Top Hotels in Cairns Resorts
10 Resorts in Cairns: Best hotel deals for 2023
Cairns is the perfect city for merry revelers, passionate divers and adrenaline junkies, offering booming nightlife and heart-pounding adventure amid a vibrant, tropical setting. This friendly Queensland city of 130,000 is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree National Park, Cape Tribulation, Cooktown and the rest of Cape York Peninsula. Embark on an eco-adventure or take a dip in a lagoon pool before hitting the town to unwind and shake what you’ve got Down Under.
Restaurants in Cairns
1. Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 259 reviews
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 dianalQ7730LCAwesome 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. Mantra Esplanade Cairns
Overall Ratings
4 based on 2448 reviews
Just steps away from the Cairns Swimming Lagoon and offering sweeping ocean, city and mountain views Mantra Esplanade offers a range of Hotel Rooms to fully self-contained One and Two Bedroom Apartments, featuring air conditioning, a balcony, cable TV, hair dryer, internet access (fee), iron and ironing board, and tea and coffee making facilities. Onsite facilities include 24 hour reception desk, tour desk, swimming pool, spa (not heated), exercise room and barbecue area. In the evening, stroll down the Esplanade to the night markets where you'll find souvenirs, aboriginal art work, crafts, homewares and jewellery. Cairns is a nature lover's paradise and the gateway to the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef, as well as the Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation. Take the SkyRail cable car and glide above the spectacular rainforest canopy to the laid-back market town of Kuranda. Catch the Kuranda Scenic Railway back to Cairns to enjoy more breathtaking scenery. 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 location.
Reviewed By MRKSL1984Great location. Easy walking distance to many local sites, shops and restaurants. comfortable stay. Very welcoming entrance. The outlook from this hotel is very good and provides you the genuine sense of being in the tropics.
3. Hilton Cairns
Overall Ratings
4 based on 3026 reviews
Located in the heart of the city, the Hilton Cairns hotel is the perfect base for exploring the diverse wonders of this truly unique region, famous as the meeting place of two natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef and World Heritage Rainforest. Our modern and inviting Cairns hotel rooms and suites are luxurious oases of comfort and convenience, offering pristine bathrooms and spacious balconies with views of Trinity Inlet or Cairns Esplanade and the unique cityscape and blue-green mountain ranges beyond. The large lagoon style pool has ample deck chairs and umbrellas, soft seating spaces and a Pool Bar with cold beverages and light bites and snacks.. Enjoy relaxed, al fresco dining at the award-winning Mondo on the waterfront, or discover modern, refined dining in Signature Restaurant. Experience modern, tropical, paradise today!
Probably more expensive than needed.
Reviewed By cameron hMy husband and I stayed here for a few nights. We got a Waterview Delux king. The view was lovely, and the balcony, though small was well laid out with chairs to sit in. The bed was comfy and the room had an expresso pod machine. There was plenty of storage. It is located on the Trinity inlet,close enough to the city to enjoy yourselves but not close enough to get the noise from crowds. The downsides The bathtub/shower combination was tiny and un-useable as a bathtub. The bathroom light switch was outside the bathroom, next to the front door rather than the bathroom door making it annoying to use in the middle of the night. The soundproofing was inadequate, with plenty of outside noise making it into the room. I have only stayed in a Hilton once before and feel the price I paid may have been paying for the hotels name rather than the room. Whilst there is a nice indoor garden in the centre of the hotel, it is unusable and I am unhappy to pay the same price I did at this stay in the future.
4. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
Overall Ratings
4 based on 2796 reviews
Boasting uninterrupted views of the Coral Sea, and a stunning natural setting amidst landscaped tropical gardens, the oceanfront DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns is just a short walk from the city center, and Cairn's business, retail and entertainment districts. The hotel overlooks the picturesque Cairns Esplanade, and is just moments from Cairns Lagoon and Cairns Casino. Enjoy easy access to Cairns Convention Center and lots of attractions, including the World Heritage listed Daintree Tropical Rainforest and the Atherton Tablelands. The Great Barrier Reef departures terminal is 100m away, and Cairns International Airport is only 10 minutes' drive from our Cairns hotel. Our onsite tour desk will help you explore the wonders of this unique region.
Solid property with good location
Reviewed By nldogbertFor Hilton group hotels, although there's 2 in the area, this was the only property with a reasonable price for room to accommodate 3 adults for 3 nights. [I did walk by the Hilton Resort which is closer to the habour/yacht area, it did not look too appealing at least from the exterior as the building did look rather dated - like the Shangri-La next to it]. In the end I made the right choice for the price-quality I received. Location The property is located about 10-15 mins drive from the airport and about 10 mins walk to the downtown area. Cairns itself it's not too big excluding the suburbs - making lots of touristic attractions and activities from this property all walkable. The hotel is situated sea front, and just across the street is the start of the seafront promenade and lots of shops and F&B outlets close by. The nightmarket is situated about 5 mins walk from the property. There's ample street parking around the hotel and I was also offered complimentary parking as an Elite member, which was a nice touch. Check In I arrived at the property around 5 pm, where I luckily just missed the chaos of a tour group which arrived before me. I was called forward immediately by the Duty Manager that afternoon. Although there was no upgrade given (I guess due to the specific room I had) - I was given a room with a partial view of the sea and on the highest floor (without a balcony). I was also given a run down of the amenities and facilities of the property - which seemed to be just coming out from all the different restrictions related to the pandemic. I was also informed of in my opinion quite a generous breakfast offering. Outside of that, I was provided the usual Doubletree choc cookie (seems the hotel is proud of this cookie as they had a large cookie as a wall decoration) The whole check-in process was efficient and friend, with a feeling of being warmly welcome to the property and not seen as just another guest a small gesture but a big impact. Therefore a very good initial feeling of the property. Room The hotel seems to have 2 different locations for the lifts, one situated within the check-in/main building area and the other is outside of the main building in one of the connecting bridges between the 2 (round) shaped buildings. It was clear that the building is on the older side - and this was also reflected of the room - it did seem it was partially refurbished, however, still some obvious indication of the age of the building (late 80's/90's style). The room size was ok - with two double beds in the room, the real estate of the room was clearly fully used up. Other than that, the furnishing was in good state and functional - with a long table, a desk chair and a small sitting area (for one). There was coffee/tea making facilities and an (empty) minibar. There were 4-5 bottles of water provided (the usual Mount Franklin brand). View of the room was partially towards the waterfront area and the other half towards the hotel next. Other than that, the blackout curtains was good - especially since the sun does rise quite early. Sleep quality was good - with close to no interior/exterior noise disturbance. The climate control worked well - just slightly on the noisier side even on low fan speed, but it's expected for this older building. Internet speed was in general sufficient and stable - throughout the property. The TV as expected was on the older (and smaller side). The channel select was in general mainly Australian local channels with a few international options. The bathroom was on the smaller side and it's also one of the most obvious part of the room which showed the age of the property. There was a bathtub which functioned as the shower area with a fixed glass separation. The toiletries were the usual crabtree and evelyn. With this type of shower area, the floor as expected did get wet. The shower pressure and temperature control was sufficient. Breakfast Breakfast is served in the main restaurant of the property - it starts from 0630 during the workweek, which is good especially for those joining the tours out to the reef which usually starts from 0800. On the first 2 days, the hostess was efficient in processing of the guests (who is eligible and who not), however on the last day, with another hostess, it was quite a mess - as it seems she did not have the correct breakfast list or she was just not organized, as she needed to call the front desk after every 1-2 guests which caused a line to build up even that early in the morning. Outside of that, there was a good offering and selection for both hot and cold dishes. There was a small area which seems to be (for the 3 breakfast I had) catered specifically for the Indian clientele, which did not seem to change from day to day, as it seems to be more or less the same options. There was also a fresh juicer which guests can make their own fresh juice/smoothie. And as like most of the Doubletree's in Australia (based on other Doubletrees) - specialized coffee was not complimentary but requires additional payment. (it was at least Barista made and not from a coffee machine). As for eggs, I am not sure if there was any made to order option, as I was not informed about that and the breakfast team were always quite busy. Used plates and glasses were removed efficiently. All in all, the breakfast offering was sufficient for a Doubletree and quality was ok. Pool The hotel has smallish pool at the back of the hotel - with the water temperature at least for me on the colder side. It was a mix of being busy and quiet on different times of the day. There was a hot tub - which seems to be quite busy most of the time. Also in the pool area, it was showing the age of the hotel - although it was still functional, but not the most luxurious (or in current age and time, instagrammable place). One of good thing is that the hotel has an happy hour every day from 4-6 pm every day which is also valid at the pool bar. There is no service at the pool bar, however there's a small counter where orders are taken. Towels are freely available for use. Service Service from the different associates and housekeep was very good and friendly. All the different associates met and which I interreacted with were helpful and always warm. Overall All in all, I would say despite the property being on the older side, this is a very solid property at least from price-quality point of view. Recognition of elites was good in my opinion. Only complain like all the other Hilton properties in Australia is again the additional charge for using credit card for payment - when there's no options for guests (because they have all gone cashless). I would recommend this property for those looking for something decent, not too flashy/expecting luxury and clean when in Cairns.
5. Cairns Plaza Hotel
Overall Ratings
4 based on 1395 reviews
3 1/2 star Hotel located about 2 blocks from center.
Filthy bathroom, tired rooms and overpriced! Don't stay here!!
Reviewed By tubsy27We were advised on check in that ocean front rooms were not available as they were fully booked. The room cleaner showed us a room that had been vacant for a few days!!! We again checked and requested to pay for an upgrade if necessary and again we were advised that the hotel was fully booked??? The shower recess was full of mould and the floor tiles were oozing grime. I had to request that a cleaner come and scrub the floor tiles in the shower recess, which in fairness they did, however, the shower recess should not have been in that condition, especially with covid! Staff generally unfriendly and the hotel charged $2 non-refundable for pool towels! They took $100 from my credit card on arrival and said it would be reversed upon check out, two days later I received an alert from my bank advising that it had not been reversed. I had to request the reverse on two occasions. At the time of writing this review it still had not been reversed. I have better things to do than chase sloppy operators for their inefficient work practices. We left feeling like we had been treated like refugees, rather than full paying guests! I suggest that you give this hotel a miss or be prepared to be bitterly disappointed. Everything was a bother to staff and upon checkout we weren't asked if we had a pleasant stay and we were hardly spoken to for our entire stay. Very disappointing!
6. Cairns Colonial Club Resort
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 973 reviews
The Cairns Colonial Club Resort is a self-rated four-star low-rise Resort property situated on 11 acres of award-winning tropical gardens. It features 5 different room categories and 345 rooms in total. Dive into one of the 3 lagoon-style pools, enjoy a cocktail or a variety of dining options at "Thirsty Flamingo Poolside Bar & Dining." Squeeze some sand beneath your toes on the man-made beach. Please note - our "CLUB" Swim-up Bar operates seasonally until further notice. Other facilities include a fully equipped Conference Centre with a beautiful Garden Gazebo, perfect for any wedding or celebration. With a Guest Lounge, Tour Booking Office, and high-speed WI-FI, Cairns Colonial Club has the facilities to be your home away from home whilst you are in Cairns. All major tour operators pick up and drop off at the Resort, making it easier to explore the wonderful attractions that Cairns and Tropical North Queensland has to offer. It is easy to see why the Cairns Colonial Club is known worldwide as the premier leisure resort in the region.
Quiet room away from the main areas
Reviewed By misscandleStayed for only one night after 4 days on the Great Barrier Reef diving and was pleasantly surprised with the quality of the room we were in. (Room 411) First floor witha small verandah overlooking a loverly garden. Our room was towards the rear of the resort overlooking lush tropical gardens well away from the main pool and playground and as such was very quiet.. A second pool was nearby which looked very inviting. The Resort is big and very much designed as a family resort with an emphasis of entertaining children, ie. Playground and main pool with slides and beach area and a big screen which operated after dark. We had breakfast and dinner at the pool side restaurant/bar area which was very nice. Only downside is that it is a distance from Cairns CBD and other eating options requiring you to drive anywhere.
7. Reef Palms
Overall Ratings
4 based on 771 reviews
Welcome to Reef Palms, your Cairns “home away from home.” Reef Palms aims to make your visit as relaxing and enjoyable as possible, which is why so many guests continue to come back year after year. For those interested in checking out popular landmarks while visiting Cairns, Reef Palms Hotel is located a short distance from McLeod Street Pioneer Cemetery (0.5 mi) and St Monica's Cathedral (0.9 mi). Rooms at Reef Palms offer a flat screen TV, air conditioning, and a refrigerator providing exceptional comfort and convenience, and guests can go online with free wifi. A pool and breakfast will also help to make your stay even more special. If you are driving to Reef Palms, free parking is available. If you’re looking for a Mediterranean restaurant, consider a visit to Villa Romana Trattoria, Piato, or Cafe Strada, which are all conveniently located a short distance from Reef Palms. If you are interested in exploring Cairns, check out one of the art galleries, such as Cairns Art Gallery, Doongal Aboriginal Art, and Underart Gallery. Reef Palms puts the best of Cairns at your fingertips, making your stay both relaxing and enjoyable.
Stay away
Reviewed By Melissa MVery disappointed. Upon walking through the dirty corridor to get to my room I began to worry. This poor standard of cleanliness was maintained through the apartment as well. Plates with bits of food scraps in the cupboard, glasses with lip marks still on them, stove top covered in crumbs and food splatters all over kitchen walls although this was consistent with the dirty walls throughout. Floors, including carpet, sticky to the point I would not take my shoes off inside. The bottom sheet of the hard, creaky bed was too small to cover the mattress leaving my feet on the mattress protector and only 1 cotton sheet on top leaving me cold throughout the night (winter stay). There was a blanket in the cupboard but I was too scared to touch it. Flannel, hair and empty shower products left in the shower from the previous guest. I sat on the leather couch which had paint splatters all over and was overwhelmed by the musty, mouldy smell that I chose to sit on a chair to watch the tv. After a sleepless night I left this apartment tired and feeling dirty. I was too tired from travelling to complain while I was there but now feeling stronger I wish I had of although it would have taken hours to have it cleaned to an acceptable standard.
8. Tropical Heritage Cairns
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 554 reviews
Taxi service is available approx $20 each way between airport and hotel. Pool is basically large Spa. Internet is available at reception and wifi available throughout hotel. All rooms have tea/coffee making facilities, fridge, flat screen TV, en-suites and air conditioning . All rooms recently refurbished. We look forward to your visit to Cairns.
Great Budget Hotel
Reviewed By Tony MAlthough old and somewhat tired, it was clean but had the friendliest staff. Less than 10 minute walk into Cairns Esplanade it was a good choice for a short stay whilst we had so many touristy option available.
9. Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 1832 reviews
At Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns you will discover three superb resort swimming pools, two tennis courts, a complete complimentary health & fitness center — all these facilities set within the lush tropical surround. Located conveniently on the Esplanade, our Cairns accommodation is within walking distance to a vast array of Cairns’ finest shopping and dining facilities. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Coral Sea, tropical mountains, or Cairns City from your private balcony in one of our guest rooms. Planning to stay for a while? Our serviced apartments are equipped with kitchens and offer the comfort of home away from home.
Quality Hotel
Reviewed By kevincon3Great friendly staff and a well appointed clean room with a view. Sensational pool area and a very good restaurant that has a happy hour. In a very good location with an easy walk to shops and restaurants. Parking is available at a reasonable cost. Highly recommended.
10. Palm Royale Cairns
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 622 reviews
Escape To Palm Royale Cairns Cairns, Queensland. A world away from the everyday and within minutes of everything that Cairns has to offer – that’s the beauty of Palm Royale Cairns, not to mention its attentive service, fabulous guest rooms, choice of pools and magnificent landscaped gardens. Mediterranean architecture blends seamlessly with the tropical environment of Cairns. Set against azure skies and an emerald backdrop of rainforest clad mountains, the exterior shrouded in lush greenery provide the perfect foil and beckon (as the Italians say) Amare la Vita…or ‘love of life’. Having successfully captured the tropical spirit of Cairns and its wonderful climate, Palm Royale Cairns is an inviting palm fringed oasis of aqua swimming pools and shady gardens. Laze the days away on sun-drenched terraces or retire to the air-conditioned comfort of your room after a day visiting the Great Barrier Reef, World Heritage Listed Rainforest or outback. * AIRPORT & CITY Transfers at nominal FEE
Great stay in Cairns
Reviewed By Gordym9Great value for money and very clean rooms with good showers, lovely pool area would highly recommend to anyone coming to Cairns on a holiday. Friendly staff on premises as well. Close to the city centre and quick airport transfer too and from.
