Esplanade Lagoon

Relax after a day of sightseeing or cool down from the summer heat in this fresh-water lagoon, one of Cairns’ best city attractions.

The Esplanade Lagoon is a water feature in Cairns where you can relax, cool off and socialise with other travellers. The lagoon is on the waterfront on the Cairns Esplanade and is surrounded by tropical gardens. Spend an entire day relaxing by the water, join a fitness class or cool off in the midday heat.

Situated on the beautiful Cairns foreshore, this man-made saltwater swimming lagoon looks out to the Trinity Inlet and the world-famous Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy the lagoon at any time of day. Watch the sun rise with an early morning swim, cool down in the lagoon in the afternoon heat or relax by the water after a day of sightseeing. There are timber decks to lie on and plenty of shade.

For young families, Muddy’s further down the Esplanade is a fun and safe water playground. Splash about with the hand pumps, water channels and jumping water jets. Children can have fun on the flying fox, in the playhouses, on slides, rope bridges and more.

There is regular live outdoor entertainment on the Esplanade and free fitness and cultural activities for locals and visitors. Join an aqua aerobics class at the lagoon, do yoga on the foreshore or take a dance class in the parklands. Get fit with a boxing class or beach volleyball.

Bring a picnic and relax at one of the barbeque areas or dine at one of the nearby cafés and restaurants.

Pick up a brochure from the Cairns Tourist Information Centre on the Esplanade to take the self-guided Cairns Esplanade Heritage Walk. See the historic buildings, sights and landmarks that are along the water. Every Saturday you can find locally made crafts, jewellery, pottery and clothes at the Esplanade markets.

The Esplanade Lagoon is free to use but is closed every Wednesday morning for maintenance. Llifeguards are on duty year-round. Amenities include public showers and toilets. The Esplanade is easily accessible by foot from the city centre. Check the Cairns Esplanade website for times and details about all the free activities.

52/54 Esplanade, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia   |   View Google Map