👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Fun in Cairns

Adventures for all ages, memories for a lifetime.

Family Fun in Cairns

  • The Cairns Lagoon is patrolled by lifeguards and free to use year-round
  • Many Great Barrier Reef tours offer flotation aids and family discounts
  • Muddy’s Playground on the Esplanade is one of Australia’s best free playgrounds
  • The Kuranda Scenic Railway is pram-friendly and perfect for young explorers
  • Crystal Cascades is a calm freshwater swimming spot with a shaded walking track
  • Tablelands farms offer strawberry picking, chocolate tastings, and fun animal encounters
  • Wildlife parks around Cairns offer koala photos, crocodile shows and interactive talks

Cairns is packed with things to do that the whole family will love. From safe swimming spots and animal encounters to nature walks, reef tours and playgrounds, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy Tropical North Queensland with kids in tow. Here’s your guide to the most family-friendly fun in the region.

🐢 Visit the Great Barrier Reef with Kids

Snorkelling, glass bottom boat rides, and fish-feeding sessions make reef trips fun and accessible for children of all ages. Many operators offer special equipment, stinger suits, and flotation aids to help young adventurers explore the reef safely.

Explore Family Reef Tours

🦘 Wildlife Encounters

Meet koalas, kangaroos, crocodiles and more at Cairns’ best wildlife parks and animal sanctuaries. Hand-feed wallabies, watch croc shows, or take a photo with a koala — unforgettable moments for little ones.

Discover Wildlife Parks & Zoos

💦 Cool Off at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

Right in the heart of the city, the Cairns Lagoon is a family favourite. Safe for swimming and surrounded by shaded lawns, water play areas and BBQs, it’s the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon.

Visit the Cairns Esplanade

🚂 Ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway

Take the kids on a magical rainforest train journey to the village of Kuranda. With waterfalls, tunnels, and spectacular views along the way, it’s a relaxing and scenic trip that the whole family will enjoy.

Plan Your Kuranda Day Trip

🍓 Farm Visits and Ice Cream Stops

Head out to the Atherton Tablelands for farm gates, fruit tastings and the famous Daintree Ice Cream Co. From strawberry picking to chocolate factories, this is a sweet day out for the whole crew.

Explore Tablelands Day Trips

🌴 Nature Walks and Swimming Holes

Enjoy easy nature trails through the rainforest, take a dip at Crystal Cascades or splash about at Babinda Boulders. These scenic spots are perfect for families looking for a gentle adventure in nature.

See Waterfalls & Swimming Spots

🎠 Parks, Playgrounds and Free Fun

Cairns is filled with playgrounds, open spaces, and free events for families. Don’t miss Muddy’s Playground, Rusty’s Markets, and the free fitness sessions along the Esplanade.

Free Things To Do in Cairns

❓ 5 Family Travel FAQs

Is Cairns suitable for young children and toddlers?
Absolutely! With calm swimming areas, fun playgrounds, nature walks, and family-friendly reef tours, Cairns is a wonderful destination for kids of all ages.

Are there reef tours suitable for children who can’t swim?
Yes. Many tours include glass-bottom boat rides, semi-submersibles and flotation devices so that even non-swimmers can enjoy the magic of the reef.

What’s the best place for a family swim in Cairns?
The Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is perfect — it’s safe, patrolled, and free. Crystal Cascades and Babinda Boulders are also great options with natural pools.

Are there free things to do with kids in Cairns?
Definitely! Enjoy free playgrounds, local markets, water play zones, and Esplanade events like fitness classes and movies in the park.

What should we pack for a family day out in Cairns?
Bring sunhats, reef-safe sunscreen, swimwear, insect repellent, reusable water bottles, towels, and a change of clothes — and don’t forget snacks!

🎒 Make the Most of Family Time

Cairns makes it easy to spend quality time together in nature. With so much to see and do, it’s the perfect destination for an unforgettable family holiday.

Helpful Information