Whether you’re a seasoned scuba diver or just looking for a splash, visiting the Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia’s most coveted experiences. The reef was deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981, and current environmental pressures mean that its conservation is more critical than ever. Consider a tour with a marine biologist to learn about the incredible diversity of the reef, just make sure that you’re exploring the reef in a responsible way to protect this important natural space.

A visit to the Daintree Rainforest is the perfect way to experience the Wet Tropics of Queensland. With its rich diversity and lush flora, this jungle has been a spiritual and cultural center for the Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people for thousands of years. In 2021, they officially reclaimed the park as their territory. Let them welcome you with a traditional smoke ceremony or learn about the Kuku Yalanji’s connection to the forest with an interpretive forest walk and art class.

Cairns Aquarium boasts 10 different ecosystems where you can learn about Australia’s incredible marine diversity. It’s also home to a turtle rehabilitation center and makes for a great destination for families, especially if your kids aren’t quite ready for the plunge of a snorkeling trip. Those after a thrill can even hand-feed the Cownose Rays and watch the Barramundi feed.

After all the exploring, spend a day wandering along the esplanade and an evening enjoying the Cairns nightlife. Don’t miss out on learning about the city via a walking tour, or explore the Cairns Museum and Cairns Art Gallery, which highlight Cairn’s gold-rush beginnings and early settlement. The waterfront promenade is a favorite among tourists and locals alike, with its Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, barbecue facilities, and night market, while the bar scene is buzzing with international visitors.

A 30-minute drive from Cairns, Kuranda Koala Gardens is home to koalas, wombats, wallabies, and more. This small wildlife park is located in scenic Kuranda Village. Surrounded by rain forest, this town is the perfect spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway. You can spot some of Australia’s more timid creatures in the nocturnal habitat display, home to animals like the Greater Bilby and Mahogany Gliders.

The lofty dream of a Spanish immigrant in Australia, Paronella Park is a magical space with lush gardens, moss-covered buildings, and a welcoming atmosphere. The park is run entirely from hydroelectric power produced by the park’s waterfall, following in the steps of the original owner, who installed the first privately-owned hydroelectric plant in Queensland. This blend of romantic history and sustainability makes this park a unique, eco-friendly space.

Relax during a sail on the Coral Sea. Australians are known for their love of the ocean, so follow the lead of the locals and head out to sea. There are plenty of day and evening cruises that depart from Cairns, so whether you’d like to learn more about the region’s rich marine life, want to admire fish through a glass-bottomed boat, or prefer a romantic sunset dinner cruise, there’s a marine adventure right for you.

Located just outside downtown Cairns, the Cairns Botanic Gardens are full of tropical plants. Visit the Aboriginal Plant Use Garden where you can learn about the medicinal properties of rain forest plants (some of which have been used for over 40,000 years), or the Gondwanan Heritage Garden which tracks the evolution of plants through different zones. Kids will love the Nature Playground, where they can scramble over ropes and marvel at the fairy garden.

Running Friday to Sunday, Rusty’s Markets is where you can fuel up for the day ahead and discover Australian favorites including meat pies. You’ll find fresh fruit galore (keep an eye out for ones exclusive to the tropics such as the sapote and sapodilla), coffee, artisan pastries, and more. For the folks back home, jewelry and clothing are also on offer, along with plenty of other souvenirs.

If you’re after peace and quiet, head north to the neighborhood of Palm Cove. Here, a long, sandy beach invites you to lounge, while the titular palm trees offer welcoming shade. It’s a great spot for dining options as well—you’ll find plenty of nearby restaurants highlighting fresh seafood and regional ingredients.