I’m often asked by Mums, ‘where should I take my two year old?’ Travelling with toddlers is hard work, they are absolutely gorgeous but they’re probably the most challenging travel companions you could have!

The typical two year old challenges are:
They love action and get bored quickly if confined to the one place or activity for too long.
They enjoy running, making safety a huge consideration.
They also tire-out quickly meaning fun is better in bite sized chunks planned around their sleeps than whole day episodes.

So with that in mind here are a few things I would recommend for two year old fun in and around Cairns.

1. Wildlife parks Toddlers love to be a full participant in whatever is going on around them, many of the wildlife parks in the Tropical North region offer safe opportunities for kids to hold, feed or pat the animals, these types of experiences are an excellent way for this age group to learn more about our world. Cairns Tropical Zoo—Palm Cove Johnstone River Crocodile Park—Innisfail Rainforest Habitat—Port Douglas   2. Beaches A day at the beach is affordable and easy and also provides lots of fun and learning for two year olds. Build sandcastles, paddle in the shallows, explore the rockpools or just run and run! The Lagoon, Cairns Palm Cove Etty Bay, Innisfail Mission Beach Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas   3. The Great Barrier Reef Green Island is great for kids as it has shallow water and with snorkelling just off shore parents can take turns in exploring the reef and staying with the children. Glass bottom boats and semi submersibles allow everyone to see the reef without getting wet perfect for the toddlers! Two year olds tire easily so I would recommend a half day cruise. Big Cat Cruises half day Green Island   4. Playgrounds There are plenty of great toddler – friendly playgrounds in the Tropical north. The best ones for two year olds are fully fenced, shaded and have seating for parents within the enclosure. Muddy’s playground, Cairns Esplanade Halloran’s Hill, Atherton Rex Smeal Park, Port Douglas Fitzgerald Esplanade playground, Innisfail   5. Rainy Day Fun Don’t let wet weather spoil your fun, two years olds love indoor play cafes. Sqeekers Play Café, Edmonton Squiggles in Atherton