Whitfield Travel Guide
Cairns
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 Night Markets
During your trip to Tropical North Waterfront, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Cairns Night Markets. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area or seek out the local tours.
Things to do
Big Cat Green Island - Great Barrier Reef Cruise
Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise
Kuranda Koala Gardens General Entry Ticket
Kuranda: Birdworld Entry Ticket
Kuranda Koala Gardens and Birdworld Admission Tickets
Top hotels in Whitfield
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Great room and great property with excellent staff!
Reviewed on 16 Jan 2026
Hilton Cairns
The room had a nice view of the river. The staff in the Bar and Restaurant were very friendly and helpful. The food and service was very good.
Reviewed on 17 Jan 2026
Cairns Colonial Club Resort
Check in was very friendly and helpful, which as it was late and I was tired was important
Reviewed on 17 Jan 2026
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
The first room not quite clean, but staff changed a new room. Good service
Reviewed on 19 Jan 2026
Cairns Harbourside Hotel
All good and no issues with anything
Reviewed on 17 Jan 2026
Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns
Amazing air con! So needed this every day. Bliss! Clean room, great size and fab view. Good breakfast. Great staff.
Reviewed on 16 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Whitfield
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.
Aeroglen
If you're spending some time in Aeroglen, Mount Whitfield Conservation Park and Skydive The Reef Cairns are top sights worth seeing.
Manunda
Shopping, gardens and spas are some highlights of Manunda. You might stop by Anderson Street Conservation Park or Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland while you're in the area.
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.
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.
Machans Beach
Though Machans Beach may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Yorkeys Knob Beach and Australian Armour and Artillery Museum.
