The best and safest place to see saltwater crocodiles in the Cairns region is at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, located about 40 minutes north of the city at Wangetti. This premier wildlife park offers a "Wetlands Cruise" on a private lagoon where you can see massive saltwater crocodiles in a naturalistic habitat, as well as a "Crocodile Attack Show" where trainers demonstrate the animal's powerful "death roll" and jumping abilities. Another excellent option is Rainforestation Nature Park in nearby Kuranda, which features "Jack the Ripper," one of Australia's largest and most famous captive crocodiles. For those looking for a "wild" experience, numerous river cruise operators depart from the Cairns Inlet or the Daintree River (about 90 minutes north), where you can spot wild crocodiles basking on the muddy banks from the safety of a boat. It is critical to remember that saltwater crocodiles are extremely dangerous and common in the waterways around Cairns; you should never swim in rivers, estuaries, or on unpatrolled beaches, and always pay attention to the yellow "Crocwise" warning signs posted near the water to ensure your safety in the tropical north.