Cairns is nestled between two of the nation's biggest drawcards (Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics) but enjoying your time exploring the adventure capital doesn't need a big budget to match. Check out our list of some of the best things to do during your time in Cairns that won't break the bank.

• Sample some incredible local seafood
• Peruse some of the local markets
• Go for a sunset stroll along the Cairns Esplanade
• Swim in a volcanic crater
• Visit the largest butterfly sanctuary in the Southern Hemisphere
• Cool down with a dip in a waterfall
• Spend an afternoon sampling some local beers

Great Barrier Reef

The 2,300km Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world. Home to incredibly diverse marine life, taking on the most vivid colours, the Great Barrier Reef is perfect for adventure and relaxation. Explore the Whitsunday Islands, trek the Daintree Rainforest, or embrace the laid-back vibe on a luxurious tropical beach. The Great Barrier Reef has the adventure to cater to every kind of traveller.

Cairns Esplanade

From open-air markets to outdoor dining and family friendly-adventure, Cairns Esplanade is host to a hive of activities, popular with visitors and locals. With experiences, dining, and adventure suited to all walks of life, spend some time exploring this hot spot.

Kuranda

Kuranda village is surrounded by the world's oldest living tropical rainforest. Home to a vibrant arts and craft culture, as well as majestic scenery, Kuranda makes for a perfect day trip from Cairns. Be sure to embrace the cool, tropical climate with a rainforest walk along the Barron River before heading into town and discovering local Aboriginal art at a gallery or sampling some of the area's best restaurants.

Daintree National Park

Where the rainforest meets the reef, a visit to Daintree National Park will transport you to the oldest surviving rainforest in the world and take you on paths carved by the footsteps of dinosaurs. With layers of dense green to discover, and pristine water cascading over giant boulders along the river – see it all up close on a walking track from the Mossman Gorge Centre. Immerse yourself in Aboriginal culture with a Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk to listen to stories and legends of the Kuku Yalanji culture.

Frankland Islands National Park

Encompassed by extensive reef systems, the Frankland Group National Park islands are home to rocky outcrops, dense rainforests, mangroves, and coastal vegetation – a haven for local wildlife. Take a day trip to this spot with a commercial tour operator and experience a diverse island paradise.

Wooroonooran National Park

This less well-known national park flies under the radar of many, but this adds to the magic of the awe-inspiring location. Swim in the waterhole at Babinda Boulders surrounded by lush rainforests, slide down the rocks at Josephine Falls and admire the views from the lookout on the Johnston River Lookout Walk. This spot is a true adventure lover's playground.

Barron Gorge National Park

Comparable to a scene from Jurassic Park, this misty, rugged, and dramatic spot is an easy 40-minute drive out of Cairns. Situated within the world-heritage-listed Wet Tropics, Barron Gorge National Park is home to Barron Falls. The falls rage at their peak in summer and cascade through the gorge, which you can feel throughout your body. The best vantage point to view this epic sight is the Din Din Barron Falls Lookout. If you're chasing an adrenaline rush, get your heart rate up with a white-water rafting tour along the Barron River.

Cairns is the gateway to exploring the icons of Queensland like the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics. We advise spending your first day of the trip exploring all Cairns has to offer and spending the night here. We know how exciting it can be looking down the barrel of an adventure-packed road trip, but it's important to ensure you are as rested as possible, especially when spending days driving for long periods. Cairns is packed with epic camping spots and caravan parks, making it easy to find your accommodation for each night of the trip and waking up to a new view every day.

If you are staying at any BIG4, G'Day Holiday Parks, or Discovery Parks, don't forget that you can get a 10% discount on your stay when you check in with a Mighty camper! Check out our accommodation guide for more information.

We recommend downloading thl Roadtrip app (Powered by Campermate) before you hit the road. The ultimate travel companion; the thl Roadtrip app provides everything you need to help find places to stay and play across Australia, including the closest campgrounds for campervans on your route.

Summer in Cairns (December – February)

During summer, average temperatures range from 23-31 degrees. The wet season begins in December and most of the annual rainfall occurs in the summer months.

Autumn in Cairns (March-May)

Autumn in Cairns is still very warm, with temperatures averaging between 21-29 degrees. Rain stops in April; however, winds can stick around until August.

Winter in Cairns (June – August)

Winter in Cairns brings slightly cooler temperatures, and lower humidity, making it the most popular season for tourists. Temperatures fall between 17-26 degrees.

Spring in Cairns (September – November)

In Spring, temperatures fall between 20-29 degrees. This marks the end of the dry season and humidity starts to build for the beginning of the wet season in December. In November the reef comes to life with coral spawning.

• The Cairns Indigenous Art Fair takes place on the Cairns Esplanade every July. This event shines a spotlight on emerging and well-established visual artists.
• Every year the Cairns Show takes place to showcase historical displays, performing artists, farm and local produce exhibitions and plenty of opportunities for entertainment for all ages!
• Carnival on Collins is an annual event that takes place every September. A great place to spend a family day of fun, exploring market stalls, live entertainment and more.