Cairns
Travel Guide
Visit Cairns
Where to stay in Cairns
Palm Cove
Palm Cove is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Palm Cove Beach and Kuranda National Park, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Cairns.
Cairns Central Business District
Cairns Central Business District is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Esplanade Lagoon and Cairns Marlin Marina.
Trinity Beach
Trinity Beach is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Trinity Beach and Kewarra Beach, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Cairns.
Cairns North
Pristine beaches and ample dining options are well-reviewed features of Cairns North. Make a stop by top sights like Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland while you're exploring the area.
Yorkeys Knob
Yorkeys Knob is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Half Moon Bay Golf Course and Yorkeys Knob Beach.
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.
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
"Lovely hotel. Super friendly and helpful staff. Great, peaceful location. Good restaurants nearby."
Reviewed on 13 May 2026
Cairns Colonial Club Resort
"Great place to stay with kids big and small"
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
"Great location on the Esplanade. Breakfast is fantastic. Large room with a king bed and a balcony with two chairs and a small table."
Reviewed on 22 May 2026
Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort
Coral Sands Resort
"Great stay, could hear the live music they have on a Sat and Sun from the pub on the corner which was great out on the balcony. Pool was great for the kids and great location to walk out to the main strip where there’s a playground on the foreshore and restaurants. Will stay again one day!"
Reviewed on 11 May 2026
The Reef Retreat
"Place was clean and nice. The host is a poor communicator and bordering rude. No clear directions for an after hour checkin. Didn't pick 10 calls. Had to hunt down their residence to get into the apartment."
Reviewed on 22 May 2026
Popular places to visit
Cairns Esplanade
Stroll along the boardwalk surrounded by palms tree and landscaped gardens and watch the sun set over the Coral Sea.
Cairns Central Shopping Centre
During your visit to Tropical North Waterfront, you can do some window-shopping at Cairns Central Shopping Centre. Discover the spectacular coral reefs in this walkable area or enjoy its local tours.
Esplanade Lagoon
Relax after a day of sightseeing or cool down from the summer heat in this fresh-water lagoon, one of Cairns’ best city attractions.
Palm Cove Beach
Located in between the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, this palm tree-lined beach is an idyllic spot to take it easy or begin an adventure.
Cairns Marlin Marina
Enjoy views of the harbour and and unwind with al-fresco dining, entertainment and shopping beside the bay.
Cairns Convention Centre
Learn about the events happening in Cairns Convention Centre during your trip to Tropical North Waterfront. Discover the spectacular coral reefs in this walkable area or enjoy its local tours.
Things to do
Army Duck Tour of the Rainforest
Ocean Spirit Sail to Michaelmas Cay on the Great Barrier Reef
Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise
Skip the Line: Cairns Museum Single Admission Ticket
