Car Rentals in Cairns, AUS

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Cairns

Renting a car in Cairns provides a convenient way to explore the city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily access the Cairns Esplanade, which offers a delightful blend of outdoor, romantic, and family experiences. If you're in the mood for a beach day, Palm Cove Beach is within a short drive, allowing you to enjoy sun and sand without the hassle of public transport. For those seeking adventure, Cairns Marlin Marina is also easily reachable, providing opportunities for outdoor activities.

A rental car allows you to venture beyond the city centre to popular neighbourhoods like Palm Cove, where you can discover Trinity Beach, Clifton Beach, and Kewarra Beach. You can also explore the Cairns Central Business District, home to key attractions like the Cairns Marlin Marina and Esplanade Lagoon. Whether you're travelling with family, looking for outdoor experiences, or simply want the freedom to create your own itinerary, renting a car enhances your visit to Cairns by offering flexibility and ease of luggage management.

Most popular car hires in Cairns

• Compact: The Compact car type is a popular choice for those visiting Cairns, comfortably accommodating 5 travellers along with up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal option for solo travellers, couples, or small families. With its nimble size, a Compact car allows for easy navigation through Cairns while providing the freedom to explore various attractions at your own pace.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is well-suited for families, couples, or small groups, as it can accommodate 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases. This option offers more space and comfort, making it perfect for those who require a bit more room for luggage or gear. Renting a Midsize SUV in Cairns enhances your travel experience by providing flexibility for day trips and excursions.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is another excellent choice for visitors to Cairns, accommodating 5 travellers with room for up to 2 medium suitcases. It is ideal for couples, families, or groups who appreciate a spacious interior and the ability to manage luggage easily. This vehicle type offers a balance of comfort and practicality, making it a reliable option for your exploration of Cairns and its surroundings.

Top rated car suppliers in Cairns

• Hertz: With 2 rental locations in the Cairns area, Hertz is a top choice for travellers seeking flexibility. Their most popular vehicles include Midsize and Economy SUVs, ideal for navigating both city streets and scenic drives. Hertz's reputation for reliability and quality service ensures that you can explore Cairns at your own pace while managing your luggage with ease.
• Budget: Located in the heart of Cairns, Budget provides an excellent option for travellers looking for value. Their Midsize SUV and Midsize vehicles are among the most booked, catering to those who appreciate comfort and space. Budget's competitive pricing and convenient location make it a practical choice for your car hire needs.
• Avis: Avis operates one rental location in Cairns and is known for its strong customer service. The most frequently booked vehicle is the Midsize, which offers a perfect balance of comfort and efficiency for your adventures. With Avis, you can expect a streamlined rental process, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip.

Where to stay in Cairns

• Palm Cove: Palm Cove is a delightful suburb near Cairns, perfect for outdoor, family, and city-themed experiences. Travellers can enjoy the local beach and family beach, as well as the scenic esplanade. The area features a variety of food and drink options, including restaurants. Notable nearby attractions include Trinity Beach, Clifton Beach, and Kewarra Beach, all suitable for a relaxing beach holiday.
• Cairns Central Business District: The Cairns Central Business District offers a vibrant mix of outdoor, family, and city-themed experiences. Visitors can explore shopping centres, malls, and theatres, while enjoying the proximity to the esplanade, urban parks, and beaches. Dining options abound, making it a great place to indulge in local cuisine. Key highlights include Cairns Marlin Marina, Cairns Esplanade, and Esplanade Lagoon, which are all ideal for outdoor and family activities.
• Cairns North: Cairns North is a charming suburb that caters to outdoor enthusiasts, families, and couples seeking a romantic getaway. The area boasts attractions such as cable cars and theatres, along with easy access to the esplanade, urban parks, and beaches. Dining and café options are readily available. Key points of interest include Cairns Esplanade, Cairns Marlin Marina, and Esplanade Lagoon, offering scenic beauty and opportunities for outdoor exploration.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Cairns

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for those sunny summer days, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike an excellent balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals enforce a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards as a form of payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Cairns

The best value period to rent a car in and around Cairns is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. March also offers decent value with similar characteristics. Demand starts to increase in June, which has average prices but lower demand. However, July sees a rise in prices and steady demand, making it one of the most expensive months. Following July, August remains busy and pricey, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	76.5°F (24.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
June	70.3°F (21.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
July	69.3°F (20.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	69.6°F (20.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	72.7°F (22.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	75.7°F (24.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
November	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
December	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average