Cairns Holidays

Book a Hotel + Flight or Car together to unlock savings

  • Plan, book, travel with confidence

  • Better together

    Save up to £750 when you book a flight and hotel together*

  • Find the right fit

    With over 300,000 hotels worldwide, it's easy to create a perfect package

  • Rest easy

    Packages with flights are ATOL protected

Your Cairns Holiday

Noted for its tropical climate and relaxed vibe, Cairns is a perfect getaway destination. Book one of our Cairns holiday packages and experience all that this fascinating city has to offer. If a sightseeing tour is on the agenda during your trip to Cairns, look around well-known attractions like Esplanade Lagoon, Centenary Lakes Botanic Gardens and Mount Whitfield Conservation Park. Your Cairns holiday is just clicks away. Browse airfares, hotels and more on Expedia for a getaway that's tailored to suit your style.

Where to stay in Cairns

Find the best Cairns areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Cairns
A beach lined with tall palm trees and a clear blue sky.

Palm Cove

1 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

Relax on sandy beaches and swim in turquoise waters at a resort town between the Great Barrier Reef and the rain forests of tropical Far North Queensland.

Find hotels in Palm Cove
A waterfront with a wooden bridge, modern buildings, and lush greenery.

Cairns Central Business District

7 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

Cairns Central Business District is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Cairns Esplanade Lagoon and Cairns Marlin Marina.

Find hotels in Cairns Central Business District
A beach with a person walking with a surfboard, a sandy shore, and calm sea.

Trinity Beach

Unwind on this tranquil stretch of golden beach, relax under the shade of swaying palm trees and explore Tropical North Queensland at your leisure.

Find hotels in Trinity Beach
A sunset over a calm pool with palm trees and a gazebo.

Cairns North

2 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

The beaches and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Cairns North. A stop by Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland or Cairns Mudflats might round out your trip.

Find hotels in Cairns North
A golf course with a clubhouse, a pond, and a forested hill in the background.

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.

Find hotels in Clifton Beach

Things to do in Cairns

Cairns offers an exciting blend of outdoor activities and family-friendly experiences. Visitors can explore the stunning Cairns Kuranda Skyrail, embark on a snorkelling adventure, or enjoy horseback riding. For those seeking thrills, kite surfing is a must-try. The city also boasts vibrant theatre options and trendy shopping centres, ensuring a delightful urban experience amidst the natural beauty of Queensland.

Shopping

Cairns Central Shopping Centre offers a vibrant mix of entertainment and shopping right in the heart of Cairns. For a similar experience, Smithfield Shopping Centre is also nearby, boasting family-friendly options. If you're up for a drive, check out the Cairns Night Markets for unique gifts and local crafts.

Recreation

Explore the Cairns Convention Centre for a blend of culture and entertainment, perfect for a family outing. For outdoor fun, visit Muddy's Playground, where kids can enjoy various activities. If you're seeking a relaxing day, play a round at Half Moon Bay Golf Course amidst stunning scenery.

Adventure

Experience the breathtaking Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, gliding over lush landscapes in Cairns. For thrill-seekers, Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome offers exhilarating zipline adventures amidst wildlife. Alternatively, enjoy a day of fun at Sugarworld Waterpark, where family-friendly attractions meet exciting water slides.

Nightlife

Cairns boasts a vibrant nightlife with bustling bars and clubs. Explore the bustling nightlife at the Salt House on the waterfront, where you can enjoy cocktails and stunning views. For live music, head to the Cairns Night Markets for a lively atmosphere filled with local talent and international cuisine.

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

Find the best attractions in Cairns

Cairns is an ideal destination for outdoor, family, and city-themed holidays. Key attractions include the stunning beach, the vibrant Esplanade, and the picturesque lagoon, catering to those seeking beach experiences and cultural exploration. Don't miss the Cairns Esplanade, the fascinating Cairns Aquarium, and other local attractions that enhance your stay. Consider escaping to Cairns for an unforgettable adventure in this tropical paradise.

  • Cairns Esplanade: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Cairns Esplanade, perfect for romantic strolls or family outings. This lively waterfront area features lush parklands, picnic spots, and a variety of cafes, making it a hub for relaxation and outdoor fun.
  • Palm Cove Beach: Discover the serene beauty of Palm Cove Beach, known for its soft sands and tranquil waters. This idyllic spot is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a leisurely walk along the shore, all while soaking up the laid-back beach vibes.
  • Esplanade Lagoon: Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery at Esplanade Lagoon, a perfect outdoor oasis for families. With its crystal-clear waters and surrounding tropical gardens, it's an excellent place to unwind, enjoy a swim, or have a picnic.

Best time to go to Cairns

The best time to visit Cairns can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Cairns falls in January and February. February has slightly low visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather. The coolest average temperature in Cairns falls in July, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
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 SunnyAverageAverage
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 SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December79.9°F (26.6°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Tips to save on your trip to Cairns

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Cairns.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically February to March and November) for more affordable package holidays to Cairns.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Cairns Essential Information

Language
English
Currency
Australian dollars
Closest Airport
Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS)
Population
153,100
Max Temp Winter
24ºC
Max Temp Summer
29ºC
Top Sights
Cairns Convention Centre, Cairns Aquarium and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Top hotels in Cairns

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

121-123 The Esplanade & Florence St Cairns QLD
£116
7 Sept - 8 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,005 reviews)
"Great location, great staff and pretty decent facilities!"

Reviewed on 7 Aug 2026

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
Pacific Hotel Cairns

Pacific Hotel Cairns

Corner Esplanade And Spence Street Cairns QLD
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
£115
3 Sept - 4 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,012 reviews)
"Staff were very friendly polite and helpful. Room was great, including super comfy bed. Great location very close to where boats to barrier reef / Fitzroy island etc. leave from."

Reviewed on 8 Aug 2026

Pacific Hotel Cairns
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

Pierpoint Road Cairns QLD
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
£165
3 Sept - 4 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
See all 1,366 properties in Cairns
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
All Inclusive Holidays
All Inclusive Holidays
Beach Holidays
Beach Holidays
Family Friendly Holidays
Family Friendly Holidays
Golf Holidays
Golf Holidays
Luxury Holidays
Luxury Holidays
gay friendly holidays
LGBTQ+ Holidays
LGBTQ+ Holidays
Romantic Holidays
Romantic Holidays
Ski Holidays
Ski Holidays
Pet Friendly Holidays
Pet Friendly Holidays
Holiday in Month
Where to go when
Where to go when

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.
See properties
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.
See properties
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.
See properties
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.
See properties
A beach with palm trees, a red structure, and white chairs arranged for an event.

Clifton Beach

8.4/10 (1,026 reviews)
This quiet beach north of Cairns offers long stretches of white sand and clear water.
See properties

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.
See properties

What to do in Cairns

Half-Day Green Island, Great Barrier Reef Cruise

Big Cat Green Island - Half-Day Great Barrier Reef Cruise

£64
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
Big Cat Green Island - Half-Day Great Barrier Reef Cruise
relaxing at the deck of a ship in Australia

Full-Day Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise & Snorkeling Tour

£144
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Full-Day Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise & Snorkeling Tour
passengers aboard amphibious DUKW drive through jungles in Cairns

Army Duck Tour of the Rainforest

£18
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Army Duck Tour of the Rainforest
See all activities in Cairns

Frequently asked questions

Why should I book my Cairns holiday with Expedia?
Expedia has your back for every detail of your upcoming Cairns trip. You'll always land the best deal possible, but when you bundle your accommodation, flights and/or hire car into a holiday package, you'll save even more. Looking to truly make the most of your adventure? Add a few fun activities and tours to your package. We offer flexible cancellation policies on most bookings, so you won't need to stress if your travel plans change. Head over to our Customer Service Portal link to find out more.
When is the best time of year to holiday in Cairns?
Cairns is very popular in May, June and August, so if you want to escape the crowds, pack your bags for November, December and January. With daytime average temperatures of 20ºC, July is the coolest month in Cairns. The warmest time of year is January, when you can expect averages of 26ºC during the day. Whatever the weather conditions, you'll discover plenty of things to keep you busy here.
What are the top hotels for my holiday in Cairns?
Crystalbrook Flynn and Cairns Queens Court are both popular getaways in the neighbourhood of Palm Cove. If you prefer to spend time in the Trinity Beach area, lock in a room at Cairns Plaza Hotel or Coral Tree Inn.
How do I get a cheap holiday to Cairns?
Creating your own Cairns holiday with Expedia is a simple way to save. We offer more than 400 air carriers and 321,000 hotel options throughout the world. With such an awesome range to choose from, you'll have no issues putting together your dream escape. Learn more about how you can save money on your holiday when you bundle your flight and hotel bookings with Expedia.
What should I do on my Cairns holiday?
There are lots of places to check out during your holiday in Cairns. Esplanade Lagoon, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Centenary Lakes Botanic Gardens and Mount Whitfield Conservation Park are just some of this city's major attractions.
What are the best neighbourhoods to stay in when on holiday in Cairns?
A visit to Cairns isn't complete without spending some time in Cairns Central Business District, so why not get a hotel in this fantastic neighbourhood? That way, you'll be just a hop, skip and jump away from Esplanade Lagoon. If Mount Whitfield Conservation Park is a priority, stay in Whitfield.
Do I need a visa for my Cairns holiday?
Look up the most up-to-date information on official government websites. Your nationality and whether you're travelling for work or pleasure will determine if you require a visa for Cairns. Make yourself familiar with the application process, including any required documentation, fees and turnaround times. Submit your application well in advance to allow enough time for processing. Some visas may take weeks or even months to go through, depending on the country.
What should I wear on my Cairns holiday?
Do a little research into the sorts of things people in Cairns wear, and maybe even browse style blogs for some fashion inspiration. Whatever your look, try to create a versatile wardrobe full of pieces that work for your destination and showcase your unique sense of style. Be sure to check the local weather forecast so you can pack accordingly. The warmest month in Cairns is January, with average daytime temperatures of 26ºC. If you plan to travel during the coolest month of July, the mercury averages 20ºC during the day.
What does an Expedia Cairns holiday include?
Select from any combination of flights, hire cars and hotels. Once you've made your booking, add the fun stuff like experiences and tours. Want to pick your fare class? That's easy to do too. The choice is all yours when it comes to putting together your ideal Cairns getaway. Discover a large range of property types and select one that matches the size of your group. The most in-demand rentals here are apartments and private holiday homes. With Expedia, you can easily tailor-make your Cairns escape just the way you like.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Cairns holidays?
Your bank balance shouldn't stop you from escaping on holiday, so Expedia has come up with a solution to help. Now that we've formed a partnership with online lender Klarna, it's easier than ever to book a dream getaway without making a dent in your savings. Klarna offers flexible payment options during the checkout process that take the worry out of budgeting for your break. Check out these flexible payment options:
  • Pay monthly holidays: Klarna offers payments in multiple transactions that suit all types of budgets, so you can escape on that well-deserved holiday sooner.
  • No-deposit holidays: If not paying upfront for your getaway makes clicking that "book now" button easier, choose a no-deposit holiday plan with Klarna so you can Book Now, Pay Later!
Can I choose my airline with a Cairns Expedia holiday?
Expedia has access to more than 400 airline partners worldwide, so you definitely can. Simply pick your favourite carrier and craft the perfect Cairns getaway.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Flight-inclusive packages are ATOL protected.