Cairns North Travel Guide
Cairns
Visit Cairns North
Popular places to visit
Cairns Esplanade
Stroll along the boardwalk surrounded by palms tree and landscaped gardens and watch the sun set over the Coral Sea.
Cairns Central Shopping Centre
During your visit to Tropical North Waterfront, you can do some window-shopping at Cairns Central Shopping Centre. Discover the spectacular coral reefs in this walkable area or enjoy its local tours.
Esplanade Lagoon
Relax after a day of sightseeing or cool down from the summer heat in this fresh-water lagoon, one of Cairns’ best city attractions.
Palm Cove Beach
Located in between the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, this palm tree-lined beach is an idyllic spot to take it easy or begin an adventure.
Cairns Marlin Marina
Enjoy views of the harbour and and unwind with al-fresco dining, entertainment and shopping beside the bay.
Cairns Convention Centre
Learn about the events happening in Cairns Convention Centre during your trip to Tropical North Waterfront. Discover the spectacular coral reefs in this walkable area or enjoy its local tours.
Things to do
Ocean Spirit Sail to Michaelmas Cay on the Great Barrier Reef
Kuranda: Birdworld Entry Ticket
Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise
Full-Day Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise & Snorkeling Tour
Top hotels in Cairns North
Cairns Harbourside Hotel
"Everything is good about the hotel but the location is not very convenient. It takes about 30 minutes walk to the reef boat ports and 20 minutes to the downtown."
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns
"The property had a beautiful patio and pool. I didn’t use it because I was out checking the city. The staff was good I sometimes struggled to understand them because of thick accents but they did their best. I found the food on site very pricy for what they were offering."
Reviewed on 24 May 2026
Cairns Queens Court
"Before booking, check everything and don't make a mistake like me, at first when i booked , it wasn’t clear that the room doesn't have any kind of amenities , and also no elevator to take luggages upstairs snd also the bed was so uncomfortable and the bathroom was so far from the room, i wanted to ..."
Reviewed on 24 May 2026
Bohemia Resort Cairns
"Staff was good amenities decent too"
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Cairns Sheridan Hotel
"Great place at a reasonable price. It’s a bit outdated cosmetically but the bed was super comfy and the hotel clean. Staff were fabulous and friendly."
Reviewed on 22 May 2026
Hotel Tropiq
"Room was moldy, staff not helpful when asked to fix issues, rooms has insect investation, and mattresses where knackered, overall was not good and wont stay there again"
Reviewed on 15 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Cairns North
Manunda
Shopping, gardens and spas are some highlights of Manunda. You might stop by Centenary Lakes Botanic Gardens or Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland while you're in the area.
Cairns Central Business District
Cairns Central Business District is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Esplanade Lagoon and Cairns Marlin Marina.
Parramatta Park
Parramatta Park is noteworthy for its shopping, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Cazaly's Stadium and Barlow Park.
Edge Hill
You'll enjoy the museums and parks in Edge Hill. You might want to make time for a stop at Tanks Arts Centre or Centenary Lakes Botanic Gardens.
Aeroglen
If you're spending some time in Aeroglen, Mount Whitfield Conservation Park and Skydive The Reef Cairns are top sights worth seeing.
Whitfield
While there might not be top attractions in Whitfield, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Mount Whitfield Conservation Park and Tanks Arts Centre.
