stroll! The southern end of the Esplanade continues on towards the Cairns Marlin Marina, which is where many Great Barrier Reef and island tours depart. Most of the walkway is pedestrian-only, meaning you can enjoy a peaceful walk or run without any car traffic.
10 Best Things To Do At Cairns Esplanade
Here are the highlights of the Cairns Esplanade! From the famous Lagoon, to the exercise facilities, to the scenic photo spots and more, there is so much to do at the Cairns Esplanade. When you need a break from exploring the reef and the rainforest, spend a few hours hanging out in Cairns to make the most of this amazing Esplanade.
Here are some of the most popular Great Barrier Reef day tours from Cairns!
Swim at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
The #1 attraction along the Cairns Esplanade is the Lagoon. This public swimming pool is a refreshing oasis in the heart of the tropical city. Complete with deeper swimming sections, shallow kids pools, toilets and change rooms, fountains, sandy beaches, and grassy areas, there is no better place to relax outside and escape the heat in Cairns than the Esplanade Lagoon!
Have an outdoor BBQ
In the various parks along the Cairns Esplanade, you'll find outdoor BBQ facilities that are open to the public. Bring down some fresh food and grill up a feast outside in the fresh air! This is a great way to bond with the family or save money if you're a backpacker trying to eat on a budget in Australia.
Watch the sunrise or sunset
If you're looking for the best sunrise or sunset spots in Cairns, the Esplanade is at the top of the list! Because the spacious walkway overlooks the ocean, you can watch the colourful sunrises and sunsets right over the water. It's easy to find a quiet spot to yourself as well if you want to escape the crowds, simply because the Esplanade is so long.
Stroll through the Cairns Esplanade Coconut Grove
Near the northern end of the Cairns Esplanade is the "Coconut Grove", a popular walking and photo spot. This section of the Esplanade is framed by photogenic palm trees that make for beautiful photos, especially at sunrise or sunset. There are also some spacious parklands, parking spots, and toilets nearby.
Grab some food at a nearby cafe or restaurant
There are lots of amazing places to eat and drink along the Cairns Esplanade. Whether you're looking for a morning coffee or smoothie, or you want an evening cocktail and meal with a view, the Esplanade is lined with excellent eateries and cafes! Guyala Cafe and Muddy's Cafe have great breakfast and lunch. Harbourside Bar and Kitchen and Salt House offer amazing dinners with waterfront views!
Admire the public art
Being in the heart of the city, the Cairns Esplanade is a popular place for public art displays. From statues and monuments, to educational information signs and holiday-oriented decorations, there is always something fun and colourful to see along the Cairns Esplanade!
Bring the kids to a playground
If you're visiting Cairns with kids, the Esplanade is a great place for the young ones to burn some energy. Not only are there wide, grassy areas suitable for family picnics, there are also a few clean, safe kids' playgrounds. Check out the Cairns Esplanade Fun Ship Playground near the north of the Esplanade, or Muddy's Playground near the south!
Ride on the famous Reef Eye
The Reef Eye is the iconic, 35m high Ferris Wheel located on right next to the Cairns Esplanade. With fully-enclosed gondolas offering 360-degree views of the city, it's the perfect place to appreciate the beauty of Cairns from above! The Reef Eye is open from 10am until 10pm daily.
Have an outdoor workout
The Cairns Esplanade is one of the best places to get active in the city. The uninterrupted paved sidewalk is ideal for walking, running, or biking. There is even an outdoor gym setup near the middle of the Cairns Esplanade where you can do some resistance training on the free, public-use equipment. You can also find a skate park and volleyball courts that are free for anyone to use as well!
Attend a local event
Cairns is always hosting epic local events that cater to travellers and locals of all ages. Because the Cairns Esplanade is such an easily accessible public space, most events in the city are held near the Esplanade. With wide grassy areas, piers, gardens, walkways, and eateries nearby, there is no better place to host a festival, parade, or holiday event in Cairns.
See What's On in Cairns for more info on the best local events!
