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7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Cairns

Viewed by 316 travelers

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Cairns, Australia

9:00AM

Breakfast at Caffiend

Start your adventure with a delicious breakfast at Caffiend, known for its inventive menu and fresh coffee.
Caffiend is located in the city centre and is easily reachable by foot.
AUD 60, 1 hour

10:30AM

Cairns Esplanade

Stroll along the scenic Cairns Esplanade, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and all the family-friendly activities available.
Walk down the Esplanade from Caffiend, it's just a short distance away.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Raw Prawn

Enjoy a family lunch at The Raw Prawn, featuring fresh seafood and a stunning view of the Coral Sea.
Located along the Esplanade, just a 5-minute walk from the previous stop.
AUD 120, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Cairns Aquarium

Explore the enchanting underwater world at Cairns Aquarium, making it both educational and entertaining for the whole family.
A quick 10-minute walk from The Raw Prawn.
AUD 100, 2 hours

4:30PM

Take a Family Swim at the Lagoon

Cool off in the iconic Lagoon, a great spot for kids to splash around while parents relax nearby.
Located right next to the Cairns Esplanade.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Dundees on the Waterfront

Wind down with a family dinner at Dundees, which offers a fantastic selection of Australian cuisine and views of the waterfront.
Just a 5-minute walk from the Lagoon.
AUD 150, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Cairns

Day 2: Great Barrier Reef Adventure

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

7:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before setting off for your reef adventure.
Stay in Cairns, most hotels provide breakfast.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Tour

Get ready for an unforgettable day on a family-friendly snorkeling tour, exploring the breathtaking underwater wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.
Meet your tour operators at the Cairns marina, about a 10-minute walk from most hotels.
AUD 500, Full day

12:00PM

Lunch on Board

Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch served on board, with options that cater to all tastes.
Provided by the tour company.
Included in tour cost, 1 hour

3:00PM

Return to Cairns

After a thrilling day in the water, return to Cairns with wonderful memories and experiences to share.
Your tour operator will handle the transportation back.
Included in tour cost, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at Hotel

Unwind at your accommodation, sharing stories of your exciting day.
Return to your hotel from the marina, typically a 10-minute walk.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at the Night Markets

Indulge in dinner at the Cairns Night Markets, with diverse food stalls offering everything from Asian cuisine to local delicacies.
Head to the Cairns Night Markets, a short distance from your hotel.
AUD 100, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventure in Kuranda

Kuranda, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before the day of adventure ahead.
Included at your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Embark on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for stunning views of the rainforest on your way to Kuranda.
Catch transport to the cableway terminal; it's a scenic drive from Cairns about 30 minutes.
AUD 450, 2.5 hours (includes ride and exploration time at Kuranda)

12:00PM

Lunch at Kuranda's Markets

Delight in a relaxed lunch at Kuranda's Markets with various food options available, perfect for the family.
Walk around the market area directly after exploring Kuranda.
AUD 80, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Kuranda Koala Gardens

Meet local wildlife including Koalas and Kangaroos, providing memorable experiences for the kids.
Just a short walk from the markets.
AUD 100, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Return via Kuranda Scenic Railway

Take the scenic railway back to Cairns, enjoying the views of the lush landscape.
Board the train at the Kuranda station.
AUD 450, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Rattle n Hum

Finish off the day with a fun dinner at Rattle n Hum, known for their family-friendly atmosphere and delicious meals.
It's a short ride back to Cairns city from the train station.
AUD 130, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kuranda

Day 4: Exploring Cape Tribulation

Cape Tribulation, Australia

7:00AM

Hotel Breakfast

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel to fuel up for an exciting adventure.
Breakfast is included in your hotel stay.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Cape Tribulation

Take a scenic drive to Cape Tribulation, renowned for its stunning beaches and lush rainforest.
The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours; enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.
AUD 50 (fuel), 3 hours

11:30AM

Explore Cape Tribulation Beach

Discover the pristine beaches and take the opportunity for some family photos.
Free access, once parked you can walk around the beach area.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Cape Trib Beach House

Have a delightful lunch at Cape Trib Beach House with views of the ocean and rainforest.
Located steps from the beach; a short walk.
AUD 120, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Guided Walk through Rainforest

Join a guided walk with a local expert, perfect for spotting wildlife and learning about the unique ecosystem.
Walk from the beach house to your guide's meeting point.
AUD 80, 2 hours

4:30PM

Drive Back to Cairns

Return to Cairns and reminisce about the day's adventure.
Head back the same scenic route, which takes around 2.5 hours.
None, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hemingway’s Brewery

End the day with a hearty dinner at Hemingway’s Brewery, featuring a family-friendly menu with great views.
Located on the marina, just a quick drive from the Cairns city centre.
AUD 130, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Cape Tribulation

Day 5: Daintree Rainforest Excursion

Daintree, Australia

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast at your hotel, gearing up for another magical day.
Breakfast is included.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Daintree Rainforest

Venture out to the Daintree Rainforest, one of the oldest rainforests in the world.
Approximate drive time is 2 hours.
AUD 50 (fuel), 2 hours

11:00AM

Guided Daintree River Cruise

Experience a stunning river cruise, looking for crocodiles and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Meet your guide at the riverbank upon arrival.
AUD 150, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Daintree Village

Stop for lunch at one of the cafes in Daintree Village to reenergize for more exploration.
Short drive into Daintree Village.
AUD 80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Mossman Gorge

Enjoy a visit to Mossman Gorge, where you can take a scenic walk through the rainforest trails.
It's about a 30-minute drive from Daintree Village.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Drive Back to Cairns

Wrap up your rainforest excursion and head back to Cairns.
Return via the same route, approximately 1.5-2 hours.
None, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Villa Romana

Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at Villa Romana for a lovely dinner out.
Located in Cairns, just a short drive from your hotel.
AUD 130, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Daintree

Day 6: Family Fun on the Esplanade

Cairns, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe de Panama

Grab breakfast at Cafe de Panama, featuring hearty meals to start your day.
A nice walk along the Esplanade from your hotel.
AUD 70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Cairns Esplanade Markets

Explore the vibrant Esplanade Markets for local arts, crafts, and unique souvenirs.
Located along the Esplanade, just a short distance away.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bagus Cafe

Enjoy a casual lunch at Bagus Cafe while enjoying the stunning views of the Esplanade.
Just a short stroll from the markets.
AUD 80, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome

Get up close and personal with Australian wildlife and enjoy exciting activities at the wildlife dome.
Located a short walk from Bagus Cafe.
AUD 200, 2 hours

4:00PM

Family Games at the Esplanade

Engage in family games and activities available at the Esplanade, including playgrounds and beach games.
Walk to the Esplanade from the wildlife dome.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Fish

Savour fresh seafood at The Fish, a local favourite placed right on the Esplanade.
Located within walking distance from the Esplanade.
AUD 120, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Relax and Departure

Cairns, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Embark on your last day with breakfast at the hotel, soaking in the balmy morning air.
Included at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit to Flecker Botanic Gardens

Stroll through the serene Flecker Botanic Gardens, a perfect way to unwind before departure.
A quick drive or taxi from your hotel.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Chambers

Enjoy a farewell lunch at The Chambers, located on the Esplanade, a great place to reminisce about the trip.
Short distance from the Botanic Gardens by car; allow about 15 minutes.
AUD 120, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Spend some time shopping for souvenirs before your departure, ensuring you have memories to take home.
Browse shops along the Esplanade area.
Variable, 1 hour

3:30PM

Depart for Airport

Conclude your family adventure as you make your way to the airport for departure.
Drive or take a shuttle to Cairns Airport, allowing 20 minutes.
Variable, 1 hour
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