Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

The Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is undoubtedly the #1 free adventurous thing to do while in Cairns in Queensland’s Far North. With warm, balmy all year round weather you can enjoy this experience any day of the year.  The free, 4800 square metre, salt water public pool offers a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for all ages and abilities. It’s also the perfect spot to just sit, relax and soak in the laid back Cairns atmosphere. If you are planning an adventure to Cairns, you absolutely must put this on your adventurous things to do list! Need a hire car to adventure around Cairns and beyond? Check out the deals and availability at Europcar!

What are the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon opening hours?

The Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is open from 6am – 9pm daily (except for Wednesday mornings when it is closed for maintenance and doesn’t open until 12noon). It may close for extended times periods on occasion for maintenance or repairs and this information can be found on the Cairns Regional Council website.

The pool is under full lighting at night and life guards are present during opening hours.

How deep is The Lagoon?

The Lagoon depth ranges from zero depth (at the beach entries) up to 1.55m deep. This large pool features different areas to suit all ages and abilities. Young families can enjoy shallower sections with water sprays, beach sand entry and shallow waters with a gentle incline to deeper areas. There are also deeper areas and everything in between so you can swim or enjoy wading or walking through the water. This wonderful free public pool really is for everyone.

Is it all abilities accessible?

The Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is wheelchair accessible. Ask the lifeguards for assistance with wheelchair access. There is beach access (both sealed and sandy) as well as step entry.

Is there any shade over the pool?

Some natural shade falls over the pool at certain times of the day however there is no fixed shade over the pool. Alongside the pool there are a few shaded deck areas.

Is the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon heated?

Cairns experiences warm weather all year round, so the water is a nice temperature for swimming too – no heating required.

Is entry to The Lagoon free?

Entry to Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is free to the public.

What am I not allowed to bring into the pool?

There are no inflatables allowed in the pool. Similarly, alcohol and food are not allowed in the pool.

Are there BBQs and picnic facilities available?

Several BBQs and picnic shelters are available near the pool and across The Esplanade area around the pool. There is also plenty of grassed area, white sandy beaches and decks, to set up a picnic. Woolworths Cairns is just a short walk from The Esplanade (on Abbott St) and has all the BBQ and picnic supplies you need. Note: no alcohol is allowed on the Cairns Esplanade parklands.

Are there toilets and showers available?

A large toilet and shower block (with a parent room) is located right alongside the pool. There are also lockers for hire here to secure your valuables while you swim.

What restaurants are nearby?

There are far too many to list. You won’t be short of a cafe or restaurant to choose from on The Esplanade Cairns. However I do recommend you check out the Coast Roast Espresso & Juice Bar and the Cairns Night Markets right across the road on The Esplanade. Aqua Cairns Lagoon Cafe is located alongside the pool also and is open daily during the day for light refreshments.

Is there parking at the Cairns Esplanade?

A large paid car park is located in front of The Pier Cairns Shopping Mall, just a short stroll from the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon.

Cairns Esplanade Lagoon Map

Cairns Esplanade Lagoon Summary

Cost: Free
Open: Everyday 8am – 9pm (except Wednesdays open from 12noon). Open everyday of the year (unless closed for repairs or maintenance)
Accessibility: Accessible to all abilities. Ask Lifeguards for assistance with wheelchair entry.
Toilets & Showers: Toilets & Showers available alongside the pool
BBQs: several BBQs located around the pool and Esplanade parklands
Dogs: Dogs are not allowed at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, however can be walked on a lead along The Esplanade and around the parklands.
Parking: Find paid parking available at the Southern Esplanade carpark
More Information: www.cairns.qld.gov.au
Map: Cairns Esplanade Lagoon Map

Want a fresh juice or smoothie for a healthy fix before or after your big Cairns adventure? There are lots of Juice Bars just a short walk from the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon. Find the Best Juice Bar Cairns here!

 

Need somewhere to stay while you adventure in and around Cairns? Compare prices and read reviews: Check Trip.com

 

Lauren Angove is an adventurous Perth (Western Australia) Mum of two boys who loves to blog about her experiences to inspire other mid-lifers to choose their most adventurous lives now. Keep up to date with her latest adventure inspiration and advice at Always Adventure Ready on facebook.