Find the best Cairns Hotels

Top reasons to visit Cairns

• Stunning Great Barrier Reef: Experience the world's largest coral reef system through guided tours and snorkelling adventures.
• Beautiful Beaches: Relax on pristine beaches with crystal clear waters, ideal for sunbathing and water sports.
• Lush National Parks: Explore the breathtaking scenery of nearby rainforests and national parks, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting.
• Cairns Night Markets: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, with local crafts, souvenirs, and delicious food options.
• Cairns Botanic Gardens: Wander through diverse plant species in a serene setting, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Find great hotels in Cairns

Explore a diverse range of hotel accommodation options in Cairns, Queensland, tailored to suit every traveller's needs. Whether you're seeking adventure, a family-friendly retreat, or a business-themed stay, Cairns offers an array of hotels and hostels that cater to your desires. From luxurious escapes to budget-friendly backpacker options, discover the perfect Cairns hotel for an unforgettable Australian getaway.

• Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns: Experience luxury at Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns, a prestigious 5-star hotel located in the heart of the city. This hotel is ideal for business travellers and families alike, offering a blend of city convenience and family-friendly amenities. Guests can enjoy access to a comprehensive business centre and conference facilities, while children are catered for with a dedicated pool and babysitting services. Its central location allows for easy exploration of the vibrant Cairns waterfront and nearby attractions, making it a perfect base for both work and leisure.
• Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns: Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns offers a 4-star experience with a focus on adventure and inclusivity. This LGBTQIA-friendly hotel is perfect for those seeking both business amenities and thrilling recreational activities. Guests can take advantage of multiple meeting rooms and a well-equipped business centre, while the on-site adventure options include ziplining, sailing, and snorkelling. Its scenic esplanade location ensures that guests can easily access the stunning beaches and vibrant local culture, making it a fantastic choice for an adventurous getaway.
• Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort: Embrace the family-friendly luxury of Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort, a 4.5-star property that caters to guests looking for a welcoming, high-end experience. This LGBTQIA-friendly hotel is designed with families in mind, offering free cribs and a dedicated children's pool, alongside babysitting services. The lush tropical gardens and lagoon-style pool create a serene atmosphere, allowing families to unwind together. Located conveniently close to local attractions, this resort is the perfect sanctuary for families seeking both relaxation and adventure in Cairns.

Where to stay in Cairns

Embarking on a vacation in Cairns, Queensland, promises an enchanting mix of family-friendly experiences and breathtaking natural beauty. Explore the vibrant city atmosphere, unwind in tropical surroundings, and indulge in a romantic getaway. From the stunning Great Barrier Reef to lush rainforests, Cairns offers a fantastic location for outdoor adventures and relaxation. Whether it's a weekend escape or an extended stay, the friendly locals and captivating sights will ensure a memorable visit.

• Cairns: Cairns, a vibrant city nestled in the tropical north of Queensland, is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and stunning landscapes. With a steady influx of visitors year-round, the peak travel seasons of July to September see the city's outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities come alive. The Esplanade offers a picturesque waterfront promenade lined with parks and recreational areas, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic. Shopping enthusiasts will find a variety of centres nearby, allowing for a delightful retail experience amidst the city's urban charm.
• Palm Cove: Just a short drive from Cairns, Palm Cove is an idyllic suburb known for its serene beaches and lush surroundings. With peak visitor numbers from June to July and September, this charming destination attracts families and outdoor lovers alike. The palm-fringed beach provides the perfect setting for relaxation, while the local shopping area and wellness spas offer pampering experiences. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil esplanade, which is ideal for leisurely walks, or spend quality time at the family-friendly beach, creating lasting memories in this tropical paradise.
• Cairns Central Business District: The Cairns Central Business District (CBD) is the bustling heart of the city, where urban life meets natural beauty. With a consistent flow of visitors, especially during the peak months of July to September, the CBD is perfect for families and those seeking romantic getaways. The Esplanade and urban parks provide a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities, while the marina offers access to water-based adventures. Shopping centres and theatres within the CBD cater to diverse interests, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this lively area.

Things to do in Cairns

Cairns offers a delightful mix of outdoor, family-friendly, and urban experiences perfect for a memorable holiday. You can explore the stunning reefs through guided tours, embark on exciting local adventures, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at Cairns Night Markets. Don’t miss the chance to engage with the local dolphins and indulge in shopping at various centres and malls, making it an ideal destination for all types of visitors.

Shopping

Cairns Central Shopping Centre offers a vibrant mix of shops, dining, and entertainment in the heart of Cairns. Don't miss the Cairns Night Markets for unique souvenirs and local crafts. If you're up for a drive, explore Kite Rite Australia for specialty items and gifts.

Recreation

Half Moon Bay Golf Course offers a relaxing experience with its lush greens and stunning coastal views, perfect for a leisurely round of golf. For family fun, Muddy's Playground provides a vibrant outdoor space with play equipment and picnic areas. Cazaly's Stadium hosts exciting sporting events, fostering a lively atmosphere.

Adventure

Experience the breathtaking Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, gliding over lush rainforests and enjoying stunning views. For thrill-seekers, Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome offers an exhilarating zipline course amidst wildlife. Alternatively, cool off at Sugarworld Waterpark, where fun water slides and family-friendly attractions await you.

Nightlife

Cairns boasts a vibrant nightlife with venues like the Cairns Convention Centre and Cairns Performing Arts Centre, both offering a mix of entertainment and culture. For a unique experience, JUTE Theatre Company presents captivating performances in a warm, romantic atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cairns

To save money during your visit to Cairns, consider travelling during the cheaper months of February to March and November. Booking your accommodation about a month in advance often yields the best rates, with Wednesdays being the least expensive nights to stay. Utilise Expedia to compare hotel prices and find packages that combine flights and activities for additional savings. Look for last-minute deals, particularly highlighted by a green banner. Additionally, take advantage of free activities and explore Cairns on foot or use the affordable public transport options available.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Cairns are February to March and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Cairns about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Cairns is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Cairns is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget and preferred location, among other options. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the ability to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your Cairns hotel accommodation with your flights and activities.

Find the best attractions in Cairns

Cairns offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities, making it ideal for various holidaymakers. Key attractions include the beautiful beaches, the scenic esplanade, and the lush national parks. Visitors can explore the Cairns foreshore, relax at the Cairns Botanic Gardens, discover marine life at the Cairns Aquarium, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at the centre of Cairns. This charming locale promises a memorable getaway filled with stunning scenery and exciting experiences.

• Cairns Esplanade: Stroll along the picturesque Cairns Esplanade, where romance and family-friendly activities abound. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, lush parklands, and stunning views of the Coral Sea, making it perfect for leisurely walks or picnics.
• Cairns Marlin Marina: Experience adventure at Cairns Marlin Marina, a hub for water-based activities. With numerous tours departing for the Great Barrier Reef, enjoy beachside dining and the thrill of a variety of aquatic adventures.
• Palm Cove Beach: Relax at the serene Palm Cove Beach, known for its soft sands and tranquil waters. Ideal for sunbathing or a leisurely swim, this picturesque beach offers a perfect escape to unwind and soak up the sun.

Best time to go to Cairns

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The nearest major airports for your trip to Cairns

Cairns, Queensland is easily accessible via Cairns International Airport (CNS), located approximately 1.9km from the city centre. This airport serves numerous airlines, making it a convenient entry point for tourists. Nearby, you’ll find excellent accommodation options such as the luxurious 5-star Shangri-La The Marina, Crystalbrook Bailey, and Crystalbrook Flynn, all situated within a 3-mile radius of the airport. These hotels offer comfortable stays and easy access to the airport, ensuring a smooth transition for travellers. Transportation services from these hotels to Cairns International Airport are readily available, making your journey hassle-free.