Cairns Hotels

Top reasons to visit Cairns

• Stunning Beaches: Cairns boasts beautiful beaches and a picturesque esplanade, perfect for relaxation and fun.
• Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef: Experience thrilling reef tours and explore one of the world's natural wonders.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking trails and adventurous day trips.
• Cultural Experiences: Discover local art, theatre performances, and vibrant markets in the city centre.
• Diverse Accommodation: A wide range of lodging options caters to every traveller's needs and preferences.

Find great hotels in Cairns

Cairns offers a diverse selection of accommodation options, perfect for every type of traveller. From bustling hotels to cosy hostels, you'll discover places that cater to adventure seekers, families, and business visitors alike. With its stunning landscapes and vibrant atmosphere, Cairns is an ideal destination for a memorable holiday experience. Explore our extensive range of hotels and enjoy the comforts of home while immersing yourself in the beauty of Queensland.

• Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns: This luxurious 5-star hotel offers a sophisticated retreat with stunning views of the marina and the surrounding mountains. Ideal for families and adventure seekers, Shangri-La The Marina provides various recreational activities including hiking, skydiving, and parasailing nearby. The hotel caters to families with amenities such as a children’s pool, babysitting services, and a first aid kit for peace of mind. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this property combines elegance with adventure, making it a standout choice for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Cairns.
• Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort: Rated at 4.5 stars, Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort is a delightful family-friendly destination situated with direct access to the beach. The resort features a large lagoon-style pool, complete with a sandy beach area, ensuring fun for guests of all ages. Children’s amenities include babysitting services and free cribs, making it a convenient option for families. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this resort blends relaxation and beachside enjoyment, providing a perfect backdrop for memorable family vacations.
• Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns: A 4-star property boasting a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, Rydges Esplanade Resort is an excellent choice for families, business travellers, and adventure enthusiasts alike. With easy access to activities such as snorkelling, fishing, and windsurfing, guests can immerse themselves in Cairns' vibrant outdoor lifestyle. The resort offers amenities for children, including a splash pad and first aid services. Ideal for those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure, this resort ensures a comfortable stay close to the action.

Where to stay in Cairns

Cairns, a vibrant tropical city in Queensland, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Explore the bustling Cairns city centre, where friendly locals and holiday vibes create a welcoming atmosphere. Unwind on stunning beaches or embark on adventures to nearby regions, offering romantic escapes and relaxing getaways. With its unique blend of family-friendly activities and breathtaking scenery, Cairns promises an unforgettable Australian holiday experience.

• Palm Cove: Nestled along the stunning coastline of Queensland, Palm Cove is a picturesque suburb known for its serene beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Travellers flock to this charming destination for its outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, and city-themed experiences. The peak visitor season occurs from June to July and September, making it an ideal time to indulge in the local shopping areas, rejuvenating body treatments, and luxurious spa services. Notable landmarks include the inviting beach and the vibrant esplanade, perfect for leisurely strolls and family outings.
• Cairns Central Business District: As the bustling heart of Cairns, the Central Business District offers a vibrant urban experience. Visitors are drawn here year-round, with peak arrivals from July to September. This area is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and family activities amidst a lively city atmosphere. Guests can explore shopping centres, theatres, and the scenic esplanade. The nearby urban parks and beaches provide a refreshing escape from the city buzz, making it a delightful destination for people of all ages.
• Trinity Beach: Trinity Beach is a captivating suburb located just a short drive from Cairns, renowned for its beautiful sandy shores and family-friendly vibe. Like Palm Cove, it experiences peak travel times in June to July and September. Visitors are attracted to its outdoor offerings, educational opportunities, and shopping areas that cater to families. The beach, playgrounds, and the charming esplanade create a perfect setting for relaxation and recreation, making it a must-visit for those looking to unwind in a scenic coastal setting.

Things to do in and around Cairns

Shopping

Cairns offers a delightful shopping experience with the Cairns Central Shopping Centre featuring a variety of shops and eateries. Explore the vibrant Rusty’s Markets for fresh produce and unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, check out Smithfield Shopping Centre for more retail options.

Recreation

Experience the tranquil atmosphere at the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina, where you can indulge in spa treatments and enjoy waterfront dining. For relaxation, explore the lush botanical gardens or embark on a scenic river cruise to soak in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Adventure

Experience the breathtaking views of the rainforest while gliding above the treetops on the Skyrail Kuranda Cableway, located 18km from Cairns. Alternatively, the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway offers a thrilling aerial journey through lush landscapes, perfect for families seeking adventure and outdoor fun.

Nightlife

Cairns boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with venues like the Pier Bar, offering live music and stunning waterfront views. The lively Night Markets provide a mix of shopping and entertainment, while Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort features energetic dance floors and themed nights, perfect for enjoying a fun evening out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cairns

Cairns is an affordable destination for travellers, offering free attractions like the Esplanade, Palm Cove Beach, and the Lagoon. For budget-friendly transport, consider using the local bus service or renting a bike. The best time to visit is from February to March and November, with lower accommodation prices. Book your stay about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia, particularly on Wednesdays for the best rates. Combining flights and hotel bookings can yield further savings. Always compare room rates to secure the best deals while enjoying your Cairns adventure.

• 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Cairns with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Cairns

Cairns is ideal for outdoor and family-oriented holidays, boasting a stunning selection of beaches, the picturesque esplanade, and a vibrant marina. Visitors can engage in thrilling outdoor activities and enjoy a delightful beach experience. Key attractions include the Cairns Convention Centre, Cairns Pier, Cairns Aquarium, Cairns Esplanade, and the popular Cairns Lagoon, ensuring a memorable stay in this beautiful Queensland city.

• Moon River Beach: Experience the relaxed beach vibes at Moon River Beach, a picturesque spot within Cairns. Enjoy the soft sands and gentle waves, making it an ideal place to unwind or take a leisurely stroll along the shore.
• Holloways Beach: A family-friendly destination, Holloways Beach offers a safe and welcoming atmosphere for visitors of all ages. With its calm waters and shaded areas, it's a great spot for picnics, swimming, and spending quality time with loved ones.
• Michaelmas Cay: As a national park, Michaelmas Cay is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Discover stunning scenery, vibrant marine life, and adventure opportunities, such as snorkelling and bird watching, in this unique natural environment.

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

Flying into Cairns, Queensland, is convenient with Cairns International Airport (CNS), located approximately 5km from the city centre. The airport is serviced by major airlines, making it accessible for international travellers. Nearby, there are several excellent hotels, including the 5-star Hilton Cairns, situated 6km away, and Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns, which is 5km from the airport. Another luxurious option is the Crystalbrook Riley, also 5km away. All these hotels offer easy access to the airport, ensuring a smooth transition for visitors arriving in this beautiful region.