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

Cairns Hotels

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Oct 5 - Oct 6
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Oct 9 - Oct 11
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Our top choices for Cairns hotels

1. Crystalbrook Flynn

Crystalbrook Flynn
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Glenn
P10,522
P11,574 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Crystalbrook Flynn

2. Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Paul
P11,698
P12,868 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 4 - Nov 5
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

3. Pacific Hotel Cairns

Pacific Hotel Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Michaela
P7,796
P8,576 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 4 - Nov 5
Pacific Hotel Cairns

4. Pullman Cairns International

Pullman Cairns International
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Catherine
P9,019
P9,921 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 22 - Oct 23
Pullman Cairns International

5. Cairns Plaza Hotel

Cairns Plaza Hotel
Cairns Central Business District
United States
Ryan
P9,216
P10,138 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 31 - Nov 1
Cairns Plaza Hotel

6. Mantra Esplanade

Mantra Esplanade
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Edmund
P11,531
P11,531 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 26 - Oct 27
Mantra Esplanade

7. Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Suzanne
P8,584
P9,442 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 2 - Nov 3
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

8. Cairns Harbourside Hotel

Cairns Harbourside Hotel
Cairns North
Australia
steven
P7,014
P7,715 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Cairns Harbourside Hotel

9. The Abbott Boutique Hotel

The Abbott Boutique Hotel
Cairns Central Business District
United States
Alok
P8,793
P9,673 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 30 - Oct 31
The Abbott Boutique Hotel

10. The Reef Hotel Casino Cairns - Handwritten Collection

The Reef Hotel Casino Cairns - Handwritten Collection
Cairns Central Business District
United States
Taylor
P11,036
P12,140 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
The Reef Hotel Casino Cairns - Handwritten Collection

11. Crystalbrook Bailey

Crystalbrook Bailey
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Paul
P8,713
P9,584 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 18 - Oct 19
Crystalbrook Bailey

12. Oaks Cairns Hotel

Oaks Cairns Hotel
Cairns Central Business District
Canada
Terri
P8,979
P9,877 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 4 - Nov 5
Oaks Cairns Hotel

13. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
United States
James
P8,406
P9,246 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 28 - Oct 29
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

14. Hilton Cairns

Hilton Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
David
P10,436
P11,480 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 3 - Nov 4
Hilton Cairns

15. The Benson Hotel

The Benson Hotel
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Jim
P8,372
P9,209 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
The Benson Hotel

16. Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns

Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns
Cairns North
Australia
Gurwinder
P7,500
P8,250 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 3 - Nov 4
Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns

17. Cairns Sheridan Hotel

Cairns Sheridan Hotel
Cairns North
United States
Theodore
P6,942
P7,636 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 26 - Oct 27
Cairns Sheridan Hotel

18. Park Regis Hotel Cairns

Park Regis Hotel Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
HAYLEY
P6,527
P7,179 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Park Regis Hotel Cairns

19. Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre

Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Gerard
P5,682
P6,250 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 23 - Oct 24
Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre

20. Il Palazzo Boutique Apartments

Il Palazzo Boutique Apartments
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Henson
P9,361
P9,361 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 6 - Oct 7
Il Palazzo Boutique Apartments
View all properties

Vacation Rentals in Cairns

Aparthotel

Coral Sands Resort

Coral Sands Resort
Trinity Beach
"Very spacious and quiet accommodation right on beachfront"
Coral Sands Resort
Aparthotel

Mantra Trilogy

Mantra Trilogy
Cairns Central Business District
"It was close to ocean and great restaurants"
Mantra Trilogy
Aparthotel

Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort

Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort
Woree
"We loved the holiday family activities!! Thanks for a great stay! Waterslides were a hit!"
Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort
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

Escape On Lake

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

Trinity Beach Club Holiday Apartments

Trinity Beach Club Holiday Apartments
Trinity Beach
"The property was great, very central amazing pool with sand and a swim up bar !"
Trinity Beach Club Holiday Apartments
Aparthotel

Cairns Beach Resort

Cairns Beach Resort
Holloways Beach
"Nice accommodation"
Cairns Beach Resort
Aparthotel

Cascade Gardens

Cascade Gardens
Cairns Central Business District
"Great stay. The rooms are spacious, clean, we'll equipt, quiet. Staff is great and the location is superb."
Cascade Gardens
Aparthotel

BreakFree Royal Harbour

BreakFree Royal Harbour
Cairns Central Business District
"Fantastic location. Perhaps upgrade locks to keypads so you don’t need physical keys for entry."
BreakFree Royal Harbour
Aparthotel

Sea Point On Trinity Beach

Sea Point On Trinity Beach
Trinity Beach
"Property was perfect, immaculately clean and located across the road from the ocean."
Sea Point On Trinity Beach
Aparthotel

Trinity Collective

Trinity Collective
Trinity Beach
"Beautiful property, very clean and well maintained."
Trinity Collective
Aparthotel

Sea Change Beachfront Apartments

Sea Change Beachfront Apartments
Trinity Beach
"Rooms were clean, staff were friendly and informative, beach view was priceless, balcony & views from it were superb."
Sea Change Beachfront Apartments
Aparthotel

Tropic Towers Apartments

Tropic Towers Apartments
Cairns North
"Excellent location Large apartment Great in room facilities including washer and dryer"
Tropic Towers Apartments
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

Roydon Beachfront Apartments

Roydon Beachfront Apartments
Trinity Beach
"Communication with the apartment managers was excellent. Very attentive and informative. Reception had a very good choice of information available for all trips in the area. Apartment had everything you needed for your stay. Great location, great service and quiet area. Plenty of local eating places and close to Cairns for all those reef trips"
Roydon Beachfront Apartments
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Where to stay in Cairns

Find the best Cairns areas and neighborhoods 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 harbor, 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 travelers 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 downtown, this neighborhood 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 neighborhood appeals to budget-conscious travelers with affordable accommodations 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 beach with a lifeguard tower, palm trees, and a swimming pool.

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.
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A beach with palm trees and a calm sea.

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.
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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 specialty 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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A swimming pool with wind sculptures, a covered pavilion, palm trees, and a sunset sky.

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.
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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 beach with clear turquoise water, a sandy shore, and distant mountains under a blue sky.

Yorkeys Knob Beach

8.0/10 (21 reviews)
This pristine stretch of sand offers premier kite surfing conditions thanks to consistent trade winds. Relax under palm trees or explore Half Moon Bay Marina's scenic dining options overlooking the Coral Sea.
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The Night Markets sign with neon lights, a food court sign, and a banner for Phô Street Caisns.

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 jewelry and savor 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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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 waterfront with a reflective pool, a blue-roofed pavilion, and wind sculptures.

Top Cairns Hotel Reviews

Hilton Cairns

Hilton Cairns

10/10 Excellent
"Location is close to reef terminal and restaurants. Room.was large , clean and comfortable. Staff were very helpful and friendly. The cafe breakfast staff provided excellent service. We had a very pleasant stay here. Highly recommended this hotel"
Tammy Kit Ling 3-night trip
Posted less than an hour ago
Hilton Cairns
Cairns Plaza Hotel

Cairns Plaza Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"very clean rooms. really liked it."
Vikas 1-night trip
Posted 14 hours ago
Cairns Plaza Hotel
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

8/10 Good
"Hotel was a great location, pool and breakfast. Air-conditioned was poor on some nights. Not sure if I could stay there in summer."
Dean 7-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
The Abbott Boutique Hotel

The Abbott Boutique Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Nice rooms. Guests lounge with coffee/tea making. Very helpful staff. Will store luggage. Have great photographic art of a local photographer that I know."
Maree 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
The Abbott Boutique Hotel
Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre

Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre

10/10 Excellent
"Great location Parking Coffee restaurant onsite"
Gerard 6-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre
Mantra Esplanade

Mantra Esplanade

10/10 Excellent
"The hotel was very convenient to the Esplanade and the Green Island ferry."
Nancy 1-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Mantra Esplanade
Cairns Harbourside Hotel

Cairns Harbourside Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Fantastic place to arrive and unwind and settle in. Always very friendly and accommodating staff. Great gym nearby. We always come back !!!"
Johanna 3-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Cairns Harbourside Hotel
Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns

Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns

10/10 Excellent
"Good"
Kwok Chuen Kim 4-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns
The Oceanfront Cairns

The Oceanfront Cairns

8/10 Good
"Well, what can you say, you pay for what you get, it's a good hotel, the staff are lovely, unfortun1tely, the room is not what on the advertised photos, we have been here for four days and never had our room done, towels replaced etc, the room door doesn't have a chain or extra security on it, also they are a little run down, if you on a budget it's a good place to stay, bed is very comfortable, I would probably stay here again."
Dave 4-night trip
Posted 8 days ago
The Oceanfront Cairns

More cheap stays in Cairns

Cairns Sunland Leisure Park

Cairns Sunland Leisure Park

49-61 Little Pease Street Manoora QLD
P3,437
P3,437 total
Oct 7 - Oct 8
includes taxes & fees
Cairns Sunland Leisure Park
The Espy Hostel

The Espy Hostel

83 Esplanade Cairns QLD
P3,845
P4,229 total
Oct 11 - Oct 12
includes taxes & fees
7.8/10 Good! (93 reviews)
The Espy Hostel
YHA Cairns Central

YHA Cairns Central

20-26 McLeod Street Cairns QLD
P4,023
P4,426 total
Oct 26 - Oct 27
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very Good! (243 reviews)
YHA Cairns Central
The Reef Motel

The Reef Motel

228 Lake Street Cairns QLD
P4,137
P4,550 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
includes taxes & fees
4.8/10 (30 reviews)
The Reef Motel
Little Drifter Cairns

Little Drifter Cairns

7 Shields St Cairns QLD
P4,877
P5,365 total
Oct 27 - Oct 28
includes taxes & fees
8.2/10 Very Good! (188 reviews)
Little Drifter Cairns
Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort

Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort

57-89 Grafton Street Cairns QLD
P8,979
P9,877 total
Oct 6 - Oct 7
includes taxes & fees
Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort

Find out more about Cairns

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.

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

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 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, 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.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best place to stay in Cairns?
Based on our traveler data, Pacific Hotel Cairns is one of the top choices for your stay. This hotel is a short 4-minute walk from Cairns Esplanade, and it offers a restaurant and an outdoor pool. Other good options for your visit include Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns and Cairns Colonial Club Resort. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Cairns.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Cairns, will I receive a refund?
Yes, you'll find most hotel room reservations are fully refundable if you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of your arrival date. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you may still be able to cancel and receive 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 accommodation in Cairns?
Based on reviews, Cairns Colonial Club Resort is a popular hotel for our travelers who want a more economical choice, and features free WiFi and free parking. Other good options for your budget-friendly stay include Cairns Sunland Leisure Park and YHA Cairns Central. View all budget hotels in Cairns.
What's the best hotel for a family vacation to Cairns?
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns is a hotel with a children's pool and a restaurant, and it's a top choice on Expedia for families. Other choices for your stay with the kids include Hilton Cairns and Cairns Harbourside Hotel. Attractions like Cairns Esplanade Lagoon and Muddy's Playground are also fun for kids of all ages. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Cairns.
What is the top LGBTQ-friendly accommodation in Cairns?
Hilton Cairns is a top LGBTQ-friendly hotel, and features a 24-hour health club and private balconies. Cairns Harbourside Hotel 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 pet-friendly hotel in Cairns?
Sarayi Boutique Hotel is a top hotel for people traveling with their pets, and offers a restaurant and TVs for its human guests. Other good options for you and your pet's trip include Hilton Palm Cove Cairns Resort & Spa and Cairns Crystal Cascades Holiday Park. See more pet-friendly hotel accommodations in Cairns.
What's the best hotel 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 for your beach trip 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 luxury accommodation in Cairns?
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns is a luxury hotel with a deli and in-room massages, and it's a popular choice for Expedia travelers looking for an elegant place to stay. Hilton Cairns and Pacific Hotel Cairns are two other upscale options for your stay. Find more luxury hotels in Cairns.
What's the best hotel for a golf vacation in Cairns?
Sarayi Boutique Hotel is a top hotel that has an adjacent golf course and features digital TV. Another good option is Central Plaza Apartments 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 parking. Other choices with an onsite pool include Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort and Cairns Colonial Club 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 center, 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 Peppers Beach Club & Spa Palm Cove and Pullman Cairns International. See all spa hotels in Cairns.
How is it to stay in Cairns?
Travelers 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 1386 hotels and other accommodations to choose from. Find out more about Cairns.
What is there to see in Cairns?
Cultural venues include Australian Armour and Artillery Museum, Cairns Museum, and Bulmba-ja Arts Centre. Attractions like Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, Muddy's Playground, and Sugarworld Waterpark are fun for kids of all ages. The natural setting is picturesque, namely the lush rainforest, and these places to see: Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland, Crystal Cascades, and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Station. Check out what more to see and do in Expedia's Cairns guide.
How can I get around Cairns?
If you want to journey outside of the area, hop aboard a train from Cairns Station, Freshwater Station, or Redlynch Station. You can explore your water travel options 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 temp of 80°F, while the coldest months are August and July with an average of 70°F. The rainiest months in Cairns are January, February, March, and December, with each month seeing an average of 11 inches of rainfall.

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