School Holiday Activities In Cairns
School holidays are fast approaching, and like many others, we bet you’re trying to find an activity in Cairns that suits your family. Have a look at the list we’ve created of fun things to do! Whether you and your kids would prefer to spot native tropical wildlife at Hartleys wildlife park, swim with turtles along the corals of Green island or take a historical scenic railway trip to the beautiful rainforest village of Kuranda, we’ve got you covered! So, if you’re checking out Cairns or looking to get away from the city on a rainforest or reef day trip, Cairns is abundant with activities and tours to keep you and your family busy whilst you make memories in the tropics!
Things to do with kids during the school holidays in Cairns
Enjoy a family-friendly trip to the reef
The most top-rated activity to do in Cairns is to swim with the tropical fish in the Great Barrier Reef! And even if your little ones are too small for a swim in the Coral Sea, there are glass-bottom boat tours available so you and the family can view the magical underwater world without getting wet. If you are interested in a more thrilling underwater experience, there are many tours available, and some of which offer introductory dives so you can get a closer look at the fishes and aquatic life that dwell on the ocean floors.
Explore Green Island
Green Island is favourited by families that visit Cairns for its white sands, lush rainforests and the option to snorkel straight from the sands at your own leisure. The boat journey from Cairns to Green island is just under an hour. Why not try sea walking on this island paradise, walk along the flourishing ocean floor all while keeping your hair and face dry…you may look goofy but it’s well worth the laughs! Sea walking is best suited for those who don’t like to swim or scuba dive. Other things to do on Green Island include a visit to Marineland Melanesia, home to the world's largest captive crocodile called Cassius…he is approximately 110 years old! Marineland Melanesia is home to a variety of crocodiles and is your opportunity to see a croc feed up close, amongst various antiques and other ancient sea life.
Build sandcastles at a local beach
Cairns is surrounded by beaches both north and south of cairns that are perfect for a sunset BBQ or a way for the kids to run around alongside towering palm trees. Our favourite local beaches and activities include; the dreamy town of Palm Cove, swimming between the nets of Trinity beach and the peaceful haven of Ellis Beach. Before your visit to the beach, stop off at Rusty’s market and pick up some local produce and snacks for an authentic local experience.
For the animal-lovers, visit Hartley's Wildlife park
The best place in Cairns for seeing local tropical wildlife is Hartley’s Wildlife Park, also known as Hartley's Crocodile adventure. An amazing day for the whole family, Hartley’s is renowned for its croc conservation and is the oldest wildlife attraction in Cairns! The crocodile attack show is a must-see when in Cairns, and you and the kids will be in for an exciting experience that will have you on the edge of your seat! For a more relaxing sight of the crocodiles, you can also take the immersive riverboat tour. An array of wildlife calls this park home; it's your turn to cuddle a koala, feed a kangaroo and get close to the elusive and native cassowary bird!
Cool off under a cascading waterfall
North Queensland is hot, and the best way to cool off is in a creek or waterfall. Just north of Cairns is a circuit of different waterfalls for you to swim and explore! Zoom down the naturally formed slide at Josephine falls, have a picnic at the iconic and picturesque Milla Milla Falls or take a dip in the tranquil waters and volcanic crater of Lake Eacham. Wherever you decide to stop and swim in the Tablelands, you’ll be greeted by lush rainforests surrounding magnificent waterfalls amongst an abundance of vibrant nature and wildlife.
Take a ferry to Fitzroy island
With only a 45-minute ferry to this idyllic island destination, it is not to be missed when in Cairns. Discover the island, full of entertainment bound to entertain the whole family! If you’re a tribe with an active lifestyle, you can take the Fitzroy island hike to the lighthouse and enjoy incredible views of the island and surrounding seascapes. You can also stay the night at Fitzroy island and wake up in paradise! Experience sunrise on a peaceful island before the ferries of tourists arrive. With so much to do, there’s no better way to spend a day with the family.
Hop aboard the Skyrail or scenic rail to Kuranda
Kuranda is a beautiful rainforest village teeming with funky stalls that make perfect gifts for family and friends. It is a great place to see some local wildlife, at Birdworld, the butterfly sanctuary and rainforestation! Taking the scenic rail or Skyrail to Kuranda is a memorable experience as you and your family catch sights of Cairns, the rainforest, waterfalls and its incredible landscapes. Kuranda is ideal for families and a fantastic way to explore a unique village during your stay in Cairns.
Things to do with kids during the school holidays in Cairns City
Zipline over a crocodile at the Wildlife dome!
Above the Casino in the heart of Cairns is the Wildlife dome; the world’s first challenge ropes and ziplines over a wildlife park! Cairns Wildlife dome is a family fun experience in the city whilst remaining indoors. Get a selfie with a koala, an absolute must-do experience in Australia and a memory to be made with the family. Cairns Wildlife dome is an opportunity to see birds, reptiles, amphibians and marsupials! And for a more exciting adventure, why not climb the dome and experience 360-degree views of Cairns, Trinity inlet and the Coral sea?
Take a look at all aquatic creatures at the Cairns Aquarium
Want to get up close to a shark?! Have a look through the tanks at the Cairns Aquarium. See rescued turtles in the turtle hospital and experience a guided tour, filled with facts and information about the dangers seas turtles face in the wild. With live diver feeds, marine and animal presentations and a 360 degrees Oceanarium, they is be plenty for you and your family to see. Cairns aquarium has 16,000 aquatic animals, in 9 key ecosystems, and you really don’t want to miss this authentic aquarium experience so close to the Great Barrier Reef!
Muck around at Muddy’s playground
Looking for a children’s playground in Cairns city? Look no further than Muddys playground along the Cairns Esplanade located near the Cairns hospital. Muddy’s playground has a cafe, well-known for its wide range of shakes and juices. So you can keep the children's energy up whilst they play in the playground and parents can indulge in a well-earned coffee at Muddy’s cafe after a long morning keeping the kids busy in Cairns.
Have a chill arvo dip in the Cairns Lagoon
For a quick cool dip in the city, make your way to the Cairns Esplanade, and opposite Mcdonald's, you’ll find the Cairns Lagoon. Equipped with changing rooms, lockers, showers and BBQ facilities, you can easily spend an afternoon here. You can’t swim off the waterfront in Cairns, so the Cairns council have conveniently built a well-maintained pool for everyone to enjoy for free! Revel in the best of Cairns city with a walk along the esplanade and a dip in the pool.
