A coastal town with dense forest, a mountain, and a large body of water.

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26 Aug - 27 Aug
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27 Aug - 28 Aug
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28 Aug - 30 Aug
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4 Sep - 6 Sep

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Our top choices for Cairns hotels

Cairns Central Business District
Breakfast included
Reserve now, pay later
Hotel
Aparthotel

1. Crystalbrook Riley

Crystalbrook Riley
Cairns Central Business District
United States
Calvin Seungwon
฿9,474
฿10,422 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Crystalbrook Riley

2. Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Paul
฿6,641
฿7,305 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

3. The Reef Hotel Casino Cairns - Handwritten Collection

The Reef Hotel Casino Cairns - Handwritten Collection
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Lachlan
฿7,209
฿7,930 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
The Reef Hotel Casino Cairns - Handwritten Collection

4. Pacific Hotel Cairns

Pacific Hotel Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
United States
John
฿5,022
฿5,524 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Sept - 9 Sept
Pacific Hotel Cairns

5. Hilton Cairns

Hilton Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Owais
฿5,612
฿6,173 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Sept - 5 Sept
Hilton Cairns

6. Cairns Harbourside Hotel

Cairns Harbourside Hotel
Cairns North
Australia
Patricia
฿5,527
฿6,080 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Sept - 17 Sept
Cairns Harbourside Hotel

7. The Abbott Boutique Hotel

The Abbott Boutique Hotel
Cairns Central Business District
United States
Alok
฿6,046
฿6,651 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
The Abbott Boutique Hotel

8. Pullman Cairns International

Pullman Cairns International
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Genaviv
฿5,338
฿5,872 total
includes taxes & fees
15 Sept - 16 Sept
Pullman Cairns International

9. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
Canada
Vanessa
฿5,124
฿5,636 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Sept - 17 Sept
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

10. Cairns Sheridan Hotel

Cairns Sheridan Hotel
Cairns North
Australia
Nino
฿4,785
฿5,263 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Sept - 23 Sept
Cairns Sheridan Hotel

11. Crystalbrook Bailey

Crystalbrook Bailey
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Paul
฿5,857
฿6,442 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
Crystalbrook Bailey

12. Cairns Plaza Hotel

Cairns Plaza Hotel
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Cathy
฿5,436
฿5,979 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Sept - 26 Sept
Cairns Plaza Hotel

13. The Benson Hotel

The Benson Hotel
Cairns Central Business District
France
Ozgur
฿5,914
฿6,506 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
The Benson Hotel

14. Oaks Cairns Hotel

Oaks Cairns Hotel
Cairns Central Business District
Canada
Terri
฿5,303
฿5,833 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
Oaks Cairns Hotel

15. Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns

Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns
Cairns North
Australia
Viktoriia
฿5,376
฿5,914 total
includes taxes & fees
5 Sept - 6 Sept
Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns

16. Palm Royale Cairns

Palm Royale Cairns
Manunda
Australia
Ron
฿4,657
฿5,123 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Aug - 28 Aug
Palm Royale Cairns

17. Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
Cairns Central Business District
United States
MARIA
฿5,891
฿6,480 total
includes taxes & fees
15 Sept - 16 Sept
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

18. Cairns Colonial Club Resort

Cairns Colonial Club Resort
Manunda
Australia
Majella
฿3,594
฿3,953 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Sept - 17 Sept
Cairns Colonial Club Resort

19. Heritage Cairns

Heritage Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Laura
฿3,566
฿3,922 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Sept - 25 Sept
Heritage Cairns

20. Mantra Esplanade

Mantra Esplanade
Cairns Central Business District
United States
Jake
฿6,676
฿6,676 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Sept - 5 Sept
Mantra Esplanade
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Holiday Rentals in Cairns

Aparthotel

Trinity Collective

Trinity Collective
Trinity Beach
"Lovely place."
Trinity Collective
Aparthotel

The Reef Retreat

The Reef Retreat
Palm Cove
"Location and quiet"
The Reef Retreat
Aparthotel

On the Beach Holiday Apartments

On the Beach Holiday Apartments
Trinity Beach
"Clean room, great location, would definitely stay here again"
On the Beach Holiday Apartments
Apartment

Villa Vaucluse Apartments of Cairns

Villa Vaucluse Apartments of Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
"Room was great location"
Villa Vaucluse Apartments of Cairns
Aparthotel

Beachfront Apartments on Trinity Beach

Beachfront Apartments on Trinity Beach
Trinity Beach
"This was a very clean, well kept and well located apartment for a short stay!"
Beachfront Apartments on Trinity Beach
Aparthotel

Southern Cross Atrium Apartments

Southern Cross Atrium Apartments
Cairns Central Business District
"Great place to stay has everything you need Cole’s a 5 min walk Staff are friendly and helpful Would definitely recommend and visit here again."
Southern Cross Atrium Apartments
Aparthotel

Mid City Luxury Suites

Mid City Luxury Suites
Cairns Central Business District
" Place was quite dated and needs alot maintenance. Alot of noise at night-time due to traffic, music from the pubs and people yahooing in the alleyway on their way home from town. Can't beat the location and secure car parking though. The gentlemen on reception were extremely friendly and accommodating. Crisp and clean sheets, queen bed very firm. Single beds newer and more comfortable."
Mid City Luxury Suites
Aparthotel

Cairns Beach Resort

Cairns Beach Resort
Holloways Beach
"The staff is very easy communication with. The room is clean and has everything we need."
Cairns Beach Resort
Aparthotel

Golden Sands Beachfront Apartment Resort

Golden Sands Beachfront Apartment Resort
Yorkeys Knob
"Nice place. Very comfortable. We hated to leave."
Golden Sands Beachfront Apartment Resort
Aparthotel

Roydon Beachfront Apartments

Roydon Beachfront Apartments
Trinity Beach
"Very spacious with a nice view towards the ocean."
Roydon Beachfront Apartments
Aparthotel

Mantra Trilogy

Mantra Trilogy
Cairns Central Business District
"It was close to ocean and great restaurants"
Mantra Trilogy
Apartment

Escape On Lake

Escape On Lake
Cairns Central Business District
"Great location, so close to everything. "
Escape On Lake
Apartment

Il Centro Apartment Hotel

Il Centro Apartment Hotel
Cairns Central Business District
"Clean room friendly staff "
Il Centro Apartment Hotel
Aparthotel

Trinity Beach Club Holiday Apartments

Trinity Beach Club Holiday Apartments
Trinity Beach
"The property was great, very central amazing pool with sand and a swim up bar !"
Trinity Beach Club Holiday Apartments
Aparthotel

Melaleuca Resort

Melaleuca Resort
Palm Cove
"Clean room, facilities great, location perfect."
Melaleuca Resort
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Where to stay in Cairns

Find the best Cairns areas for the activities you enjoy most.Learn more about Cairns
Learn more about Cairns

Cairns Central Business District

The Cairns CBD is a bustling waterfront hub where tropical adventure begins. This vibrant district borders the scenic Esplanade and marina, offering stunning Coral Sea views. Great Barrier Reef tour boats dot the harbour, ready to whisk visitors to underwater wonders. The free Esplanade Lagoon provides safe swimming with a postcard-perfect backdrop. Aboriginal art fills the Night Markets as travellers plan tomorrow's reef explorations. Modern hotels stand beside colonial buildings in this purpose-built tourist zone. The walkable district puts everything within reach – from seafood restaurants to the Reef Casino. Most visitors make this their base for discovering both reef and rainforest treasures.

Cairns North

Cairns North offers a laid-back alternative to the busy CBD with budget-friendly stays that attract backpackers exploring the Great Barrier Reef. This welcoming area blends residential charm with practical amenities like casual cafes and small supermarkets. Queenslander-style homes line quiet streets where tropical birds call from palm trees. Just minutes from Cairns Airport with regular bus connections to city centre, this area serves as a convenient base for regional adventures. Visitors appreciate the authentic Australian suburban experience and lower prices compared to central areas. The nearby Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland provides a pleasant green escape.

Edge Hill

Edge Hill offers a leafy escape just minutes from Cairns, where tropical gardens meet authentic Australian charm. The stunning Botanic Gardens and Centenary Lakes showcase vibrant blooms and wooden boardwalks where water dragons bask in the sun. Towering palms create a lush canopy throughout this peaceful suburb. The converted World War II oil tanks of Tanks Arts Centre host cultural performances in their unique concrete spaces. Mount Whitfield Conservation Park provides scenic walking trails with mountain views. Classic Queenslander homes with wide verandas line the quiet streets, offering a glimpse into genuine Australian suburban life.

Parramatta Park

Parramatta Park offers a peaceful retreat from Cairns' tourist bustle with tropical gardens and quiet residential streets. This green oasis features traditional Queenslander homes alongside modern dwellings, giving visitors an authentic glimpse of Australian suburban life. Sports enthusiasts can catch events at Cazaly's Stadium or explore Barlow Park's recreational facilities. The area appeals to budget-conscious travellers with affordable accommodation compared to the Esplanade. Wide tree-lined streets create perfect walking conditions through this garden suburb. While dining options are limited within the area, the central shopping district lies just a short journey away.

Palm Cove

Palm Cove charms visitors with its palm-lined tropical beach and upscale resorts. This peaceful coastal haven offers pristine swimming waters protected by stinger nets. The scenic esplanade features sophisticated dining spots and boutique shops. Wellness seekers flock to the area's luxury day spas offering tropical-inspired treatments. Beachfront cocktail lounges and wine bars create perfect sunset viewing spots. Palm Cove serves as an ideal gateway for Great Barrier Reef adventures.

Stay near popular Cairns attractions

A large public swimming pool with people swimming and playing, surrounded by buildings and mountains in the background.
Photo by Tourism and Events Queensland

Cairns Esplanade

9.2/10 (7,071 reviews)
A vibrant 2.5-kilometer waterfront promenade with the iconic Esplanade Lagoon overlooking the Coral Sea. Enjoy free fitness classes, picnic areas, or dine at waterfront cafés while watching the sunset.
See properties
A sandy beach with palm trees and ocean waves.

Palm Cove Beach

9.0/10 (4,218 reviews)
Palm Cove Beach dazzles with pristine white sands and majestic palms against rainforest mountains. Stroll the esplanade, dine at beachfront restaurants, or use it as your base to explore the Great Barrier Reef.
See properties
A crowded swimming pool with people enjoying the water, a lifeguard chair, and a lifeguard tower.

Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

9.0/10 (4,257 reviews)
This 4,800-square-meter saltwater oasis offers safe swimming with sandy shores and stunning Trinity Inlet views. Enjoy a refreshing dip before relaxing on timber decks or using the free public barbecues nearby.
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A train carriage with red seats and windows.
Photo by Caz and Craig @yTravelBlog

Cairns Central Shopping Centre

8.6/10 (5,059 reviews)
Cairns Central offers 180 speciality stores and a six-screen cinema complex in a modern, air-conditioned environment. Enjoy diverse shopping and dining options in Far North Queensland's largest retail destination.
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An industrial area with a large white building with a curved roof, surrounded by green fields and a body of water with boats.

Cairns Convention Centre

8.0/10 (558 reviews)
This award-winning venue hosts conferences and sporting events with cutting-edge facilities in tropical Cairns. Catch a Cairns Taipans basketball game or enjoy the new ballroom with stunning Trinity Inlet views.
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A narrow market aisle with clothing racks, hats, and accessories.

Cairns Night Markets

7.8/10 (3,363 reviews)
The Cairns Night Markets showcase over 70 stalls of local crafts and international cuisines in an air-conditioned venue. Explore handmade jewellery and savour fresh seafood while experiencing this vibrant evening tradition.
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A beach with clear turquoise water, a sandy shore, and distant mountains under a blue sky.

Yorkeys Knob Beach

8.0/10 (21 reviews)
This pristine stretch of sand offers premier kite surfing conditions thanks to consistent trade winds. Relax under palm trees or explore Half Moon Bay Marina's scenic dining options overlooking the Coral Sea.
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Reef Hotel Casino

8.2/10 (1,409 reviews)
Australia's finest boutique casino offers a blend of gaming, dining, and entertainment in Far North Queensland. Enjoy table games and live music at BAR36, or visit the Rainforest Dome for a unique wildlife encounter.
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Cairns and related destinations

The gateway to the Great Barrier Reef offers boat tours where you'll spot vibrant coral and sea turtles just below the surface. Explore the ancient Daintree Rainforest nearby, where guided walks reveal cassowaries and swimming holes locals recommend for cooling off.

See all hotels in Cairns
A beach with palm trees and a stone pathway leading to the water.

Top Cairns Hotel Reviews

Pacific Hotel Cairns

Pacific Hotel Cairns

10/10 Excellent
"Efficient check-in but apparently need to request carpark access when making reservation as car spaces are limited. However, recommend on-street parking around the corner in The Esplanade. Even better you can use the Parking App to create a parking session from your room in the morning!! Recommend the Superior Corner rooms for space and the magnificent 270 deg views. Staff and house keeping were excellent. If you do not need the overly hot doona ask for a light blanket. Didn’t use the restaurant for dinner or breakfast as so close to alternative venues."
Philip 5-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Pacific Hotel Cairns
Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre

Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre

10/10 Excellent
"Excellent location, easy walking distance to every where you need to be. Staff were really helpful and polite, easy parking outside the door off street, lovely clean comfortable king bed, really good for the price,"
cheryl 1-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre
Crystalbrook Bailey

Crystalbrook Bailey

10/10 Excellent
"Wonderful place to stay"
Paul 1-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Crystalbrook Bailey
Crystalbrook Riley

Crystalbrook Riley

10/10 Excellent
"Loved the pools and right on the boardwalk. Easy to walk to all the restaurants and shopping in the area."
Elizabeth 5-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Crystalbrook Riley
Mantra Esplanade

Mantra Esplanade

8/10 Good
"Whilst I loved the Mantra itself the room we stayed in could do better..... 527 overlooking part of the Esplanade.... Great view that was great to people watch and very close to everything so you could walk everywhere and not need a car. I guess the room felt tired....TV was an issue but the repair guy fixed it thank you. Lamps whilst nice were very difficult to read with as it wasn't a lamp with a shade so it lit the whole room up and gave odd angles to reading....anyway thats just me though.... I just felt it could be so much better with little touches but that's my personal opinion.... Lovely staff pool was great but too cold for now gym was ok no free weights. Access behind leads you too woolworths which was great 👍 Bed was very comfortable though as was the pillows... Love to have a little lounge to sit on but again just my opinion....."
Rachael 3-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Mantra Esplanade
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

10/10 Excellent
"Amazing views from our Horizon Club Room. Room was clean, spacious and had everything we needed. Breakfast and snacks in the club room were lovely. Unfortunately we were very sick while we were there and spent a lot of time in our room but what a place to feel ill, views from the bed cheered us up and the lady servicing the room was very helpful and provided us with extra water every day."
Wendy Ann 7-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Love Lovely stay"
MARIA 3-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
Cairns Plaza Hotel

Cairns Plaza Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Great location and the room was spacious, comfortable and clean. Loved the deck overlooking the Esplanade and easy walking distance to shops, restaurants etc."
Rochelle 3-night trip
Posted 6 days ago
Cairns Plaza Hotel
Pullman Cairns International

Pullman Cairns International

10/10 Excellent
"So central and convenient place to stay. The pool deck was amazing, the staff are great as well. Loved my stay and would book again."
Genaviv 2-night trip
Posted 9 days ago
Pullman Cairns International

More cheap stays in Cairns

Cairns Sunland Leisure Park

Cairns Sunland Leisure Park

49-61 Little Pease Street Manoora QLD
฿1,848
฿1,848 total
1 Sept - 2 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Cairns Sunland Leisure Park
YHA Cairns Central

YHA Cairns Central

20-26 McLeod Street Cairns QLD
฿2,220
฿2,442 total
9 Sept - 10 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very good! (233 reviews)
YHA Cairns Central
The Espy Hostel

The Espy Hostel

83 Esplanade Cairns QLD
฿2,268
฿2,495 total
28 Aug - 29 Aug
includes taxes & fees
7.6/10 Good! (91 reviews)
The Espy Hostel
The Reef Motel

The Reef Motel

228 Lake Street Cairns QLD
฿2,881
฿3,169 total
8 Sept - 9 Sept
includes taxes & fees
4.8/10 (16 reviews)
The Reef Motel
Palm Cove Studio Apartments

Palm Cove Studio Apartments

42 Cedar Rd Palm Cove QLD
฿4,816
฿4,816 total
29 Aug - 30 Aug
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (57 reviews)
Palm Cove Studio Apartments
Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort

Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort

57-89 Grafton Street Cairns QLD
฿4,768
฿5,245 total
23 Sept - 24 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8/10 Very good! (453 reviews)
Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort

Find out more about Cairns

Top reasons to visit Cairns

  • Great Barrier Reef: Experience the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef, perfect for snorkelling and diving adventures.
  • Cairns Esplanade: Stroll along the scenic Esplanade, featuring lush parks, a lagoon, and vibrant markets.
  • Outdoor Activities: Enjoy a variety of outdoor pursuits including hiking trails and coastal escapes.
  • Cairns Aquarium: Discover the marine life of the region at the engaging Cairns Aquarium.
  • Accommodation Variety: Choose from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels, catering to all traveller needs.

Find great hotels in Cairns

Cairns offers a diverse selection of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and backpacker lodgings. Whether you're seeking adventure, planning a family getaway, or travelling for business, you'll discover a variety of hotels in Cairns that cater to your needs. With its stunning natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere, Cairns provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable vacation experience.

  • Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns: This luxurious 5-star hotel offers a splendid blend of elegance and adventure, making it a top choice for families and thrill-seekers alike. Located on the picturesque marina, it boasts stunning views and direct access to a range of adventure sports such as parasailing and fishing. Guests appreciate the family-friendly amenities, including a dedicated children's pool and babysitting services to ensure a relaxing stay for adults. The hotel's sophisticated dining options and recreational activities nearby enhance the overall vacation experience, allowing for both relaxation and excitement.
  • Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort: With its 4.5-star rating, Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort invites families to enjoy a tropical beach getaway. Situated close to the beach, this resort features a fantastic lagoon-style pool, perfect for children and adults alike. Families will find the complimentary cribs and babysitting options particularly appealing, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The lush gardens and direct beach access create a serene atmosphere, while the on-site dining caters to all tastes. This resort is designed to cater to families looking for both adventure and relaxation under the Queensland sun.
  • Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns: This well-rated 4-star resort is an excellent choice for families, adventure enthusiasts, and business travellers. Nestled along the Esplanade, guests can easily access a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, sailing, and kayaking. Families will appreciate the amenities tailored for children, including breakfast options and crib availability. The resort features spacious accommodations and a lovely pool area, offering a welcoming atmosphere for relaxation after a day of exploration. Its convenient location and versatile facilities make it a popular option for diverse travellers.

Where to stay in Cairns

Discover the enchanting charm of Cairns, a tropical paradise perfect for outdoor adventures and family-friendly fun. From the vibrant Cairns city centre, brimming with friendly locals and holiday vibes, to the stunning coastal escapes nearby, you’ll find an array of relaxing and romantic spots to explore. Whether you're seeking a beach destination or a tranquil getaway, Cairns promises an unforgettable experience filled with warmth and natural beauty.

  • Palm Cove: Nestled along the coastline, Palm Cove is a charming suburb of Cairns known for its stunning beach and relaxed atmosphere. The area is popular among families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, attracting visitors year-round, especially during peak seasons in June to July and September. Palm Cove offers a range of activities, from shopping in quaint boutiques to indulging in rejuvenating spa treatments. The picturesque esplanade is perfect for leisurely strolls, while the beach provides a serene backdrop for sunbathing and water sports, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
  • Cairns Central Business District: The vibrant Cairns Central Business District (CBD) is the heart of the city, bustling with energy and a diverse array of attractions. With visitor numbers peaking from July to September, the CBD is a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Explore the shopping centre and mall, or catch a show at the local theatre. The scenic esplanade and urban parks offer ample opportunities for outdoor enjoyment, while the nearby beach invites you to unwind by the water. The CBD is the perfect base for experiencing the city's dynamic culture and lively atmosphere.
  • Trinity Beach: Located a short drive from Cairns, Trinity Beach is a delightful suburb renowned for its laid-back vibe and family-friendly environment. With peak visitation periods in June to July and September, this area appeals to those seeking outdoor adventures and fun activities for all ages. The local shopping area and playground cater to families, while the beautiful beach and esplanade provide opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Whether you're swimming, sunbathing, or exploring the nearby attractions, Trinity Beach offers a quintessential Australian coastal experience.

Things to do in and around Cairns

Shopping

Cairns Central Shopping Centre is a great spot for fashion, beauty, and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Smithfield Shopping Centre, offering a variety of shops and dining options, or explore the local markets for unique handcrafted gifts.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at the Cairns Wellness Spa, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and holistic therapies. Enjoy serene surroundings and personalised care while participating in yoga classes at the nearby Fitzroy Island, immersing yourself in nature’s beauty and enhancing your overall well-being.

Adventure

Experience breathtaking views aboard the Skyrail Kuranda Cableway, located 18km from Cairns, as you glide over lush rainforests. The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, situated within Cairns, offers a thrilling ride through stunning landscapes, perfect for family adventures and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Nightlife

Explore Gilligan's on Sheridan Street for a vibrant atmosphere and lively dance floors. For a more relaxed vibe, visit the Irish Bar for a pint and live sports. Don't miss the Cairns Night Markets for unique souvenirs and street food to enjoy under the stars.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in Cairns

Cairns offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly attractions. Visitors can enjoy the stunning beach, explore the vibrant esplanade, or visit the marina. Key points of interest include the Cairns Convention Centre, Cairns Lagoon, Cairns Esplanade, Cairns Pier, and Cairns Aquarium, all perfect for those seeking a memorable beach experience. Whether you’re looking to relax or engage in activities, Cairns has something for everyone.

  • Cairns Esplanade: This vibrant esplanade offers a picturesque waterfront promenade ideal for leisurely strolls. With its lush gardens and inviting outdoor spaces, it caters to families and couples alike, creating a romantic atmosphere amidst stunning views of the Coral Sea.
  • Palm Cove Beach: Renowned for its soft sands and swaying palms, Palm Cove Beach is a serene escape that invites relaxation. The tranquil waves and beautiful sunsets make it an idyllic spot for sunbathing or enjoying a peaceful beachside walk.
  • Cairns Marlin Marina: A hub for adventure enthusiasts, Cairns Marlin Marina offers a perfect launchpad for water sports and boating activities. Explore the nearby Great Barrier Reef or savour the vibrant atmosphere with waterfront dining options.

Best time to go to Cairns

The best time to visit Cairns is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January and February are its hottest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January80.4°F (26.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February80.4°F (26.9°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March79.2°F (26.2°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
April76.5°F (24.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May73.0°F (22.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June70.3°F (21.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July69.3°F (20.7°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August69.6°F (20.9°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September72.7°F (22.6°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October75.7°F (24.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November78.1°F (25.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December79.9°F (26.6°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Cairns

Flying into Cairns is convenient, with Cairns International Airport (CNS) located approximately 5km from the city centre. This airport serves various airlines, making it accessible for international tourists. Nearby, you can find several excellent 5-star hotels such as the Hilton Cairns, situated 6km away, and both Shangri-La The Marina and Crystalbrook Riley, each just 5km from the airport. These hotels offer easy access to the airport, ensuring a smooth transition from your accommodation to your flight. With such proximity, your travel plans can remain relaxed and enjoyable during your stay in Cairns.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best place to stay in Cairns?
Based on our traveller data, Pacific Hotel Cairns is one of the top choices for your stay. This hotel is steps from Reef Fleet Terminal, and offers a restaurant and an outdoor pool. Other good options for your trip include DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns and Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Cairns.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Cairns, will I receive a refund?
Yes, most room reservations are refundable provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of check in. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, you might still have the option to cancel and be given a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Cairns.
What's the best budget-friendly hotel in Cairns?
Based on reviews, Cairns Colonial Club Resort is a popular hotel for our travellers who want a more economical choice, and features free Wi-Fi and free parking. Other good options for your budget-friendly stay include Cairns Sunland Leisure Park and YHA Cairns Central. View all budget hotels in Cairns.
What's the best family accommodation in Cairns?
Cairns Harbourside Hotel is a hotel with an outdoor pool and a restaurant, and it's a top choice on Expedia for families. Other options for your family trip include Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns and Hilton Cairns. Also, attractions such as Cairns Esplanade Lagoon and Muddy's Playground are fun for children of all ages. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Cairns.
What's the best LGBTQ-friendly hotel in Cairns?
Cairns Harbourside Hotel is a top LGBTQ-friendly hotel, and features free Wi-Fi and private balconies. Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort and Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns are two other good choices for your trip. See all available hotels listed as LGBTQ-friendly in Cairns.
What's the best dog-friendly accommodation option in Cairns?
Sarayi Boutique Hotel is a top hotel for people travelling with their pets, and offers a restaurant and TVs for its human guests. Other good options for you and your pet's trip include Cairns Crystal Cascades Holiday Park and Hilton Palm Cove Cairns Resort & Spa. See more pet-friendly hotel accommodations in Cairns.
What's the best accommodation option to stay near the beach in Cairns?
Mantra Amphora is a top beach hotel offering a full-service spa and private balconies, located within a short 1-minute walk of Palm Cove Beach . Other good options to stay near the beach include Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort and Spa and Paradise on the Beach Resort - Palm Cove. See more stays near the beach in Cairns.
What's the best high-end place to stay in Cairns?
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns is a luxury hotel with a deli and in-room massages, and it's a popular choice for Expedia travellers looking for an elegant place to stay. Hilton Cairns and Pacific Hotel Cairns are two other upscale options for your stay. Find more luxury hotels in Cairns.
What's the best hotel for a golf holiday in Cairns?
Sarayi Boutique Hotel is a top hotel that has an adjacent golf course and features digital TV. Another good option is Central Plaza Apartments if you'd like to be close to a golf course while in town. Visit Cairns Golf Club, Half Moon Bay Golf Course or Cairns Golf Course to perfect your golf swing. See more golf hotels in Cairns.
What are some hotels with pools in Cairns?
Cairns Harbourside Hotel is a top hotel with an outdoor pool, free WiFi and free self-parking. Other choices that offer an on-site pool include Cairns Colonial Club Resort and Crystalbrook Flynn. View all hotels with pools in Cairns.
What is the best spa hotel in Cairns?
Crystalbrook Flynn is a top luxury spa hotel featuring a 24-hour fitness centre, a bar, an outdoor pool and a restaurant. Treat yourself to a facial, body scrub or deep-tissue massage at Eleme. Other popular spa hotels in Cairns include Peppers Beach Club and Spa - Palm Cove and Crystalbrook Riley. See all spa hotels in Cairns.
What's it like to stay in Cairns?
Travellers to Cairns give high marks for the coral reefs, lush rainforest and local tours. This city also attracts tourists with its welcoming and walkable setting. In Cairns, there are 1360 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Cairns.
What should I see while I'm in Cairns?
Cultural venues include Australian Armour and Artillery Museum, Tanks Arts Centre and Cairns Museum. Attractions such as Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, Muddy's Playground and Sugarworld Waterpark are fun for children of all ages. The natural setting is picturesque, namely the rainforest, and places to see include: Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland, Crystal Cascades and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Station. Take a look at what more there is to see and do in Expedia's Cairns guide.
How can I get around Cairns?
If you want to see more of the area, take a train from Cairns Station, Freshwater Station or Redlynch Station. You can explore your options for water transport at the marina. If you want to venture out around the area, you may want a rental car in Cairns for your journey.
What's the weather like in Cairns?
The hottest months are usually January and February, with an average temperature of 27°C, while the coldest months are August and July, with an average of 21°C. The rainiest months in Cairns are January, February, March and December, with each month seeing an average of 281 mm of rainfall.

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