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.
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
Big Cat Green Island - Great Barrier Reef Cruise
Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise
Kuranda: Birdworld Entry Ticket
Army Duck Tour of the Rainforest
Top hotels in Cairns North
Cairns Harbourside Hotel
Great pool, big room good food and friendly staff
Reviewed on 20 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
Hotel Tropiq
For the price, this property comes highly recommended. We paid just a standard room, and it was one floor up (stairs only) and had obviously a bed, en suite, tv, air con, ceiling fan, bar fridge, microwave and tea/coffee. We don't smoke but if you are a smoker, you have to go right to the front of ...
Reviewed on 19 Jan 2026
Cairns Queens Court
Very tidy room and spacious
Reviewed on 9 Jan 2026
Cairns Sheridan Hotel
Great hotel for business. Clean room and nice staff.
Reviewed on 20 Jan 2026
Cairns City Palms
Had to park on street as all spots were taken apart from that good value for money
Reviewed on 19 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Cairns North
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 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 Cairns Botanic Gardens 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 Cairns Botanic Gardens.
