Find the best of Australia’s, if not the world’s, best water-based experiences and swimming spots in Cairns, with a seemingly endless amount of aquatic fun to be had - from the obvious to the surprising water activities - all year round.

If your holiday style is more ‘get up and go’ then ‘move slow’, this is all you need to know about the best adventures to be had in and around Cairns.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night spot, to get a different perspective on local native wildlife in the dark, or to sip on a tropical cocktail in one of the destination’s coolest bars and watering holes, Cairns doesn’t disappoint past dusk.

From the chillers to the adventurers and water obsessed, Cairns has something to offer all types of travellers for your next family getaway.

As a romantic hot spot, the allure of Cairns is undeniable, with secluded waterfalls, world-class dining and stunning sunsets making for it the perfect destination for a sojourn for two.

Backed by 20+ years calling this “holiday playground” home, local Glen Macdonald knows a thing or two about Cairns. He shares his “best of” secrets in this expert guide.