There’s a spot about 10kms out of Cairns called Crystal Cascades. It’s a beautiful swimming spot, complete with cascading waterfalls (yes, hence the name Crystal Cascades!) situated on Freshwater Creek in Redlynch Valley.
There are minimal tourists, mainly locals & it is a great spot to escape the heat. The water is cold but that is exactly what is needed. After the initial shock, (you are best to dive straight in) it is very refreshing. Don’t worry you eventually warm back to room temperature! While Anna & I weren’t brave enough to slide down the algae covered rocks of the cascades (to avoid bruises!) David & Pier Luigi manned up & did it….though it was quite hilarious to see them struggling to get up the slippery rocks.
And of course, no trip to Cairns should go without a walk along the esplanade. Renovated in 2002 it now has pools (you can’t actually swim at the beach in Cairns), fitness stations & a timber boardwalk all right on the water. Very popular with tourists and locals. Like a typical tourist I took off my shoes and walked through the pool to cool off my feet & ate ice-cream. Perfect!
