8 most romantic things to do in Cairns
When it comes to idyllic holiday destinations made for two, the allure of Cairns is undeniable, with secluded waterfalls, world-class dining and stunning sunsets making for a truly romantic backdrop for your next sojourn.
Cocktails in the pool. Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
Considering a long weekend, honeymoon or a week-long holiday in tropical paradise with the one you love?
One of Australia’s most naturally stunning travel destinations, Tropical North Queensland offers breathtaking beauty fit for endless romantic moments on a getaway you’ll both remember forever.
If you’re looking for the very best ways to wow your special someone in this warm and wonderful oasis, don’t go past these ultra romantic holiday experiences.
Millaa Millaa Falls. Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
EXPLORE A MAGICAL WATERFALL
The waterfalls in the wonderous tropical region that surrounds Cairns rival the very best in the world. Secluded, beautiful, and with many only a short trip from the Cairns CBD, these cascading walls of water offer the perfect place for a stunning swim and an idyllic backdrop for a romantic sojourn. Pack a picnic basket and head out for the day to fly down the natural slide at Josephine Falls, take in the awe-inspiring Millaa Millaa Falls, jump off the rocks into Emerald Creek’s plunge pools, or look for flying foxes at Zillie Falls.
Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
2. SHARE AN UNFORGETTABLE GREAT BARRIER REEF EXPERIENCE
Cairns is known the world over as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef - the world’s largest collection of coral reefs, and a site of remarkable flora and fauna. Sharing the experience of witnessing this spectacular natural wonderland up-close with your loved one is as romantic as it is breathtaking. You can also appreciate the beauty of the reef onboard a boat or try snorkelling or diving for this once-in-a-lifetime experience with your favourite person. Take turns keeping an eye out for the endangered large green turtle, rare whales, dugongs, and giant clams.
Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
3. Savour a wining and dining moment to remember
Cairns is home to some truly romantic restaurants, ensuring dining out on your holiday is an experience, not just a meal. Cairns rivals any of Australia’s big cities for its wide range of food choices inspired from all around the world and made with the freshest Australian ingredients. It’s also probably no surprise that our seafood is some of the best so prawns, oysters, and fresh fish is a must. For a pre-dinner drink with a view, head to the natural wine bar overlooking the bay at our on-site Harbourside Bar & Kitchen. Choose from one of the most extensive wine lists in the region, with more than 900 organic and lo-fi wines. If wine isn’t your thing, there’s also gins, beers, sake, cocktails, and craft beer on offer.
Watching the sunset afloat. Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
4. Embark on a romantic sunset cruise
What could be more romantic than a scenic cruise down the picturesque Barron River at sunset. Step onboard a sunset cruise by The Kuranda Riverboat company, and enjoy a BYO drink and snack while listening to an insightful river talk through the surrounding nature and wildlife at one of the most beautiful times of the day in this part of the world. Cruises operate from May to October.
Sunset drinks in Port Douglas. Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
5. Explore the seaside village of Port Douglas
Day trip your way to the chic and charming town of Port Douglas, an hour’s drive from Cairns, and dip your toe in the azure waters of palm-fringed Four Mile Beach. A popular pitstop for honeymooners and couples, this relaxed hotspot of golden sand beaches, boutique shopping, sunset sailing and waterfront dining is also a great place from which to explore the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree National Park - one of the world’s most biodiverse rainforests.
A run along The Esplanade. Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
6. Walk, scoot, or work out along on The Esplanade
Soak up stunning views of the sparkling Coral Sea as you meander the 2.5km-long Cairns Esplanade boardwalk, stretching along the harbour. With wide pathways and large pedestrianised stretches, you can stroll along at a leisurely pace admiring local wildlife, grabbing a coffee along the way. Or if you want a bit of pace, it makes for a great jogging track. Plus there are public workout stations along the way so if you’re a couple who thinks sweating together means staying together, try a sunrise or sunset outdoor gym session! Or you can hire an e-scooter from Cairns Harbourside Hotel and zoom along in style. Best explored at sunrise, or sunset.
Drinks on the balcony. Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
7. Enjoy sunset drinks on a private balcony
Celebrate a serene moment in paradise on high with your other half, from the privacy of your own private balcony. With every room at Cairns Harbourside Hotel featuring a balcony, a stay here automatically comes with this experience included. Start your day with a delicious room service breakfast on your balcony, or order up some cocktails or wine to share while overlooking views of the hinterland or water.
Love you to the moon and back.
8. Capture the moment & snap a selfie
Take a selfie to capture the moment forever, at Instagrammable locations like The Woven Fish sculpture or the swimming lagoon along The Esplanade. We love love at Cairns Harbourside Hotel, and celebrate with fun and playful neon lights and signs dotted around our lush tropical gardens. Look out for ‘Love you to the moon and back’ and ‘Love’ signs before having a cute stroll around our secret garden with your other half.