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Top reasons to visit Cairns

• Stunning Natural Landscapes: Cairns boasts breathtaking scenery, from the Great Barrier Reef to lush rainforests, perfect for outdoor adventures.
• Vibrant Esplanade: The Cairns Esplanade offers a picturesque promenade for leisurely strolls, picnics, and scenic views of the coastline.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a multitude of activities suited for all ages, including wildlife parks and interactive attractions.
• Charming City Centre: The Cairns CBD features lively markets, shopping centres, and a welcoming atmosphere, ideal for exploration.
• Diverse Accommodation: Cairns provides a range of lodging options, from luxurious resorts to budget hostels, catering to all travellers.

Find great hotels in Cairns

Discover a variety of accommodation options in Cairns, Queensland, tailored to meet the needs of every traveller. From adventurous family getaways to business trips, Cairns offers a range of hotels and hostels, ensuring a delightful holiday experience. Whether you prefer a luxurious Cairns harbourside hotel or a budget-friendly hostel, you'll find the perfect place to relax and explore this stunning tropical destination.

• Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns: With an impressive guest rating of 9.0, Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns embodies luxury and adventure. Nestled in the heart of Cairns, this hotel is ideal for families and adventure seekers alike. The property offers a variety of exciting activities such as boat tours, hiking, sailing, and parasailing in nearby locations. Families will appreciate the thoughtful amenities for children, including a dedicated children's pool, babysitting services, and first aid facilities, ensuring a stress-free stay for parents. The elegant atmosphere and stunning marina views make it a captivating choice for a memorable holiday experience.
• Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort: Rated at 8.8, Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort is a delightful retreat for families and beach lovers. Situated with direct access to the beach, it provides a perfect setting for relaxation and fun. Families will find ample facilities for children, including a children's pool, free cribs, and babysitting services, allowing for a pleasant stay for guests of all ages. The lush tropical gardens and lagoon-style pool create a serene environment, making it an attractive option for those looking to unwind while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Cairns.
• Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns: With a guest rating of 8.0, Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns caters to families, adventure enthusiasts, and business travellers. This accommodation offers a range of recreational activities nearby, such as hiking, sailing, and boat tours, appealing to those seeking adventure. Families will benefit from various child-friendly amenities, including a splash pad and cribs, ensuring comfort for younger guests. Its convenient location along the Esplanade provides easy access to the natural beauty and attractions of Cairns, making it a practical choice for diverse holiday experiences.

Where to stay in Cairns

Cairns, a vibrant city in Queensland, offers an ideal blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. Stroll along the beautiful Cairns Esplanade, where you can soak up the tropical atmosphere and enjoy scenic views. Explore the charming Cairns CBD, with its friendly locals and relaxing vibe. For a memorable holiday, discover the captivating attractions in and around Cairns that promise a mix of romance and relaxation amidst stunning natural landscapes.

• Palm Cove: Nestled along the stunning coastline, Palm Cove is a picturesque suburb known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful beach. This charming destination is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Visitors can indulge in rejuvenating body treatments and spa experiences or explore the local shopping area. The esplanade offers leisurely walks with breathtaking views of the ocean, while the family-friendly beach invites sunbathing and swimming. With peak visitor numbers occurring from June to July and September, Palm Cove provides a serene escape for those looking to unwind amidst nature.
• Cairns Central Business District: The vibrant heart of Cairns, the Central Business District (CBD) is a bustling hub of activity. Here, you'll find a lively shopping centre and a variety of dining options, making it an ideal spot for families and city explorers. The esplanade is a focal point, offering lush urban parks and access to the beach, perfect for a day out in the sun. With peak visitor numbers from July to September, the CBD is a dynamic area where you can experience the essence of Cairns, combining urban life with the beauty of nature.
• Trinity Beach: Located just a short drive from Cairns, Trinity Beach is a delightful suburb characterised by its stunning shoreline and family-friendly atmosphere. This destination is perfect for outdoor activities, with ample opportunities for education, shopping, and play. The beach itself is a highlight, offering a safe and enjoyable environment for families. Visitors flock to Trinity Beach during the peak months of June to July and September, making it an ideal location for those looking to enjoy a laid-back beach holiday while still being close to the vibrant city life of Cairns.

Things to do in and around Cairns

Cairns is an ideal destination for outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities, featuring vibrant shopping centres and theatres. Visitors can enjoy rainforest day trips and exhilarating reef tours, making the most of the stunning natural surroundings. Be sure to check reception hours for any relevant bookings and information during your stay in this tropical paradise.

Shopping

In Cairns, visit the Cairns Central Shopping Centre for a diverse selection of shops, cafes, and dining options. If you're up for a drive, the Smithfield Shopping Centre, located about 19km away, offers additional retail experiences with various boutiques and larger retailers.

Recreation

Experience the tranquil beauty of the Daintree Rainforest at the Daintree Eco Lodge, where you can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and immerse yourself in nature. Participate in guided meditation sessions or explore the pristine surroundings through gentle nature walks, enhancing your sense of peace and wellbeing.

At the Cairns Wellness Spa, unwind with holistic therapies and massages that utilise local ingredients. Engage in yoga classes that focus on breath and movement, allowing you to connect with your body and mind while enjoying serene views of the surrounding tropical landscape.

Join a retreat at the Crystal Cascades to experience natural swimming holes and refreshing waterfalls. Participate in outdoor yoga sessions and meditation among the lush greenery, fostering a deep connection with nature and promoting relaxation and mindfulness.

Adventure

Experience the breathtaking views of the Australian rainforest aboard the Skyrail Kuranda Cableway Station, located 18km from Cairns. Glide over lush landscapes and enjoy the thrill of this cable car journey. Alternatively, the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Station offers a similar adventure, immersing you in nature's beauty right in Cairns.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Cairns features vibrant venues like the lively Gilligans, where you can enjoy live music and dancing, or the relaxed atmosphere of the Cairns Night Markets, perfect for a casual evening stroll and tasty street food. Experience the local bar scene at popular spots like The Woolshed.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cairns

• 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Cairns is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• 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, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option 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 potentially save money by combining your Cairns hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Cairns

Cairns is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking a vibrant city experience. With its stunning beaches, picturesque esplanade, and bustling marina, there's no shortage of attractions to explore. Whether you’re looking to relax by the sea or engage in family-friendly activities, Cairns offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and urban charm that caters to all types of travellers.

• Cairns Esplanade: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the vibrant Cairns Esplanade, where you can soak up the outdoor atmosphere. This picturesque promenade is ideal for families and couples alike, featuring lush parklands, a scenic lagoon, and stunning views of the Coral Sea.
• Palm Cove Beach: Experience the serene beauty of Palm Cove Beach, a tranquil spot known for its soft sands and swaying palm trees. This idyllic beach is perfect for relaxation, sunbathing, or taking a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters.
• Cairns Marlin Marina: Embrace adventure at Cairns Marlin Marina, where you can embark on thrilling water activities. This bustling marina offers a vibrant atmosphere, with opportunities for boating, fishing, and enjoying the local dining scene by the waterfront.

Best time to go to Cairns

The best time to visit Cairns is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January and February are its hottest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
April	76.5°F (24.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	70.3°F (21.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	69.3°F (20.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	69.6°F (20.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	72.7°F (22.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	75.7°F (24.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Cairns

Reaching Cairns is simple when flying into Cairns International Airport (CNS), situated approximately 5km from the city centre. This airport serves various airlines, making it a convenient entry point. Ideal accommodation options nearby include Hilton Cairns, located 6km from the airport, as well as Shangri-La The Marina and Crystalbrook Riley, both 5km away. These hotels provide easy access to the airport, ensuring a seamless transition for travellers. Each offers excellent amenities, allowing guests to relax before or after their flight while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Cairns.