Family-Friendly Adventures in Green Island!

Green Island

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Green Island Adventure

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Reef

Start your adventure by catching the morning ferry from Cairns, a short and scenic 45-minute ride that brings you straight to the paradisiacal Green Island. Upon arrival, head to the Green Island Resort to check in and drop off your bags. Next, grab your snorkeling gear, provided free with your ferry ticket, and head to the white sandy beaches. Spend your morning snorkeling in the clear waters, home to vibrant coral and friendly sea turtles.

Lunch at Emeralds Restaurant

After a morning in the sun, enjoy a relaxing lunch at Emeralds Restaurant on the island. They offer a variety of dishes perfect for refueling your family.

Afternoon at Marineland Melanesia

Post-lunch, make your way to Marineland Melanesia, a fascinating crocodile and marine life habitat. A short walk from the beach, this attraction offers a glimpse of huge crocodiles, exotic sea creatures, and intriguing artifacts. Don’t miss the crocodile feeding show!

Day 2: Glass Bottom Boat Tour and Nature Walk

Start your second day with a glass bottom boat tour, an excellent way for the little ones to see the underwater world without getting wet. The tours run frequently throughout the day and last about 30 minutes.

Picnic and Nature Exploration

Afterward, pick up a picnic lunch from the island"s café and head to one of the designated picnic areas. Post-lunch, explore the Green Island National Park walking tracks. The Island Circumnavigation Track is an easy 1.3 km walk that offers stunning views and the chance to spot native birdlife.

Return to Cairns

Wrap up your visit with a relaxing afternoon on the beach before catching the late afternoon ferry back to Cairns, filled with unforgettable memories of your family trip to Green Island.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Cairns Night Markets & Food Court

Why Visit?

Embark on an exciting family adventure at the Cairns Night Markets & Food Court, a bustling hub of culture and cuisine that promises an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Located conveniently on the Esplanade in the heart of Cairns, getting there is a breeze. It"s easy to reach by public transport, taxi, or simply walking if you"re staying nearby. The market operates every night from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM, so you can plan your visit after a day of exploring the city or nearby attractions.

Start your tour by exploring the myriad of stalls at the Night Markets. With over 70 unique stalls, your family can browse through a variety of goods ranging from local handmade crafts to exotic Australian souvenirs. It’s a great opportunity for kids to learn about local art and culture, and even pick a keepsake to remember their trip.

As you wander through the market, engage with the friendly local vendors; many will share stories about their crafts, offering a richer insight into the community’s lifestyle and traditions. Don"t miss the chance to capture some memorable family photos with the colorful stalls and vibrant atmosphere as your backdrop.

Next, dive into the Food Court for a culinary adventure. The food court is famed for its diverse array of food options, featuring dishes from all over the world. It"s a fantastic way to introduce the little ones to new tastes and cuisines in a fun and informal setting. From succulent seafood to Asian street food, there"s something to satisfy every palate.

For a sweet end to your evening, treat the family to some Australian desserts or tropical fruit sorbets. As you enjoy your treats, soak in the lively atmosphere, often enhanced by street performers and live music, making every evening at the Cairns Night Markets & Food Court a memorable family outing.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Birdworld Kuranda

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary at Birdworld Kuranda

Morning Arrival

Begin your adventure at Birdworld Kuranda by catching the scenic Kuranda Railway from Cairns, which offers breathtaking views of dense rainforest and picturesque waterfalls. Once you arrive in Kuranda, Birdworld is conveniently located in the Kuranda Heritage Markets, easily accessible by a short walk from the station.

Exploring Birdworld

Enter Birdworld around 10 AM to enjoy the cooler morning hours. Upon entry, marvel at the vibrant spectacle of over 350 birds representing 60 different species, all flying freely in a beautifully replicated rainforest environment. Make sure to grab a park map at the entrance, which will guide you through various enclosures.

Engaging Activities

1. Feeding Sessions: Join in the guided feeding sessions (check the times upon arrival) where children can feed and interact closely with friendly parrots and lorikeets, making for unforgettable photo opportunities.

2. Aviary Tour: Take a guided tour to learn about the exotic species like the striking Cassowary or the endangered Macaws. The knowledgeable guides share fascinating facts and conservation efforts which will engage kids and adults alike.

3. Birdwatching: Use the Birdwatching Checklist available at the entrance to spot and identify various species. It"s a fun and educational challenge for the whole family!

Lunch Break

Around noon, head to one of the nearby cafes in Kuranda Village for lunch. The markets also offer delightful local crafts and foods, perfect for picking up souvenirs.

Afternoon Leisure

Post-lunch, return to Birdworld for a leisurely walk through the lush gardens. Keep an eye out for the shy Cassowary or the playful antics of the Cockatoos.

Departure

Conclude your visit by 3 PM to catch the Kuranda Scenic Railway back to Cairns, filled with beautiful memories of a day spent among some of the most fascinating avian friends.

This family-friendly itinerary ensures a fun-filled, educational visit to Birdworld Kuranda, creating lasting memories amidst the wonders of the natural world.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Behana Gorge Waterfall

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Behana Gorge Waterfall

Morning Departure

Start your adventure early by driving from Cairns to Behana Gorge, which takes about 30 minutes. Pack a picnic breakfast and plenty of water along with swimwear, towels, and sun protection. The entrance to the gorge is located just off the Bruce Highway; follow the signs leading to Behana Gorge Road.

Hiking Adventure

Upon arrival, prepare for a scenic 3.2-kilometer hike along the well-maintained track that follows the water pipeline. The pathway offers gentle inclines, making it suitable for families. As you wander, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife like the Ulysses butterfly and the unique green possums known to inhabit the area.

Behana Gorge Waterfall

Once you reach the waterfall, you"ll be rewarded with the stunning sight of crystal-clear waters cascading into a large, refreshing swimming hole. It’s an ideal spot for a family swim. Take the opportunity to relax, enjoy your picnic, and capture some memorable family photos with the spectacular backdrop.

Lunch and Leisure

Post swim, enjoy your packed lunch by the water. The large boulders around the pool provide perfect natural seating areas.

Exploring the Flora and Fauna

After lunch, take a leisurely walk back towards the parking area. This is a great time to educate the kids about the local ecosystems. The rainforest around Behana Gorge is lush and hosts a variety of plant species; from towering trees to delicate orchids.

Return Journey

Head back to Cairns in the afternoon, allowing the little ones to nap after an eventful day. If time and energy permit, consider stopping at a local cafe in Cairns to discuss the day"s adventures over a refreshing ice cream or drink.

Key Tips

- Start early to avoid the heat and enjoy the tranquility of the morning.

- Check weather conditions as the area can be prone to sudden changes.

- Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring insect repellent.

This family-friendly trip to Behana Gorge Waterfall offers a perfect blend of adventure, nature exploration, and relaxation, promising a memorable day for all!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Mamu Tropical Skywalk

Why Visit?

Family Itinerary: Mamu Tropical Skywalk Adventure

Morning Arrival

Start your day early to make the most of your visit to Mamu Tropical Skywalk. Located in the stunning Wooroonooran National Park, about a 90-minute drive south of Cairns, the journey itself is scenic. Take the Bruce Highway (A1) and follow signs for Innisfail and then signs for the skywalk. The drive is an excellent opportunity to discuss the rich biodiversity of the Wet Tropics, a UNESCO World Heritage area, home to over 700 plant species.

Skywalk Experience

Upon arrival, head to the visitor center to grab a map and learn about the Skywalk’s structure which includes elevated walkways, a cantilever, and an observation tower. Start with the elevated walkways which are about 15 meters above the ground, allowing a unique view of the forest canopy. Keep an eye out for the Ulysses butterfly and rare birds. Next, venture onto the cantilever for a thrilling view over the North Johnstone River gorge.

Climb the Observation Tower

Don"t miss climbing the 37-meter high observation tower. From here, you get panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It’s a great spot for family photos!

Picnic Lunch

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the designated area. This break will give you a chance to reflect on the morning’s sights and sounds.

Rainforest Walk

Post lunch, take a leisurely walk on the forest floor walking tracks. This is a great chance to see the forest from a different perspective and possibly spot cassowaries or Boyd"s forest dragons.

Departure

Wrap up your visit by late afternoon and head back with memories of an enriching, educational adventure that provides a deeper connection with nature.

Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring binoculars for bird watching, adding an educational twist to your adventure!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.