A coastal town with dense forest, a mountain, and a large body of water.

Cairns Hotels

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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
12 Aug - 13 Aug
Tomorrow
13 Aug - 14 Aug
This weekend
14 Aug - 16 Aug
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21 Aug - 23 Aug

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Our top choices for Cairns hotels

1. Pacific Hotel Cairns

Pacific Hotel Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Tanya
€144
includes taxes & fees
5 Sept - 6 Sept
Pacific Hotel Cairns

2. Hilton Cairns

Hilton Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Owais
€140
includes taxes & fees
4 Sept - 5 Sept
Hilton Cairns

3. Cairns Harbourside Hotel

Cairns Harbourside Hotel
Cairns North
United States
Venkataraman
€142
includes taxes & fees
8 Sept - 9 Sept
Cairns Harbourside Hotel

4. Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Kenneth
€191
includes taxes & fees
28 Aug - 29 Aug
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

5. Crystalbrook Flynn

Crystalbrook Flynn
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Diarmid
€190
includes taxes & fees
8 Sept - 9 Sept
Crystalbrook Flynn

6. Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre

Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Doug
€98
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre

7. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
Canada
Vanessa
€156
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

8. Park Regis City Quays

Park Regis City Quays
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Lucy
€122
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Park Regis City Quays

9. Coral Tree Inn

Coral Tree Inn
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Melissa
€109
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
Coral Tree Inn

10. Cairns Sheridan Hotel

Cairns Sheridan Hotel
Cairns North
Australia
Benny
€140
includes taxes & fees
29 Aug - 30 Aug
Cairns Sheridan Hotel

11. Pullman Cairns International

Pullman Cairns International
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
May
€169
includes taxes & fees
31 Aug - 1 Sept
Pullman Cairns International

12. Heritage Cairns

Heritage Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Cindy
€103
includes taxes & fees
10 Sept - 11 Sept
Heritage Cairns

13. Oaks Cairns Hotel

Oaks Cairns Hotel
Cairns Central Business District
United States
Nicholas J
€165
includes taxes & fees
21 Aug - 22 Aug
Oaks Cairns Hotel

14. Pullman Reef Hotel Casino

Pullman Reef Hotel Casino
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Lachlan
€195
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Pullman Reef Hotel Casino

15. Crystalbrook Bailey

Crystalbrook Bailey
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Lee-rae
€174
includes taxes & fees
2 Sept - 3 Sept
Crystalbrook Bailey

16. Cairns Colonial Club Resort

Cairns Colonial Club Resort
Manunda
United States
Eleanora
€109
includes taxes & fees
11 Sept - 12 Sept
Cairns Colonial Club Resort

17. Cairns Plaza Hotel

Cairns Plaza Hotel
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Erika
€156
includes taxes & fees
26 Aug - 27 Aug
Cairns Plaza Hotel

18. The Abbott Boutique Hotel

The Abbott Boutique Hotel
Cairns Central Business District
United States
Alok
€168
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
The Abbott Boutique Hotel

19. Aspect Central

Aspect Central
Cairns North
Australia
Raymond
€66
includes taxes & fees
2 Sept - 3 Sept
Aspect Central

20. Nightcap at Balaclava Hotel

Nightcap at Balaclava Hotel
Earlville
Australia
Tammara
€78
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Nightcap at Balaclava Hotel
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Holiday Rentals in Cairns

Aparthotel

Southern Cross Atrium Apartments

Southern Cross Atrium Apartments
Cairns Central Business District
"Very close to Cairns Central Shopping Complex, easy walk to Esplanade. Great location, beautiful fluffy towels and comfortable."
Southern Cross Atrium Apartments
Aparthotel

Trinity Collective

Trinity Collective
Trinity Beach
"Great place to stay, very clean, tidy & staff were very friendly."
Trinity Collective
Aparthotel

Cascade Gardens

Cascade Gardens
Cairns Central Business District
"The room was clean and tidy, hotel was close to esplanade , the bathroom was a bit dated. Not a large pool but a nice area including BBQ. Overall good value for the price, We would be happy to stay again when in Cairns next time"
Cascade Gardens
Aparthotel

Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort

Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort
Woree
"Been to coconut cairns with the whole family 2-3x, and it never disappoints 😎"
Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort
Aparthotel

On the Beach Holiday Apartments

On the Beach Holiday Apartments
Trinity Beach
"A great spot. We loved it! So close to the beach. "
On the Beach Holiday Apartments
Aparthotel

Beachfront Apartments on Trinity Beach

Beachfront Apartments on Trinity Beach
Trinity Beach
"This was a very clean, well kept and well located apartment for a short stay!"
Beachfront Apartments on Trinity Beach
Aparthotel

Koala Court Holiday Apartments

Koala Court Holiday Apartments
Cairns North
"Really Appreciated the hospitality and GREAT SERVICE!!!! our favourite place to stay, simple, affordable, flexible and friendly!!!"
Koala Court Holiday Apartments
Apartment

Escape On Lake

Escape On Lake
Cairns Central Business District
"Great location, so close to everything. "
Escape On Lake
Aparthotel

Mid City Luxury Suites

Mid City Luxury Suites
Cairns Central Business District
"Very happy with this accommodation & will stay next time we come to cairns 😎😎😎"
Mid City Luxury Suites
Apartment

Villa Vaucluse Apartments of Cairns

Villa Vaucluse Apartments of Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
"Room was great location"
Villa Vaucluse Apartments of Cairns
Aparthotel

Melaleuca Resort

Melaleuca Resort
Palm Cove
"Clean room, facilities great, location perfect."
Melaleuca Resort
Aparthotel

The Reef Retreat

The Reef Retreat
Palm Cove
"Super easy booking, check-in and great communication. Would definitely stay again."
The Reef Retreat
Aparthotel

Mantra Trilogy

Mantra Trilogy
Cairns Central Business District
"Great location"
Mantra Trilogy
Aparthotel

Cairns Beach Resort

Cairns Beach Resort
Holloways Beach
"The staff is very easy communication with. The room is clean and has everything we need."
Cairns Beach Resort
Aparthotel

BreakFree Royal Harbour

BreakFree Royal Harbour
Cairns Central Business District
"this place is excellent"
BreakFree Royal Harbour
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Where to stay in Cairns

Find the best Cairns areas for the activities you enjoy most.

Cairns Central Business District

The Cairns CBD is a bustling waterfront hub where tropical adventure begins. This vibrant district borders the scenic Esplanade and marina, offering stunning Coral Sea views. Great Barrier Reef tour boats dot the harbour, ready to whisk visitors to underwater wonders. The free Esplanade Lagoon provides safe swimming with a postcard-perfect backdrop. Aboriginal art fills the Night Markets as travellers plan tomorrow's reef explorations. Modern hotels stand beside colonial buildings in this purpose-built tourist zone. The walkable district puts everything within reach – from seafood restaurants to the Reef Casino. Most visitors make this their base for discovering both reef and rainforest treasures.

Cairns North

Cairns North offers a laid-back alternative to the busy CBD with budget-friendly stays that attract backpackers exploring the Great Barrier Reef. This welcoming area blends residential charm with practical amenities like casual cafes and small supermarkets. Queenslander-style homes line quiet streets where tropical birds call from palm trees. Just minutes from Cairns Airport with regular bus connections to city centre, this area serves as a convenient base for regional adventures. Visitors appreciate the authentic Australian suburban experience and lower prices compared to central areas. The nearby Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland provides a pleasant green escape.

Edge Hill

Edge Hill offers a leafy escape just minutes from Cairns, where tropical gardens meet authentic Australian charm. The stunning Botanic Gardens and Centenary Lakes showcase vibrant blooms and wooden boardwalks where water dragons bask in the sun. Towering palms create a lush canopy throughout this peaceful suburb. The converted World War II oil tanks of Tanks Arts Centre host cultural performances in their unique concrete spaces. Mount Whitfield Conservation Park provides scenic walking trails with mountain views. Classic Queenslander homes with wide verandas line the quiet streets, offering a glimpse into genuine Australian suburban life.

Parramatta Park

Parramatta Park offers a peaceful retreat from Cairns' tourist bustle with tropical gardens and quiet residential streets. This green oasis features traditional Queenslander homes alongside modern dwellings, giving visitors an authentic glimpse of Australian suburban life. Sports enthusiasts can catch events at Cazaly's Stadium or explore Barlow Park's recreational facilities. The area appeals to budget-conscious travellers with affordable accommodation compared to the Esplanade. Wide tree-lined streets create perfect walking conditions through this garden suburb. While dining options are limited within the area, the central shopping district lies just a short journey away.

Palm Cove

Palm Cove charms visitors with its palm-lined tropical beach and upscale resorts. This peaceful coastal haven offers pristine swimming waters protected by stinger nets. The scenic esplanade features sophisticated dining spots and boutique shops. Wellness seekers flock to the area's luxury day spas offering tropical-inspired treatments. Beachfront cocktail lounges and wine bars create perfect sunset viewing spots. Palm Cove serves as an ideal gateway for Great Barrier Reef adventures.

Stay near popular Cairns attractions

A large public swimming pool with people swimming and playing, surrounded by buildings and mountains in the background.
Photo by Tourism and Events Queensland

Cairns Esplanade

9.2/10 (7,071 reviews)
A vibrant 2.5-kilometer waterfront promenade with the iconic Esplanade Lagoon overlooking the Coral Sea. Enjoy free fitness classes, picnic areas, or dine at waterfront cafés while watching the sunset.
See properties
A sandy beach with palm trees and ocean waves.

Palm Cove Beach

9.0/10 (4,218 reviews)
Palm Cove Beach dazzles with pristine white sands and majestic palms against rainforest mountains. Stroll the esplanade, dine at beachfront restaurants, or use it as your base to explore the Great Barrier Reef.
See properties
A crowded swimming pool with people enjoying the water, a lifeguard chair, and a lifeguard tower.

Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

9.0/10 (4,257 reviews)
This 4,800-square-meter saltwater oasis offers safe swimming with sandy shores and stunning Trinity Inlet views. Enjoy a refreshing dip before relaxing on timber decks or using the free public barbecues nearby.
See properties
A train carriage with red seats and windows.
Photo by Caz and Craig @yTravelBlog

Cairns Central Shopping Centre

8.6/10 (5,059 reviews)
Cairns Central offers 180 speciality stores and a six-screen cinema complex in a modern, air-conditioned environment. Enjoy diverse shopping and dining options in Far North Queensland's largest retail destination.
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An industrial area with a large white building with a curved roof, surrounded by green fields and a body of water with boats.

Cairns Convention Centre

8.0/10 (558 reviews)
This award-winning venue hosts conferences and sporting events with cutting-edge facilities in tropical Cairns. Catch a Cairns Taipans basketball game or enjoy the new ballroom with stunning Trinity Inlet views.
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A narrow market aisle with clothing racks, hats, and accessories.

Cairns Night Markets

7.8/10 (3,363 reviews)
The Cairns Night Markets showcase over 70 stalls of local crafts and international cuisines in an air-conditioned venue. Explore handmade jewellery and savour fresh seafood while experiencing this vibrant evening tradition.
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Reef Hotel Casino

8.2/10 (1,409 reviews)
Australia's finest boutique casino offers a blend of gaming, dining, and entertainment in Far North Queensland. Enjoy table games and live music at BAR36, or visit the Rainforest Dome for a unique wildlife encounter.
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Trinity Beach

6.8/10 (10 reviews)
Trinity Beach offers a palm-fringed kilometre of sand between two scenic headlands, just minutes from Cairns. Enjoy beachfront dining along the esplanade or use the free barbecues for a picnic with Coral Sea views.
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Cairns and related destinations

The gateway to the Great Barrier Reef offers boat tours where you'll spot vibrant coral and sea turtles just below the surface. Explore the ancient Daintree Rainforest nearby, where guided walks reveal cassowaries and swimming holes locals recommend for cooling off.

See all hotels in Cairns
A beach with palm trees and a stone pathway leading to the water.

Top Cairns Hotel Reviews

Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre

Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre

8/10 Good
"staff was helpful but some of the property needed maintenance."
Rob 1-night trip
Posted 9 hours ago
Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre
Cairns Colonial Club Resort

Cairns Colonial Club Resort

8/10 Good
"Rooms clean, staff professional and helpful. Property overall could do with repairs and freshen up. If in Cairns will stay there again."
Michael 3-night trip
Posted 18 hours ago
Cairns Colonial Club Resort
Hilton Cairns

Hilton Cairns

10/10 Excellent
"Great hotel and great location"
Amanda 1-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Hilton Cairns
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

10/10 Excellent
"Our stay at the Double Tree Hilton was great. Rooms were clean well presented. Central location to enjoy Cairns City and breakfast was great"
Kylie 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns

Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns

10/10 Excellent
"The hotel is very cosy, and we were given a lovely room. We’re really happy with it! 😊"
Viktoriia 3-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Great"
Tony 2-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
Crystalbrook Flynn

Crystalbrook Flynn

10/10 Excellent
"Excellent service room"
Anne 1-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Crystalbrook Flynn
Pacific Hotel Cairns

Pacific Hotel Cairns

10/10 Excellent
"Staff were very friendly polite and helpful. Room was great, including super comfy bed. Great location very close to where boats to barrier reef / Fitzroy island etc. leave from."
Alice 1-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Pacific Hotel Cairns
Cairns Sheridan Hotel

Cairns Sheridan Hotel

8/10 Good
"Check in was good, helpful staff. Bedroom clean."
Nino 2-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
Cairns Sheridan Hotel

More cheap stays in Cairns

Cairns Sunland Leisure Park

Cairns Sunland Leisure Park

49-61 Little Pease Street Manoora QLD
€48
18 Aug - 19 Aug
includes taxes & fees
7.8/10 Good! (1,005 reviews)
Cairns Sunland Leisure Park
YHA Cairns Central

YHA Cairns Central

20-26 McLeod Street Cairns QLD
€63
9 Sept - 10 Sept
includes taxes & fees
YHA Cairns Central
The Espy Hostel

The Espy Hostel

83 Esplanade Cairns QLD
€65
14 Aug - 15 Aug
includes taxes & fees
7.6/10 Good! (90 reviews)
The Espy Hostel
The Reef Motel

The Reef Motel

228 Lake Street Cairns QLD
€78
16 Aug - 17 Aug
includes taxes & fees
4.8/10 (15 reviews)
The Reef Motel
Palm Cove Studio Apartments

Palm Cove Studio Apartments

42 Cedar Rd Palm Cove QLD
€114
18 Aug - 19 Aug
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (53 reviews)
Palm Cove Studio Apartments
Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort

Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort

57-89 Grafton Street Cairns QLD
€136
9 Sept - 10 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8/10 Very good! (452 reviews)
Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort

Find out more about Cairns

Top reasons to visit Cairns

  • Great Barrier Reef: Experience the world's largest coral reef system, offering unforgettable diving and snorkelling adventures.
  • Scenic Beaches: Relax on stunning tropical beaches with crystal-clear waters and picturesque views.
  • Cairns Esplanade: Enjoy the vibrant waterfront with parks, walking paths, and a lively atmosphere perfect for families.
  • Cairns Aquarium: Discover the diverse marine life and ecosystems of the region in this fascinating attraction.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Explore hiking trails and unique outdoor activities that showcase Cairns' natural beauty.

Find great hotels in Cairns

Discover a range of exceptional accommodation options in Cairns, Queensland, tailored to meet the needs of every traveller. Whether you're seeking adventure, a family-friendly retreat, or a business-friendly environment, Cairns hotels offer an array of services and facilities to enhance your stay. From cosy hostels to luxurious hotels, you'll find the perfect lodging for your holiday experience in this stunning destination.

  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns: This 4.5-star hotel offers a blend of adventure and luxury, making it an excellent choice for families and thrill-seekers alike. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, it provides a range of adventure sports both onsite and nearby, including snorkelling, parasailing, and kayaking. Families will appreciate the child-friendly amenities such as a pool gate, complimentary cribs, and specially priced breakfast for children. The welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by the signature DoubleTree cookie upon arrival, setting the stage for a memorable stay.
  • Crystalbrook Flynn: With a prestigious 5-star rating and a guest score of 9.2 out of 10, Crystalbrook Flynn embodies luxury and relaxation. Ideal for business travellers and those seeking a spa-themed getaway, this hotel features an onsite full-service spa offering a variety of treatments, including massages with advance notice. Guests can unwind by the pool or indulge in the serene atmosphere, making it a perfect retreat after a day of meetings or sightseeing. The modern design and sophisticated ambiance further elevate the overall experience.
  • Crystalbrook Bailey: Also boasting a 5-star rating and a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, Crystalbrook Bailey is an eco-certified accommodation that merges luxury with sustainability. This hotel is designed for eco-conscious travellers, featuring environmentally friendly practices without compromising on comfort. The stylish interiors and modern facilities are complemented by a commitment to responsible tourism, making it an ideal choice for business travellers and those looking to enjoy a guilt-free luxury experience in Cairns.

Where to stay in Cairns

Cairns offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly attractions. The vibrant city centre is perfect for exploring local shops and dining options, while nearby beaches provide a relaxing escape with stunning tropical views. You can enjoy the warm, welcoming atmosphere and experience the best of Australia's holiday vibes. For a more tranquil setting, consider a getaway to the surrounding regions, where romance and relaxation await amidst breathtaking landscapes.

  • Manunda: Nestled in close proximity to Cairns, Manunda offers a vibrant suburban atmosphere ideal for various experiences. With a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, peak times occur from January to February and in July. This suburb is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures, family outings, or a romantic escape. Explore the local theatre and indulge in shopping at nearby centres, all while soaking in the charm of the esplanade and urban parks that define the area. Manunda's welcoming nature makes it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding attractions.
  • Whitfield: Positioned near Cairns, Whitfield is a delightful suburb that attracts visitors year-round, particularly peaking in January, July, and September. This locale is perfect for families and those looking for a city-themed experience. Adventurers will enjoy the recreational areas and the thrilling cable car rides that offer breathtaking views. Whitfield is surrounded by stunning rainforests and the scenic esplanade, making it a must-visit for nature lovers. With its blend of outdoor activities and urban conveniences, Whitfield promises an exciting getaway.
  • Woree: Located within easy reach of Cairns, Woree is a bustling suburb that welcomes tourists at various times of the year, with peak visits from July to September. Ideal for families and those after a city-themed experience, Woree boasts a fantastic golf course and options for recreational activities such as cable car rides. Close to urban parks and the lush rainforest, Woree offers a balance of leisure and adventure. It's an excellent spot to unwind while enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Things to do in and around Cairns

Shopping

Cairns offers a vibrant shopping scene. Explore the Cairns Central Shopping Centre for a mix of retail outlets and dining options. For unique finds, visit the Rusty’s Markets, known for local produce and handmade crafts. If you're up for a drive, check out the Smithfield Shopping Centre for more variety.

Recreation

In Cairns, indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the Spa at the Pullman Cairns International, where you can unwind amidst tropical gardens. For relaxation, visit the Cairns Wellness Spa, offering holistic therapies and wellness programs designed to revitalise your body and mind in a serene environment.

Adventure

Experience the Skyrail Kuranda Cableway Station, located 17.7km from Cairns, where you can glide over the lush rainforest landscapes and enjoy stunning views. The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Station offers a similar adventure, immersing you in the beauty of the great outdoors while sharing family-friendly excitement.

Nightlife

Cairns boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with clubs like The Woolshed offering lively dance floors and themed nights. For a more laid-back vibe, the Pier Bar provides a scenic waterfront setting to enjoy drinks and music. Explore the local pubs for a taste of authentic Aussie hospitality.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cairns

Cairns presents various opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Enjoy free attractions like the Cairns Esplanade, Palm Cove Beach, and Esplanade Lagoon. For transport, consider buses or bike hire for economical options. The cheapest months to visit are February to March and November, with Wednesdays being the least expensive days to stay. Book your accommodation about a month in advance, and explore last-minute deals on Expedia for additional savings. Combine hotel and flight bookings for further discounts, and don't forget to filter for eco-friendly options to find affordable, sustainable stays.

  • 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 enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can sort the results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search 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 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, family, and city-themed holidays, boasting popular attractions such as the beach, esplanade, and marina. Visitors can explore the Cairns Pier, Cairns Lagoon, Cairns Esplanade, Cairns Aquarium, and Cairns Convention Centre, all of which cater to those seeking a vibrant beach and family experience. With its diverse offerings, Cairns promises a memorable getaway for travellers.

  • Cairns Esplanade: A vibrant waterfront area, Cairns Esplanade offers scenic views and a lively atmosphere. Ideal for families and couples, you can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics on the grassy knolls, or take a dip in the lagoon. The Esplanade also features markets and art installations, making it a cultural hub.
  • Palm Cove Beach: Renowned for its tranquil beach vibes, Palm Cove Beach is a picturesque spot where you can unwind on soft sands under swaying palm trees. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, while the nearby restaurants offer delightful dining options with stunning ocean views.
  • Cairns Marlin Marina: This bustling marina is the gateway to adventure, with opportunities for snorkelling, diving, and reef tours. Surrounded by restaurants and shops, you can enjoy a blend of outdoor excitement and leisurely exploration, all while soaking in the coastal charm.

Best time to go to Cairns

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

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
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 SunnySlightly LowAverage
June70.3°F (21.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July69.3°F (20.7°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August69.6°F (20.9°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September72.7°F (22.6°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October75.7°F (24.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November78.1°F (25.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December79.9°F (26.6°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Cairns

Flying into Cairns is convenient, as the major airport is Cairns International Airport (CNS), located 4.8km from the city centre. The airport serves various airlines, making it easily accessible for tourists. Nearby, luxurious accommodation options include the 5-star Crystalbrook Flynn and Crystalbrook Bailey, both situated 4.8km from the airport. For those seeking a tranquil retreat, The Reef House Adults Retreat is available 17.7km away. Hotel transportation services typically include transfers and shuttles, ensuring a seamless journey between the airport and your chosen accommodation.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best place to stay in Cairns?
Based on our traveller data, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns is one of the top choices for your stay. This hotel is a short 1-minute walk from Cairns Esplanade, and it offers 2 restaurants and an outdoor pool. Other good options for your trip include Pacific Hotel Cairns and Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Cairns.
What are some of the best holiday rentals that Cairns has to offer?
The Sanctuary Retreat: This highly rated holiday home rental in Cairns is located near the beach, and has a furnished balcony, a terrace and a BBQ to put you at ease in your new surroundings. It has 3 bedrooms, as well as a kitchen with a full-sized fridge, a dishwasher and a stovetop, so that you can cook with friends or family. Kick off your shoes and enjoy yourself with a private garden and a selection of games. Some other top choices in Cairns are Palm Cove/Cairns beaches tropical spacious retreat and Kalani-The Heavens View House. "Kalani: the heavens, symbolising peace, beauty.". See all vacation rentals in Cairns.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Cairns, will I receive a refund?
Yes, most room reservations are refundable provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of check in. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, you might still have the option to cancel and be given a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Cairns.
What's the best budget-friendly hotel in Cairns?
Based on reviews, Cairns Colonial Club Resort is a popular hotel for our travellers who want a more economical choice, and features free Wi-Fi and free parking. Other good options for your budget-friendly stay include Cairns Sunland Leisure Park and Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort. View all budget hotels in Cairns.
What's the best family accommodation in Cairns?
Cairns Harbourside Hotel is a hotel with an outdoor pool and a restaurant, and it's a top choice on Expedia for families. Other options for your family trip include Hilton Cairns and Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns. Also, attractions such as Cairns Esplanade Lagoon and Muddy's Playground are fun for children of all ages. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Cairns.
What's the best hotel for a romantic holiday to Cairns?
Cairns PET FRIENDLY THE HOMESTEAD Getaway on 2 Acres 15 min to CBD is a favourite guest house for couples, and features in-room kitchens and free WiFi. See all romantic hotels in Cairns.
What's the best LGBTQ-friendly hotel in Cairns?
Cairns Harbourside Hotel is a top LGBTQ-friendly hotel, and features free Wi-Fi and private balconies. Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort and Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns are two other good choices for your trip. See all available hotels listed as LGBTQ-friendly in Cairns.
What's the best dog-friendly accommodation option in Cairns?
Sarayi Boutique Hotel is a top hotel for people travelling with their pets, and offers a restaurant and TVs for its human guests. Other good options for you and your pet's trip include Cairns Queens Court and Cairns PET FRIENDLY THE HOMESTEAD Getaway on 2 Acres 15 min to CBD. See more pet-friendly hotel accommodations in Cairns.
What's the best accommodation option to stay near the beach in Cairns?
Mantra Amphora is a top beach hotel offering a full-service spa and private balconies, located within a short 1-minute walk of Palm Cove Beach . Other good options to stay near the beach include Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort and Spa and Paradise on the Beach Resort - Palm Cove. See more stays near the beach in Cairns.
What's the best high-end place to stay in Cairns?
Hilton Cairns is a luxury hotel with an ocean-view restaurant and a 24-hour health club, and it's a popular choice for Expedia travellers looking for an elegant place to stay. Crystalbrook Flynn and Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns are two other upscale options for your stay. Find more luxury hotels in Cairns.
What's the best hotel for a golf holiday in Cairns?
Sarayi Boutique Hotel is a top hotel that has an adjacent golf course and features digital TV. Another good option is Cairns PET FRIENDLY THE HOMESTEAD Getaway on 2 Acres 15 min to CBD if you'd like to be close to a golf course while in town. Visit Cairns Golf Club, Half Moon Bay Golf Course or Cairns Golf Course to perfect your golf swing. See more golf hotels in Cairns.
What are some hotels with pools in Cairns?
Cairns Harbourside Hotel is a top hotel with an outdoor pool, free WiFi and free self-parking. Other choices that offer an on-site pool include Crystalbrook Flynn and Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort. View all hotels with pools in Cairns.
What is the best spa hotel in Cairns?
Crystalbrook Flynn is a top luxury spa hotel featuring a 24-hour fitness centre, a bar, an outdoor pool and a restaurant. Treat yourself to a facial, body scrub or deep-tissue massage at Eleme. Other popular spa hotels in Cairns include Pullman Cairns International and Crystalbrook Riley. See all spa hotels in Cairns.
What's it like to stay in Cairns?
Travellers to Cairns give high marks for the coral reefs, lush rainforest and local tours. This city also attracts tourists with its welcoming and walkable setting. In Cairns, there are 1365 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Cairns.
What should I see while I'm in Cairns?
Cultural venues include Australian Armour and Artillery Museum, Tanks Arts Centre and Cairns Museum. Attractions such as Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, Muddy's Playground and Sugarworld Waterpark are fun for children of all ages. The natural setting is picturesque, namely the rainforest, and places to see include: Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland, Crystal Cascades and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Station. Take a look at what more there is to see and do in Expedia's Cairns guide.
How can I get around Cairns?
If you want to see more of the area, take a train from Cairns Station, Freshwater Station or Redlynch Station. You can explore your options for water transport at the marina. If you want to venture out around the area, you may want a rental car in Cairns for your journey.
What's the weather like in Cairns?
The hottest months are usually January and February, with an average temperature of 27°C, while the coldest months are August and July, with an average of 21°C. The rainiest months in Cairns are January, February, March and December, with each month seeing an average of 281 mm of rainfall.

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