Best Hotels In Cairns
Written by Joeri Van Overloop
Cairns, located in the tropical north of Australia, is a popular destination for tourists seeking a relaxing vacation. With its stunning natural beauty and abundance of activities, it's no wonder that Cairns has become a go-to spot for holidaymakers from all over the world.
When it comes to accommodations in Cairns, there are plenty of options available – from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. However, if you're looking for the best possible experience during your stay in this vibrant city, you'll want to check out some of the best hotels in Cairns.
1. Pullman Reef Hotel
As I was researching the best hotels in Cairns, Australia, one name kept popping up: the Pullman Reef Hotel. And after staying there, I can confidently say that it deserves its spot as one of the top hotels in the area.
The Pullman Reef Hotel Casino is a luxurious five-star hotel located by the Trinity Inlet and the cruise liner terminal. The location is unbeatable, with stunning views of the water and the surrounding mountains. I was also impressed by how close the hotel is to many of the area's top attractions, including the Cairns Esplanade, the Reef Fleet Terminal, and the Cairns Marlin Marina.
The hotel has 127 beautifully appointed rooms, each with its own spa bath and garden terrace. I stayed in a Superior Room, which had a comfortable king-size bed, a large flat-screen TV, and plenty of space to relax. The room also had a mini-bar, a coffee machine, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
One of the highlights of my stay was dining at the hotel's award-winning restaurant, Tamarind. The restaurant serves a mix of Asian and Western cuisine, and the dishes were all beautifully presented and delicious. I also enjoyed having a drink at the hotel's bar, BAR36, which has live music and a great atmosphere.
The hotel has plenty of other amenities to enjoy, including a rooftop swimming pool, a fitness center, and a full-service spa. The staff at the hotel were all friendly and helpful, and I appreciated the attention to detail that went into every aspect of my stay.
I highly recommend the Pullman Reef Hotel to anyone looking for a luxurious and convenient place to stay in Cairns. It's a bit pricey, but the level of service and amenities you get make it well worth the cost.
Contact:
Address: 35/41 Wharf St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Phone: +61 7 4030 8888
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2. Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
The Shangri-La Hotel in Cairns is a luxurious 5-star property that offers amazing views of the Cairns Marlin Marina and the Coral Sea. The location is perfect for those who want to explore the city's waterside dining precinct and enjoy the tropical climate of Far North Queensland.
The hotel rooms are clean, and well-appointed, with all the amenities you would expect from a luxury hotel. I particularly enjoyed the comfortable bed and the panoramic views from my room. The menu offered by the hotel's restaurant was delicious, and I found it to be a great option for dining in my room after a long day of exploring.
One of the highlights of my stay was the hotel's outdoor swimming pool, which is set in beautiful tropical gardens. It was the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun while taking in the stunning views of Trinity Inlet. The hotel also offers a gym for those who want to stay active during their stay.
The staff at the Shangri-La were friendly, professional, and always willing to help. They made me feel welcome from the moment I arrived and went out of their way to ensure that my stay was as comfortable as possible.
Contact:
Address: Pier Point Rd, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Phone: +61 7 4052 7500
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3. Crystalbrook Bailey
Crystalbrook Bailey is a luxury hotel and residences in Cairns that celebrates originality and individuality. As I stepped inside, I am greeted by a modern, innovative, and art-inspired atmosphere that is both welcoming and refreshing.
The hotel boasts 163 stylishly designed rooms and suites, each with its own unique character and charm. From the moment I entered my room, I was impressed by the attention to detail and the luxurious furnishings. The rooms are large, well-equipped, and offer the best views of the city and the Pacific Ocean.
One of the highlights of my stay at the Bailey was the swimming pool. The pool is clean and beautiful, especially in the evening, and offers a perfect spot to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring the city.
The hotel also features a range of facilities, including a fully equipped gym, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. The staff is friendly, attentive, and always ready to help with anything you need during your stay.
Crystalbrook Bailey's location is excellent, situated on Abbott Street, just a short walk from the Esplanade and other popular tourist attractions in Cairns. The hotel is also environmentally conscious, making it an ideal choice for travelers who value sustainability and eco-friendliness.
Contact:
Address: Ground Floor A/163 Abbott St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Phone: +61 7 4253 4000
4. Cairns Plaza Hotel
A few months back I had the pleasure of staying at the Cairns Plaza Hotel during my trip to Cairns, Australia. This 3.5-star hotel is located on The Esplanade, just across from Trinity Bay. The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool and free on-site parking, making it a great option for those who want to explore the city without worrying about parking.
The room I stayed in was clean and comfortable, with all the amenities I needed for a comfortable stay. The hotel offers a variety of room types, including standard rooms, family rooms, and suites. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, free internet access, and a flat-screen TV with cable channels.
One of the highlights of my stay at the Cairns Plaza was the incredible view from my room. I had a room with a balcony overlooking the bay, and it was simply breathtaking. I spent many hours sitting on the terrace, enjoying the view and the fresh sea breeze.
The hotel also has a restaurant, which serves a variety of dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. The hotel also has a bar, which is a great place to relax and enjoy a drink after a long day of sightseeing.
I highly recommend the Cairns Plaza to anyone looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay in Cairns. The hotel offers great value for money, with comfortable rooms, excellent facilities, and a stunning location.
Contact:
Address: 145 Esplanade, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Phone: +61 7 4051 4688
5. Crystalbrook Flynn
The Crystalbrook Flynn Hotel is located on the Esplanade, providing great views of the Coral Sea and easy access to the city's main attractions.
The hotel boasts 311 rooms and suites which are all beautifully designed with large balconies. The rooms are equipped with all the necessary amenities, including free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a minibar.
One of the standout features of the Flynn is its food and drink options. The hotel has two restaurants, the Boardwalk Social and Whiskey and Wine, both of which offer delicious food and drinks. The Boardwalk Social is a casual dining restaurant that serves up delicious seafood and other local favorites, while the Whiskey and Wine is a more upscale option that specializes in fine wines and whiskeys.
The hotel also has a luxurious spa that offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body scrubs. The wellness is the perfect place to unwind and relax after a busy day exploring Cairns.
Contact:
Address: 68/72 Abbott St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Phone: +61 7 4253 5000
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6. Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
The Novotel Cairns Resort is a 4.5-star resort-style hotel located in the heart of the city. As you enter the hotel, you are greeted by a modern building with a good ambiance that makes you feel welcome. The hotel is an excellent option for both business and leisure travelers.
The hotel features comfortable and clean rooms with a small terrace, refrigerator, and coffee making capabilities. The lagoon pool with a pool deck bar is a great place to relax and unwind after a long day. The hotel also offers a city view and garden view for guests who want to enjoy the scenery.
The location of the Novotel hotel is excellent, with easy access to many of Cairns' top attractions, including the Esplanade, the Reef Casino, and a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. The hotel is also just a short walk away from the Cairns Convention Centre, making it a convenient option for business travelers.
In 2019, the hotel underwent a transformation with a new lobby, restaurant and bar, guest rooms, and public spaces. The new look is impressive and modern, making the hotel feel even more welcoming and comfortable.
Contact:
Address: 122 Lake St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Phone: +61 7 4080 1888
7. Crystalbrook Riley
The Crystalbrook Riley, a member of the Crystalbrook Collection, is a five-star hotel that offers a sophisticated yet playful atmosphere. From the moment I checked in, I was impressed by the understated elegance and contemporary design of the hotel.
The rooms at the Riley are big and well-appointed with modern amenities. I particularly enjoyed the comfortable bed and the beautiful views of the ocean from my room. The hotel has a sustainable approach to hospitality, which is evident in the eco-friendly products and initiatives they use throughout the property.
One of the highlights of my stay was the pool area. The hotel has a beautiful pool with plenty of loungers and cabanas, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. The pool area also has a swim-up bar, which was a fun touch.
The hotel's location on The Esplanade is unbeatable, with easy access to the beach and the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon. The hotel is also within walking distance of many of Cairns' top attractions, including the Cairns Aquarium and the Cairns Night Markets.
Contact:
Address: 131/141 Esplanade, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Phone: +61 7 4252 7777
8. Cairns Sheridan Hotel
The Cairns Sheridan is one of the best luxury hotels in Cairns. This 4-star hotel is conveniently located on Sheridan Street, which is just a few minutes' drive from the Cairns Airport and the city center.
The hotel features 74 rooms, which are all equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. The accommodations are spacious and comfortable, making them perfect for both business and pleasure travelers.
One of the standout features of the Cairns Sheridan Hotel is its six conference and event spaces. These spaces are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and can accommodate up to 200 people. This makes the hotel an ideal venue for residential conferences, corporate events, and weddings.
The hotel also has a range of other facilities to ensure that guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. These include an outdoor pool, a fitness centre, and a restaurant that serves delicious meals throughout the day.
In terms of location, the Sheridan is situated just a short walk from the Esplanade, which is a popular destination for locals and tourists. The Esplanade features a range of restaurants, cafes, and bars, as well as a swimming pool and a boardwalk that offers memorable views of the ocean.
Contact:
Address: 295 Sheridan St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Phone: +61 7 4255 9000
9. The Abbott Boutique Hotel
The Abbott Boutique Hotel is centrally located, making it easy to explore all that Cairns has to offer. The Reef Terminal, Esplanade, bus station, shopping centre, restaurants, and bars are all just a short walk away.
The rooms at The Abbott hotel are beautifully designed and well-appointed. I stayed in a room with a real walk-in shower, which was a nice touch. The bed was comfortable, and the room was large and clean.
The staff at The Abbott were friendly and helpful. They provided me with recommendations for restaurants and activities in the area, which was much appreciated. The hotel also offers a tour desk, making it easy to book excursions and activities during your stay.
The hotel has everything you need for a great vacation, and the central location makes it easy to explore all that the area has to offer.
Contact:
Address: 69-73 Abbott St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Phone: +61 7 4281 6666
10. Hilton Cairns
Located in the heart of Cairns, the Hilton Hotel is a luxurious waterfront retreat that offers stunning views of the Great Barrier Reef. As I entered the hotel, I was greeted by friendly staff who were eager to assist me with my check-in process. The lobby was spacious and elegantly decorated with modern furnishings, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The hotel offers a range of comfortable and well-appointed rooms that are equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and high-speed internet access. I stayed in a Deluxe Room which had a private balcony that overlooked the beautiful Cairns Esplanade.
One of the highlights of my stay at the Hilton was the hotel's impressive range of dining options. The award-winning Mondo on the Waterfront restaurant served delicious seafood dishes that were expertly prepared using fresh local ingredients. I also enjoyed the hotel's signature cocktails at the Gin Social bar, which offered great views of the Trinity Inlet.
The hotel's facilities were also impressive, with a 24-hour gym, a beautiful outdoor pool, and a spa that offered a range of relaxing treatments. The hotel also had a business center and several meeting rooms, making it an ideal destination for business travelers.
Contact:
Address: 34 Esplanade, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Phone: +61 7 4050 2000
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11. Pacific Hotel Cairns
As I was researching the best Cairns hotels, I came across the Pacific Hotel, a stunning hotel located on The Esplanade. I was impressed by its prime location overlooking Trinity Harbor, which provides guests with panoramic views from their private terrace.
The hotel comes with easy access to the nearby Reef Fleet Terminal, the Cairns central shopping centre, casino, and Esplanade Lagoon, making it an ideal choice for those who want to explore the city. I appreciated the hotel's proximity to the main wharf, which is perfect for those who want to take part in snorkeling, scuba diving, or other boating activities, including the Barrier Reef.
The Pacific Hotel has 176 rooms and suites, all of which are elegantly furnished and equipped with modern amenities. I was impressed by the hotel's attention to detail, which is evident in the room's décor. The rooms are big and feature comfortable beds, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free WiFi.
The hotel has a range of facilities that cater to the needs of its guests. I was particularly impressed by the hotel's pool, which is perfect for those who want to relax and soak up the sun. The hotel also has a gymnasium, which is well-equipped and perfect for those who want to stay fit during their stay.
The hotel's restaurant, the Bushfire Flame Grill, serves delicious Australian dishes and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I enjoyed the restaurant's relaxed atmosphere and the friendly service provided by the staff.
The Pacific is an excellent choice for those who want to stay in a luxury hotel in Cairns within a prime location.
Contact:
Address: 43 Esplanade, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Phone: +61 7 4051 7888
12. Oaks Cairns Hotel
Located on the Cairns Esplanade, the Oak hotel is perfectly situated in the middle of the city and just minutes away from all the hustle and bustle, including the new Esplanade dining precinct and Cairns Convention Centre.
The hotel has a selection of leisure facilities to help you relax and unwind, including a restaurant, a rooftop bar, and 24/7 front desk. The rooms are beautiful and well-designed, with air conditioning and free internet included. I particularly enjoyed the ocean view from my room, which was simply breathtaking.
One of the standout features of the Oaks Hotel is its excellent location. You can walk right out into everything, close to food, shopping, boats that take you to the reef, and the public swimming area. It's the best location in Cairns, in my opinion.
The hotel staff were friendly and helpful, providing excellent service throughout my stay. The cleanliness of the hotel was also impressive, with everything well-maintained and spotless.
In terms of value for money, the Oaks is an excellent choice. While it may not be the cheapest option in Cairns, the quality of the hotel and its facilities make it well worth the price.
Contact:
Address: 59 – 63 Esplanade, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Phone: +61 7 3188 6052
13. Palm Royale Cairns
Not so long ago I had the pleasure of staying at the Palm Royale Hotel in Cairns city, and I must say, I was thoroughly impressed. The hotel is set among 2.5 acres of lush tropical gardens, which creates a serene and peaceful atmosphere that is perfect to relax.
The hotel provides a range of rooms with private balconies that provide amazing pool or garden views. The spacious rooms are clean, and well-appointed, with all the utilities one would expect from a high-end hotel, including air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs.
One of the highlights of the Palm Royale Hotel is its swimming pools. The hotel features two swimming pools, which are perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.
The hotel's Mediterranean architecture blends seamlessly with the tropical environment of Cairns, creating a unique and beautiful aesthetic. The landscaped gardens are also a sight to behold, with a variety of exotic plants and flowers that add to the hotel's charm.
In terms of location, the Palm Royale Hotel is situated just a few minutes away from all the attractions that Cairns has to offer. It's the perfect base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest, and other natural wonders of the area.
Contact:
Address: 7-11 Chester Ct, Manunda QLD 4870, Australia
Phone: +61 7 4032 6400
14. Holiday Inn Cairns Harbourside
The Holiday Inn Harbourside hotel in Cairns is located on The Esplanade, which is just a short walk from the city center. The location is great for those who want to be close to the action but still have a peaceful and relaxing stay.
The hotel has a range of facilities and services, including a pool, restaurant, bar, meeting facilities, and free parking. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with all the necessary amenities such as air conditioning and a flat-screen TV.
One of the things I loved about this hotel is the views it has of the harbor. Waking up to the beautiful view of the ocean was truly breathtaking. The hotel also offers a range of activities and tours for guests to explore the surrounding area, including the Great Barrier Reef.
The staff at the Holiday Inn were friendly and helpful, providing excellent customer service throughout my stay. They were always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that my stay was top notch.
Contact:
Address: 209-217 Esplanade, Cairns North QLD 4870, Australia
Phone: +61 7 4080 3000
15. Mercure Cairns
The Mercure Hotel is situated in the heart of the CBD, making it easy to access all the landmarks in Cairns. The newly refurbished rooms are large, clean, and comfortable. There are a variety of room types available, including standard rooms, family rooms, and deluxe rooms.
The hotel staff is friendly and welcoming, making you feel at home right away. They are always ready to assist you with any queries you might have. The hotel also has a tour desk where you can book excursions to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.
One of the highlights of the Mercure is the outdoor swimming pool set among its landscaped gardens. It is the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring the city of Cairns. The hotel also has a restaurant that serves delicious food, and the breakfast buffet is excellent.
Contact:
Address: 15 Florence Street Corner, Lake St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Phone: +61 7 4051 5733
Best Flights To Cairns
Quickly search the best flights from the widest selection of airlines flying to Cairns. Regardless of what airline you go with, you can save money by comparing. Skyscanner is the best airline price comparison service specifically for Cairns.
FAQ
Q: How many days in Cairns is enough?
A: A general recommendation would be to spend at least 3-4 days in Cairns. During the first day, travelers can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of Cairns by strolling along the Esplanade. This waterfront promenade offers picturesque views of Trinity Inlet and provides access to an array of restaurants, shops, and local markets. Additionally, visitors can learn about Cairns' rich indigenous heritage by visiting the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park or exploring the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair.
On subsequent days, adventure seekers can embark on unforgettable experiences like snorkeling or diving in the Great Barrier Reef - one of the world's most renowned natural wonders. Apart from reef exploration, adrenaline junkies may also indulge in activities such as white-water rafting on the Barron River or zip-lining through lush rainforests at Kuranda.
Q: What are the best months to visit Cairns?
A: One of the top months to visit Cairns is during June and July. During these months, Cairns experiences its dry season, which means less rainfall and more sunshine. This creates ideal conditions for outdoor activities like snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef or exploring the lush rainforests of Daintree National Park.
Another great time to visit Cairns is from September to November. This period marks the spring season in Australia when temperatures begin to rise after winter but have not yet reached their peak heat levels. The weather during these months is pleasant with low humidity levels and clear skies. It is an excellent time for hiking through Barron Gorge National Park or taking a scenic drive along the Captain Cook Highway, admiring stunning coastal views along the way.
Q: What is the best neighborhood in Cairns?
A: One popular choice among travelers is the Esplanade precinct. Situated along the waterfront, this area offers easy access to a range of attractions including the Lagoon swimming pool, Muddy's Playground for children, and an array of restaurants and cafes. It also boasts beautiful views of Trinity Inlet and serves as a departure point for many Great Barrier Reef tours.
Another great option is the suburb of Palm Cove. Located about 30 minutes north of Cairns city center, Palm Cove is renowned for its palm-lined beaches and serene atmosphere. This picturesque destination offers a more relaxed setting compared to the bustling city center while still providing plenty of dining options and boutique shops.
Q: Is Cairns a walkable city?
A: Cairns is indeed a highly walkable city, offering residents and visitors the opportunity to explore its attractions by foot.
One of the main reasons why Cairns is such a walkable city is its compact size. Most of the major attractions, including the Esplanade Lagoon, Cairns Wildlife Dome, and Cairns Central Shopping Centre, are located within easy walking distance of each other. This makes it convenient for pedestrians to navigate their way around town without relying on public transportation or private vehicles. Moreover, Cairns has well-maintained footpaths and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure that further enhances the ease of walking.
Q: What are the best luxury hotels in Cairns?
A: One such hotel is the Shangri-La Hotel Cairns, known for its prime waterfront location and impeccable service. The hotel offers spacious rooms with breathtaking views of Trinity Bay and lush gardens, ensuring guests feel truly pampered during their stay.
Another renowned luxury hotel in Cairns is the Pullman Cairns International, which combines elegance with modern amenities. Situated in the heart of the city, this five-star hotel provides easy access to popular attractions like the Esplanade Lagoon and Cairns Central Shopping Centre. With its contemporary design and stylishly furnished rooms, Pullman Cairns International exudes sophistication while offering comfort to discerning travelers.
Q: What food is Cairns known for?
A: One of the standout foods that Cairns is known for is its fresh seafood. With its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, locals and tourists are treated to an abundance of delicious seafood options. From succulent prawns and tasty barramundi to mouthwatering mud crabs, Cairns offers a true seafood lover's paradise.
In addition to seafood, another dish that Cairns is famous for is the iconic Australian barbecue. Whether it's at a local park or in someone's backyard, barbecues are an integral part of the Cairns lifestyle. Locals take pride in their barbecuing skills and gather with friends and family to enjoy sizzling steaks, juicy sausages, and marinated kebabs.
Furthermore, Cairns boasts a thriving tropical fruit industry that puts it on the map for its exotic fruits. Visitors can indulge in refreshing treats like mangoes, pawpaws (papayas), bananas, lychees, and passion fruits straight from local farms or at one of many vibrant farmers' markets scattered throughout the city.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO CAIRNS
Book Your Hotel In Cairns
You can book your hotel in Cairns with Booking.com as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hotel, they also return the cheapest rates for accommodations like guesthouses, hostels and apartments.
Book Your Flight To Cairns
Use Skyscanner to find cheap flights to Cairns. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airline companies around the globe so you always know you get the best rates.
Need a Rental Car In Cairns?
Here is a budget-friendly car rental resource. No matter where you’re traveling, you’ll be able to find the best — and cheapest car rentals in Cairns here.
Looking for an Airport Transfer Service In Cairns?
If you are looking for a convenient and affordable option to get to and from the airport in Cairns, here you will find all the answers to book your next airport transfer in Cairns.
Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illnesses, an injury, luggage theft, and even trip cancellations. It’s a comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong during your trip. I never travel to Cairns without it as I’ve had to use it several times in the past. My favorite travel insurance companies that offer the best service and value are:
Looking for the Best Travel Companies to Save Money With?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you go to Cairns. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m taking a trip. They will save you money when you travel too.
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