Take a Stroll on the Cairns Esplanade

The Cairns Esplanade seems to have many changing faces, once upon a time it was a mangrove swamp thick with mud and mosquitoes.

Since then it has been transformed into a cool lagoon with beautiful wooden boardwalks, lavish restaurants, bright and bustling markets and so much more.

As the morning sun shimmers across the lagoon joggers run along the boardwalks, tourists snap away at the views and young people sprawl on the grass to drink coffee before the day starts. In evening, you can see couples strolling hand in hand, al fresco dining tables peppering the wooden walkway and children flying through the skate park. The Cairns Esplanade is a hub for visitors and locals alike.

• Take a dip in the lagoon

  One of the most refreshing experiences on the Cairns Esplanade is a cooling dip into the turquoise lagoon. Walk along the sandy shore and feel the soft sand between your toes. Families gather at the edges and fire up the barbecues, cooking up a feast so they don’t need to return home. Youngsters splash in the shallows, while adults lounge beneath the trees with a book in hand. The lagoon is the perfect stinger and crocodile free swimming spot in Cairns. With lifeguard patrols during all opening hours and convenient amenities near by, the lagoon is great for a day outside.

• Visit the Saturday Markets

  Each Saturday the Esplanade bursts to life as market stalls line the waterfront. Meander through the market to find stalls overflowing with unique handcrafts and musicians entertaining the crowds. Grab a locally brewed coffee and explore delightful homemade goods and eclectic gifts. There is something for everyone at this great market!

  If you can’t make the morning market then why not head down to the famous Cairns Night Market. Open every day of the year. Revive your weary body with a massage before trekking through the stalls for a bit of night time shopping. Enjoy a bite to eat at one of the street vendors to keep your energy high for the night of shopping you have ahead.

• Fine Dining Beneath the Stars

  As the moon starts to rise, the Esplanade transforms again into a romantic spot for fine wining and dining beneath the stars. Restaurants, bars and bistros light up the boardwalk with the soundtrack of clinking glasses and soft murmuring voices. Some of the freshest seafood in Cairns can be found on the Esplanade, enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail at Vertigo and Moon Bar before bagging a table at Atrium for a sit down dinner with beautiful views and impeccable service.

There is always something to do on Cairns Esplanade whether you want to take a stroll and feel the sea breeze or cool off and enjoy a whirlwind of activities. This picturesque spot is another great reason as to why Cairns is truly such a special place.