Fantastic free pool. Small sand area by the water but mostly surrounded by concrete. Shallow and deep aspects of the pool. Toilets and change rooms close by. Baby change space has no shower/toilet which made cleaning our youngest difficult. Fair amount of shade surrounding the pool. Some free parking in close proximity, but mostly paid parking. Food shops small walking distance away. Coffee shop onsite that sells frequently needed items (sunscreen, hats etc).

Nice public open space. Multiple areas on the grass, picnic seating etc. to sit. Lots of free BBQs too. very nice lagoon style pool with a beach entrance for the kids. There were about 4 lifeguards on duty when we were there too. However, it was packed and so were all of the surrounding areas.

I was this place in mid July 24c-27c from morning to evening It's nice to have swim here for free and very clean swimming pool, there's has locker (limited space), cafe, place for lunch and all the time safe guard sitting around. I recommend bringing picnic mat go there.

First thing or last in the evening. Saturday is water aerobics for free. Showers and toilets next to. Great to have a barbecue on the free gas barbecues. I pick up supplies at Woolworths nearby. A few satay sticks and a Greek salad. Quick and simple. Oil a must. Some fruit from Rusty's markets on the weekend.

We LOOOOVE the lagoon! We came here in the morning and afternoon and loved it every single time. Perfect temperature for adults and children, it looks beautiful and the kids have lots to do (spotting planes/ helicopters, playing in the sand). My 15mo son had the best time here, he was so happy every time we came back.

Very interesting and well built facility for the locals and tourists alike. A huge pool area. Not too deep. Water looks blue and clean. Local parks and picnic areas nearby. Cafe and public toilets as well. Perfect place to take the family for a days outing. Overlooks the bay and the Coral Sea. One of the most picturesque locations in Cairns.

Love this place, it never disappoints. It's always clean and well maintained and even though it's been a number of years since our last visit it was still a reliable spot of entertainment and relaxation. Kids loved it.

Just had its annual clean and ready for winter tourist season. A great place to hang out with friends, take the kids for a safe dip or just grab a coffee and do a bit of sunbathing.

Such a lovely evening spent here strolling and even sampled the Ferris wheel. They were preparing for Cairns festival so we were also privy to a personalised light show. A wonderful way to spend an evening on the esplanade

Awesome idea to have a public lagoon on the waterfront as the beach isn’t usable. Great location close to restaurants/cafes/hotels. There is no fee, you can use the lagoon or sit in the sun for as long as you like. Very family friendly with areas designed for kids and adults. Can get busy, they have bathrooms and lockers near by. We were there during the Cairns festival, so I’m not sure if they have the water and lights going every night during the year. :)

Wonderful clean area to swim and open at night too. Really close to the center of town. Definitely stop here while you’re in town!

What an incredible public space and pool free to use. Super clean and easy to access, life guards on duty and beautiful scenic view out over the ocean. Even for a walk by a must when your in cairns!

Perfect spot to get tanned and enjoy the sun, remember to put some sunscreen on for sure!

🌊 BEAUTIFUL SWIMMING SPOT 🌊 It’s legitimately a man made beach with the cleanness and warmth of a pool. Had such a good time paddling around. Definitely a place to stop at when visiting Cairns

Cairns Lagoon is situated on Cairns Esplanade literally across from shops and restaurants of Cairns. It’s world class with both locals and visitors visiting throughout the year. It’s closed every Wednesday morning and around three weeks in June or July for cleaning and maintenance. The water is chlorinated throughout, the lagoon is free to use and offers everything from swimming in deep water to very shallow water for children. The lagoon is shaped the same as Queensland itself and encompasses changing rooms with toilets and showers, a man made beach with white sand, grassy areas, and free to use BBQ’s - some BBQ’s require booking beforehand. The lagoon is staffed by lifesavers, has a first aid post and a police station. It’s ideal for picnics or there’s plenty of eating places within a 5-10 minute walk. At planned times throughout the week, there are water exercises and dance classes for all ages and abilities that are free to join. If you’re visiting Cairns, the lagoon is a place to visit even if you don’t swim. It’s beautiful to see, walk around and take some gorgeous photographs.

Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is nothing short of a tropical paradise in the heart of the city. The sparkling clear waters invite you for a refreshing dip, and it's perfect for both serious swimmers and casual waders alike. With its well-maintained facilities and lifeguard presence, safety and cleanliness are clearly top priorities. The surrounding views add to the serene experience, making it easy to relax and soak up the sun. Whether you're taking a solo swim or enjoying family time in the water, the lagoon is an ideal spot for locals and tourists to unwind and enjoy the Queensland climate. This place truly deserves its five-star reputation as a must-visit destination in Cairns.

Beautiful and spacious swimming pool. Enjoy swimming late at night and bbq nearby is possible. There are many things to enjoy and restaurants around.

Alright public pools, designed for children but seems everyone can enjoy it. Went during the morning with the kids and they had some fun. Water seemed very questionable, became very noticeable when no one was in the pool. Otherwise maybe worth a visit if not to picky.

The Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is a tropical haven on sunny days, offering a fantastic escape with its inviting waters and scenic surroundings. 🌴 However, my visit took an unexpected turn when rain decided to join the party. The lagoon lost some of its charm during the downpour, with the weather putting a damper on the usual lively atmosphere. While the rain didn't completely ruin the experience, it's worth noting that the lagoon might not be as enjoyable in wet weather. On a sunny day, this place is a dream, but if you catch Cairns on a rainy one, you might want to explore other indoor activities. Nonetheless, the lagoon remains a picturesque spot with a tropical vibe, and it's worth checking out when the weather plays along!

Beautiful crystal-clear water in a swimming lagoon, with barbecues/benches surrounding and plenty of grass/sand/decking to sit and relax on. Toilets available. Great for a swim - water depth varies so shallower sections are perfect for kids - perfect temperature and some shady areas if you get too hot. Lifeguards on duty.

Always number 1 place in cairns for family!! Free picnic Free view Free swim Free relax Free air conditioner(very good temperature in the water)

This place is the best in Cairns. We enjoyed swimming here. Also, there were many free barbecue places nearby.

Gorgeous water lagoon for swimming on Esplanade. Lay out a towel under the numerous shady trees and enjoy a dip in the crystal clear water. Lovely spot for young kids to frolic in the water or dig in the sand. Lifeguards on duty from 6am till late. Coffee and ice creams on offer at the cafe or bring some meat to thrown on the public BBQs. Such a great spot for everyone and you can easily spend hours here.

This rail trip was amazing! We only booked the day before so the Heritage Class was fully booked. We ended up booking return seats in Gold Class, and we were so glad we did. It was comfortable with plenty of room, the food, staff & service were fantastic! We really enjoyed the commentary & hearing about the history of the railway and the views were amazing!! I highly recommend this rail trip to anyone visiting Cairns.

We took the scenic railway back to Cairns from Kuranda Village. I loved the views along the way, especially the waterfalls, hills and sugarcane fields. The afternoon tea treats in the gold class carriage is a nice little comfort after a long day of sightseeing. The service was impeccable too.

I love going to Kuranda. The coaches to get there on the train are 1890’s . The history to build the railway line is quite sad but the engineering is fantastic. Great views . It takes approximately 1.5 hours to get there . Please be aware that if you catch the train or the sky cable car that they are 7 km apart . There was no room on the shuttle bus which can be provided for you so taxi is necessary if you have gone on the car park . The train can go to Freshwater or Cairns . Worth a trip on if you like to see the scenery.

The gold class railroad car was authentic and elegant. There was no air conditioning, but there was a nice breeze from the windows. The views are lovely!

Visited the Kuranda Scenic Railway during our time in Cairns as my partner loves everything trains. I do not normally get excited about spending a day on a train but this was actually an awesome day out. The view off the mountain is stunning. Service was excellent, highly recommend.

I loved the little village and shops. I am vegan, and I had the best veg carry pie there. I love the scenery and listening to history. It was a relaxing tour with beautiful and pleasant staff:-) I loved the butterfly farm too. I needed to spend a night there. Just not enough time. I will have to come back when the skyline is open

Wow, what a stunning and spectacular trip back from Kuranda to Cairns. Beautiful scenery waterfalls and a comfortable ride. We took the skyrail up and return on the scenic railway.Very memorable journey.

It was a pleasant experience, and you could see spectacular sights on the railway. We depart from Kuranda back to Cairns centre. The train will stop by a station called Barron Falls, where you have around 10 minutes to enjoy the view of the platform. The train will pass by a circular trail, which is also impressive.

Absolutely loved this with the whole family. The open cart windows were good and gave a nice breeze. They gave small photo tips and described some of the historic points which was interesting. I would recommend going from the freshwater station to Kuranda (rather than all the way from Cairns). That had water available but would recommend taking some for the trip too.

One of the most stunning train journeys I’ve ever had. Comparable to the one I had through the Alps between Italy and Switzerland, but different one. The vintage train winds slowly up the hill through amazing scenery- waterfalls, rainforest. You also hear commentary about the history of the railway. In the Gold class you receive some drinks and snacks which makes it more enjoyable. Service was lovely. It was one of my highlights in Australia.

Very nice piece of Australian engineering and construction history. 1.5 hours of scenic train riding from Kuranda to Freshwater is great although "the trees don't let you see the forest (!)" for a big portion of that 1.5 hours. Having that said, you get to see some spectacular views from time to time and get familiar with the challenges of such projects, doesn't matter the project was built in the 19th century or modern history!

We did Gold Class to Kuranda in the morning and then Gold Class back to Cairns in the after….. the morning trip was much better than the afternoon…. staff were fresher and more attentive. However the Gold Class trip was worth it for the novelty… the wine and food isn’t that great but overall a good experience. Maybe do Gold Class one way only

We got the sky rail (cable car) up and the scenic railway back. The sky rail was OK... They make you share the cable cars with other passengers (so it gets a little crowded and uncomfortable). The railway was much better, more spaced out and when we were initially advised of our seating, we went to the train to change our seats and got an entire berth to ourselves. Very picturesque and I would recommend a later train as the lighting is better later in the day. Love the train station it is so kitsch.

Train ride was awesome. Scenic. Vintage carriages pulled by a desial engine. Great view of Stoney Creek Falls. Awesome stop off to see Barron Falls. Excellent commentary. Comfortable seats. One and a half hour trip up to Kuranda.

A lovely 1.5 hour trip back down from Kuranda to Cairns. A detailed ‘Trip Guide’ helps you navigate your journey along with a pre-recorded audio tour that plays inside the carriage (some of which were built 100 years ago). There’s a Unisex toilet in each too. The train staff were often walking through the carriages with big smiles on their faces, especially Frances. Can imagine it gets a bit crowded during peak season seen as they fit 4 people to a bench seat inside the carriage. Great photo opportunity at Barron Falls Station, where you can get off when the train makes a quick 10 minute stop. Would recommend adding on to the end of a Skyrail journey. Food and drink are available for a great price on the station platform, particularly good if you don’t have time to wait 30-40 minutes for food at the local restaurant/pub across the street from the station. Would definitely recommend!

Beautiful train ride, was great to stop at Barron Falls and get a really close up look. Learnt some cool fun facts about how it was built and about Cairns in general. Got some great shots of the train and the rainforest. Super cool way to go through the rainforest. Did get kinda boring would recommend doing this on the way back so you can just chill and watch the scenery.

Royal gold class treatment for Mum & walker on the Kurunda Scenic Rail ride back down the mountain to Cairns 👍, Thankyou for making our day out so easy . Just do it

Wonderful experience and the Gold Pass upgrade was very nice! We enjoyed the trek up the mountain via railway. There are recorded historical lessons as you go. What an incredible effort and feat of engineering!

I rode Gold Class on the way up and Heritage on the way down. The snacks and wine on gold class were perfect. I didn't feel the need to spend my time in the village eating. I had more time to shop. Heritage on the 200 on the way down was empty. I had plenty of space. It is a bit hot as you come down the hills slowly. They do provide fans. As a single female traveller I felt safe walking from the hotel to the train station and back. I also felt safe the entire time on the train and in the village. An easy one to to do on your own..

Because of the flooding of December 2023 the train line and most of the hiking roads are closed, but the nature around Kuranda is awesome. At the first stop of the SkyRail don't miss the little tour, especially if you have the luck that Chanel is the Ranger who is showing around. Thank you Chanel for the clear, informative explanations filled with enthusiasm.

Highly recommended. If you do nothing else in Cairns, do this trip. The Scenic Railway was absolutely amazing. We booked the Gold Class hoping it was air conditioned, but it isn't, though the air was reasonably cool due to the early start. It's bottomless drinks (including beer, wine, bubbly) limited only by how quickly the one waiter can serve you, and the nibblies served are top shelf (macadamias and good cheese cheese, and ice cream). The highlight is the views of the train whenever it turns, and the views from the stops (Barron Falls lookout is awesome). If you're lucky, you'll spot a blue butterfly from the train. We drove to Cairns Central, and it's not well signposted. Basically, park in the shopping centre carpark, go up to level 1 and walk across the rooftop carpark to get to the train station. Validate your licence plate for free parking. Return by the Scenic Skyrail wasn't as impressive, but you get different stops with more rainforest scenery. Kuranda itself was a little underwhelming. I kinda feel sorry for the shop owners.

We did the scenic railway for our return trip from Kuranda. The train was comfortable. The commentary on the way was very informative. Enjoyed the stop at Barron Gorge and the scenery was amazing.

Fantastic free pool. Small sand area by the water but mostly surrounded by concrete. Shallow and deep aspects of the pool. Toilets and change rooms close by. Baby change space has no shower/toilet which made cleaning our youngest difficult. Fair amount of shade surrounding the pool. Some free parking in close proximity, but mostly paid parking. Food shops small walking distance away. Coffee shop onsite that sells frequently needed items (sunscreen, hats etc).

Nice public open space. Multiple areas on the grass, picnic seating etc. to sit. Lots of free BBQs too. very nice lagoon style pool with a beach entrance for the kids. There were about 4 lifeguards on duty when we were there too. However, it was packed and so were all of the surrounding areas.

I was this place in mid July 24c-27c from morning to evening It's nice to have swim here for free and very clean swimming pool, there's has locker (limited space), cafe, place for lunch and all the time safe guard sitting around. I recommend bringing picnic mat go there.

First thing or last in the evening. Saturday is water aerobics for free. Showers and toilets next to. Great to have a barbecue on the free gas barbecues. I pick up supplies at Woolworths nearby. A few satay sticks and a Greek salad. Quick and simple. Oil a must. Some fruit from Rusty's markets on the weekend.

We LOOOOVE the lagoon! We came here in the morning and afternoon and loved it every single time. Perfect temperature for adults and children, it looks beautiful and the kids have lots to do (spotting planes/ helicopters, playing in the sand). My 15mo son had the best time here, he was so happy every time we came back.

Very interesting and well built facility for the locals and tourists alike. A huge pool area. Not too deep. Water looks blue and clean. Local parks and picnic areas nearby. Cafe and public toilets as well. Perfect place to take the family for a days outing. Overlooks the bay and the Coral Sea. One of the most picturesque locations in Cairns.

Love this place, it never disappoints. It's always clean and well maintained and even though it's been a number of years since our last visit it was still a reliable spot of entertainment and relaxation. Kids loved it.

Just had its annual clean and ready for winter tourist season. A great place to hang out with friends, take the kids for a safe dip or just grab a coffee and do a bit of sunbathing.

Such a lovely evening spent here strolling and even sampled the Ferris wheel. They were preparing for Cairns festival so we were also privy to a personalised light show. A wonderful way to spend an evening on the esplanade

Awesome idea to have a public lagoon on the waterfront as the beach isn’t usable. Great location close to restaurants/cafes/hotels. There is no fee, you can use the lagoon or sit in the sun for as long as you like. Very family friendly with areas designed for kids and adults. Can get busy, they have bathrooms and lockers near by. We were there during the Cairns festival, so I’m not sure if they have the water and lights going every night during the year. :)

Wonderful clean area to swim and open at night too. Really close to the center of town. Definitely stop here while you’re in town!

What an incredible public space and pool free to use. Super clean and easy to access, life guards on duty and beautiful scenic view out over the ocean. Even for a walk by a must when your in cairns!

Perfect spot to get tanned and enjoy the sun, remember to put some sunscreen on for sure!

🌊 BEAUTIFUL SWIMMING SPOT 🌊 It’s legitimately a man made beach with the cleanness and warmth of a pool. Had such a good time paddling around. Definitely a place to stop at when visiting Cairns

Cairns Lagoon is situated on Cairns Esplanade literally across from shops and restaurants of Cairns. It’s world class with both locals and visitors visiting throughout the year. It’s closed every Wednesday morning and around three weeks in June or July for cleaning and maintenance. The water is chlorinated throughout, the lagoon is free to use and offers everything from swimming in deep water to very shallow water for children. The lagoon is shaped the same as Queensland itself and encompasses changing rooms with toilets and showers, a man made beach with white sand, grassy areas, and free to use BBQ’s - some BBQ’s require booking beforehand. The lagoon is staffed by lifesavers, has a first aid post and a police station. It’s ideal for picnics or there’s plenty of eating places within a 5-10 minute walk. At planned times throughout the week, there are water exercises and dance classes for all ages and abilities that are free to join. If you’re visiting Cairns, the lagoon is a place to visit even if you don’t swim. It’s beautiful to see, walk around and take some gorgeous photographs.

Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is nothing short of a tropical paradise in the heart of the city. The sparkling clear waters invite you for a refreshing dip, and it's perfect for both serious swimmers and casual waders alike. With its well-maintained facilities and lifeguard presence, safety and cleanliness are clearly top priorities. The surrounding views add to the serene experience, making it easy to relax and soak up the sun. Whether you're taking a solo swim or enjoying family time in the water, the lagoon is an ideal spot for locals and tourists to unwind and enjoy the Queensland climate. This place truly deserves its five-star reputation as a must-visit destination in Cairns.

Beautiful and spacious swimming pool. Enjoy swimming late at night and bbq nearby is possible. There are many things to enjoy and restaurants around.

Alright public pools, designed for children but seems everyone can enjoy it. Went during the morning with the kids and they had some fun. Water seemed very questionable, became very noticeable when no one was in the pool. Otherwise maybe worth a visit if not to picky.

The Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is a tropical haven on sunny days, offering a fantastic escape with its inviting waters and scenic surroundings. 🌴 However, my visit took an unexpected turn when rain decided to join the party. The lagoon lost some of its charm during the downpour, with the weather putting a damper on the usual lively atmosphere. While the rain didn't completely ruin the experience, it's worth noting that the lagoon might not be as enjoyable in wet weather. On a sunny day, this place is a dream, but if you catch Cairns on a rainy one, you might want to explore other indoor activities. Nonetheless, the lagoon remains a picturesque spot with a tropical vibe, and it's worth checking out when the weather plays along!

Beautiful crystal-clear water in a swimming lagoon, with barbecues/benches surrounding and plenty of grass/sand/decking to sit and relax on. Toilets available. Great for a swim - water depth varies so shallower sections are perfect for kids - perfect temperature and some shady areas if you get too hot. Lifeguards on duty.

Always number 1 place in cairns for family!! Free picnic Free view Free swim Free relax Free air conditioner(very good temperature in the water)

This place is the best in Cairns. We enjoyed swimming here. Also, there were many free barbecue places nearby.

Gorgeous water lagoon for swimming on Esplanade. Lay out a towel under the numerous shady trees and enjoy a dip in the crystal clear water. Lovely spot for young kids to frolic in the water or dig in the sand. Lifeguards on duty from 6am till late. Coffee and ice creams on offer at the cafe or bring some meat to thrown on the public BBQs. Such a great spot for everyone and you can easily spend hours here.

Very impressive. Exceptional staff, friendly and very helpful. The gardens are very well maintained and easy to walk around with plenty of well defined paths. Lots of signs indicating plant types. Cafe is great, set in amazing location, very peaceful with lots of room. Highly recommended.

Visiting the Cairns Botanic Gardens was an absolute delight! This tranquil oasis tucked away in Cairns offers a perfect retreat for nature lovers. From the moment I stepped foot inside, I was captivated by the beauty and serenity that enveloped the entire place. The gardens were meticulously maintained, impressively clean, and showcased a diverse array of flora and fauna. As I strolled along the well-manicured pathways, I couldn't help but marvel at the stunning variety of plants and trees from tropical rainforests, native Australian species, and even exotic displays from different parts of the world. The sheer beauty and vibrancy of the botanical wonders were a sight to behold. The staff at Cairns Botanic Gardens deserve special commendation for their dedication and knowledge. Their passion for horticulture was evident as they shared insightful information about the different plant species, their origins, and their significance in the ecosystem. Their enthusiasm was infectious, making the visit even more enriching. The garden's layout was well-planned, ensuring a seamless flow from one section to another. There were plenty of benches and shaded areas, providing ample opportunities to relax, reflect, and soak in the peaceful ambiance. Additionally, the garden's accessibility and well-maintained amenities, including clean restroom facilities, were greatly appreciated. Whether you're a botany enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a serene escape, the Cairns Botanic Gardens should be at the top of your must-visit list. It's an idyllic place to connect with nature, unwind, and rejuvenate your senses. The tranquil atmosphere and the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings make it a truly unforgettable experience. I highly recommend visiting the Cairns Botanic Gardens during your stay in Cairns. It's a haven of natural wonders and a testament to the incredible biodiversity of this region. Prepare to be awe-inspired by the botanical treasures that await you!.

Huge gardens with prehistoric looking plants, massive variety of species and a beautiful greenhouse to walk through as well. I love that they have a cafe on the grounds too. Follow the trails and you discover a new path each time, almost like a maze.

The Cairns Botanic Gardens offer a serene escape with their diverse array of flowers and plants, thoughtfully arranged to create a peaceful atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll among the trees and vibrant flora, and be sure to stop by the charming cafe for a delightful cup of coffee. If you're looking for a family-friendly adventure, the Red Arrow Circuit is a must-try, offering a relaxed trail that winds through Flecker Garden and the base of Mount Whitfield. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply seeking tranquility, this botanical oasis is a must-visit in tropical Queensland. 🌺🌿 🎟️ Free

The Botanical Gardens is located in Edge Hill in Cairns. The gardens are expansive with lots of beautiful plants to learn about and photograph. A visit to the information centre and conservatory is a must, it is located in the centre of the Gardens and is easily accessible for all to enjoy. The large variety of colourful orchids and bromeliads is amazing. Insect repellent is needed but other than that a great place to visit in Cairns.

On Collins Avenue between Edge Hill and Sheridan Street. A free entry park with plenty of free parking and many ♿️ wheelchair parks. Open 7 days a week from 07:30 to 17:30 with a restaurant and Cafe both open 07:00 to 16:30. This is a beautiful gardens to visit. There are water fountains stationed around the park and plenty of benches to rest at. Suggest you carry a water bottle, insect repellent during the wetter months and wear a good broad brim hat. You could easily spend an hour or two here.

Stunning Botanical Gardens. Lush, vibrant, interesting. Loved it & walked all of it. Cafe had good GF choices. Then did Tank's walk as well. Such a great area. Worth a visit.

One of the best and biggest Botanic Gardens I have visited. I enjoyed spending the afternoon here and admiring a lot of interesting flowers and plants. Some of them look weird but still beautiful :)

Amazing gardens. So serene and lovely. Very well maintained. You just keep walking getting lost in its beauty. Peaceful place Dont forget to do the rainforest boardwalk across the road and check out the gardens there too, it was perfect. Bring some bug spray though.

Loved, loved, loved these gardens. Went on my visit in April 2021. Trees, shrubs, plants and bugs were amazing. Would go every day if I lived in Cairns. So much to see and forever changing with the seasons.

Very beautiful gardens! My wife and I did a macro photography tour around the gardens and saw a ton of cool little bugs and creatures as well as beautiful plants. It was not crowded when we were but it was a weekday morning. Definitely worth a visit.

One of the best botanic gardens i have seen. Need a day to explore all the gardens. Flecker gardens was amazing. Be wary of mosquito's. Apply enough mosquito repellent before entering the gardens.

This place was really eye opening. I didn't realise these gardens were so large. It was really beautiful. The trees were so tall. It was more of a rainforest than anything. There were coffee shops to drop in for a snack or meal. Tours if you wanted a more in depth look. Plenty of parking and .ore shops nearby if you wanted to grab lunch.

Lovely gardens and tropical forestation. Very interesting tropical forest highlighting indigenous food and medicinal applications. Tank Cafe is awesome...very well run, lovely food and revitalising fruit smoothies to die for.

Varied and fascinating gardens with shaded pathways, grass lawns, lakes and boardwalk. Particularly enjoyed the conservatory - though there was a snake in there with us so be alert! Loved looking at the butterflies. Maps and directions can be unclear (we spotted a few misleading arrows) and we saw a couple of big fern branches fall off trees and onto the paths, so be aware of where you’re walking or one might fall on you.

One of Cairns great visits, either the first thing or last thing you do before venturing back home or if you’re a local either way this place is full of shades and botanical beauty of the north. Within the parks there are many walking and hiking paths from easy half day hang outs to much harder gradients towards higher peaks, there is a cafe, a visitor centre, community space, nearby arts centre (Tanks), and plenty of parking spaces. If you’re visiting there is a local public transport to get you there or a lazy 30-40 minute walk from Cairns central. Be sure to give yourselves at least half a day to visit, bring your cameras and drinks lots of water! The sceneries can vary depending on what trails you take or if you prefer a catch up at the cafe is also nice place to relax and take in the local surroundings…

An expansive and beautiful garden to visit whilst in Cairns. There’s a butterfly sanctuary towards the middle, and numerous walkways throughout the park to explore. A great place to take photos of lots of spiders within the park too!

The most beautiful botanic gardens I have been to. So tropical and clean and just stunning. Really well maintained. Perfect place to chill out and explore

Stopped here on our FNQ holiday and it was amazing. I’ve been to a fair few gardens and this is probably my favourite. Love the walk below the giant paperbarks and the swamp lands, let a couple favourite botanists, and the gift shop was pretty cool too. Highly recommend a visit! And also recommend some mosquito repellent!

It's always a joy to visit the Cairns Botanical Gardens. They have a wonderful variety of flowers and plants, it is well set out and extremely peaceful. There are beautiful walks among the trees and a lovely cafe to sit down and enjoy a cup of coffee. I would highly recommend visiting this place if you enjoy tropical Queensland flora.

Absolutely beautiful collection for a free botanic garden. They have a particularly robust section on indigenous Australian plant usage which is amazing. The Malvaceae, such as the Chocolate and Ceiba are also particular highlights. The Araceae collection is almost unparalleled with several plants that even a trained botanist could not recognize. Some of the labels are a bit outdated, but for Plant lovers an absolute must in Cairns. Plus it's free.

What a lovely place. We didn't do all of it and were there about an hour walking through the trails. It's free too. Probably not easy to park if it's busy.

Beautiful spot to wander around or sit and chill. Only saw part of the whole place so will be visiting again. Treat yourself to a slice of the lemon and lime cheesecake at the cafe!

Skip the tourist traps and check out this free nature experience. Easy to get to from central Cairns, just hop on Bus 131. Lots of different environments and a bunch of educational displays along the way.

Check in was a breeze and plenty of room on the boat. Very slow journey to island which seemed to take forever. Disappointed with how I was spoken to by one of the older members of the crew. If the commentary is not loud enough to hear, then expect questions from your guests. Lunch was absolutely delicious and we had a nice day on the island. Saw a lot of fish near the jetty area but not as many or the variety I have seen on other Great Barrier Reef tours. Worth doing this tour if you haven't done others previously.

Amazing day out! A must do! Limited seating in bar area and restaurant does good only. Snorkelling under the pier is amazing

What a great day for the family while visiting cairns, the weather was great and the visibility was fantastic. The whole process from boarding, getting snorkelling equipment, disembarking on to the island, was so polished, all the staff were fantastic. We chose green island for the three kids as we didn’t know how they would go on a boat tour, but they had a ball and we’re snorkelling for 3 hours, best snorkeling was halfway past the jetty lots of fish and coral 🪸 Lunch was delicious and glad we paid the extra for it. Worth the visit!

$130 for the ticket, free use of snorkel gear and lunch incl. the check in process was quite smooth, you get your snorkel gear soon as you’re on board. Gotta provide something for deposit, money or license etc. 40min ride to green island,l. We saw a turtle as soon as we got off the boat, the pier is quite long. You’ll be told about which beach has the life guards etc. there are beach chairs and umbrellas, $40 to hire to the resort and a little stall there for snacks. The staff on the boat were lovely and the lunch was delicious! The reef was mostly dead but saw a lot of fish

The wonderful friendly staff provided everything one would need if feeling sea sick along with great advice to best navigate Green Island. They advised great swimming places and times to ensure we saw not only the beautiful varieties of fish but where to swim with turtles and reef sharks!!! Bradley was an amazing host.

Booked at the office during the day. They got our booking wrong so we’re lucky to get on a boat out there. The day we sailed our boat was being repaired so everyone was move to a different boat/company. It was a bit a shambles on the wharf with no staff members explaining the changes, relying on tradies working on the boats to suggest another dock. A staff member on the wharf would have really helped us and others. Green island was nice but the snorkeling off the beach was pretty ordinary. Enough for Mr 6 & 9 to enjoy their first experience but not enough fish to see that they were blown away. As an adult it was fun to introduce my kids to snokeling but think I would have had to venture a long way out to be impressed myself. Wife and youngest son when to the Crocodile park, beware it costs extra, and they were creeped out. They found all the decorations “creepy” and felt the enclosures weren’t as secure as other places we have been.

What a great way to celebrate a birthday! The family loved the experience snorkelling with a black reef tip shark, stingrays, an octopus and cute nemos! The Marine Bio onboard the semi sub was so knowledgeable and had some great information for the children onboard, pointing out all the marine life and making learning about the GBR fun! We enjoyed the healthy lunch and the crew onboard, thank you team Big Cat. See you again very soon :)

Lovely island with great snorkeling experience. We did the half day cruise and that was enough for the experience. If you want more and time to sunbathe etc take the full day. The sea colours are amazing and the coral and fish great to see. There's also turtles further out which will really make your day if you see one. Wish we had an underwater camera.

Booked the full day green island tour with snorkel gear and vest included. There were locker facilities on the boat. We upgraded to sea safari snorkel after chatting with the Marine Biologist on boat. It was a great experience and could see the corals, fishes and tortoise. The sea was rough and caused a bit of motion sickness. Suggest the ginger pills, we were offered free ones on the boat. The safari tour guide was friendly and she even showed us the Sea cucumber during our snorkel. The safari lasted an hour. Island is small and easy to cover the full trek in short time. The food on the island is expensive and would recommend packing if required. We didn’t find snorkelling at the shallow water appealing(2 adults) since it was majority sea grass. Instead , the sea safari with the crew was indeed impressive.

We had an awesome time visiting Green island. Even though it was an over cast day, there was still lots of snorkeling to be done and heaps of turtles to be seen! We had paid a little extra on the boat for a snorkel safari and it was worth every minute! We took a boat out on the reef and 50 min+ of snorkeling with our marine biologist guide who love loved LOVED her job. We saw clown fish, coral soft and hard, sea turtle feeding and the reef teaming with sea life. The boat ride was comfortable, toilets were clean and staff very helpful. Do it! You will not regret it!

Big cat green island Reef cruises are one of the best reef trip cruises in the town. Friendly staff amazing lunch. The cruise was very comfortable and not too crowded. We have tried glass bottom tour, mini submarine both of them are amazing. They feed the fish in middle of the ocean. That’s so amazing and also you get to see the most amazing reefs in the mini submarine. I haven’t tried the snorkeling safari but we brought snorkeling gear and tired ourselves to go around the reefs.

My family (2 elementary school students and mom and dad) visited Cairns at the end of May 2022. I experienced Green Island tour as an outdoor activity. Traveled peacefully, arrived and snorkeling in the sea of Green Island and strolled along the beach!!! Green Island is such a wonderful place and there are many clean and wonderful corals in the sea!!! So, We ate the onboard lunch buffet and was satisfied! After lunch, we boarded another small boat and went to see dolphins and corals in the sea. It was such a wonderful experience!!! Our family was very satisfied and happy with this Green Island cruise trip! I highly recommend it to all of you!!!👍

Awesome playground - only went to the side suited for tots - preschoolers! Our little boy had a blast - esp. in the water play. Closed for cleaning tues & thurs prior to 11am for water play just fyi. Cafe is situation in middle of park - choose a table and scan QR code to book food. Much better than other cafes in cairns area!

Wonderful place to take children of all ages. Suitable from babies to big primary school kids. Lots of shade, lots of picnic tables and places to sit. Safety gated off from the road. Traditional fun interactive playground, and also water play areas.

Great place on the Esplanade especially for children with lots of apparatus and activities. it also has an area with water activities etc.

Free, huge and very fun playground - it has three sections and has a bit of everything for everybody, even for the mum and dad and the grandparents, as it has a cafe in the middle. The entire playground was very well shaded, making it very pleasant during hot Summer days. Our kids had a blast in the water play area.

An outstanding public facility for kids to play. A mix of water fountains and play equipment. A credit to Cairns Council for keeping this so clean and so family friendly! Great cafe on site too

What a great place! Our toddlers loved it and so did we. Water play, playgrounds, lots of shade and even a yummy cafe near by.

Fantastic place to take the kids for water play, its broken up into several different play areas and has lots of shade created by the trees and shade sails. The kids loved it! We've visited several times while on holiday here.

It is fabulous playground. It has so many interesting equipment and also water play area that is really good for nice weather. Near the playground is a great cafe with see overlook and yummy food.

Such an amazing playground. 3 different play area for different ages and 2 water play area. Loved that is fenced. One star off because the ground is some kind of brown dirt that is hard to remove from kiddo's feet/clothes.

カフェに隣接する公園。楽しそうな遊具が充実しています。ケアンズ観光時に、朝の散歩とカフェに行くときに訪問しました。 (Translated by Google) A park adjacent to the cafe. There are plenty of fun toys. I visited this place when I was sightseeing in Cairns, taking a morning walk and going to a cafe.

Many different areas for kids to play all with one gorgeous view! The play equipment is all in great condition and there are many an employee about who are tending to the landscaping and cleanliness of the Esplanade There are public bathrooms and showers available along with a water play area for little ones. Overall a wonderful place to take the family for some time together.

I wish more cities had this type of infrastructure and family friendly facilities. This is the best playground I've ever been to. The kids absolutely loved it especially the water play areas.

Such an awesome park. I loved how there were different sections so if you have a younger or older child child it cratered for both. There is a water play area too which was lots of fun.

Muddy’s playground is a gem – free, expansive, and incredibly enjoyable. It caters to everyone, including parents who can relax at Muddy’s Cafe situated in the midst of the fun. Playground’s well-shaded design adds to the pleasure, ensuring a delightful experience even on hot summer days. Additionally, the water play area is a fantastic touch. My kid thoroughly relished the visit, making it a must-visit for families seeking both entertainment and comfort.

Great place for the kids. Super tidy and clean. Came for an hour or two stayed for over 3. Cafe is good too.

What a fun place to bring your kids on a hot day! We took our one year old and she had a blast even though she wasn't walking yet. There's so many different water fountains/jets that it didn't feel crowded and provided multiple options. Will definitely go again!