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7-Day Family Friendly Cairns Adventure

Tuesday, December 12: Arrival in Cairns

Welcome to Cairns! Start your adventure by checking into your hotel and exploring the city at your own pace. Take a leisurely stroll along the Esplanade, a waterfront promenade lined with parks, playgrounds, and barbecue areas. In the afternoon, visit the Cairns Aquarium to discover the amazing marine life of the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy a relaxing evening walk along the Marlin Marina, admiring the beautiful boats and waterfront views.

  • Esplanade: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Cairns Aquarium: Estimated cost: $32 per adult, $16 per child, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Marlin Marina: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 13: Snorkelling at Green Island

Immerse yourself in the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef with a full-day snorkelling trip to Green Island. Take a boat from Cairns and spend the morning exploring the vibrant coral gardens and swimming among tropical fish. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the island before continuing your snorkelling adventure in the afternoon. Return to Cairns in the evening and relax at your hotel.

  • Green Island Snorkelling Tour: Estimated cost: $85 per adult, $43 per child, Time spent: Full day
Thursday, December 14: Kuranda Rainforest Experience

Embark on a journey to the picturesque village of Kuranda, nestled in the rainforest. Take the historical Kuranda Scenic Railway to enjoy breathtaking views as the train winds through lush mountains. Explore the Kuranda Village, visit the Butterfly Sanctuary, and learn about indigenous culture at the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. Return to Cairns via the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, gliding above the treetops. In the evening, unwind at your hotel or take a stroll on the Esplanade.

  • Kuranda Scenic Railway: Estimated cost: $50 per adult, $25 per child, Time spent: Half day
  • Kuranda Village, Butterfly Sanctuary, and Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park: Estimated cost: $80 per adult, $40 per child, Time spent: Half day
  • Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: Estimated cost: $55 per adult, $28 per child, Time spent: Half day
Friday, December 15: White Water Rafting on the Tully River

Get your adrenaline pumping with a thrilling white water rafting adventure on the Tully River. Join a guided tour and navigate through exciting rapids, surrounded by stunning rainforest scenery. Enjoy a riverside lunch and capture memorable photos of your rafting experience. Return to Cairns in the afternoon and relax at your hotel or explore the city further.

  • Tully River White Water Rafting: Estimated cost: $179 per adult, $139 per child, Time spent: Full day
Saturday, December 16: Great Barrier Reef Cruise

Embark on a full-day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's natural wonders. Explore vibrant coral reefs, snorkel among colorful fish, and discover the rich marine life. Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch on board the cruise and learn about the reef's ecosystem through informative presentations. Return to Cairns in the evening and relax at your hotel.

  • Great Barrier Reef Cruise: Estimated cost: $200 per adult, $100 per child, Time spent: Full day
Sunday, December 17: Water Sports at Palm Cove

Head to Palm Cove, a beautiful beachside village just a short drive from Cairns. Spend the morning swimming, sunbathing, or building sandcastles on the pristine beach. In the afternoon, try out various water activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, or jet skiing. Pamper yourself with a relaxing spa treatment or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the beachfront restaurants. Return to Cairns in the evening and rest at your hotel.

  • Palm Cove Beach: Free, Time spent: Half day
  • Water Sports (prices vary depending on activity): Estimated cost: $30-100 per person, Time spent: Half day
Monday, December 18: Rainforest Nature Park and Wildlife Experience

Spend your last day exploring the beauty of the rainforest at the Rainforestation Nature Park. Take an amphibious Army Duck tour to discover the flora and fauna of the area. Learn about indigenous culture at the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience, and cuddle cute Australian wildlife at the Koala and Wildlife Park. Enjoy a buffet lunch in the park before returning to Cairns. In the evening, take a relaxing stroll along the Esplanade and soak up the atmosphere.

  • Rainforestation Nature Park: Estimated cost: $63 per adult, $32 per child, Time spent: Half day

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you have some extra time, consider visiting the Crystal Cascades, a series of stunning waterfalls and swimming holes nestled in the rainforest. The whole family will enjoy cooling off in the refreshing waters. Another local favorite is the Cairns Botanic Gardens, a tranquil oasis showcasing a diverse range of tropical plants. Kids will love the playground and the chance to spot wildlife such as butterflies and birds. Don't forget to check out the Night Markets on the Esplanade for unique souvenirs and delicious street food.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

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