Freshwater Travel Guide
Cairns
Visit Freshwater
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.
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 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.
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
Kuranda Koala Gardens General Entry Ticket
Kuranda Koala Gardens and Birdworld Admission Tickets
Full-Day Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise & Snorkeling Tour
Top hotels in Freshwater
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
"Clean room good breakfast"
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
Cairns Colonial Club Resort
"C"
Reviewed on 5 Jun 2026
Hilton Cairns
"Great view."
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
"The hotel was central to the city centre. Rooms were lovely. Staff were really really friendly and very helpful. Great place to stay would definitely stay there again."
Reviewed on 4 Jun 2026
Cairns Harbourside Hotel
"Good location with great view from balcony. Comfy bed. Roomy"
Reviewed on 7 Jun 2026
Pacific Hotel Cairns
"Great hotel in a great location"
Reviewed on 5 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Freshwater
Palm Cove
Palm Cove is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Palm Cove Beach and Vie Spa Palm Cove, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Cairns.
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.
Trinity Beach
Trinity Beach is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Trinity Beach and Kewarra Beach, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Cairns.
Cairns North
Pristine beaches and ample dining options are well-reviewed features of Cairns North. Make a stop by top sights like Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland while you're exploring the area.
Yorkeys Knob
Yorkeys Knob is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Yorkeys Knob Beach and Half Moon Bay Golf Course.
