On the Esplanade. Some sections close for maintenance on Tuesday or Thursday mornings until noon.
Directions in Google MapsA splash park with a sea view
Muddy's is a free splash playground and parkland on the Cairns Esplanade, open every day from 9am to 7pm, weekends and public holidays included.
There's water play, a flying fox, sound chimes, a rope bridge, slides, a mouse wheel, play houses, a see-saw and puzzle games. The all-abilities Liberty Swing uses the MLAK key, which you can ask for at Muddy's Cafe.
Toilets, BBQs, picnic tables and a free car park make it easy to stay for hours.
Muddy's opening hours
Every day from 9am to 7pm, including weekends and public holidays. Sections are closed for maintenance on Tuesday and/or Thursday mornings until noon, but council aims to keep at least half the playground open.
What's at Muddy's
- Water play areas
- Flying fox, rope bridge and slides
- Sound chimes and puzzle games
- Mouse wheel, play houses, see-saw and trick track
- The all-abilities Liberty Swing (MLAK key, ask at Muddy's Cafe)
Muddy's rules
- Children supervised by an adult at all times
- No running in the splash areas
- No throwing sand
- No skateboards, rollerblades or bikes
- No alcohol
Two more free playgrounds sit along the Esplanade: the Fun Ship at the northern end near Smith Street, and the Healing Gardens playground opposite Cairns Hospital.
Muddy's: good to know
Free
No entry fee.
Tue/Thu mornings
Some sections closed until noon for maintenance.
Cafe
Muddy's Cafe is right there.
Free parking
Free car park and on-street parking.
Muddy's in pictures
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Where Muddy's is
The Esplanade, Cairns
On the Esplanade, north of the Lagoon. Free car park and on-street parking nearby.
Open in Google MapsMore for families
The Lagoon is a short walk along the Esplanade. For a big family day out, the crocs at Hartley's are always a hit.
Esplanade Lagoon
A free 4,800 m2 saltwater lagoon with lifeguards, right on the waterfront.
See the guide →Cairns Night Markets
Seventy shops, a food court and massages, open every night of the year.
See the guide →Cairns Botanic Gardens
Flecker Garden, a palm-shaped conservatory, lakes and free guided walks. Free entry.
See the guide →Kuranda & Hartley's Crocodiles
Kuranda village plus the crocodiles at Hartley's.
Passions of Paradise
A full day of snorkelling on the outer reef.
Muddy's Playground FAQs
Is Muddy's Playground free?
Yes.
What are Muddy's Playground opening hours?
9am to 7pm every day, including weekends and public holidays.
Is Muddy's open on Tuesday?
Yes, but sections may be closed for maintenance on Tuesday and/or Thursday mornings until noon.
Is there a cafe at Muddy's?
Yes, Muddy's Cafe, plus BBQs and picnic tables.
Is Muddy's accessible?
There's an all-abilities Liberty Swing that uses the MLAK key. Ask at Muddy's Cafe.