Cairns Things to Do Tips by grkboiler

Frankland Islands

Frankland Islands Cruise & Dive runs a great tour to the uninhabited Frankland Islands. These islands are part of a national park and are located off the coast a short drive south of Cairns. It was a small group of about 100 and was mostly families - I was the only person travelling alone.

There are 2 accessible islands - Normanby and Mabel. The islands were paradise. The beach is beautiful, there is good snorkeling, and there is plenty to explore on your own. Lunch was excellent and was served by the Red Ochre Grill.

This tour is perfect for people with small children or for people who just want to relax. It cost about AU$140 for an adult, $70 for a child, or a package of $350 for a family of 2 adults and 2 children. For a little extra, they will drop you off at Russell Island and leave you there overnight for a camping trip - but you will have to bring your own supplies.

Address: 4 Shields Street, Cairns

Directions: Ground Floor, Tropical Arcade

Phone: 1 800 079 039

Website: http://www.franklandislands.com

The Esplanade Esplanade Review

The Esplanade is a great place for a walk, jog, picnic, take a nap on the grass, play a sport on one of the open areas, or check out the nature. There is also a children's play area and a swimming lagoon open from 6 AM to 10 PM daily for no charge. Many of the hostels, hotels, and restaurants in town are located one one side of the street, while the other side is all open area.

Directions: Along the Cairns waterfront

Website: http://www.cairnsesplanade.com/index.html

Great Barrier Reef Great Barrier Reef Review

You cannot come to Cairns without snorkeling or diving at the Great Barrier Reef. Passing this up would be a waste of an entire vacation.

I took a cruise on the ReefQuest run by Deep Sea Divers Den. The boat leaves at 7:30 AM and returns at 4:30 PM. You get about 4 hours of quality time to snorkel, dive, and relax in the sun. Lunch is included.

For snorkeling, it costs about AU$70 for adults and half for children. Diving lessons can be conducted and prices vary for how many dives you take. Certified Divers pay about $120 for 2 dives and $150 for 3. All equipment is included. Bring an underwater camera! You can also rent one. I used a disposable and the pictures came out great.

I signed up at the Pier Marketplace near the marina where the boat is docked.