Beyond the Finish Line: 5 Reasons Why IRONMAN Cairns is Your Next Multi-sport Race-cation
- Hana Basir
- Jun 25
- 7 min read
Updated: Sep 4
From its weather and attractions, to the adrenaline-pumping cheering by locals and supporters, IRONMAN Cairns has proven itself to be the next best race-cation
IRONMAN Cairns is otherwise known as the ‘Race in Paradise’—and rightly so. With its cool tropical weather even in winter and its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Cairns is the perfect race-cation destination.
The Sportplus.sg team was fortunate to soak up some of the city’s best offerings just before watching the athletes tackle the gruelling IRONMAN course. Here are five reasons why Cairns should be your next multi-sport race destination, including some of Cairns' best attractions for you to visit!
Get cheered on by locals and supporters all along the course
Whether it was the beat of the drums, locals coming out of their homes along the bike course to cheer, or the roaring supporters lining the Esplanade during the run, many IRONMAN Cairns 2025 participants said they made it to the finish line thanks to the crowd.
Even as someone who went around the course with a camera, watching the crowd cheer for strangers was an emotional and inspiring scene. It was evident then that as the world grows more uncertain, the human spirit continues to rise.
“I have to say that the atmosphere was amazing. During the bike, the run and of course at the finish line, it was superb. My advice is to print your name on your jersey, they’ll cheer and shout your name and that was really motivating,” shared J Iskandar, a Malaysian participant.
Kelvin Cheng, from Singapore, shared the same sentiments and said: “The kids were cheering! So, you’re left with no choice but to run.”
The atmosphere at the finish line is electric. Adrenaline surged not just through the athletes crossing it, but also through the media and supporters—at least two rows deep—who lined up along the entire stretch.
What other race but the IRONMAN would have athletes—after seven, eight, sometimes more hours of relentless racing—crossing the finish line hand in hand so timely to the chorus of Tina Turner’s The Best and loud roars of cheers from the Emcee and the crowd?
Exactly.
The pride radiating from them is contagious. It seeps into you, and before you know it, you're swept up in a wave of emotion, overflowing with admiration for what they’ve just accomplished.
Cairns Aquarium - The Turtle Hospital Tour
Located in the heart of the city and just a 10 minute walk from the Esplanade, Cairns Aquarium is a one-of-a-kind experience. Opened in 2017, it’s the only aquarium in the world to exclusively showcase wildlife found from the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest—both World Heritage-listed areas.
Driven by a deep commitment to preserving the flora and fauna of the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics, the passion of the aquarium’s team radiates through their work—leaving every visitor inspired by their love for the region’s wildlife.
If you want to take a step further and learn more about conserving wildlife (or if you just really love turtles) make sure to dive into the Guided Turtle Hospital Tours. Tickets for the tours go at AUD$20 for adults and AUD$14 for children and all proceeds go to The Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre.
The tour begins in a cozy classroom setting, taking you right back to your school days. It begins with a presentation by the guide, where you learn all about the dangers faced by the six species of Sea turtles in Australia. From learning about their incredible life cycle, to understanding our part in protecting them and to hearing inspiring stories of those rescued and rehabilitated by the center—every moment is both eye-opening and heartwarming.
Then comes the highlight—meeting the stars of the show! We were introduced to Tommy, a gentle soul who was rescued from the reef. As we learned about his journey and offered him some Bok Choy, being so close to such a majestic creature was humbling. Sea turtles can live for over a hundred years—and in the briefest moment of their lives, you’re given the chance to help them heal. It’s a quiet reminder of how small actions can make a lasting impact.
The Turtle Hospital Tour wraps up in just under an hour, but the experience doesn’t end there. You’re then free to explore the rest of the aquarium, which takes you on a journey through a variety of natural habitats. From stealthy sharks to freshwater crocodiles, sea snakes to vibrant schools of fish—it’s a fascinating showcase of marine life in all its diversity.
If you’re planning a visit to the Cairns Aquarium, we’d recommend setting aside at least three hours to fully soak in everything it has to offer—from the Turtle Hospital to the diverse marine ecosystems on display.
Great Barrier Reef Tours - Nautilus Aviation
While in the air, one thought came to mind. This was one of the coolest things I had ever done, and will ever do. Whether you’re thinking of doing this pre-race or post, one thing is for sure—and that’s that peace will wash over you as you cruise over one of Earth’s everlasting beauties, the Great Barrier Reef.
The tour kicks off with a safety briefing at Nautilus Aviation's check-in office, before you make your way to the helipad to await your helicopter’s arrival. Positioned right by the water’s edge, the helipad sets the stage for what’s to come—and as the blades start spinning and you lift off straight toward the reef, the moment feels nothing short of surreal.
The views take your breath away from the moment you’re airborne. On one side, a bird’s-eye view of the city sprawls beneath you. On the other, the lush greenery of the Trinity Forest Reserve stretches out like a living canvas.
Before long, your pilot announces your arrival at the first of many reefs. Thanks to the crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral formations are visible from above—and if luck is on your side, you might even catch a glimpse of sea turtles gliding below or manta rays dancing through the currents.
The pilot’s love for the ocean exudes from him as he tells of the different reefs and its facts. Did you know that the brown corals are actually the healthy ones? Many mistake them for dead corals!
Make sure to bring your cameras as you’ll want to keep these memories forever. We’d also recommend wearing minimal layers even in winter, as the interior of the helicopter is very warm. It may be the closest to the sun you’ll ever get. Seriously, at one point, it felt like it was right in front of our faces!
The Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flights last for either 30, 45 or 60 minutes!
Snap a pic with one of Australia's icons
Along the water’s edge where the race village is located, there’s a slew of attractions, bistros and gelato shops for you to explore—but perhaps the best one includes a furry friend.
Just a short stroll from the race village, Cairns Koalas and Creatures offers a unique chance to hold a koala and snap an unforgettable photo with one of Australia’s most iconic animals.
One of the guides first led us on an animated and fascinating tour, sharing captivating stories about the various species. It quickly became one of the most memorable wildlife experiences I’ve had to date.
This family-friendly attraction provides an immersive journey through Australia's diverse ecosystems, from the vibrant Great Barrier Reef to the tranquil mangroves, lush rainforests, and the rugged outback.
Then, the main event—meeting the koalas!
“Today, you’re all trees,” exclaimed our guide, as she taught us to stand still with hands clasped together by our bodies. If you stand still enough, the koala will naturally nestle themselves onto you, as if it was hugging a tree.
And it’s the cutest thing ever. Do it pre-race and you’ll get an energising boost. Do it post-race and you’ll feel completely recharged!
A Tropical Winter Unique to North Queensland
IRONMAN Cairns typically takes place during the heart of the Australian winter, but thanks to its unique location in Tropical North Queensland, the race enjoys weather that’s far from typical winter chill. Instead, athletes are greeted by a perfect blend of refreshing cool breezes and warm, bright sunshine—conditions that create an ideal racing environment.
This climate is especially beneficial for athletes from Southeast Asia, who face intense heat and heavy humidity back home in June. The tropical winter in Cairns offers a much-needed respite from the usual sweltering conditions, making it easier for them to maintain energy and stamina throughout the race.
The cooler, drier air of Cairns’ winter helps reduce fatigue and overheating, two common challenges in hot, humid climates. With less stress on the body’s cooling system, athletes can perform at their best, focusing entirely on their race strategy and endurance. This balance of mild warmth and refreshing air makes IRONMAN Cairns a standout event in the racing calendar, drawing competitors who appreciate not just the challenging course, but also the supportive climate that helps them push their limits.
But of course, Mother Nature can only be so kind. . There’s a point in the race when the weather can turn against you, and that’s in the bike leg where strong headwinds test your strength and resolve.
Rest assured, the tropical climate will once again become a friend after the race. Head to the Esplanade to enjoy the breeze as you stroll along the coast or get yourself a tan!
The next IRONMAN Cairns race is set to take place on 14th June 2026, with registrations set to open in four to six weeks. Interested athletes can, however, register their interest here.
Comments