Esplanade sport & fitness facilities
Whether it's a swim in the Lagoon, a workout at one of our green gyms, or a casual game of beach volleyball, there's plenty of facilities along the Esplanade to enjoy.
The Esplanade also includes 2.5km of pedestrian and shared paths, with markers each 500m, for a picturesque stroll, jog or run.
All of the recreational facilities are free for public use
If you are looking for a venue for a party or celebration, please complete a booking enquiry. Fees may apply.
There are five beach volleyabll courts, four of which are international-standard, at the Northern Esplanade Activity Precinct opposite Cairns Hospital.
Opening hours
The beach volleyball courts are open every day and are free for casual use.
- Wednesday to Monday 9am to 9.30pm
- Tuesday, closed until 4pm for maintenance
Amenities
- Public toilets
- Public car park - 3 hours, free
- Outdoor showers
Active Living free fitness class
Want to try your hand at beach volleyball or sharpen your skills? The Active Living free fitness program offers classes each Tuesday from 5.30pm.
Bouldering is a form of rock climbing at low heights and doesn't require special equipment, but shoes are recommended.
Located in the Northern Activity Precinct opposite Cairns Hospital, the park has strategically placed foot and hand holds to suit climbing levels from beginner to advanced.
Opening hours
The Bouldering Park is open every day from 9am to 9.30pm and is free for casual use.
Amenities
- Public toilets
- Public car park - 3 hours, free
The Esplanade fitness stations are open all day, every day and are free for casual use.
Recreational equipment has been selected as part of Council's Esplanade "Green Gym" program, which allows the community to access fitness and exercise equipment in a natural environment.
"Green Gym" fitness station equipment at the Northern Esplanade is selected to allow low-impact cardio style exercise that facilitates strength and mobility. The equipment is designed to suit the needs of older people or those recovering from illness or injury.
You will find "Green Gym" fitness stations at numerous locations along the Cairns Esplanade.
The Lagoon is a 4800sqm salt water swimming facility that offers an all-year round, safe swimming location, monitored by lifeguards. Entry is free.
Opening hours
- Thursday to Tuesday 6am to 9pm
- Wednesday noon to 9pm (closed before noon for cleaning and maintenance)
Amenities
- Public toilets and showers
- Lockers
- Public car park - 10 hours, paid
- Electric BBQs (free)
- Wheelchair accessible
- Aquatic Wheelchair is available for visitors to use in the Lagoon
Conditions of use
For everyone's safety and enjoyment there are a few rules for using the Lagoon:
- No food or drink in the Lagoon; no alcohol in the parklands
- No diving or jumping
- No running
- Children must be supervised by an adult at all times
- No inflatables or toys in the Lagoon (these obstruct the view of lifeguards)
- No smoking
This court can be used for activities such as petanque. Bring your own equipment.
With a hard surface court, the half-court is suitable for basketball and a range of other sports including soccer and netball.
The court is located within the Northern Esplanade Activity Precinct opposite Cairns Hospital.
Opening hours
The multi-use court is open every day from 9am to 9.30pm and is free for casual use.
Amenities:
- Public toilets
- Public car park - 3 hours, free
Whether you are a boarder, rider or spectator the Skate Plaza is one of Cairns' finest recreational facilities.
It has been called 'one of the seven wonders of the skate park world' due to its innovative design including an inverted cradle.
The Skate Plaza is in the Northern Esplanade Activity Precinct opposite Cairns Hospital.
Opening hours
The Skate Plaza is open every day from 8.30am to 9.30pm and is free for casual use.
Amenities:
- Public toilets
- Public car park - 3 hours, free
Last Updated: 17 August 2026
Latest News > All News
Keeping it local pays off for Cairns
More than nine out of every 10 dollars spent in 2025/26 stayed in the local economy, contributing to a total...
26 August 2026
Road and traffic changes for Cairns Festival
Cairns Festival Grand Parade is set to take over the Esplanade on Saturday 29 August, bringing colour, music, and thousands...
26 August 2026
10 ways to make the most of Cairns Festival
Cairns is set to come alive as Cairns Festival 2026 returns from 28 August to 6 September....
25 August 2026