10 hotels in Great Barrier Reef: Best hotel deals for 2023

August 10, 2022 Leonarda Pillsbury

The world's largest coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef stretches almost 1500 miles into the Pacific from the tip of Queensland. Designated a Marine Park by the Australian government and a World Heritage Area by UNESCO, the reef is home to an extraordinary abundance of species and habitats. Snorkeling, diving and fishing are rightly popular along the reef, nowhere more so than on the Whitsunday Islands, where the silica sands and aqua waters of the Coral Sea create the perfect beach escape.
Things to do in Great Barrier Reef

1. Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

122 Lake St, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Australia
Excellent
65%
Good
22%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
2%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 259 reviews

Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

The Novotel Cairns Oasis is a 4.5 star resort featuring a gorgeous lagoon pool, complete with a sandy beach, children's pool and a swim-up bar. The hotel is a short walk from the Esplanade, Cairns city center and the Reef Casino. Recently refurbished lobby and Moku Bar and Grill puts you at ease upon walking into the hotel. The Deluxe Room types have recently been fully refurbished. All rooms are air-conditioned and feature a private balcony, broadband internet and a flat-screen TV. Whether you seeking a casual or more formal fine dining restaurant experience, there are a range of options at Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort.

Holiday

Reviewed By dianalQ7730LC

Awesome location great hotel loved the pool both for small children and big children alike kids loved the sandy area. Deborah was fantastic with the kids club with movie on sat night and bringing out the pool things for kids. Can't wait for next visit.

2. Crystalbrook Riley

131 -141 Esplanade, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Australia 011 61 2 9048 4488
Excellent
67%
Good
16%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
4%
Terrible
5%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 713 reviews

Crystalbrook Riley

Crystalbrook Riley is a sophisticated character with a playful outlook on life. Guests can expect understated elegance, contemporary design and a splash of fun. At Crystalbrook Riley, we enjoy modern living through attitude, design, technology and a passion for a better world – or what we call #responsibleluxury. That means no plastic straws, water bottles or guest-room key cards, using technology to reduce paper, providing large-pump amenities bottles (saving more than 250,000 plastic bottles each year) and partnering with Citizens of the Great Barrier Reef, TerraCycle, OzHarvest and Containers for Change. Residing in a prime location on Cairns Esplanade, Crystalbrook Riley features 311 stylish rooms and suites. Each room features its own Apple iPad control centre complete with healthy-living apps, a 55-inch Smart TV, Staycast by Google for video streaming and access to an extensive range of complimentary recent release movies. Add to this a lagoon swimming pool spanning over 1,000 square metres with a private man-made beach, Eléme Day Spa, a 24-hour fitness centre and fast and free wifi, and you’re on your way to a truly great stay. When it comes to restaurants and bars, Crystalbrook Riley thinks differently. You’ll find engaging, social, vibrant spaces and a passion for innovation – all day, every day. Pop into Greenfields for a freshly made cold-pressed juice or head to the theatrical Paper Crane for wok-fried seafood or the perfect steak. For sweeping views and an atmosphere not to be missed, head to Rocco. Perfect for balmy nights, Rocco is perched 42 metres above sea level and offers share style food inspired by the Mediterranean along with a stellar Champagne menu, second to none. The property is an easy five-minute water-front stroll from the shopping, entertainment and business centre of Cairns.

Room good but the experience average. We had a special occasion here and booked a suite. No service or extras whatsoever

Reviewed By Tedmargot

Had a suite at 800 a night but forget anything else. Pay for everything including parking breakfast and even look after your own luggage. This is not a 6 stay experience. If you are after a nice room this place might be for you but everything else on too expensive and poor service. Poor experience at the Italian restaurant as well. It’s no wonder Australia struggled when touris gets competitive.

3. Pacific Hotel Cairns

43 Esplanade, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Australia 011 61 7 4051 7888
Excellent
44%
Good
38%
Satisfactory
13%
Poor
3%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 1064 reviews

Pacific Hotel Cairns

Located on the Esplanade overlooking Trinity Harbour, the Pacific Hotel Cairns offers guests stunning views from private balconies and provides easy access to the nearby Reef Fleet Terminal, shopping precinct, casino and Esplanade Lagoon. The modern rooms offer comfortable accommodation all travellers. You’ll enjoy the view from the private balcony from the rooms above the forth floor plus free Wi-Fi, flat screen TV, work desk, ensuite and room service (limited hours). For families we offer dual-key rooms. If you’re looking for a luxurious upgrade, you can’t go past our new Tropical Luxe Room Collection on the second and third levels. Stay in the same great location with 5-star quality in these thoughtfully designed guest rooms. Lush furnishings, over-sized flat screen TVs, Italian ensuites with some featuring double vanities and free-standing bathtub. No visit to Cairns is complete without enjoying the unique, award-winning cuisine at the Hotel’s Bushfire Flame Grill Restaurant. Dive into the all-you-can-eat Brazilian inspired BBQ Churrasco experience. Our Pacific Hotels Care Policy has been in place since March 2020 in direct response to Covid-19. This includes increased cleaning, staff training and adapted services for the wellbeing of out staff, guests and community.

Very clean.

Reviewed By 628sandraw

Booked a package deal through Trip a Deal and thought I was getting an upgrade to a Tropical Luxe room but ended up in a Superior room. Receptionist had no idea about this package or what was included. Lack of communication between Trip a Deal and Pacific Hotel. Bubbles and chocolate also included in package. No chocolates. I did write to concierge email on Pacific Hotels website but no answer. Other than that very very clean room. Fully refurbished. New paint, floor coverings and fixtures except bathtub which had a big chip in it that looked like a dob of dog p##. A bit of white paint would have disguised it well. Balcony very poky but cant do much about that now. Staff friendly and obliging. Breakfast excellent and plenty of it and very well cooked. Just how we like our breakfast to be. There was plenty of refurbishment inside and outside no doubt to get rid of the local label "Covid Hotel". It will be really nice once all painting and refurbishment done.

4. Mantra Amphora Palm Cove

49-63 Williams Esp, Palm Cove, Queensland 4879 Australia
Excellent
42%
Good
39%
Satisfactory
13%
Poor
4%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 1959 reviews

Mantra Amphora Palm Cove

Mantra Amphora Resort is located on the spectacular waterfront of Palm Cove's palm-fringed beach at one of Tropical North Queensland's most sought-after destinations. Enjoy an early morning dip in the tranquil Coral Sea directly opposite the resort or bask in the tropical warmth beside the lagoon swimming pool with its many coves and nooks shaded by towering palm trees. Accommodation at Mantra Amphora Resort ranges from hotel rooms to self-contained one, two and three bedroom apartments all with quality finishes and most featuring an indulgent spa bath, all have private balconies with garden or ocean views providing the perfect space to kick back and relax. Wander the stretch of Palm Cove Esplanade to discover a chic range of restaurants and cocktail bars that will satisfy both discerning palates and family appetites, or dine at Vivo Bar and Brill which sits just next to the Mantra Amphora Resort and offers delicious Italian with subtle tropical flavours. Please note this property has stair access only. Important information: In accordance with recent Government directives in response to slowing the spread of COVID-19, Hotel facilities may experience temporary closures or changes to operating times and/or services provided. Please contact our reception for further details. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your understanding during this time.

Great stay for families!

Reviewed By Lia K

This resort was spectactular! My kids in particular loved the pool and it was a decent size. Good for both small and older kids. The room was spacious and the location was phenomenal. The only complaint I would have is that the portacot didn't look the cleanest. Not sure if they are outsourced but ours was stained but apart from that no other fault. I would definitely stay again!!

5. Pullman Cairns International

17 Abbott St, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Australia
Excellent
43%
Good
36%
Satisfactory
14%
Poor
4%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 2869 reviews

Pullman Cairns International

The Pullman Cairns International offers you a perfect combination of comfort and convenience located in the heart of the city. With its close proximity to the fleet terminal our hotel is of the best location while exploring the World famous Great Barrier Reef and other nearby attractions. Pullman Cairns International is just 8 kilometers from the domestic and international airports and closest to the Cairns Convention Centre. This unique charismatic hotel in Cairns city reflects the ambience and spirit of Far North Queensland and exudes the architectural style and grandeur of the city centre’s rich colonial past. Enjoy a relaxing treatment and harmonize your soul at Vie Spa and dine on the best local seafood in Coco's Kitchen + Bar.

Pullman cairns

Reviewed By lancec825

Nice rooms, however nothing fantastic for the price. The restaurant was below what I expected. Very slow service and a li.ited menu. Really lovely helpful staff and a good location near Trinity inlet.

6. Cairns Sheridan Hotel

295 Sheridan St, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Australia 011 61 7 4255 9000
Excellent
40%
Good
38%
Satisfactory
17%
Poor
4%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 411 reviews

Cairns Sheridan Hotel

The Cairns Sheridan Hotel is the closest hotel to the Cairns International Airport and 3kms from Cairns City Centre, there are scheduled buses to and from downtown. The hotel has just completed a full renovation to all accommodation rooms. Now with new rooms and COVID safe accreditation the Cairns Sheridan Hotel is the perfect place for your accommodation in Cairns. Sightseeing tours can be booked to the Great Barrier Reef for snorkeling and diving, to the Atherton Tablelands, Kuranda to the Gulf and Cape of Carpentaria. It is two blocks from the Esplanade and scores of well known restaurants. WiFi is avail to all rooms and public areas, the Palms Restaurant is open to the public seven days a week for Breakfast and Dinner. There are 3 separate conference rooms that can cater for up to 150 persons, plus a large balcony overlooking the pool and garden. Ample parking is available in the grounds of the hotel. The hotel has been a consistent winner of the Trip Advisor Excellent Awards in recent years.

Excellent value.

Reviewed By 114karinc

Great hotel at a great price about 7 minutes drive from the airport. Reception were friendly, the room was a good size and very clean. Bathroom was big with an actual bath. We only stayed for one night, but would definitely stay here again if we come back to cairns.

7. Mantra Club Croc Airlie Beach

240 Shute Harbour Rd, Cannonvale, Airlie Beach, Queensland 4802 Australia
Excellent
36%
Good
38%
Satisfactory
15%
Poor
6%
Terrible
5%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 1180 reviews

Mantra Club Croc Airlie Beach

Ideally located on Shute Harbour Road, Mantra Club Croc Airlie Beach is just a short walk to the Whitsunday Shopping Centre and 5 minutes’ drive from the main street. The hotel’s traditional exterior oozes character, yet inside you’ll find contemporary accommodation with all of the modern conveniences you require. Rooms feature modern interiors and most offer views over the garden, pool or coastline. Your holiday begins the minute you arrive at Mantra Club Croc. Drenched in tropical ambience, the hotel offers everything you need in your Airlie Beach accommodation with a great range of facilities. Boasting160 rooms, guests will enjoy free limited wireless internet in public areas, 24-hour reception, complimentary car parking, sparkling lagoon pool and spa, nearby BBQ facilities, and a gymnasium. We also offer a complimentary scheduled courtesy bus to take you to Abel Point, Downtown and Port Of Airlie (Drop off service only, see reception for scheduled times). Important information: In accordance with recent Government directives in response to slowing the spread of COVID-19, Hotel facilities may experience temporary closures or changes to operating times and/or services provided. Please contact our reception for further details. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your understanding during this time.

NEVER AGAIN

Reviewed By maureenpH8032YP

We are disgusted with the way we were treated by staff, to the point if they worked for me they would no longer have a job. Very bad attitude towards paying guests, very bad language from staff towards guests. The staff on Saturday should not be in hospitality if they don't like their guests laughing and having fun. Dirty string in the bed, cockroaches in the rooms, mould on the smoke alarm. Very disappointed considering we are local and wanted to support Club Croc. NEVER AGAIN. Many other better places to choose from next time.

8. Mantra Aqueous On Port

3 - 5 Davidson St, Port Douglas, Queensland 4877 Australia
Excellent
47%
Good
38%
Satisfactory
10%
Poor
4%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 1594 reviews

Mantra Aqueous On Port

Encompassing all Port Douglas has to offer, Mantra Aqueous on Port is the ideal location for couples, families & honeymooners. Situated in the heart of the village centre of Port Douglas lies one of the most fashionable resort destinations in Tropical North Queensland. You can take advantage of the five star restaurants, designer boutiques, family eateries and a range of bars and cafes. With a contemporary design featuring an aquatic flavor, most apartments feature pool views, spa baths and balconies. The resort boasts 4 stunning pools, sundecks and cabanas with barbeques so guests can enjoy the warm tropical climate of the exclusive beachside town, Port Douglas. The Swim-Up rooms feature a swim-up pool deck with direct pool access. At Mantra Aqueous on Port you can do as little or as much as you like. Wander the quiet streets and sample some of the culinary delights or simply relax on your balcony while you watch the world go by. Important information: In accordance with recent Government directives in response to slowing the spread of COVID-19, Hotel facilities may experience temporary closures or changes to operating times and/or services provided. Please contact our reception for further details. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your understanding during this time.

Can’t fault the location!

Reviewed By Vicki S

I was a little disappointed when we checked in as I was expecting more resort-like accommodation. Our room was a basic bedroom with tiny kitchenette and regular bathroom, with a spa in the balcony (which we didn’t use). There was nowhere to sit other than the bed and balcony chairs. We opted not to pay extra for daily housekeeping which was a mistake on our part, as there was soon a build up of sand from Four Mile Beach which inevitably found its way into the bed. I tried to clean it off our balcony with the dustpan and brush I found in the room. I like to avoid housework when I’m on holiday but found myself cleaning, emptying the rubbish, making the bed etc. although to be fair, there was an extreme staff shortage at the time of our visit. The bed was uncomfortable and I didn’t sleep very well. There was only a single sheet provided, which wasn’t enough. I’d have liked easier access to clean towels too, or some dropped off to our room. I couldn’t fault the location though…a short stroll to the beach and shops which was great..we could pop out to the Night Owl convenience store, or grab an ice-cream. We went to Little Larder for breakfast, just a few minutes walk away. We didn’t use the pools, preferring the beach.

9. Crystalbrook Bailey

163 Abbott St, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Australia
Excellent
64%
Good
16%
Satisfactory
13%
Poor
6%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 159 reviews

Crystalbrook Bailey

Modern, environmentally conscious and with a true appreciation for all the arts, meet Crystalbrook Bailey. Crystalbrook Bailey chooses the path less travelled; the type of character you’ll find at the local farmers market or exploring the latest museum exhibition. Crystalbrook Bailey loves originality, individuality and attention to detail. Positioned in the Cairns cultural precinct at the heart of the CBD, Crystalbrook Bailey is just a short stroll from the Cairns Performing Arts Centre, Cairns Art Gallery, the iconic Esplanade boardwalk, Cairns lagoon pool and the Great Barrier Reef departure terminal. Staying with Crystalbrook Bailey, you’ll find artwork from Australia and beyond along with an evolving ever-changing array of exhibitions and activations. Passionate about sustainability, Crystalbrook Bailey embraces Crystalbrook Collection’s belief in #responsibleluxury. Saying no to plastic, you won’t find any plastic water bottles or straws. Crystalbrook Bailey saves 170,000 amenity bottles from waste through the use of signature large-pump bottles and uses recycled wooden key cards and room accessories. Crystalbrook Bailey also embraces environmental partnerships with Citizens of the Great Barrier Reef, TerraCycle, OzHarvest and Containers for Change. With 255 spacious rooms and residences filled with design details that will appeal to your inner artist, you’ll be sure to leave enchanted and enriched. Each room and residence features its own Apple iPad control centre complete with art apps, Staycast by Google for video streaming, access to hundreds of complimentary movies and Nespresso machines (naturally with recyclable pods). Oh, and the Wi-Fi is fast and free – obviously! Crystalbrook Bailey is a food lovers haven with an enviable selection of stunning on-site restaurants designed to cater to any mood or occasion. Throwing down the gauntlet as the culinary destination for locals and tourists alike, the world-class restaurants are guaranteed to gratify your hunger. Transport your tastebuds to the rugged Australian outback at Crystalbrook Collection’s signature steakhouse, CC’s Bar and Grill or explore the streets of South America, through vibrant Latin flavours at Pachamama.

A Port in a Storm

Reviewed By RobGymeaBay

When a pipe burst in our Rental Property in Edge Hill Cairns, we had to obtain accommodation in this beautiful City and we booked 6 days in Crystalbrooks Bailey Hotel in downtown Cairns. This hotel is one block of the Esplanade and close to walk to the main food and beverage areas. The hotel is a great hotel and is one of the three hotels Crystalbrook own on the Espanade . The others are Flynns and Rileys. All of these have restaurants and bars and swimming pools. Could not fault this hotel.

10. Mirage Whitsundays

Whisper Bay 11 Altmann Ave, Cannonvale, Airlie Beach, Queensland 4802 Australia
Excellent
74%
Good
16%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
3%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 309 reviews

Mirage Whitsundays

Located on the serene waterfront of Whitsundays, in Airlie Beach, Qld, also known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Mirage Whitsundays apartments offer self-contained opulent five star accommodation with uninterrupted view of the Coral Sea and the Whitsunday Islands. We provide luxurious contemporary living, including 3 bedroom apartments, 2 - 3 storey villas and 4 bedroom penthouses, all with unprecedented proximity to the water and uninterrupted views over the Coral Sea and the Whitsunday Islands, it is the ultimate in waterfront living, where your very own front yard is one of the most beautiful places on Earth. With its northerly aspect, Mirage Whitsundays enjoys absolute waterfrontage. Whether you choose an elevated panorama, or a closer ground-level vista, there is no escaping the breathtaking turquoise-tinted, island-dotted views. Watch the spectacle of majestic boats and yachts come and go.

Home from Home

Reviewed By Andrew R

The apartment was luxurious and spacious, fitted with everything needed to make a perfect holiday. views across the bay from a large balcony. Parking onsite is a bit tight for SUVs. but manageable. Dining and Bar options weak, but early in the season so room for improvement. Staff at the breakfast were cheerful and friendly. A bit out of Town but a couple of dinning and drinking options within a 10 -15 min stroll along a boardwalk. Optional pools family friendly or adults only.

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