Cairns is a fantastic place for enjoying a memorable lunch experience that combines stunning scenery with authentic local flavors. Whether you’re after a relaxing day on a tropical island, an adventurous snorkel at the Great Barrier Reef, or a scenic train ride through lush rainforests, Cairns offers options that make your meal a highlight of your trip. We’re especially fond of the Outer Great Barrier Reef full-day cruise with lunch, which combines world-class snorkeling with a gourmet buffet, and the Waterfall Tour with Lunch, that offers a delicious way to cool off amid North Queensland’s spectacular waterfalls. But no matter your style, Cairns has a lunch experience just right for you, complete with stunning views and unique adventures.
If you’re planning your trip, you’ll want to check out our list of the best lunch experiences in Cairns, which covers everything from reef-side dining to island escapes, rainforest explorations, and scenic rail journeys. Below, we’ll walk you through each option with details on what makes them special, so you can pick the perfect fit.
1. Cairns: Outer Great Barrier Reef Full-Day Tour with Lunch
At number 1 on our list is the Cairns: Outer Great Barrier Reef Full-Day Tour with Lunch. This tour promises a day of adventure and relaxation on a luxury 35-metre superyacht exploring two exclusive reef sites. The highlight, of course, is the five hours of snorkeling at vibrant, pristine locations teeming with marine life and coral formations. It’s a chance to see turtles, colorful fish, and giant clams in their natural habitat.
What sets this tour apart is the gourmet chef-prepared BBQ lunch, which caters to special dietary needs, ensuring everyone has a delicious meal. After hours in the water, unwind with a complimentary glass of wine, cheese, and biscuits, making the journey back as enjoyable as the reef exploration. The crew’s professionalism and friendliness are often praised, making this a well-organized, high-value choice. This experience is ideal for those who want a full day of underwater discovery paired with fine food.
Bottom line: If your ideal outing involves a luxury boat, expert guides, and top-notch snorkeling combined with a gourmet meal, this tour offers an unbeatable package.
2. From Cairns: Waterfall Tour with Lunch
Number 2 is the Waterfall Tour with Lunch. This full-day trip takes you to the lush Atherton Tablelands, where rugged mountains, rivers, and rainforest set the scene for some of North Queensland’s most famous waterfalls. Along the way, you’ll visit Millaa Millaa Falls, Josephine Falls, Babinda Boulders, and Lake Eacham—all perfect spots for a refreshing swim.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of natural beauty and good food. You’ll enjoy morning and afternoon tea, along with a hearty lunch that fuels your exploration. The visit to the Cathedral Fig Tree, alongside a brief cultural presentation, adds a special touch, enriching your understanding of the region. The reviews highlight how well-organized and scenic this trip is, especially for those who love hiking, swimming, and sightseeing amidst breathtaking rainforest scenery.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you want a laid-back, nature-focused day with great food and plenty of opportunities to cool off in waterfalls.
3. Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Cruise with Lunch
Number 3 is the Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Cruise with Lunch. This trip offers a wonderful way to experience the reef’s vibrant ecosystem without the complexity of diving. You’ll spend around nine hours exploring two reef sites, with five hours of water time, including guidance from indigenous rangers who share the reef’s creation story.
The reef sites are known for their lively coral and abundant marine life, including sea turtles and reef fish. The onboard lunch, which is included in the price, is tasty and convenient, perfect for refueling after hours in the water. This tour is especially suited for snorkelers wanting a balanced mix of cultural storytelling and marine adventure, with the added benefit of being highly rated for its value and quality.
Bottom line: If snorkeling in warm, clear waters with cultural insights is your priority, this tour delivers a memorable reef day with a good meal included.
4. Cairns: Fitzroy Island Ferry w/ Snorkel, Lunch, Tour Options
Number 4 is the Fitzroy Island Ferry with Snorkel, Lunch, and Tour Options. This trip offers a flexible way to enjoy Fitzroy Island, whether you’re after a relaxing day on the beach or an active adventure. You can simply hop on the ferry, explore at your own pace, or add optional activities like snorkel gear, kayaking, or a glass-bottom boat ride.
The island itself is a peaceful escape with untouched beaches and rainforest trails. If you choose the optional lunch, you’ll enjoy a picnic-style meal amidst this natural beauty, or you can bring your own. The variety of activities allows you to customize your day—perfect if you prefer a mix of leisure and adventure.
Bottom line: This is a great choice for travelers who want a flexible, self-guided day on an island paradise, with optional upgrades to enhance the experience.
5. Cairns: Best of the Kuranda Rainforest Full-Day Tour & Lunch
Number 5 is the Best of the Kuranda Rainforest Full-Day Tour & Lunch. This tour combines scenic travel and wildlife encounters, starting with a ride on the Kuranda Scenic Railway, renowned for its stunning views over waterfalls and forested valleys. Once in Kuranda, you’ll visit the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary and the Koala and Wildlife Park, making it a hit for animal lovers.
A highlight is the rainforest exploration via 6WD amphibious vehicle, which brings the landscape alive. The classic Australian barbecue lunch offers hearty fare in a relaxed setting. Aboriginal dance demonstrations add a cultural dimension, rounding out a well-rounded day.
This tour is ideal for families or those interested in combining scenic train rides, wildlife, and cultural experiences, all topped with a hearty lunch.
Bottom line: For a full-day immersive experience in rainforest scenery, wildlife, and cultural performances, this tour offers excellent value and variety.
6. Cairns: Fitzroy Island Ferry, optional lunch, tours, snorkel
Number 6 is the Fitzroy Island Ferry, optional lunch, tours, snorkel. This is similar to the previous Fitzroy options but caters to travelers who prefer a more relaxed, self-directed experience. You can simply take the ferry and explore the island at your own pace, whether lounging on beaches, hiking rainforest trails, or trying out optional activities like guided snorkeling or glass-bottom boat rides.
Adding a lunch package allows you to enjoy a picnic or café meal amidst the island’s natural beauty, or you can choose to bring your own. It’s a flexible way to enjoy Fitzroy without the constraints of a guided tour.
Bottom line: Perfect for independent travelers who want the freedom to choose activities and pace their day, with the option to include a great lunch.
7. Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Tour with Lunch
Number 7 is the Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Tour with Lunch. This tour specializes in exploring the Upolu Reef, located on the edge of the outer reef. It’s famed for its clear waters and vibrant marine life, including turtles, reef fish, and sea stars.
The lunch onboard is simple but satisfying, allowing you to spend more time in the water. The tour offers a good balance for snorkelers seeking a full day with minimal hassle, featuring a shorter duration of around nine hours but with plenty of underwater exploration.
Bottom line: If you want a focused reef snorkel experience with a straightforward meal, this tour is a solid choice.
8. Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Fishing Charter with Lunch
Number 8 is the Great Barrier Reef Fishing Charter with Lunch. This is the ultimate trip for anglers, targeting species like Coral Trout and Red Emperor. It’s a full-day adventure, with all fishing gear, reef taxes, and even your catch cleaned and packed for you to take home.
The buffet lunch and afternoon tea keep everyone fueled for the day’s challenges. The small number of reviews reflects the niche appeal of this trip, but those who love fishing often praise the experience as “exceptional” and “worth every penny.” It’s best suited for serious anglers or those wanting a unique, hands-on experience.
Bottom line: If fishing in the reef’s waters is your top priority, this tour offers a memorable day with excellent value for money.
9. Cairns: Hot Air Balloon Flight & 3-Course Lunch
Number 9 is the Hot Air Balloon Flight & 3-Course Lunch. This is a standout for travelers looking for a luxurious experience. You’ll float over the Atherton Tablelands, soaking in panoramic views of mountains, farmland, and rainforests. After the flight, enjoy a three-course lunch at Ochre Restaurant, accompanied by a glass of sparkling wine.
The added touch of packing up the balloon, along with the digital photo package and a souvenir certificate, makes this a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. The one review is glowing, emphasizing the thrill of the flight and the quality of the meal.
Bottom line: Perfect for romantics or special occasion travelers, this tour combines adventure, scenic beauty, and gourmet dining in one package.
$327 per person
How to Choose Your Cairns Lunch Experience
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If snorkeling in the reef is your priority, tours like the Outer Great Barrier Reef cruise or Snorkeling Reef cruise will serve you well. For a more leisurely day, the Fitzroy Island options or the Waterfall Tour with Lunch might be better, especially if you love swimming and hiking. If you’re after a unique experience, the hot air balloon and fine dining is hard to beat for a special occasion.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular trips like the reef cruises and hot air balloon rides, to ensure availability during peak seasons. Also, think about the level of activity you want — some tours are more physically involved, while others focus on relaxation and scenic views.
In summary, Cairns offers a wide range of lunch experiences that can turn a regular day into a memorable part of your Australian adventure. From the underwater marvels of the Great Barrier Reef to the tranquility of rainforest waterfalls and island escapes, there’s a perfect match for every traveler. Whether you prioritize gourmet meals, wildlife encounters, or scenic travel, booking the right tour early will ensure you make the most of your time in this tropical paradise.