Roll up, roll up
Why stroll when you can roll?
Some folk may think of rollerblading as a ’90s fad, but the fun recreational activity is still very much alive. For little more than $100, you can pick up a decent second-hand pair of inline skates and protective pads from an op-shop or the classies in the Cairns Post and away you go. There are two cycleways along the Esplanade to enjoy.
EVERY afternoon, without fail, the Cairns Esplanade is transformed into a powerwalker’s paradise.
Dozens of people pound the pavement for fitness, strutting along the 2.5km route with its stunning views of the city’s waterfront and neighbouring mountain landscape. It’s a decent walk. But why walk, when you can roll?
Some folk may relegate rollerblading to a ’90s fad, but the fun recreational activity is still very much alive in the 2010s.
For little more than $100, you can pick up a decent second-hand pair of inline skates and protective pads from an op-shop, the classifieds in the Cairns Post or online and away you go.
There are two cycleways along the Esplanade, both very flat, for the most unskilled of skaters.
However, there are enough twists and turns to keep those who can powerskate focused as they zoom past the many family barbecues and dogwalkers.
The best place to start is at the northern end of the Esplanade, opposite the hockey fields, where there is ample parking.
Strap your blades on and follow the bike path south, past the majestic rows of coconut palms and keep going.
There is a decent straight between the pirate ship playground carpark and opposite Cairns Hospital for speed skating.
Be wary, however, of any vehicles that may be turning into Muddie’s Playground carpark – particularly if you haven’t yet mastered the ability to brake.
You can keep following the bike paths along the restaurant stretch of the Esplanade or weave your way through the Anzac Memorial.
Once you roll past the Lagoon the bitumen path becomes smoother with concrete tiles and much busier with tourists.
Keep going to Fogarty Park, where there is a water fountain and a good rest stop on the park stage, before spinning around and heading back north.
If you are a beginner skater, and think you have mastered the Esplanade, then check out other blading routes such as the new Aeroglen cycleway or even the Cairns CBD-Woree cycleway.