Fig Tree Play Ground (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Fig Tree Play Ground?
What makes it 90% Kids-Friendly: The rope bridges, slides and 15 m tree walkway are designed for 4-12 yr olds, with shade, BBQs and toilets close, so active kids are safely entertained for hours.
Positives:
- Free entry and play equipment: All playground structures and picnic lawns are free to use.
- Unique banyan tree feature: The 600-year-old tree and its suspended walkway are unlike any other playground.
- Seaside location: The Esplanade boardwalk offers water views and cool sea breezes.
Challenges:
- Limited shade on structure: Only parts of the playground have shade sails; bring hats and sunscreen.
- Parking competition: Street parking fills up quickly on weekends and holidays.
- Age-suitability: The rope and slide gear suit kids 4+; toddlers may struggle with climbing nets.
What is Fig Tree Play Ground?
- A public playground on the Cairns Esplanade adjacent to Trinity Inlet, anchored by a 15-metre-high strangling banyan fig reputed to be 600–700 years old
- A custom-built play environment enveloping the ancient fig, featuring a 180-metre suspended plank boardwalk, rope bridges, swings and slides
- Expansive lawn terraces, picnic areas and a small jetty front its waterfront parkland setting at the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef
What is so special about Fig Tree Play Ground for with kids?
- Climb and explore a real 600-year-old fig tree walkway.
- Play on rope bridges, nets and a twisty tube slide.
- Picnic or barbecue on lush lawns by the sea.
- Fish from the adjacent jetty and clean your catch.
- Cool off at Muddy’s Playground splash pad nearby.
- Easy access to toilets, water fountains and shaded seating.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to climb the banyan walkway, play on slides and nets, picnic and fish without rushing younger kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Fig Tree Play Ground
Banyan Tree Walkway:
Stroll the 180 m suspended plank road around the 600-year-old fig tree.
Tip: Wear closed shoes and hold the rail; watch small kids closely on narrow sections.
Rope Bridge & Climbing Nets:
Climb through rope bridges and nets woven into the tree structure.
Tip: Let older kids go first to spot safe routes; younger kids may need hand-holding.
Tube Slide & Wooden Decks:
Slide down the twisty tube slide and pause on multiple lookout decks.
Tip: Help smaller children reach the slide entrance safely; take turns at the top.
Picnic & Barbecue:
Use free electric BBQ bays and picnic tables on the grassy lawn.
Tip: Bring simple grill ingredients and a wind-proof lighter; arrive early to claim a table.
Fishing Off the Jetty:
Cast a line from the small pier next to the playground.
Tip: Pack light rods and basic bait; use the fish-cleaning bench if you catch dinner.
Splash at Muddy’s Playground:
Enjoy a free splash pad with water jets and slides 200 m north.
Tip: Bring swimwear, towels and change of clothes for kids.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Fig Tree Play Ground
- Arrive early: Beat the heat, find parking, and grab a picnic spot before crowds arrive.
- Pack a picnic: Use free BBQ bays to save money and ensure kid-friendly meal options.
- Combine with splash pad: Plan a stop at Muddy’s Playground after dry play to cool off.
Reviews of Fig Tree Play Ground
James Gorman
This playground would be awesome if most of it wasn’t blocked off with construction fence.
Sylvia Lin
An interesting playground built around a huge fig tree. Both adults and kids have fun in this playground.
Noah Perrott
Great playground, really nice and modern, and very suitable for all ages. My little brother made a friend. The tree is super cool, I didn’t know that trees could grow like that. Swear I saw a monster in the tunnel :). Really fun, super accessible, with lots of fun equipment that has been placed here, I really like this place and definitely recommend this playground for all ages, will definitely be...
Sam Jensen
Great park built around a massive fig tree. Best part is that it is completely shaded by the tree. And there's a cafe right next to it!
Linda H
One of the more interesting tree house spotted that even adults are tempted to play hide and seek amongst and in between the branches. Below the tree house is not less beckoning especially with the serene water backdrop and the sound of docking ship blowing its horn. We really enjoy this park. People watching, reading on the many wooden benches and two eatery premises on offer. One corner is Hemin...
When is the best time to visit Fig Tree Play Ground (Great Barrier Reef Area, Australia)?
Visit in the dry season (May–Oct) for mild weather and lower rain risk. In summer and wet season (Nov–Apr), bring rain jackets and insect repellent. Sunrise or late afternoon visits beat midday heat.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| On-street parking (2 h at A$4/h) | AUD 8 |
| Ice-creams/snacks for kids | AUD 12 |
| Coffee at Wharf One Café | AUD 8 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 28 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Fig Tree Play Ground
Address: 34-38 Esplanade, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
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About Fig Tree Play Ground
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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