Cairns Regional Attractions
Whether you prefer to self drive and carve out your own adventure, or enjoy a guided group or more intimate private tour – there’s loads to explore in and around Cairns. There are exciting natural attractions, attractions that are a “must do” and eco-certified tours… literally something for everyone.
On arrival at Lake Placid Rainforest Retreat, please don’t hesitate to see our reception staff for brochures and assistance with tour bookings. In the meantime keep an eye on our Facebook page where we highlight some of our absolute favourite places to go and things to do in the beautiful Cairns region.
In and Around Cairns…
Explore Cairns wharves, parks, Botanic Gardens, lakes, beaches and more. Between the local markets, night markets and vibrant events – there is always something on in Cairns CBD. In the evening you can choose from over 100 restaurants – with an abundance of fresh seafood, exotic tropical fruits on offer.
The Cairns Lagoon precinct spans 4 hectares and is open for free public use between 6am and 10pm daily.
Take a tour…
You can enjoy a relaxing and informative documentary style tour covering Cairns History. You will visit wharves, parks, gardens, lakes, beaches and more. Afternoon tea and transfers from the park are included. Ask our team about this tour.
Right On Our Doorstep…
Lake Placid
There is no place closer to the relaxing Lake Placid than Lake Placid Rainforest Retreat! It’s a natural lake formed by the Barron River – and a perfect location for family picnics and short strol. Lake Placid is the final destination for the Barron River Rafting tours which run daily.
Barron Gorge National Park
Rugged peaks, steep gorges, tumbling waterfalls and lush rainforest makes the Barron Gorge National Park a must do, during your stay at Lake Placid. With a variety of wildlife, easy access it’s easy to see why it’s one of Queensland’s most popular national parks.
Kuranda Scenic Train and Skyrail
Board the amazing Kuranda Scenic train at Freshwater Station (8 min drive from the park). Relax and hear about the history of the track from Cairns to Kuranda. Enjoy free time to explore the unique rainforest village of Kuranda, stop for stunning views of the Barron Falls and enjoy the atmosphere this beautiful place offers – then board a Skyrail Gondola to ride over the rainforest tree tops! Be sure to have your camera ready for the fabulous views of the ocean on the downhill leg.
Within 5 minutes of Lake Placid Rainforest Retreat…
The Australian Armour and Artillery Museum
Tanks, military and combat equipment on display. Try out the shooting gallery or ride in an armoured tank.
Within 15 minutes of Lake Placid Rainforest Retreat…
Northern Beaches
The Northern Beaches of Cairns are known for their superior swimming beaches and located an easy 15 minutes from Lake Placid. The pristine Trinity Beach is one of our favourites, as well as Yorkeys Knob – a patrolled swimming beach lined with coconut palms and a stinger net to protect swimmers during stinger season.
Crystal Cascades
The Crystal Cascades are located in the Redlynch Valley, just a short 10 minutes drive. Enjoy a 15 minute walk next to the crystal stream and a refreshing swim… and don’t forget your camera.
Take a tour…
Guided tours are available to help you explore the regional attractions within easy access of Lake Placid. Get in touch with our team to find a tailored tour perfectly suited to you.
A Little Further Afield…
Port Douglas and Mossman Gorge
Port Douglas is an easy 60 minute drive North of Lake Placid. Surrounded by forest and coral sea – it’s a place worth the day trip. The Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary offers breakfast with the birds daily… including a breakfast buffet in the surrounding wetlands environment with rare bird species! Lunch with the Lorikeets is an absolute must! We can book that tour on your behalf.
Each Sunday, the Port Douglas markets are on – and are worth the visit. With local produce, handmade crafts, souvenirs and local entertainment to enjoy.
15 minutes further north of Port Douglas is Mossman Gorge. The 2 km walking circuit takes you through some stunning rainforest tracks, with a suspension bridge and towering trees. Oh – and don’t forget your bathers!
Cape Tribulation and the Daintree
A spectacular day trip from Lake Placid is the scenic Cape Tribulation and Daintree Rainforest! The Daintree is the largest area of tropical rainforest in Australia and a world heritage listed site. Explore the beautiful rainforest with hundreds of tropical animals, plants and birdlife – including some rare and endangered species.
Book an organised day tour with us.
Atherton Tablelands, Mamu Canopy Tower and Paronella Park
There’s plenty to explore on a day trip to the Atherton Tablelands – including waterfall circuits and natural wonders such as the Curtain Fig Tree, Lake Tinaroo, the Undara Lava Tubes, just to name a few. Our best picks would be Paronella Park, Mamu Canopy Tower – they’re truly impressive.
Self drive or enjoy an Eco Certified Tour with Tropical Horizons (which we can book – for free – on your behalf). Get in touch with our team for more information.
Take a tour…
Half day or full day tours – there is something for every possible interest and budget. Speak to our team who can match the perfect tour for you and your family.
The Must Do…
A magical experience on the reef is certainly one of the highlights and must dos of Tropical North Queensland. With a huge selection of tours to choose from let us show you the most suitable tour for your needs. We can highly recommend Reef Magic Cruises, who offer a fantastic reef experience on their outer reef pontoon, including a tropical lunch and semi submarine tour. Visit the inner reef islands, with your choice of Green Island, Fitzroy Island or the Franklin Islands, or all 3. Transfers are also available.
Get in touch with our team for more information on tours.