Cairns Esplanade - Queensland, Australia
After arriving in Cairns and checking in at my accommodation, I headed out for a relaxed wander along the Cairns Esplanade. Even though I was staying on the Cairns North side, everything felt surprisingly close together—connected by the long, scenic waterfront path that acts as the heartbeat of the city.
One of the first things that caught my eye were the crocodile warning signs posted along the shore. They’re certainly memorable, but also a sobering reminder that this is wild country. The water looks inviting in Cairns’ warm, tropical climate, but the risk simply isn’t worth it. Staying on the boardwalk is the smart move.
Wildlife is abundant along the esplanade, and the animal I spotted most frequently was the pelican. I had previously seen pelicans up close on Phillip Island, but watching them glide gracefully over the water or perch along the shoreline here felt just as magical.
As I continued wandering, I noticed how thoughtfully designed the Esplanade is for both locals and travellers. There are outdoor fitness stations, playgrounds, a skate park, beach volleyball courts, and basketball courts—plus a long row of restaurants and cafés that stay lively throughout the day. I took my time strolling towards central Cairns and watched helicopters take off near the shoreline, heading out toward the Great Barrier Reef. There’s also a Ferris wheel nearby that offers lovely views from the top.
After exploring for a bit, I made my way back to my accommodation to enjoy a quiet break before heading out again for the evening.
When the sun began to set, I returned to the Esplanade to catch the fireworks and explore the night market. The atmosphere at dusk was completely different—calmer, softer, and more relaxed compared to the daytime bustle. At the markets, I browsed through the shops, wandered the aisles of the food court, and grabbed a simple dinner.
Just before the fireworks started, I got myself a good spot by the water. Many people had brought picnic blankets and snacks, creating a laid-back community atmosphere. The fireworks lasted much longer than I expected, lighting up the sky with reflections dancing on the water. When they finally began to slow, I slowly made my way back along the boardwalk. With the lamps glowing softly, the night breeze off the water, and the occasional burst of the final fireworks behind me, it was the perfect way to end my evening in Cairns.
Background
The Cairns Esplanade is a central part of the city’s identity, stretching along the foreshore of Trinity Bay. Originally a simple waterfront path, the area was redeveloped in the early 2000s to create a vibrant community space that combines recreation, culture, and natural preservation. The Esplanade is built within an ecologically sensitive area and is home to tidal wetlands that are internationally recognised as important feeding grounds for migratory shorebirds.
The Esplanade is also connected to the Traditional Owners of the land, the Yirrganydji and Gimuy Walubara Yidinji peoples, who have lived in the region for thousands of years. The waterfront has historically been a source of food, transport, and cultural practice for Indigenous communities. Today, the area serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike, hosting cultural events, outdoor activities, and casual recreation, while preserving important natural habitats for wildlife like pelicans, migratory birds, and marine species.
Getting There
The Cairns Esplanade is conveniently located and accessible from almost any part of the city. If you are arriving by plane, it’s about a ten-minute drive or rideshare from Cairns Airport, with airport shuttles stopping near many central hotels. From Cairns North, the boardwalk is only a short walk away, with flat, well-maintained paths that make exploring easy and enjoyable. Travellers in the central business district can reach the Esplanade in minutes by foot, as it runs adjacent to the lagoon, marina, and main dining precinct. Public transport is also an option, with Sunbus routes running along Sheridan Street, just a brief walk from the waterfront. For those driving, there are both free and paid parking areas along the Esplanade, though spaces near the lagoon fill up quickly during busy periods. The Esplanade is pedestrian-friendly, making it simple to enjoy the area without needing a car.
Route Overview
Distance: 6 km out & back (Holiday Inn Cairns Harbourside)
Total elevation gain: 17 m
Duration: 1 hr 15 min (with breaks 1 hr 35 min)
Difficulty: Easy
Cost Breakdown
Food: AU$56.39
