Renowned as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest, a vacation to Cairns offers endless picturesque opportunities to get that perfect Instagram shot. Don’t be afraid to work the camera, you know your best angles.

Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight or Boat Cruise

Great Barrier Reef

Visitors to Cairns “must-do’ experience is to take a cruise out to the Great Barrier Reef, however, to appreciate the sheer size and beauty of this iconic World Heritage-listed site, then get an aerial view from above.

There is nothing more glamorous than taking a helicopter or seaplane flight over the reef on your Cairns vacation.

For the ultimate indulgence and that perfect shot, land on Vlasoff Cay for a private gourmet picnic.

Babinda Boulders, Cassowary Coast

Casowary Coast


The Babinda Boulders are a popular tourist spot south of Cairns and make a gorgeous background for photos. The area features creeks flowing around large granite boulders, creating crystal-clear pools for swimming and lounging. To get there, take the Bruce Highway from Cairns, turn right into Babinda, and follow signs for seven kilometers. En-route, the drive offers scenic views of mountains and farming communities.

Wet Tropics Rainforest by Skyrail

Skyrail Cairns

Stunningly diverse and home to the world's oldest continually surviving tropical rainforest, this is a World Heritage-listed wonder located between Townsville and Cooktown. From culture to Kangaroos, rare butterflies and ancient trees,the Skyrail cableway is the best way to see it all - and to snap lush photos for your feed. The Skyrail is located only 15 minutes drive from Cairns. 

Fitzroy Island

Fitzroy Island

A short boat ride away from Cairns, but a world away: Fitzroy Island is paradise on earth. Spot clownfish and sea turtles, explore the beauty of its National Park walking trails and discover Nudey Beach - voted Australia's #1 beach! It's no surprise that Fitzroy offers a stunning backdrop to some of the best photos you'll take on vacation. 

Getting There / Getting Around

Qantas Airways, Virgin Australia and United Airlines offer non-stop flights from the US to Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne with connecting flights to Cairns. Air New Zealand offer seasonal flights from Auckland that connect with their non-stop services from their six US gateways.

The easiest way to get around to most of these sights is by rental car and/or ferry. If you are not keen on driving on the other side of the road, several Cairns day tours include visits to these sights.

Don't forget to tag @travelanswersgroup - we'd love to see your travel pics!