The dreamiest Airbnbs in Cairns to call home

Jemma FletcherBy Jemma Fletcher
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Settle into one of these stylish Airbnbs on your next tropical escape.

With so much natural beauty to see and explore in Tropical North Queensland, finding the perfect accommodation to rest and recharge in is a must. Basing yourself in an Airbnb in Cairns is ideal for longer stays as they’re affordable, offer great amenities and the option to work and play if you wish, and provide those familiar home touches we love.

From soaking in your own private hot tub to getting cosy in a tiny house in the rainforest, settle into one of these top 10 Cairns Airbnbs.

1. Seaside Azul

the pool at Seaside Azul, Airbnb Cairns
Cool off in the rooftop pool at Seaside Azul.

Best for: City centre location

Just a 15-minute stroll to Cairns Esplanade and directly next to Cairns Central Shopping Centre, the cosy Seaside Azul studio is for those who want to stay close to the action.

After waking up in the king-sized bed and whipping up a Nespresso machine coffee, head up to the shared rooftop pool and spa, complete with alfresco dining and sun loungers, where you can enjoy the balmy weather and views of the city.

Location: Cairns City

Average price: $$

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2. Sky High

a private tub with a view at Sky High, Airbnb Cairns
Soak up the views from your private tub.

Best for: Private hot tub
From the moment you walk through the chic front doors of Sky High, you’ll be greeted by views of Cairns City from your balcony which is superbly positioned at sunrise.

Equipped with a full kitchen, laundry facilities, and two bedrooms, the main attraction is your very own private hot tub. Pop some bubbles and enjoy.

Location: Bayview Heights (10 minutes from Cairns City)

Average price: $$$

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3. Rainforest Sunsets

a bedroom with nature views at Rainforest Sunsets, Airbnb Cairns
Immerse yourself in nature at Rainforest Sunsets.

Best for: Romantic mountain escape

For a romantic escape that feels like camping but offers much more luxury, get out of the city and head to the mountain village of Kuranda for a stay at Rainforest Sunsets.

This tiny house is perfect for holidaymakers looking to immerse themselves in nature, yet want a comfy bed, shower, and coffee on hand too. In the evening, light up the outdoor fire pit and watch the spectacular sunset views overlooking rolling green hills.

Location: Kuranda

Average price: $$$

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3. Maison Daintree

an aerial view of Maison Daintree, Airbnb Cairns
Be surrounded by lush greenery at the tranquil, three-bedroom Maison Daintree.

Best for: Comfort and space

Close to Cairns Botanic Gardens is Maison Daintree, a three-bedroom home with an elegant design and spacious layout.

The outdoor space is equally impressive, featuring a private pool complemented by a meticulously landscaped garden that provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Location: Whitfield

Average price: $$$

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4. Coral Sea View

a Coral Sea View Airbnb in Cairns with a pool and balcony
Enjoy the elevated pool at Coral Sea View.

Best for: Close to the beach

Just one street back from the beach is Coral Sea View with plenty of space for up to four people, an elevated pool to enjoy and a balcony with magnificent views. Location is everything here, being a short 5-minute stroll to the restaurants and shops of Trinity Beach.

Location: Trinity Beach

Average price: $$$

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5. Pura Vida

an aerial view of Pura Vida, Airbnb Cairns
Take in the coastal beauty of Cairns at Pura Vida.

Best for: Coastal luxury

Found in the coastal town of Palm Cove, Pura Vida is a modern four-bedroom home with a private in-ground pool and outdoor entertaining area.

With its minimalist design, high ceilings, and walls of glass that seamlessly connect the indoor and outdoor areas, this stunning property creates a sense of freedom and endless space.

Location: Palm Cove

Average price: $$$$

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7. Stoney Treehouse

an Airbnb in Cairns with nature views at Stoney Treehouse
Be surrounded by tropical rainforest at Stoney Treehouse.

Best for: Nature-lovers

Nestled along the serene waters of Stoney Creek is Stoney Treehouse , surrounded by tropical rainforest. Just a short drive from Cairns yet wonderfully tranquil with waterfalls and hiking trails on your doorstep, it’s the perfect base for adventure and relaxation.

Location: Stoney Creek

Average price: $$$$

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8. Belle Escapes Cairns

the pool at Belle Escapes Cairns
Head straight to the pool for a refreshing dip at Belle Escapes Cairns.

Best for: Perfect for two couples

Another incredible Airbnb option in Palm Cove is Belle Escapes, a tropical haven in the exclusive Oceans Edge neighbourhood.

With three tranquil bedrooms, an alfresco area set around a pool, and only footsteps away from the vibrant Williams Esplanade, you’ll never want to leave. For an additional charge, guests can also access the Ocean Edge Health Club with a fully equipped gymnasium, 25-metre lap pool, sauna, crèche and cafe.

Location: Palm Cove

Average price: $$$$$

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Discover the unmissable things to do in Cairns

Jemma Fletcher
Based in sun-kissed Brisbane, Jemma Fletcher is an accomplished writer, editor and content manager. Armed with a Bachelor of Journalism from The University of Queensland, as well as over a decade of tourism marketing experience, Jemma now specialises in freelance travel writing and has a soft spot for the beauty of Queensland. Her expertise has been honed through her previous roles as Chief Editor of Queensland.com and WeekendNotes.com and she is the passionate creator of High Cup of Tea, an online directory celebrating Australia's finest high tea experiences. After growing up in the UK (hence her love for tea and scones) and a delightful chapter in Sydney, Jemma loves to explore quaint towns with a rich history. Also high on her weekend list is tasting the local cafe scene, enjoying charming farm stays with her young family and deciding where her next travel adventure will be (half of the fun is in the planning!)
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The ultimate 8-day Brisbane to Port Douglas road trip itinerary

    Lucy CousinsBy Lucy Cousins
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    Explore some of Australia’s most stunning coastlines on this epic route.

    This scenic, 1800-kilometre Brisbane to Port Douglas road trip takes in some of Australia’s most beautiful landscapes, from the wildlife on Bribie Island to the rainforests of Far North Queensland. Our advice? Slow it down, take your time and really get to know this part of Australia.

    Day 1: Brisbane to Noosa

    Wake up in the luxurious Sofitel Brisbane Central , enjoy a hot buffet breakfast and a swim in the outdoor pool before hitting the road to travel north. Take the exit to Bribie Island to view the abundant wildlife.

    aerial view of bribie island
    Enjoy the beauty and animals of Bribie Island. (Image: TEQ)

    In the afternoon, check into Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas hidden near Noosa National Park and spend the afternoon relaxing at the luxury Aqua Day Spa. Daredevils can book a seat on an Ocean View Helicopters tour and experience the adrenaline of exploring the Glasshouse Mountains from the air.

    Before dinner, head to the Original Eumundi Markets just 25 minutes away or explore the nearby trails in the national park. For dinner, book a table at Park & Cove located just near your hotel and feast on a locally-sourced menu that changes with the seasons.

    table spread at Park & Cove Novotel Sunshine Coast
    Refuel at Park & Cove.

    Day 2: Noosa to Bundaberg

    Wake up to sounds of the rainforest outside your window and take the opportunity for a quick swim before you dive into a freshly cooked buffet breakfast at Park & Cove. After breakfast and an expertly brewed coffee, stroll down the hill and spend the morning shopping along Hastings Street in the various boutiques, or hire a kayak or surfboard and conquer the waves.

    After lunch, head north for the three-hour drive to historic Bundaberg . If you feel like feeding a kangaroo or wallaby, visit the Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary . Once in Bundy, head to Spitter’s Farm just outside of town. This 160-acre property offers a unique experience in their deluxe glamping safari tents, where you can listen to the cows mooing as the sun sets.

    baby kangaroo at australian wildlife Sanctuary
    Say hello to the adorable creatures of Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. (Image: Jewels Lynch)

    Day 3: Bundaberg to Rockhampton

    Before getting back on the road, take time to visit the many museums, and, of course, the famous Bundaberg Rum Distillery for a tour. Then head to the Beef Capital of Australia, Rockhampton.

    Although, ‘Rocky’ is surrounded by beef cattle farms, your first stop should be to the impressive Rockhampton Museum of Art , which features an art collection valued at over $16 million. Rest your head at the centrally-located Mercure Rockhampton overlooking the mighty Fitzroy River. Grab a quick swim in their outdoor pool before enjoying a steak at their in-house restaurant.

    Rockhampton Museum of Art
    Take it all in at Rockhampton Museum of Art. (Image: TEQ)

    Day 4: Rockhampton to Mackay

    Grab a strong coffee at your hotel and drive the short distance to the nearby Capricorn Caves for a morning tour of these natural limestone beauties. Then hit the road for the four-hour drive to Mackay.

    Reward yourself with a swim in the large, resort-style pool at the Mantra Mackay . Overlooking the marina, it’s the perfect location from which to explore the city, before enjoying a sundowner and dinner at the popular Latitude 21 on the hotel terrace.

    woman exploring the Capricorn Caves in queensland
    Explore the Capricorn Caves. (Image: TEQ)

    Day 6: Mackay to Townsville

    Grab your breakfast to go, then head just out of town to Finch Hatton Gorge. Here, spend the morning ziplining 25 metres above the rainforest floor with Forest Flying . Head to Airlie Beach for lunch and a swim in the famous Airlie Beach Lagoon , before heading north to Townsville.

    Hop on a 20-minute ferry – they leave regularly – and check into the stunning Peppers Blue on Blue Resort . Spend the evening swimming in their two pools with views across the private marina to Mount Cook National Park, before feasting on fresh seafood at their on-site restaurant, Boardwalk Restaurant and Bar.

    aerial view of beach at Airlie Beach queensland
    Dive into the crystal clear waters around Airlie Beach. (Image: TEQ)

    Day 7: Townsville to Cairns

    After a morning swim on one of Magnetic Island’s beautiful beaches, hop back on the ferry and travel north to the sleepy Mission Beach for lunch. You’ll be sandwiched by rainforest on one side, and the beach on the other.

    Continue on to Cairns and check in at the centrally-located Novotel Cairns Oasis, where the lagoon-style pool and swim-up bar alone is worth the visit. Or continue north for 25 minutes to the coastal village of Palm Cove.

    Once there it’s a tough choice between the luxurious, five-star Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple, or the beautifully designed Peppers Beach Club and Spa Palm Cove , where the pool has its very own beach.

    two people in deck chairs by Novotel Cairns Oasis' lagoon-style pool
    Relax by Novotel Cairns Oasis’ lagoon-style pool.

    Day 8: To Port Douglas

    No matter where you spent the night, your journey to Port Douglas will be one of the most scenic road trips you’ll ever experience. Following the coastline, travel past champagne-coloured beaches, offshore islands and submerged reefs, before rolling into town at Port Douglas.

    Although you’ll be spoilt for choice with hotels, two of the best are Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas, which is closer to town (think stunning pool and walking distance to Macrossan Street) and the famous, five-star Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa , located a little further down the beach. If the 3000-metre-squared lagoon-style pool isn’t enough at this hotel, you’ll also find the exclusive Vie Spa and popular restaurant, Aluco Restaurant & Bar , widely known as being one of the finest restaurants in Port Douglas.

    aerial view of pool at Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple
    Revive from road-tripping in one of the best pools in Port Douglas.

     Start planning your Queensland adventure at all.com.