Cairns Best Secrets

Esplanade Lagoon

Why not take advantage of the free BBQ facilities right next to the lagoon. Pick up a BBQ pack at Wooolies and have a great cheap night under the stars with a few friends. It’s not too shabby during the day either.

Soak it up!

Rustys Markets – Get the freshest and cheapest fruit and vegetable in Cairns. Rustys markets run from 6am to 6pm on Friday and 6am to 2pm Saturday and Sunday. Located on Grafton st beside Gilligans. Local Secret -  the locals get the best bargains around 2pm on Sunday when the markets are closing down.

Starry Night Films In Botanic Gardens – Want to chill out under the stars and enjoy the beautiful weather on your picnic blanket in lush tropical gardens while watching movies? Come to the Botanic Gardens on the third Wednesday of every month for these relaxing film evenings. Tickets are available at the gates which open at 6pm for the crazy cheap price of $10, or $8 for concessions. These film evenings take advantage of the great tropical winter weather running from May until November. Entrances are on Collins ave and Greenslopes st. The red arrow walking tracks are very popular with morning joggers and walkers, winding through the lush tropical hillside of Mt Whitfield right next to the Botanic Gardens. Be sure to check it out!

Crystal Cascades – Crystal cascades is one of those secret spots that the Cairns locals like to keep to themselves. It’s a beautiful swimming hole hidden in a tropical rainforest, fed by a creek that cascades down from the mountains. With picnic tables and toilet facilities it’s very popular in the warm summer months as swimming at the beach can be hazardous due to the marine stingers and jelly fish. Drive to the suburb of Redlynch and simply follow the signs to Crystal Cascades.

Stoney Creek

Cairns Beaches – listed here from the closest beach to the city to further away, these are a must see while you are staying in Cairns.

Port Douglas

Mossman Gorge