Adventure Travel
Outdoor Activities in Cairns: Adventure City Guide
Find out how you can find the best Outdoor Activities in Cairns with our comprehensive Adventure City Guide to Cairns in Australia.
Published
3 years agoon
Are you looking for an insider’s adventure travel guide for the best outdoor activities in Cairns?
As part of our Adventure City Guide series, Charli from Wanderlusters shares with you her expert insider tips on the top adventure and outdoor activities to do in Cairns, including how to get there and costs.
Why visit Cairns for adventure?
Cairns sits on the northeast coast of the state of Queensland. Known as the place where the rainforest meets the reef, the area provides many activities for adventurous traveller. With its warm climate and laid-back vibe, the city is an excellent base to explore Australia’s tropical north.
We spent two months living in Cairns, although we’d only planned on visiting for a few days. Camping each night in our Winnebago, we utilised the city’s excellent network of bicycle lanes to discover all that is on offer.
Outdoor Activities in Cairns
Scuba Dive the Great Barrier Reef
Cairns is known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, and it would be impossible to visit the city without hopping aboard a boat to see first-hand the beauty of the world’s most extensive coral reef ecosystem. The only way to experience the reef for the adventurous traveler is to join one of the liveaboard dive boats that take guests out to the best dive sites on the reef.
The famous Cod Hole, Steve’s Bommie, and Pixie Gardens all provide world-class dives and give a brilliant insight into the diversity of life on the reef.
If you’re a more experienced diver or wish to gain experience fast, join Mike Ball’s seven day Coral Sea Safari and see the best of the Great Barrier Reef as well as the epic shark dive 150km from the shore at Osprey Reef. This five-star liveaboard is world-renowned for ensuring you see the best the reef has to offer.
Jump in at the Cod Hole and dive with fish the same size as you!
Brush up on your macro photography skills at Steve Bommie where you’ll spot nudibranchs, frogfish, and sea horses. You’ll need nerves of steel for the shark feed dive out at Osprey Reef. Descending to fifteen metres, your heart will race as you watch their shadows appear from below, anticipating a meal. As they frenzy around, you’ll need a steady hand to take a photo as they swim inches from your mask. In our opinion, this trip is the only way to submerge yourself in an unforgettable Great Barrier Reef adventure.
Getting to the Great Barrier Reef
You can jump aboard any of the liveaboard boats in Cairns, so no transportation is required.
Mike Ball offers three, four, and seven-night trips. You must opt for the four or seven-day trip to experience the shark feed. Prices start at AUD 1600 for the three-night trip, but cheaper rates can be negotiated a week before departure.
SAVVY TIP – We secured a placement on the Mike Ball Expedition Volunteer Programme and worked as dive crew on the boat for two weeks. This meant that we experienced the seven-night Coral Sea Safari twice in exchange for two weeks of unpaid employment to the ship. Averaging three dives a day is a brilliant way to experience the reef on a budget.
Note: To work on the dive deck, you must be a certified Dive Master. However, there are opportunities for Open Water divers to volunteer in the galley.
For more information, read our trip report.
White Water Rafting
For adrenaline junkies, the opportunity to get off the beaten track and onto some white water is always met with enthusiasm. The runoff from the rainforest and mountain ranges surrounding Cairns provides several significant stretches of river to explore. The Tully River is known throughout Australia and New Zealand for its exceptional rafting and encompasses classes one through five.
Along with the white water rafting, a day trip to the River Tully includes the opportunity for rock jumping, raft surfing, and rapid swimming. With memorable spots along the stretch of forty-five rapids like ‘Alarm Clock’ named because it provides those who pass a soggy wake-up call, and ‘Stair Case’ a nail-biting drop, the Tully makes for a first-rate adventure from your base in Cairns.
Logistics
When booking your white water adventure, you will be advised of a collection point for your journey south to the Tully River. The transport is included in the cost of your rafting experience.
Cairns Rafting offer a collection and return to your accommodation, a lunchtime BBQ, and five hour rafting experience for AUD 195
SAVVY TIP – Visit the numerous tour desks in the town and barter for the best rate you can. Booking direct with the company is not always the cheapest option. The tour desks receive a commission, and they often give extra discounts to secure a sale.
Crystal Cascades
If you’re strapped for cash, take a day trip to the freshwater paradise of Crystal Cascades. Located just twenty minutes west of the city this area is known to locals and tourists alike and is a popular place to cool off in the heat of the day.
With no entry fees, this is one of the most affordable paradise retreats you’ll ever find.
With numerous waterfalls and swimming holes set in stunning rainforest surroundings, it’s a great place to explore or relax and soak up some sun. There are opportunities for the more adventurous to take part in some cliff jumping. A short walk up the cliff from the largest waterhole will take you to the ‘No Fear’ point, the highest part of the cliff face from which you can launch yourself into the water below.
Logistics
While not far from Cairns, there are no public transport options to Crystal Cascades.
We recommend hiring a car which can be done for around $35/day. If you’re considering taking a taxi note, there is intermittent mobile reception at the falls, and you may find yourself unable to call for a ride home. Drive to the suburb of Redlynch and simply follow the signs to Crystal Cascades. From the Red Beret Pub, the swimming hole is about 10 kilometers away.
There is no entry fee to the falls however, be sure to take supplies and sun cream as there are no shops close by.
SAVVY TIP – Chat to other travellers about visiting the falls. They may have their transport and be interested in experiencing the beauty of the falls themselves. Leave a wanted advert on the noticeboards in hostels and caravan parks advertising for travel buddies to share the cost of the car rental and fuel.
Local Secret Adventure in Cairns
Suppose you’ve spent your day laid by the lagoon and require something to get your blood pumping pop down to the esplanade for an evening exercise class. The best part about this program is that all the types are accessible. All you need to do is arrive at the esplanade in the city’s center equipped with the motivation to burn some calories, and away you go.
Choose from yoga, pilates, beach volleyball, aqua aerobics, boot camp, and Zumba, and get that booty in shape for free.
Best time of the year to visit Cairns for adventure?
Cairns provides adventurers with activities throughout the year; however, be aware that the Minkie Whale migratory season is from May to August, and you can scuba dive with them aboard Mike Ball’s Minke Whale Expedition in June and July.
Temperatures in northern Queensland can also reach 40°C during the summer months, and the area can be hit with thunderstorms and cyclones from December to March. If visiting during this time, be vigilant about applying sunscreen, wearing a hat, and always carrying water.
The reason I love Cairns for adventure is that…
The city is nestled in between the aquatic splendour of the Great Barrier Reef and the vibrant canopy of the surrounding rainforest that covers many of the coastal mountain ranges. Both provide endless opportunities for exploration and would keep any explorer happy for the duration of their stay.
And once you’ve explored the natural beauty of the surrounding environment, you can experience the cities thriving nightlife and relaxed beach vibe. Sometimes an excellent beer and a sea view are just what you need after a day of adventure.
BIO:
In 2010 Charli & Ben made the decision to live a life less ordinary and six months later embarked on an undefined period of travel. Enforcing no restrictions on their itinerary they have chosen to travel at a slow pace and incorporate house sitting assignments in each country they visit.
With no time limit restricting their experience they are content to continue exploring the world as digital nomads. From backpacking through Central America to road tripping around Australia they embrace each and every opportunity for adventure.
Find them on Facebook and Twitter or catch up with their journey at their travel website Wanderlusters.
This is a featured article by a Guest Author. Their details can be found in the post above. If you want to become a Guest Poster please Contact Us here. Please also read our Website Disclaimer if you have any issues or concerns.
Adventure Travel
Honest Review of New Jersey Island Beach State Park
Published
3 days agoon
September 30, 2024New Jersey Island Beach State Park is a haven for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts along the Jersey Shore, known for its scenic beaches, diverse wildlife, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this barrier island offers something for everyone, from swimming and hiking to birdwatching and fishing. Before heading to this beautiful park, it’s essential to know the operating hours, costs, and other practical details to make the most of your visit. Here’s a full breakdown:
An Active Day at New Jersey Island Beach State Park with the Family
Our day at New Jersey Island Beach State Park was packed with adventure! My husband and I brought along our twin 11-year-old boys, and we made sure to hit all the exciting activities the park has to offer. We started the morning with a leisurely bike ride along the park’s trails. The boys loved pedaling through the scenic coastal dunes, and we all took in the fresh, crisp air of the ocean. It was a perfect way to kickstart our day while getting the boys’ energy flowing.
Next, we headed to the beach, where we all took turns trying our hand at surf fishing. My husband has always been an avid fisherman, so it was great to see the boys learn from him as they cast their lines into the surf. They were thrilled when they reeled in a small catch, and the excitement kept them motivated to try again!
For lunch, we settled in for a picnic near one of the park’s many shaded areas. Afterward, we decided to go for a hike along the scenic coastal trails. The boys were fascinated by the wildlife we spotted, including several shorebirds and even some turtles basking in the sun.
As the day cooled down, we rented kayaks for an afternoon paddle on the bay side. The serene waters were a welcome change of pace from the excitement of the earlier activities. The boys couldn’t get enough of it—paddling through the gentle waves while racing each other to the next marker.
We wrapped up our adventure by watching the sunset over the dunes, a perfect end to our active day. The combination of biking, hiking, fishing, and kayaking left us all feeling accomplished, yet grateful for the peaceful moments of the day.
Park Hours
The main gate of New Jersey Island Beach State Park opens at different times depending on the season:
- Summer (Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend):
- Weekends and Holidays: 7 A.M. – 8 P.M.
- Weekdays (Mon-Fri): 8 A.M. – 8 P.M.
- Off-Season (After Labor Day Weekend):
- Every day: 8 A.M. – Dusk
During the peak summer season, it’s important to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as the park can reach capacity quickly. Once the parking lots are full, no more vehicles are allowed to enter. If you’re planning to visit during these busy times, aim for an early morning arrival to ensure you get a spot.
Entry Fees and Costs
Island Beach State Park charges an entrance fee per vehicle, with different rates for New Jersey residents and non-residents. Here’s the breakdown:
Time of Year | NJ Resident | Non-Resident |
---|---|---|
Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend (Summer) | ||
Sat, Sun, Holidays (7 A.M. – 8 P.M.) | $10.00 | $20.00 |
Mon-Fri (8 A.M. – 8 P.M.) | $6.00 | $12.00 |
Off-Season (Every Day, 8 A.M. – Dusk) | $5.00 | $10.00 |
- Motorcyclists: $5.00 for NJ residents and $7.00 for non-residents every day of the year.
- Walk-ins or Cyclists: There is no fee for those walking or biking into the park.
- Buses: Buses are allowed, except for weekends and holidays, but advanced arrangements with park management are required.
The entry fees are reasonable, especially when you consider the park’s stunning beaches, clean facilities, and well-maintained natural areas. However, keep in mind that extra costs may arise if you plan to rent equipment or participate in certain activities such as surfing or fishing.
Popular Activities at Island Beach State Park
The park offers a wide range of activities to suit all interests, from adventure seekers to those looking for a relaxing day by the ocean.
- Swimming and Surfing: New Jersey Island Beach State Park is renowned for its beautiful, clean beaches, which offer excellent swimming opportunities during the warmer months. Lifeguards are on duty in designated swimming areas, ensuring a safe environment for all visitors. Surfing is also popular here, with several spots that cater to different skill levels.
- Surf Fishing: Fishing is another key draw for visitors. The park offers some of the best surf fishing on the East Coast, with the chance to catch species like striped bass, bluefish, and flounder. Fishing permits are required for vehicles driving onto the beach, and these can be obtained at the park office.
- Hiking and Biking: If you’re not in the mood for a beach day, the park has miles of hiking and biking trails. These trails wind through dunes, maritime forests, and marshes, giving visitors a chance to experience the island’s diverse ecosystem. The Barrier Island Interpretive Center offers insights into the local flora and fauna.
- Kayaking and Canoeing: For a peaceful adventure, explore the bay side of the island by kayak or canoe. Rentals are available nearby, and the calm bay waters provide a tranquil setting for paddling.
- Wildlife Viewing: Birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts will love the park’s diverse ecosystems. The park is home to ospreys, herons, and even the occasional bald eagle. The coastal marshes are also teeming with other wildlife, including terrapins and various species of fish.
- Picnicking and Barbecues: The park features several picnic areas, complete with tables and grills, making it easy to enjoy a meal with a view. These areas are popular with families and groups, offering a more relaxed way to spend the day.
- Winter Activities: The park remains open during the winter months, providing a quieter and more serene experience. Winter swimming at the famous Bondi Icebergs Club is a popular activity for the bravest visitors.
Additional Information and Considerations
- Beach Driving: One of the unique features of Island Beach State Park is that, with the proper permits, you can drive your vehicle directly onto the beach to access prime fishing spots. This option is particularly attractive to surf fishermen who want to avoid carrying heavy gear across the sand.
- Facilities: The park offers clean restrooms, changing rooms, and outdoor showers, making it convenient for families and groups.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit New Jersey Destination
New Jersey Island Beach State Park offers a blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and a serene atmosphere that is hard to find elsewhere along the Jersey Shore. Whether you’re a nature lover, an avid angler, or simply looking for a quiet beach getaway, the park has something to offer everyone. With reasonable fees and plenty of parking (if you arrive early), Island Beach State Park is a true gem for anyone looking to experience the best of New Jersey’s coastline.
Adventure Travel
A Beginner’s Guide to Yacht Charters: How to Choose the Right Yacht and Plan the Perfect Trip
Published
10 months agoon
December 13, 2023Yacht charters offer a unique and luxurious way to explore the world’s most beautiful destinations. Whether you’re looking to spend a week exploring the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, or you want to take a romantic trip to the Mediterranean, a yacht charter is an excellent option. Phuket is an excellent location to charter a yacht and is one of the most popular destinations for yacht charters in the world.
However, choosing the right yacht and planning the perfect trip can be a daunting task for those who are new to yacht charters. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make your yacht charter experience a success.
Consider the Size of the Yacht Needed
Yachts come in a variety of sizes, from small sailing boats to large motor yachts. Consider how many people will be traveling with you, and how much space you’ll need for your trip. You’ll also want to think about the type of activities you want to do on your trip. If you’re looking for a more adventurous trip, a smaller sailing yacht may be the way to go. But if you’re looking for a more luxurious and spacious experience, a larger motor yacht may be a better choice.
- Small Sailing Yachts: These are typically 30-50 feet in length and are ideal for more intimate and adventurous trips.
- Mid-Size Motor Yachts: These yachts are typically 50-80 feet in length and offer more space and amenities than small sailing yachts.
- Large Motor Yachts: These yachts are typically 80 feet or longer and offer the ultimate in luxury and comfort.
- Superyachts: These are the largest yachts, typically over 100 feet in length, and are often custom built to the highest standards.
Consider a Place to Discover
Yacht charters are available all over the world, from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, so choose a location that appeals to you and your travel companions. Research the destinations you’re interested in, and find out what the weather will be like during your trip. You’ll also want to consider the time of year that you’re traveling, as some destinations may be more expensive during peak season.
Here are some popular yacht destinations:
Mediterranean: The Mediterranean region is a top destination for yacht charters, with its turquoise waters, stunning coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Some popular destinations include the French Riviera, the Amalfi Coast in Italy, and the Greek islands.
Caribbean: The Caribbean is a popular yacht charter destination for its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and clear waters. Some popular islands include the British Virgin Islands, St. Martin, and Antigua.
Bahamas: The Bahamas are another popular yacht charter destination, known for its stunning crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and tropical landscapes.
Maldives: The Maldives is a group of 26 atolls in the Indian Ocean, known for its stunning coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and abundant sea life.
Thailand: Thailand is known for its stunning beaches, lush tropical forests, vibrant local culture, and rich history. Some popular destinations for yacht charters in Thailand include the Andaman Sea, Phuket, and Koh Samui
Plan Ahead
When it comes to planning the perfect trip, timing is everything. Booking your yacht charter early is key to ensuring that you get the yacht and destination that you want. Don’t wait until the last minute to book, as yachts can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. It’s also a good idea to book well in advance if you’re traveling during the holidays, as yachts tend to be in high demand during these times.
Yacht Charter Cost
Another important factor to consider when planning your yacht charter is the cost. Yacht charters can be expensive, so you’ll want to budget for your trip carefully. Consider the cost of the yacht, fuel, food, and other expenses. Some yacht charters may include some or all of these expenses, so be sure to ask about what’s included when you’re booking. You may also want to look for yacht charter deals or discounts to help save money on your trip.
Think About the Crew
Finally, you’ll want to consider the crew. Yacht charters typically come with a crew that includes a captain, chef, and other members. Consider the size of the crew, and make sure that they have the experience and skills you need for your trip. You’ll also want to make sure that the crew is friendly and professional, and that they can accommodate any special requests or needs you may have.
Final Thoughts
A yacht charter is an excellent way to explore the world’s most beautiful destinations in style and comfort. With a little bit of planning and research, you can choose the right yacht and plan the perfect trip for you and your travel companions. So start exploring your options today, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
Adventure Travel
Medieval Towns with German Castles Near Munich & Frankfurt
Published
2 years agoon
May 17, 2022Our favorite castles in Germany near Frankfurt and Munich:
We were crazy enough to visit Neuschwanstein Castle on a public holiday. This meant that along with all the Asian tourists, there were an awful lot of Germans. Plus, even though we arrived by 11 am, the soonest tickets we could buy were for the German tour at 2.30 pm, as the terms in English were sold out until 4 pm. So, if you don’t have German friends at hand to translate the tour for you, we recommend booking in advance online. The castle was impressive, and the time was undoubtedly fascinating! Don’t worry, I won’t spill the beans, but the manmade Grotto room made my jaw drop!
Mespelbrunn Castle is located on a pond between Frankfurt and Wurzburg. Unfortunately, we arrived 30 minutes after its closing time of 5 pm, but it looked cool from behind the fence!
Lichtenstein Castle is located on a clifftop near Stuttgart and costs 6 euros per person for a tour in German; however, they did give us a very informative written guide in English. This castle is small compared to Hohenzollern castle, but its story is fascinating. Tanks shelled it in World War II, and today you can still see the cracked mirror from where a small fragment of a tank grenade ricocheted!
Hohenzollern Castle is not too far from Lichtenstein Castle. It is located on a hilltop near Hechingen, and we enjoyed the guided tour. Along with getting to wear GIANT slippers, make sure you explore the casemates and secret passages. One sign made me want to learn more. It read, “Exactly where these steps lead to is unknown. More casemates and secret passageways are likely waiting to be discovered in the heart of the mountain”!
Heidelberg Castle was a lot larger than we expected! Unfortunately, we had spent far too much time at the Auto & Technik Museum in Sinsheim, so we did not have time to explore this castle. But if we get the chance, we will explore the town and its castle next time in Germany.
On our drive from Munich to Frankfurt, we also loved:
The beer garden at Andechs Monastery was just like Oktoberfest but amongst trees and more family-friendly. The beer was cheaper, and the food was great, including the giant pork knuckle, which Moss could not finish. It was also fun walking up multiple flights of stairs to the tower’s very top.
Three hours in Rothenburg was not enough to explore this wonderful medieval town! We recommend getting your hands on a city map from the tourist information office. We enjoyed Roder Gate, walking along the wall and exploring the 17th-century spital bastion, plus Moss lost me in the Kathe Wohlfahrt Christmas shop for over half an hour, and I didn’t even buy anything!
The average person would Google Munich to Frankfurt and see that it only takes about 3 ½ hours depending on how fast you wish to drive on the autobahn! However, we are NOT typical. We took one look at train prices and decided that hiring a car wouldn’t cost too much more.
Suppose you’re interested in traveling to Germany for a damn good deal. In that case, plenty of tour companies have some pretty unique and affordable vacation packages to Berlin, Munich, and Bavaria.
We aren’t going to tell you our exact route. Still, after surviving Oktoberfest in Munich, we did a giant zigzag to see as many castles and medieval towns as possible. So to save you doing so much driving, we have picked our favorite cities and castles. First of all, ‘Ausfahrt’ is not a destination accessible from every off-ramp! It means ‘Exit’! Another word of wisdom to keep in mind is that the autobahns with speed limits do have speed cameras… and the flash is blinding!
Meet Cole and Adela
We have been wearing out our jandals (Kiwi for flip-flops) on our travel adventures around the world since 2009. We think our blog is thought provoking and a little witty. But we have been proven wrong before. Find out more about us here...
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