Top ten things to do to escape the heat (or rain) in Cairns
It is a well-known fact that summer in Cairns can get a little sticky, particularly as the heat and humidity ramp up. Whilst the rest of Australia yo-yos between intensely hot, dry days and cooler rainy periods, the mercury in Cairns remains stubbornly high with most locals seeking out places with air-con or freshwater retreats to cool off.
Whether you’re asking yourself ‘is it too hot to live in Cairns?’ or are simply looking for ways to live life to the fullest in the wet season, we’ve put together our top ten things to do to escape the heat or rain in Cairns.
1.Get a floaty and enjoy the creeks and waterfalls
When the temperature rises, Cairns’ locals head to the water. With a range of shady creeks on your doorstep to choose from, why not grab a floaty and enjoy a refreshing dip at one of the many water holes?
Popular rainforest retreats include:
Just remember to bring your mozzie spray and to check that the water is safe for you and your fellow swimmers. Some creeks are relatively calm, however if there has been a deluge of rain, a stronger than usual current might be lurking below the surface.
For those seeking to combine adventure with respite from the Cairns heat, one of the many waterfalls in the Cairns region may help tick both of those boxes.
From popular tourist destinations such as Josephine Falls to hidden gems such as Windin Falls, if you’re after picture perfect shots for the ‘gram, our region will leave you spoilt for choice. Do make sure you put the safety of yourself and your friends first when hiking, rock-hopping or finding the perfect spot for a beautiful shot at these amazing natural sites:
2. Cool off at the lagoon
Cairns’ 4800 square metre lagoon is located in the heart of the city and is popular with locals and tourists all year around.
If you and your family is looking for a great alternative to the sea, then the lagoon’s beach area is the place for you. With ample shaded spots to base yourself, you can rest assured that your toddlers and young children can play safely without worrying about stingers or crocodiles.
Just be mindful that the lagoon can get up to 1.6 metres deep in places so make sure those who aren’t strong swimmers, are always within arm’s reach, particularly the younger members of your family.
3.Indoor golf at X-Golf
If the thought of going outdoors on a humid summer day is not your idea of fun, then don’t worry, there are plenty of options to entertain yourself, your friends or family whilst keeping your cool in air-conditioning.
X-Golf Cairns is an indoor golf venue with six simulators that give you access to some of the world’s best digital courses, driving ranges and even mini-golf for those who don’t want to take it too seriously. Or you can take golf lessons from a PGA professional if you want to develop your skills.
4.Take a trip up the hill
You will hear many locals reference ‘going up the hill’ on their weekends, and it’s for a good reason too. The Tableland region is 752 metres above sea level. Due to this elevation, Atherton and the surrounding towns enjoy a slightly cooler climate. This makes all the difference when it comes to escaping the humidity.
You can spend the day relaxing, boating or jet skiing around Lake Tinaroo, take your paddle board or floatie to Lake Eacham, take a shady hike around Lake Barrine, or stroll around quaint country towns such as Atherton and Malanda.
5. Let the kids burn some energy at Inflatable Kingdom
One of the downsides of bunkering down indoors at home is all that pent-up energy your kids are harbouring needs to go somewhere. Inflatable Kingdom, a large indoor inflatable playground, may just be the perfect solution.
Parents can sit back and enjoy a coffee whilst their kids leap from the jumping castles and play a game of soccer on the indoor pitch. Located on the city fringe, you don’t need to worry about parking either.
6. Bust out of an escape room
Whether you are planning something different for a birthday or celebration, or simply want to challenge your cognitive and teamwork abilities, an escape room may be the test you are looking for (depending on how much you want to be stuck with five of your nearest and dearest!).
Not only will you have an hour away from the heat, you and your squad will get to decipher codes, test your common sense and build some good old-fashioned camaraderie during the session.
7. Splash around at Cairns’ wake park
Just because it’s hot outside, doesn’t mean your outdoor thrill-seeking options are limited. The Cairns Wake and Aqua Park accommodates both young children aged six and above, and bigger kids (adults) with a range of water sport activities. You just need to be able to swim.
If you are keen to try wakeboarding, knee boarding and water skiing, the park is the perfect place. With instructors on hand and all the gear you need to get started, it’s not only a great chance to cool down, but also to learn a new skill.
8. Go for a strike at the bowling alley
If you’re less of a thrill seeker but equally enjoy some healthy competition, Cairns’ air-conditioned tenpin bowling alley, may be just the ticket. For those who take bowling more seriously, join one of their leagues and get really competitive. With a fully-licensed bar, you can also drown your sorrows or celebrate your win.
9. Take advantage of bars with air con
Speaking of bars, whilst there are many outdoor venues around Cairns that allow you to take in the beautiful tropical scenery, there are also a selection of indoor venues with air conditioning. The Cairns region has more than 70 bars, hotels and breweries, with a string of stylish or quirky bars opening recently in and around the CBD. You now have more choice than ever.
For some inspiration and insight try these' best bars in Cairns' lists:
Whilst hydration should always be taken seriously, just remember to pace yourself.
10. Visit the Cairns Aquarium
When you have finished splashing around in Cairns’ cool waters, or quenching your thirst in Cairns’ coolest bars, why not take a relaxing stroll through the aquarium? Whilst there you can enjoy some of the many presentations and education sessions to learn more about marine life and some of the aquarium’s favourite characters.
Whether you are planning to escape a rainy day, or the humidity during Cairns’ wet season (or ‘summer’), there is a plethora of options for Cairns’ locals can choose from to help get you through. With a carefully planned schedule of activities, before you know it, those hot sweaty days will pass, and you’ll soon be basking in the glorious winter sun.