Easter Long Weekend In Cairns
Wondering whether Cairns is a good holiday destination to spend the Easter Long Weekend? Well we’re here to tell you it is! With endless opportunities for things to do, we’ll guide you to a range of the best ideas for spending your Easter School Holidays and maximise creating quality moments with loved ones.
WHEN ARE THE 2025 EASTER SCHOOL HOLIDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS?
In Queensland, the 2025 Easter School Holidays fall between the 5th April and the 21st April. The Easter Public Holiday Long Weekend coincides with the school holidays, starting with Good Friday on the 18th April and ending with Easter Monday on the 21st April 2025.
Check out our top recommended trips for the Easter Long Weekend!
THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS ON EASTER WEEKEND AND SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
Whether you're a local, a holiday-maker, or backpacker visiting Cairns, here’s a guide to some of the best outdoor activities to do on your Easter Long Weekend and school holidays!
Easter onboard Spirit of Cairns Dinner Cruise
The Spirit of Cairns Dinner Cruise is a top option for travellers of all ages. Cruise around the Coral Sea outside Cairns and dine on delicious food as you soak in the tropical sunset.
For Easter 2025, Spirit of Cairns is bringing the holiday spirit with their Easter Saturday and Sunday cruises. With Easter colouring sheets for the kids and Easter-themed cocktails and desserts for the adults, you can add a touch of elegance to your long weekend in Cairns.
Note that the cruise will not operate on Good Friday or Easter Monday, and there will be a 15% public holiday surcharge on all drinks purchased onboard Easter Sunday.
Visit the Great Barrier Reef on a day or overnight boat trip
You can’t visit Cairns without spending a day out on the water. And what better way to enjoy your Easter Long Weekend than exploring the kaleidoscope of coral treats on the Great Barrier Reef. The options are abundant and you can choose to do a half day, a full day or even an overnight trip. No matter which option you decide, it’ll be a gorgeous day out sharing quality moments with family and friends.
Ride the Kuranda Scenic Rail and Skyrail Cableway
Jump on board the historic Kuranda Scenic Rail and Skyrail Cableway for an Easter rainforest experience like no other! Wind your way through the mountains, learning the fascinating history about the railway construction and stop at Barron Gorge for an epic photo op. Explore the local markets, and wildlife sanctuaries in Kuranda Village. Cruise across the lush canopy as a Skyrail gondola takes you over the Macalister Range, providing incredible views of Cairns’ coastline.
Tour the Atherton Tablelands Waterfall Circuit
No matter whether you hire a car or join a guided tour, Getting out in nature for the Easter Long Weekend and visiting some of the best watering holes around Cairns is a recipe for a great adventure. Take a picnic lunch and head south out of Cairns. Cool off with a swim at one of the waterfalls or crater lakes, go platypus spotting in Yungaburra or visit the grounds of Paronella Park.
Visit the Palm Cove Markets
Head out to the Northern Beaches and explore the gorgeous beachside town of Palm Cove at the monthly Sunday Markets. Browse the local talent of over 130+ food vendors, artisans, homewares and other goodies for sale. Make a day of it and celebrate Easter on the beach with an Easter egg hunt! It’s the ultimate way to enjoy the school holidays, Aussie-style.
Picnic down at the Esplanade Lagoon
If you’re after a simple way to celebrate the Easter Long Weekend in Cairns, then head down to the Esplanade Lagoon for an Aussie seafood picnic. For all the Easter traditionalists, there’s no better way to embrace bonding with loved ones than enjoying good weather and quality fresh food by the water. Don’t want to organise a picnic? Then choose from one of the many restaurants serving up a treat along the Esplanade. Splash and Dundee’s are great options if you’re looking for quality seafood choices.
Enjoy Easter in Cairns!
So, no matter if you’re into adventure days out, or relaxing by the water, Cairns gives you a range of options to choose from when celebrating the Easter holiday weekend. Head out to the reef, the Atherton Tablelands or the beaches for a fun-filled holiday to remember.
