A Tropical Girls’ Getaway 3 Days in Cairns, Queensland – By Jaz
Some trips simply stay with you forever this was one of them. A beautiful girls’ getaway with my mum, filled with sunshine, laughter, and unforgettable moments beneath the tropical skies of Cairns.
🌤️ Day 1: From Melbourne to Paradise
ExampOur journey began early, flying from Melbourne to Brisbane just two and a half hours in the air. The excitement was real, though it quickly turned into panic when our connecting flight to Cairns was delayed. We found ourselves running through the airport, bags in hand, hearts racing and just in time! The staff were waiting for us at the gate. The flight from Brisbane to Cairns took around three hours, and when we finally stepped off the plane, the warm, tropical air wrapped around us like a hug. We checked into our hotel in the city and decided to stretch our legs with a relaxing walk.
The weather was perfection 26 degrees, a gentle breeze, and skies painted blue. We stopped for lunch at Dundee’s Restaurant by the Waterfront, where the view was as incredible as the food. Sitting by the water, sipping cold drinks, watching boats glide by with mountains in the distance it felt like paradise. As the sun began to set, the sky turned shades of golden yellow, orange, and soft pink. Mum and I sat outside our hotel room, enjoying a cheese platter, listening to the soft sounds of city life, and watching the lights shimmer below. It was the perfect first evening peaceful, warm, and full of gratitude.
🐠 Day 2: The Great Barrier Reef Adventure
The next morning was the highlight of our trip a full-day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef. The sun was shining, the ocean calm and inviting. As the boat cruised over the waves, the water shifted from deep blue to shades of jade green, each more beautiful than the last. Snorkelling over the reef was magical the coral glowed beneath us, and hundreds of colourful fish darted by.
“Swimming in the Great Barrier Reef felt like discovering a secret world hidden under the waves.”
The clarity of the water made it feel like we were floating inside a giant aquarium. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, one that words can barely capture. After a full day of adventure, sun, and salt air, we returned to the city for dinner tired but glowing with happiness. That night, I fell asleep still swaying with the rhythm of the sea.
🌿 Day 3: Road Trip to Kuranda & Palm Cove
For our last day in Cairns, we hired a car and set out on a scenic road trip through the lush rainforest to the Kuranda Markets. The drive itself was stunning winding roads, tall green trees, and glimpses of waterfalls in the distance.
The markets were full of life and colour. Mum and I sampled local Kuranda honey, picked up a few unique souvenirs, and met a talented artist named Akasha Mead, who was painting right at her stall. Her artwork had a magical quality full of nature and spirit. I bought a beautiful turtle painting from her, a piece that will always remind me of that day.
After Kuranda, we continued on to Palm Cove for lunch by the beach. The sun sparkled on the waves, the sand was soft and warm, and we strolled along the shoreline feeling completely relaxed and content.
Back at the hotel, we treated ourselves to a two-hour spa session, followed by cozy room service dinner and a visit to the Cairns Night Markets. We ended the night with frozen yogurt from YOMG it was hot and raining at the same time, but it somehow made the night even more perfect.
🌺 Farewell, Cairns
The next morning, it was time to say goodbye. We flew from Cairns to Sydney, waited a few hours at the airport, and then boarded our final flight home to Melbourne. As I looked out the airplane window, I couldn’t stop smiling. Cairns had given me everything adventure, peace, beauty, and the kind of memories that stay forever. I can’t even put into words how much I loved Cairns. From the coral reefs to the rainforest, from golden sunsets to quiet moments with my mum every part of it felt magical. Truly, it was the best holiday ever, and I feel so blessed to have shared it with her. ❤️
Cairns isn’t just a destination — it’s a feeling. Warm, colourful, adventurous, calming, and full of unforgettable experiences. Whether it was snorkelling at the reef, wandering through rainforest markets, watching sunsets, or simply laughing with my mum, every moment felt special.
“Cairns is the kind of place that stays with you — long after your suitcase is unpacked.” This girls trip reminded me why travelling with someone you love is priceless. I’ll forever hold these memories close to my heart.
