Machans Beach Travel Guide
Cairns
Visit Machans Beach
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.
Cairns Marlin Marina
Enjoy views of the harbour and and unwind with al-fresco dining, entertainment and shopping beside the bay.
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 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
Big Cat Green Island - Great Barrier Reef Cruise
Kuranda Scenic Rail & Skyrail including Gold Class Tickets
Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise
Kuranda: Birdworld Entry Ticket
Kuranda Koala Gardens General Entry Ticket
Top hotels in Machans Beach
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Accomodation flawless. Everything within walking distance.
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026
Hilton Cairns
The hotel was in the perfect location for exploring downtown as well as accessing the terminal for your tour to the GBR. The staff were friendly and helpful. The room was clean and well appointed. We had a lovely views of the water. We also used the pool which was also lovely. Great place to ...
Reviewed on 8 Mar 2026
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
I absolutely loved my stay here! The staff were so helpful, my room was super clean and spacious and the location was perfect! 10/10
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026
Cairns Colonial Club Resort
Na
Reviewed on 6 Mar 2026
Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns
The hotel staff were lovely but the hotel could use a refurb as it is looking a bit dated.
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
Great staff, location, food. Expedia has this classified as a three star hitel; WAY BETTER!!! We are staying in three star hotels throughout Australia and this one puts them all to shame. Way to go Novotel Cairns!!!!
Reviewed on 4 Mar 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Machans Beach
Holloways Beach
Beaches, restaurants and gardens are just a few things travellers enjoy about Holloways Beach. Check out Yorkeys Knob Beach or Holloways Beach while you're exploring the area.
Aeroglen
If you're spending some time in Aeroglen, Mount Whitfield Conservation Park and Skydive The Reef Cairns are top sights worth seeing.
Barron
Barron might not have many top sights, but Australian Armour and Artillery Museum and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Station are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
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 Centenary Lakes Botanic Gardens.
Edge Hill
You'll enjoy the museums and parks in Edge Hill. You might want to make time for a stop at Centenary Lakes Botanic Gardens or Mount Whitfield Conservation Park.
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.
