Cairns Hotels

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.

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.

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.