Where to stay in cairns?
Updated: September 10, 2024Introduction to Cairns
Cairns, located in tropical North Queensland, Australia, is a vibrant gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Known for its lush landscapes, adventure sports, and rich cultural heritage, Cairns offers a variety of accommodations ranging from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels. The choice of where to stay can significantly enhance your experience, depending on your preferences and itinerary.
Luxury Resorts and Hotels
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Nestled on the waterfront, Shangri-La The Marina offers stunning views of the Marlin Marina. This five-star hotel boasts spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and easy access to the Reef Fleet Terminal for reef tours. The hotel’s restaurant, The Backyard, serves fresh local seafood, making it a prime choice for luxury travelers.
Pullman Reef Hotel Casino
Located in the heart of the city, Pullman Reef Hotel Casino offers opulent rooms with spa baths and balconies. The hotel features a rooftop pool, a gym, and a casino, making it an ideal stay for those seeking entertainment and leisure. Its proximity to the Cairns Esplanade and other attractions adds to its appeal.
Hilton Cairns
Hilton Cairns is renowned for its exceptional service and prime location near the Cairns Esplanade. The hotel offers modern rooms with private balconies, an outdoor pool, and multiple dining options, including the award-winning Mondo Café Bar and Grill. The Hilton is a favorite among business travelers and tourists alike.
Mid-Range Accommodations
Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns
Rydges Esplanade Resort is perfect for those looking for comfort and convenience. Situated along the picturesque Cairns Esplanade, this resort features three swimming pools, tennis courts, and a fitness center. The on-site restaurant, Coral Hedge Brasserie, offers a delightful buffet breakfast and a la carte dining.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
DoubleTree by Hilton is located along the waterfront, offering beautiful views and easy access to the city’s attractions. Guests can enjoy modern amenities, an outdoor pool, and a unique central courtyard filled with tropical plants. The hotel’s restaurant, The Atrium, serves a variety of international dishes.
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort is a family-friendly option featuring a lagoon-style pool with a sandy beach, perfect for children. The resort’s spacious rooms, tropical gardens, and central location make it a popular choice for families and couples. The Novo Bar and Terrace offer relaxed dining options with pool views.
Budget-Friendly Options
Gilligan's Backpacker Hotel & Resort
Gilligan's is a well-known backpacker haven in Cairns, offering dormitory-style accommodations as well as private rooms. The resort features a lagoon pool, nightly entertainment, and an on-site bar and nightclub. It’s a fantastic choice for young travelers looking to socialize and explore Cairns on a budget.
Mad Monkey Backpackers
Mad Monkey Backpackers offers affordable and comfortable accommodations with an emphasis on social interaction. Guests can enjoy free breakfast, a pool, and regular social events. Its central location makes it easy to explore Cairns’ attractions and nightlife.
YHA Cairns Central
YHA Cairns Central provides clean and budget-friendly accommodations with a variety of room types, including dormitories and private rooms. The hostel features a pool, a communal kitchen, and a tour desk to help guests plan their adventures. Its proximity to the Cairns Central Shopping Centre is an added benefit.
Unique and Boutique Stays
Bailey, a Crystalbrook Collection Hotel
Bailey is a modern and environmentally conscious boutique hotel located in the heart of Cairns. The hotel showcases local art and offers stylish rooms with eco-friendly amenities. With two restaurants and a rooftop bar, Bailey provides a unique and sustainable luxury experience.
Riley, a Crystalbrook Collection Resort
Riley stands out with its contemporary design and focus on wellness. The resort features a lagoon pool, a man-made beach, and a spa. Guests can also enjoy the Paper Crane restaurant, which offers Asian-inspired cuisine. Riley’s commitment to sustainability and luxury makes it a standout choice.
Il Palazzo Boutique Hotel
Il Palazzo Boutique Hotel is designed in an Italian style, offering a charming and intimate atmosphere. Located just a short walk from the Cairns Esplanade, the hotel features self-contained suites with kitchen facilities. Its rooftop pool and garden add to the boutique charm.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort
Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort is a top choice for families, offering a range of accommodations from cabins to villas. The resort features multiple swimming pools, a water park, mini-golf, and a variety of recreational activities. Its family-friendly amenities ensure a fun and relaxing stay for all ages.
Cairns Colonial Club Resort
Set on 11 acres of tropical gardens, Cairns Colonial Club Resort offers a tranquil retreat for families. The resort features three lagoon-style pools, a playground, and dining options that cater to all tastes. The spacious rooms and family-friendly atmosphere make it a popular choice.
Accommodations for Adventure Seekers
Reef Palms
Reef Palms is an excellent choice for adventure seekers looking for a comfortable and affordable stay. The hotel offers spacious studio apartments with kitchenettes, an outdoor pool, and a tour desk to book reef and rainforest adventures. Its location provides easy access to Cairns’ outdoor activities.
Dreamtime Travellers Rest
Dreamtime Travellers Rest is a cozy and budget-friendly hostel that caters to adventure enthusiasts. With a relaxed atmosphere, the hostel offers a communal kitchen, a tropical garden, and regular social events. It’s an ideal base for exploring Cairns’ natural wonders.
The diverse accommodations in Cairns ensure that every traveler can find a perfect place to stay, whether you seek luxury, budget-friendly options, or unique boutique experiences. Each type of accommodation offers its own distinct charm and amenities, making Cairns a versatile destination for any traveler. Explore these options, and let your own preferences and travel plans guide you to the ideal stay in this tropical paradise.
Related Questions
Located in tropical North Queensland, Cairns is a gateway to two of the world's most significant natural wonders: the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient Daintree Rainforest. This vibrant city offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, nature lover, or culture enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in Cairns.
Ask HotBot: What to do in cairns?
The Great Barrier Reef is undoubtedly one of the most iconic attractions near Cairns. This natural wonder is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest coral reef system in the world. There are numerous ways to explore the reef:
Ask HotBot: Cairns what to do?
Cairns is a vibrant city located in the northeastern part of Australia, within the state of Queensland. Nestled between the Coral Sea and the Great Dividing Range, Cairns is renowned for its tropical climate and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. The city is situated approximately 1,700 kilometers (about 1,056 miles) north of Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, and about 2,420 kilometers (1,504 miles) from Sydney.
Ask HotBot: Where is cairns?