Plan Your Trip
Every body’s paradise: An accessible Cairns itinerary
Distance
30
How
Car or Camper
Where
Cairns
Date
Year Round
Cairns isn’t just reef-deep in beauty – it’s a destination designed for everyone to explore with ease. From accessible adventures to inclusive attractions, this urban haven proves that no one has to sit on the sidelines when it comes to soaking up the stunning-sights and vibrant-vibes.
Searching for a tropical escape that’s shore to welcome every body? Cairns is calling! This coastal city isn’t just a picture-perfect paradise, it’s a hub of accessibility and inclusivity – ensuring everyone can dive into its beauty – barrier free. Whether you’re trading your nine-to-five grind for a midweek escape or stretching out a long weekend, bookmark this blog to find out how to make the most of your time in Cairns with accessible eats, stays, and activities in this three-day itinerary.
Get DirectionsDAY 1
City Charms
Morning
Charge up for a day of exploration at Oak & Vine, easily accessible rooftop dining with ocean views. With breakfast options ranging from healthy green bowls to hearty omelettes able to be adjusted to all dietary requirements, there’s bound to be a bite to satisfy your stomach.
Once you’re fuelled up for fun, head the Cairns Art Gallery, only a two-minute stroll from breakfast. Beat the Tropical North Queensland heat and get lost in the gallery’s wide hallways, featuring local Indigenous art, contemporary works, and though-provoking installations.
Afternoon
If you’re up for a little more exploration pre-lunch, dive into the underwater world at Cairns Aquarium – no snorkel required. From dazzling coral displays to fascinating marine life, this is a fin-tastic outing for all ages and abilities. Highlights include the Oceanarium tunnel and interactive touch tanks – perfect for the kids and kids at heart. Complete with ramps, elevators, spacious pathways and sensory maps, there’s nothing in the way of you and a stingray stare-off (except the glass, of course).
Once your appetite is worked up, tide yourself over with lunch at Calypso Club for welcoming environment and laidback menu. Feast on fresh seafood, sip on refreshing cocktails and mocktails, and sink your teeth into gourmet burgers in the spacious seating under the Euro-summer-esque shade umbrellas.
Cool off at the Cairns Lagoon, a sprawling public swimming area with sparkling water and panoramic views of Trinity Inlet. Whether you’re splashing in the shallows or lounging poolside, this spot offers the opportunity to swim ocean-side, safely. Feel supported with lifeguards always on duty and water-wheelchairs available for free hire.
Night
Dry off and check into your stay at Crystalbrook Riley, your suite escape in the heart of Cairns. This luxurious eco-friendly hotel offers spacious rooms, a shimmering lagoon pool, and a spa for decompressing post days of discovery. Designed with inclusivity in mind, the hotel features lift access to all floors and experience curators who ensure your stay is as seamless as it is relaxing, tailoring it to your needs.
End day two with a casual dinner at Hemingway’s Brewery. This waterfront favourite offers craft beers brewed onsite and a kitchen full of pub favourites, complete with a menu for the kiddies to lift some weight off the parents’ plates. Parents – sip back, relax, and try the tropical pale ale for a true taste of Tropical North Queensland.
Day 2
Wild Wonders
Morning
Kick off the day at Wharf One Café, where the views are as fresh as the coffee and the breakfast menu is overflowing with local flavours. Whether you’re biting into a smashed avo or getting saucy with an eggs benny, this spot is serving up a menu to cater for all dietaries and doubling-down on the options for kiddies, guaranteeing you’ll find something that sates your holiday appetite.
Take your morning to new heights on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, gliding above the ancient, World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics of Queensland. With 360-degree views, stops at Red Peak and Barron Falls, and an immersive audio guide, helpful staff, and wheelchair and assistance animal friendly gondolas, this experience is as inclusive as it is awe-inspiring.
Afternoon
The 1.5-hour Skyrail journey will deliver you to Kuranda, where you can hop on over to Frogs Restaurant for a lunch as fresh as the rainforest it is nestled within. Their barramundi is a must-try – it’s the catch of the day every day. Not feeling fishy? No worries – there’s an array of vegan and vegetarian options, such as the Masoor Dhal curry, that puts the local catch up for competition.
Spend the afternoon at Rainforestation Nature Park, Kuranda’s impressive zoo, where you can make friends with native animals, take a ride on the iconic Army Duck through the rainforest, and learn about local Indigenous culture through interactive experiences. Say g’day to the friendly staff at the Park who are well equipped to assist with any accessibility requirements.
Night
Wrap up your first day with dinner at Dundee’s Waterfront Dining, with a diverse menu – offered in multiple languages for diners’ convenience. Indulge in filling pastas, juicy steaks, or their signature crocodile cooked on a smoking hot volcanic rock – a dish that’s both snappy and satisfying.
Day 3
Reef Relaxation
Morning and Afternoon
You didn’t think we’d forget about the Great Barrier Reef, did you? Enjoy the ultimate Great Barrier Reef experience with Reef Magic. Set sail on a day-tour, granting you five hours of fun to explore the reef above and below the water on board a catamaran with wide aisles and wheelchair amenities.
From snorkelling and fish feeding to glass-bottom boat rides and semi-submarine, tours, you’ll wish island time slowed down the clock even more to savour every activity! You’ll be powered by morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, and adrenaline, and you’ll be empowered with both audio and text safety information. This experience caters for guests with support needs to ensure each activity is enjoyed to its full potential.
Night
Finish the day with a stroll along the esplanade and end with a feast for the senses at Cairns Night Markets. Explore a world of flavours with everything from sizzling Asian street food to fresh Aussie seafood caught locally daily. With wide pathways and plenty of seating options, you’ll be able to sit back and snack on your market selection in comfort. Don’t leave without browsing the many stores selling souvenirs, from perfumes to bush hats, so you can take a little piece of Cairns home with you.
Already adding the Cairns flight tickets to cart? Make sure to pack your camera, swimwear, sunscreen, and sense of wonder, and get ready for a destination that welcomes you, no matter your journey.
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Sam Bloom’s Accessible Adventures in TNQ
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