Book Cairns Hotels

Top reasons to visit Cairns

• Great Barrier Reef: Experience the world's largest coral reef system with unforgettable reef tours and snorkelling adventures.
• Scenic Esplanade: Stroll along the vibrant esplanade, featuring beautiful lagoons, parks, and a lively atmosphere.
• Cairns Railway: Take a scenic train ride through stunning landscapes to Kuranda, a charming village in the rainforest.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy various activities like hiking, cycling, and exploring breathtaking national parks nearby.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Discover numerous attractions perfect for families, including wildlife parks and interactive exhibits.

Find great hotels in Cairns

Discover a variety of accommodation options in Cairns, Queensland, perfect for every type of traveller. Whether you're seeking adventure, a family getaway, or a business stay, Cairns offers a range of hotels and hostels to suit your needs. From luxurious star hotels to budget-friendly backpacker lodgings, you'll find the ideal place to relax after exploring the stunning Great Barrier Reef and lush rainforests that surround this vibrant coastal city.

• Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns: Nestled in the heart of Cairns, Shangri-La The Marina offers a luxurious 5-star experience that beautifully blends nature and urban life. Ideal for families, this hotel features child-friendly amenities such as a dedicated children's pool and babysitting services, allowing parents to relax while their little ones enjoy themselves. With its prime location in the shopping district, you're just steps away from vibrant local markets and boutiques, making it perfect for those who love to shop. The hotel’s stunning marina views and lush surroundings create a serene atmosphere for an unforgettable family holiday.
• Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns: A dynamic 4-star accommodation, Rydges Esplanade Resort is perfect for adventurous travellers and business professionals alike. The resort is renowned for its LGBTQIA-friendly policies and offers a business centre equipped with multiple meeting rooms and conference spaces. For those seeking adventure, the location presents a myriad of outdoor activities including snorkelling, hiking, and boat tours, ensuring a thrilling stay. The resort's vibrant atmosphere, combined with excellent amenities, makes it an exciting choice for both leisure and work.
• Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort: With a focus on both business and family, the 4.5-star Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort is an exceptional choice for those seeking a balanced vacation experience. The hotel features a range of business facilities including a conference centre and multiple meeting rooms, alongside family-friendly amenities like a children's pool and on-site babysitting services. The lush tropical gardens and lagoon-style pool create a relaxing environment, making it easy for families to unwind after a busy day exploring Cairns. It’s the perfect blend of work and play.

Where to stay in Cairns

Experience the best of Cairns, Queensland, where outdoor adventures and family-friendly vibes await. Explore the bustling Cairns city, famous for its central location and numerous cafés, perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Discover quiet spots and tropical retreats that offer a romantic atmosphere. Whether you’re indulging in local cuisine or enjoying the friendly people, Cairns promises a delightful getaway for everyone.

• Cairns: Nestled on the stunning coast of Far North Queensland, Cairns is a vibrant city that acts as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. The travel experience here is bustling, with peak visitor numbers occurring from July to September. Cairns offers an array of outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, and a lively city atmosphere. Explore the iconic Esplanade with its beautiful urban park and beach, where locals and tourists alike gather for relaxation and recreation. Don't miss the shopping centres and theatres that contribute to the city's cultural vibe.
• Palm Cove: Just a short drive from Cairns, Palm Cove is an idyllic suburb known for its stunning beach and tranquil atmosphere. This charming destination sees its peak visitors in June, July, and September, attracting those seeking outdoor adventures, family fun, and a touch of luxury. Enjoy a day at the family-friendly beach or pamper yourself at one of the many spas and body treatment venues. The esplanade lined with palm trees adds to the allure, making Palm Cove a perfect spot for relaxation and leisure.
• Cairns Central Business District: The bustling heart of Cairns, the Central Business District (CBD) is a must-visit for families and couples looking for a vibrant urban experience. With peak visitor numbers from July to September, the CBD offers a mix of shopping centres, theatres, and dining options. The nearby Esplanade and urban park provide a beautiful escape, while the marina invites you to explore the surrounding waters. Whether you're enjoying a romantic dinner or a family outing, the Cairns CBD is the perfect hub for your adventures.

Things to do in Cairns

Cairns offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal holiday destination. Visitors can enjoy a scenic walk along the Cairns Lagoon, explore popular tourist spots, and indulge in live music. Don't miss out on reef tours and various family attractions that showcase the best of this vibrant city. Shopping enthusiasts will also appreciate the local shopping centres and mall options available in Cairns.

Shopping

In Cairns, visit Cairns Central Shopping Centre, a vibrant hub with entertainment and dining options. Don’t miss the Cairns Night Markets for unique souvenirs and local crafts. For a unique experience, if you're up for a drive, explore Kite Rite Australia, a great store for local gifts.

Recreation

Experience the scenic Half Moon Bay Golf Course, perfect for a round of golf amidst lush landscapes. For family fun, Muddy's Playground offers a vibrant outdoor space for kids to play. Catch a thrilling game at Cazaly's Stadium, where the lively sports atmosphere brings the community together.

Adventure

Experience breathtaking views at the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Station, gliding over lush landscapes. At Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome, conquer thrilling zip lines while spotting native wildlife. For family fun, dive into adventure at Sugarworld Waterpark, featuring exhilarating slides and a relaxing lazy river.

Nightlife

Cairns offers a vibrant nightlife with venues like the Cairns Convention Centre and Cairns Performing Arts Centre, both showcasing captivating performances and cultural events. The JUTE Theatre Company adds a unique flair with its innovative productions, making for an entertaining evening in this tropical city.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cairns

To save money on your Cairns trip, consider visiting during February to March or November when prices are lower. Booking about a month in advance typically yields the best hotel rates, especially on Wednesdays, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia to find great deals by filtering for budget-friendly options and Eco-certified accommodations. You can also save by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities in a package deal. Lastly, take advantage of public transport for affordable travel around Cairns and enjoy the many free activities the area has to offer.

• 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: Booking a hotel in Cairns about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• 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 lets you choose your budget, desired location, and various other preferences. You can easily arrange your search results from the lowest to the highest prices, ensuring you spot the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type—selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodation options that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Cairns hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Cairns

Cairns is perfect for outdoor and family getaways, offering a mix of stunning beaches, the vibrant esplanade, and the breathtaking national parks. Explore popular attractions like the Cairns Railway, visit the bustling city centre, stroll along the Cairns Pier, or relax at the esplanade. With a focus on adventure and scenic experiences, Cairns provides a wonderful holiday for all types of travellers.

• Cairns Esplanade: Stroll along the vibrant Cairns Esplanade, where you can enjoy stunning views of the coastline. Ideal for romantic walks, family picnics, or outdoor activities, this esplanade offers a lively atmosphere with a lagoon, playgrounds, and markets, creating a perfect blend of relaxation and fun.
• Cairns Marlin Marina: Experience the thrill of adventure at Cairns Marlin Marina. This bustling marina is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, offering a variety of water activities like diving and fishing. Enjoy the beach vibes while dining at waterfront restaurants and watching the boats come and go.
• Palm Cove Beach: Relax on the stunning shores of Palm Cove Beach, a serene haven with soft sands and swaying palm trees. This idyllic spot is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the beach, making it a true tropical paradise.

Best time to go to Cairns

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The nearest major airports for your trip to Cairns

Arriving in Cairns is convenient via Cairns International Airport (CNS), located approximately 4.8km from the city centre. This airport serves various airlines and is the main gateway for tourists visiting the Great Barrier Reef. Nearby accommodation options include the luxurious Shangri-La The Marina and Crystalbrook Bailey, both 5-star hotels situated within the same distance from the airport. Crystalbrook Flynn is another excellent choice for those seeking comfort and amenities. Guests can easily access the airport from these hotels through available shuttle services or taxis, ensuring a seamless travel experience during your stay in this tropical paradise.