Ellis Beach Travel Guide
Cairns
Visit Ellis 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.
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 Ellis Beach
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
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
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
The room Definitely was in rougher condition than we expected. Plus there was an ant infestation apparently that’s a thing all around Cairns though. Great walking distance. The e pool was awesome. Very kid friendly which wasn’t great for our childless selves lol
Reviewed on 10 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Ellis Beach
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.
Clifton Beach
Clifton Beach is known for its pristine beaches, and you can make a stop by Clifton Beach and Palm Cove Beach while in the area.
Macalister Range
While visiting Macalister Range, you might make a stop by sights like Cairns Cable Ski and Kuranda National Park.
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.
Kewarra Beach
Unique features of Kewarra Beach include the beaches and golf courses. Make a stop by Kewarra Beach or Kuranda National Park while you're exploring the area.
Trinity Park
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Trinity Park and surrounding area, you can visit Half Moon Bay Golf Course and Moon River Beach.
