A waterfront with a wooden bridge, modern buildings, and lush greenery.

Cairns CBD Hotels

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Our top choices for Cairns Central Business District hotels

1. Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
5.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,016 reviews)
"Great location, right across to the marina terminal. Great if you travel with young children"
Australia
Jollina
The price is AU$355
includes taxes & fees
3 Aug - 4 Aug
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

2. Cairns Harbourside Hotel

Cairns Harbourside Hotel
4.0 star property
Cairns North, 1.7 km from Cairns Central Business District
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,063 reviews)
"Good location"
United States
Erasmo
The price is AU$235
includes taxes & fees
6 Aug - 7 Aug
Cairns Harbourside Hotel

3. Crystalbrook Flynn

Crystalbrook Flynn
5.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,003 reviews)
"Amazing stay!"
Australia
Diarmid
The price is AU$385
includes taxes & fees
4 Aug - 5 Aug
Crystalbrook Flynn

4. Hilton Cairns

Hilton Cairns
5.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,007 reviews)
"Overall great stay good location perfect staff"
Australia
Damien
The price is AU$330
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
Hilton Cairns

5. Crystalbrook Riley

Crystalbrook Riley
5.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
"Enjoyed our stay. Good location. Nice rooms. Nice staff. No complaints"
Australia
Janice Ann
The price is AU$470
includes taxes & fees
18 Aug - 19 Aug
Crystalbrook Riley

6. Crystalbrook Bailey

Crystalbrook Bailey
5.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,003 reviews)
"Located in easy walk to the main restaurants."
Australia
Lee-rae
The price is AU$365
includes taxes & fees
19 Aug - 20 Aug
Crystalbrook Bailey

7. Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
4.5 star property
Cairns Central Business District
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (963 reviews)
"Really nice hotel for a family getaway. Big pool and friendly and helpful staff. Great location with everything you need within walking distance"
Australia
Kirsty
The price is AU$262
includes taxes & fees
16 Aug - 17 Aug
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

8. Cairns Colonial Club Resort

Cairns Colonial Club Resort
4.0 star property
Manunda, 3.3 km from Cairns Central Business District
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,004 reviews)
"Great place to stay with kids big and small"
Australia
Jo
The price is AU$173
includes taxes & fees
20 Aug - 21 Aug
Cairns Colonial Club Resort

9. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
4.5 star property
Cairns Central Business District
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"Such a beautiful place to stay. We will come back for sure"
Canada
Vanessa
The price is AU$319
includes taxes & fees
16 Aug - 17 Aug
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

10. Pacific Hotel Cairns

Pacific Hotel Cairns
4.5 star property
Cairns Central Business District
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,003 reviews)
"The motel is in a great spot being close to lagoon, lots of restaurants and shopping. The buffet breakfast was great value and the staff were very helpful."
Australia
Therese
The price is AU$261
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
Pacific Hotel Cairns

11. Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns

Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns
4.0 star property
Cairns North, 0.9 km from Cairns Central Business District
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,003 reviews)
"Had no issues at all a decent property"
Australia
David
The price is AU$289
includes taxes & fees
15 Aug - 16 Aug
Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns

12. Mantra Esplanade

Mantra Esplanade
4.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,004 reviews)
"Great hotel, great location"
United States
Jake
The price is AU$319
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
Mantra Esplanade

13. Pullman Cairns International

Pullman Cairns International
5.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,003 reviews)
The price is AU$285
includes taxes & fees
3 Aug - 4 Aug
Pullman Cairns International

14. Pullman Reef Hotel Casino

Pullman Reef Hotel Casino
5.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,002 reviews)
"Outstanding stay! "
Canada
Don
The price is AU$335
includes taxes & fees
17 Aug - 18 Aug
Pullman Reef Hotel Casino

15. Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre

Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre
4.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
7.4 out of 10, Good, (1,000 reviews)
"Fantastic place to stay in the heart of Cairns!! Pool was great and room was clean and spacious. Definitely recommend it!!"
Australia
Sandra
The price is AU$154
includes taxes & fees
3 Aug - 4 Aug
Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre

16. Cairns Sheridan Hotel

Cairns Sheridan Hotel
4.0 star property
Cairns North, 2.3 km from Cairns Central Business District
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,004 reviews)
"Was close to lots of food outlets and the bed was rally comfy. The staff were great."
Australia
Benny
The price is AU$225
includes taxes & fees
6 Aug - 7 Aug
Cairns Sheridan Hotel

17. Koala Court Holiday Apartments

Koala Court Holiday Apartments
4.0 star property
Cairns North, 1.6 km from Cairns Central Business District
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (175 reviews)
"Really Appreciated the hospitality and GREAT SERVICE!!!! our favourite place to stay, simple, affordable, flexible and friendly!!!"
Australia
Diat
Koala Court Holiday Apartments

18. The Abbott Boutique Hotel

The Abbott Boutique Hotel
4.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"Room and hotel were super clean, all of the staff were extremely kind and helpful. The lounge and espresso was much appreciated, and the kitchen was always clean. Really clean laundry as well. Genuinely such a lovely spot at a good price amongst a lot of very pricey hotels in the area."
Australia
Christopher
The price is AU$236
includes taxes & fees
16 Aug - 17 Aug
The Abbott Boutique Hotel

19. Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort

Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort
3.5 star property
6.6 km from Cairns Central Business District
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (804 reviews)
Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort

20. Oaks Cairns Hotel

Oaks Cairns Hotel
4.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (405 reviews)
The price is AU$269
includes taxes & fees
21 Aug - 22 Aug
Oaks Cairns Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Compare popular hotels in Cairns Central Business District

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet-friendly
WiFi included
Outdoor pool
Crystalbrook Flynn
5.0 star property
9.4
Exceptional
1,003 reviews
View
City view from property
Pullman Reef Hotel Casino
5.0 star property
9.4
Exceptional
1,002 reviews
View
Suite, 1 King Bed, Ocean View
Cairns Plaza Hotel
4.0 star property
9.2
Wonderful
1,004 reviews
View
Deluxe Studio Suite, Multiple Beds
The Abbott Boutique Hotel
4.0 star property
9.2
Wonderful
1,004 reviews
View
Fridge, microwave, stovetop, electric kettle
Il Palazzo Boutique Apartments
3.5 star property
9.0
Wonderful
906 reviews
View

Our guide on where to stay in Cairns Central Business District

Find the best Cairns Central Business District areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Cairns Central Business District
Learn more about Cairns Central Business District

Palm Cove

Relax on sandy beaches and swim in turquoise waters at a resort town between the Great Barrier Reef and the rain forests of tropical Far North Queensland.

Trinity Beach

Unwind on this tranquil stretch of golden beach, relax under the shade of swaying palm trees and explore Tropical North Queensland at your leisure.

Cairns North

The beaches and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Cairns North. A stop by Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland or Cairns North Beach might round out your trip.

Clifton Beach

Clifton Beach is known for its pristine beaches, and you can make a stop by Clifton Beach and Palm Cove Beach while in the area.

Parramatta Park

Parramatta Park is noteworthy for its shopping, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Cazaly's Stadium and Barlow Park.

Top Cairns Central Business District Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Cairns Central Business District

Find out more about Cairns Central Business District

Top reasons to visit Cairns Central Business District

  • Vibrant Esplanade: Stroll along the lively Cairns Esplanade, perfect for family-friendly activities and soaking in the tropical atmosphere.
  • Great Barrier Reef Access: Cairns CBD is a gateway to the stunning Great Barrier Reef, offering unforgettable reef trips and adventures.
  • Cairns Night Markets: Experience the bustling Cairns Night Markets, filled with local crafts, food, and a vibrant atmosphere.
  • Scenic Botanic Gardens: Explore the beautiful Cairns Botanic Gardens, showcasing the region's diverse flora.
  • Accommodation Variety: Enjoy a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxurious hotels, catering to every traveller.

Find great hotels in and around Cairns Central Business District

When visiting Cairns Central Business District, you’ll discover a variety of accommodation options, from hotels to hostels, catering to all types of travellers. Whether you're seeking adventure, a business-focused stay, or a family-friendly experience, Cairns CBD offers an exceptional selection of hotels that provide comfort and convenience in the heart of this vibrant city. Explore the best cairns accommodation for your perfect getaway!

  • Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns: Nestled in the heart of Cairns Central Business District, Shangri-La The Marina offers a luxurious 5-star experience for both leisure and business travellers. With its stunning marina views, this hotel is ideal for those looking to indulge in shopping and the vibrant city atmosphere. The property boasts extensive business amenities, including a 24-hour business centre, conference spaces, and accessible facilities, making it a prime choice for corporate guests. After a day of meetings or exploring the city, unwind in elegantly designed rooms that promise comfort and relaxation.
  • Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns: Located just 966m from Cairns Central Business District, Rydges Esplanade Resort is a welcoming 4-star hotel perfect for families and LGBTQIA travellers. With a focus on inclusivity, the property is affiliated with LGBTQI travel guides and offers a variety of facilities for children, including cribs and first aid services. Business guests will appreciate the multiple meeting rooms and accessible business centre available. Enjoy stunning views of the Esplanade while lounging by the pool or dining at the on-site restaurant, catering to all tastes.
  • Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort: This 4.5-star haven is situated in Cairns Central Business District and is ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a vibrant atmosphere. Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort features a lush tropical setting, complete with a stunning lagoon-style pool. With business amenities like conference centres and meeting rooms, it caters to corporate needs while maintaining a welcoming environment for LGBTQIA guests. After immersing yourself in the local scenery, retreat to the comfort of your well-appointed room, ensuring a refreshing stay in Cairns.

Where to stay near Cairns Central Business District

Cairns Central Business District offers a vibrant blend of adventure and relaxation for every type of traveller. Stroll along the lively Cairns Esplanade, where you can soak in the beautiful tropical atmosphere and enjoy family-friendly activities. Explore nearby attractions like the Great Barrier Reef and lush rainforests, making it a perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts and couples alike. With its friendly locals and budget-friendly options, Cairns is a must-visit North Queensland destination.

  • Cairns: As the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is a vibrant city overflowing with outdoor adventures and family-friendly attractions. The Central Business District is alive with energy, featuring a mix of shopping centres, theatres, and dining options. Visitors can stroll along the iconic esplanade, enjoy urban parks, and relax on nearby beaches. With peak travel seasons from July to September, Cairns promises a lively atmosphere, making it a must-visit for those seeking both city charm and natural beauty.
  • Tropical North Waterfront: Located only 322m from the bustling CBD, Tropical North Waterfront offers a serene village vibe while still being close to the action. It’s an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts, with access to theatres and vibrant public markets. The esplanade and marina are just a stone's throw away, providing perfect settings for leisurely walks and water activities. Like Cairns, this area enjoys a consistent flow of visitors year-round, peaking from July to September, ensuring a lively yet relaxed experience.
  • Parramatta Park: Situated 1.3km from the heart of Cairns, Parramatta Park is a charming suburb that blends outdoor exploration with family-oriented fun. This area is perfect for those who love nature walks and picnics, with its lush parks and proximity to the esplanade and marina. The local markets and theatres add to the community spirit, making it a fantastic place to unwind after a day of adventure in Cairns. Its steady stream of visitors throughout the year highlights its appeal as a peaceful retreat close to the city buzz.

Things to do in and around Cairns Central Business District

Cairns Central Business District is perfect for family outings, romantic getaways, and outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy an array of activities, including reef trips, Cairns Night Markets, and day tours that showcase the region's natural beauty. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the nearby crocodile park and experience thrilling Cairns adventures. With vibrant shopping centres and a lively theatre scene, there’s something for everyone in this bustling hub.

Shopping

Cairns Central Shopping Centre offers a vibrant mix of business and entertainment, perfect for finding gifts and souvenirs. For a unique experience, visit the Cairns Night Markets, where you can soak up the local city vibes and discover artisan crafts. Kite Rite Australia is 12.9km away and worth a visit if you're up for a drive.

Recreation

Explore Muddy's Playground for a fun-filled day with the family, surrounded by nature and play equipment. Catch an exciting game at Cazaly's Stadium, only 1.3km away, or enjoy live performances at Tanks Arts Centre, a vibrant venue just 3.2km from the CBD.

Adventure

Experience the thrill at Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome with its exhilarating zipline and ropes course, perfect for adventure lovers. For a serene yet adventurous outing, enjoy the stunning views along the Red Arrow Walk, a beautiful hiking trail showcasing the natural beauty of the area.

Nightlife

The Cairns Central Business District buzzes with nightlife, featuring the Cairns Convention Centre for vibrant performances, the Cairns Performing Arts Centre for captivating shows, and the JUTE Theatre Company for unique productions. Enjoy a mix of culture and entertainment in a lively atmosphere perfect for families and couples alike.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cairns Central Business District

To save money on your trip to Cairns Central Business District, consider visiting during the cheaper months of February to March or November, and book your accommodation about a month in advance for the best rates. Opt for a Wednesday stay, as it's typically the least expensive day. Use Expedia to compare prices and find deals, including package options that combine flights and activities. For public transport, walking is a great way to explore the compact area without spending extra. Look for Eco-certified hotels to enjoy sustainable options that may also be budget-friendly.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Cairns Central Business District 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: Book your hotel around Cairns Central Business District about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Cairns Central Business District is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Cairns Central Business District is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool lets you set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, helping you find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your search by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll be presented with sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your Cairns Central Business District hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Cairns Central Business District

Cairns Central Business District is perfect for family, outdoor, and romantic getaways, featuring attractions like the Esplanade, marina, and lagoon. Visitors can enjoy a blend of culture and adventure at local highlights such as the Cairns Railway, Cairns Pier, and Cairns Botanic Gardens. The vibrant atmosphere is complemented by the Cairns Convention Centre, making it an ideal spot for diverse experiences and unforgettable memories.

  • Cairns Esplanade: Stroll along the scenic Cairns Esplanade, where romance meets family-friendly fun. Enjoy picturesque views, lush gardens, and vibrant markets, perfect for a leisurely day out.
  • Cairns Marlin Marina: Dive into adventure at Cairns Marlin Marina, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. With a lively atmosphere, enjoy outdoor activities, dining options, and stunning beach views.
  • Esplanade Lagoon: Relax at the Esplanade Lagoon, a beautiful man-made swimming area surrounded by palm trees and lush greenery. Ideal for families, it offers a serene escape with stunning scenery.

Best time to go to Cairns Central Business District

The best time to visit Cairns Central Business District can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Cairns Central Business District falls in January and February. February has slightly low visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather. The coolest average temperature around Cairns Central Business District falls in July, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain (dry).

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January80.4°F (26.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February80.4°F (26.9°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March79.2°F (26.2°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
April76.5°F (24.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May73.0°F (22.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.3°F (21.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
July69.3°F (20.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August69.6°F (20.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September72.7°F (22.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October75.7°F (24.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
November78.1°F (25.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December79.9°F (26.6°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Cairns Central Business District

Flying into Cairns Central Business District is convenient with Cairns International Airport (CNS), located approximately 4.8km away. This airport is serviced by several popular airlines, making it accessible for international and domestic travellers. Nearby accommodation options include the luxurious Shangri-La The Marina, Crystalbrook Bailey, and Crystalbrook Flynn, all rated 5 stars and situated within the same distance from the airport. Transportation services are readily available from these hotels to the airport, ensuring a smooth journey for visitors eager to explore the stunning beauty of Cairns and its surroundings.

Frequently asked questions

What is Cairns Central Business District like?
Cairns Central Business District is a welcoming neighbourhood known for its coral reefs and major shopping area. Are you looking for Cairns Central Business District travel tips? Make sure that you visit Esplanade Lagoon and Cairns Marlin Marina while you're in the neighbourhood.
Where is the best place to stay in Cairns Central Business District?
Based on our traveller data, Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns is one of the top choices for your stay in Cairns Central Business District. This hotel is steps from Reef Fleet Terminal, and offers a restaurant and an outdoor pool. Other good choices for your stay in the neighbourhood include Crystalbrook Flynn and Hilton Cairns.
How many hotels will I be able to find in Cairns Central Business District?
If you're searching for places to stay in Tropical North Waterfront, Expedia has something to meet your needs with 206 Cairns Central Business District hotels and other accommodation options to choose from.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Cairns Central Business District, will I receive a refund?
Yes, the majority of hotel bookings are refundable provided that you cancel prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of check in. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you may still be able to cancel and be given a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Enter dates in and click on "Search", then use the "fully refundable" filter to review the best deals in Cairns Central Business District.
What are the top things to see and do in Cairns Central Business District?
Cairns Central Business District's sights and attractions like Bulmba-ja Arts Centre, The Cultural Place and Cairns Museum offer insight into the local culture. Esplanade Lagoon and Cairns Marlin Marina are also a couple of places to visit in the neighbourhood. Michaelmas Cay, Cairns Night Markets and Cairns Regional Gallery are just a few of the places to visit in and around Cairns Central Business District. When you're sightseeing in Tropical North Waterfront, Reef Fleet Terminal and Reef Teach are also worth a stop.
How can I get around Cairns Central Business District and the greater Tropical North Waterfront area?
If you want to head out of town, you can hop aboard a train at Cairns Station. You can enquire about options for water travel at the marina.

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