Shangri-La The Marina Cairns Hotel

Reviewed by Joeri Van Overloop

Set the scene

Walking into the Shangri-La The Marina Cairns Hotel is like opening the door to a whole new world. The captivating charm of the place is accentuated by the artful blend of earthy tones, high arching ceilings, plush furnishing, and walls adorned with abstract artworks. Natural light floods the grand atrium, reflecting off the polished marbles and glittering chandeliers, further highlighting the hotel's posh yet inviting vibe.

You would think the exquisite scenery ends indoors, but it only gets better. Venture out onto the Marina-facing decks, and your eyes will meet a panoramic view of the azure Coral Sea lined with countless docked yachts bobbing gently in rhythm with the tide. The sight is simply breathtaking and serves as a serene backdrop to the hotel's exotic outdoor lounge and pool area. With beautifully landscaped gardens, and an outdoor dining area that showcases the scenic beauty of the marina, it is an idyllic setting to relax and soak in the coastal pleasures of Cairns, Australia.

What can we expect in our room at the Shangri-La The Marina Cairns

The hotel's rooms, designed with a blend of sleek contemporary furnishings and traditional Australian touches, are a direct reflection of the natural beauty found in abundance throughout the region. The interior color palette, inspired by Cairns’ turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and the vibrant hues of nearby rainforests, makes for an experience that blends seamlessly with the fabulous panoramic views you can enjoy from your private balcony.

Each room comes equipped with modern amenities including high-speed Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV equipped with cable, a mini-bar, and a coffee maker for those early morning indulgences. You’ll find the bathrooms are spacious, luxuriously appointed with marble finishes, offering plush towels and premium Shangri-La toiletries. Yet what really sets the Shangri-La The Marina apart is the attention to the details. These extend to even the most minute aspects, from the softness of the bathrobes to the careful arrangement of the locally sourced teas.

How about the food and drinks

The hotel houses two distinctive restaurants, each promising an unparalleled dining experience. The Backyard Deck, the hotel’s signature restaurant, is a true diner’s paradise, serving an array of Australian and western dishes, infused with locally sourced ingredients that simultaneously blend taste and sustainability. From succulent seafood marvels to hearty Aussie steaks, the diverse menu will leave you spoilt for choice.

Apart from the delectable dishes served at The Backyard Deck, you can venture into the elegant confines of The Pool Bar, a unique pool-side bar. This chic bar offers an abundance of comforting snacks and refreshing cocktails, against the backdrop of Cairns' splendid ocean views.

What is the service like

The warmth and welcoming nature of the team help foster a homely atmosphere, going above and beyond to ensure guests are comfortable. From the efficient receptionists ensuring a rapid check-in process to the diligent room service attending to all your whims promptly, you wouldn't be wrong to anticipate a platinum standard of service.

For dining and drink requests, the concierge service at the Shangri-La The Marina is always available to offer helpful advice and reservations. The staff’s attention to detail, from remembering your favorite drink to your preference for a pillow, contribute to personalized service that many find endearing.

What’s the neighbourhood scene like?

From galleries showcasing stunning local art to bustling markets selling tropical produce, indigenous crafts, and homemade goods, there is always something fascinating to explore, ensuring your senses are constantly captivated. This seaside town, perched on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef, entices visitors with its eclectic blend of urban style and laid-back tropical charm, offering a slice of paradise that will genuinely enchant you.

Just a stone's throw away, the UNESCO World Heritage site, The Great Barrier Reef, is a must-visit, offering the chance for adventurous spirits to indulge in snorkeling, diving, and sailing like nowhere else on Earth. The region's vibrant rainforest interiors hide lush waterfalls that beg to be discovered, and laid-back beach bars echo with the gentle rhythms of reefs, promising an unforgettable sojourn. Try your luck at the nearby Reef Hotel Casino, or enjoy a quiet afternoon at the Cairns Botanic Gardens - it's all available in this unique and captivating neighborhood.

What’s the backstory of the Shangri-La Cairns

The allure of the Shangri-La in Cairns began in the late 1980s, as the vision for a luxury hotel near the Great Barrier Reef began to take shape. The architects carved out their plans with the aim of integrating natural elements and edifices that reflected the traditional aesthetics of the tropical north. They sought to craft a haven that offered guests the best of both worlds: the sophistication of a first-rate tourist hotel and the serenity of being in close proximity to nature's grandeur.

Upon its completion, the Shangri-La The Marina debuted with a grand opening in 1989. Named after the paradisical land of Shangri-La in James Hilton's novel "Lost Horizon", the hotel looked to embody the mythical utopia's sense of peace, enchantment, and longevity. And so, the tale of promising impeccable service and ultimate tranquility began. Over time, the lore of Shangri-La The Marina grew, making it not just an accommodation, but a cherished place of unforgettable memories and experiences, nestled near the shimmering Coral Sea.

Price Range

The Shangri-La The Marina Cairns maintains a price range that gracefully straddles the line between affordability and luxury. This allows the establishment to accommodate a variety of guests, from budget-conscious travelers to those looking for an opulent vacation experience. The rooms' cost fluctuates based on the season, room type, and added extras, but typically they start from $200 per night for a Superior King Garden View room, giving guests a taste of grandeur without breaking the bank.

But, of course, if you prefer more extravagance, you might opt for their suites. Suites generally start at $450 per night but promise an exceptional slice of paradise worth every dollar. Furthermore, they offer packages and seasonal deals that could give you more bang for your buck.

Amenities & Facilities

A sparkling outdoor pool beckons you for a refreshing swim, framed by lush tropical gardens that transport you to a sanctuary of tranquility. Additionally, for those who wish to maintain their fitness regimen, a fully equipped gym is at your disposal, replete with high-end equipment and stunning marina views.

Venturing further into the hotel, you'll find meeting and event facilities primed for both business and leisure. State-of-the-art technology combined with seamless service ensures every event, from grand weddings to intimate conferences, is executed to perfection. Add to that a sublime wellness spa offering indulgent treatments designed to invigorate your body and soothe your mind, and a luxe marina casual dining hangout, and you have the makings of a stay to remember. Don't forget to visit the plush library, stocked with volumes encompassing a wide array of topics.

How to get to the Shangri-La The Marina in Cairns

Contact:

Address: Pier Point Rd, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia

Phone: +61 7 4052 7500

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed within this article are the author’s alone, not those of any travel/leisure company, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.