hero media

The dreamiest Airbnbs in Cairns to call home

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

Looking for the best Airbnb in Cairns? From luxury Palm Cove villas and beachfront apartments to rainforest retreats and tiny houses hidden in the hills of Kuranda, these standout stays offer a memorable base for exploring Tropical North Queensland.

From soaking in your own private hot tub to getting cosy in a tiny house in the rainforest, these Cairns Airbnbs offer something for every type of tropical getaway.

In short

If you only stay at one Airbnb in Cairns, make it Spring Haven Kuranda – Rainforest Garden Retreat. Combining a peaceful rainforest setting, contemporary cabin design and an outdoor bath beneath the trees, it perfectly captures the laid-back luxury of Tropical North Queensland.

Best city stay: Seaside Azul
Best pet-friendly stay: Central Cairns • Pet Friendly • Walk to Esplanade
Best family Airbnb: Maison Daintree
Best beach escape: Coral Sea View
Best luxury villa: Pura Villa
Best nature retreat: Stoney Treehouse

Good to know: Most Airbnbs featured below include free parking and self-contained facilities, making them ideal for longer stays. While some are in Cairns City, others are found in nearby Edge Hill, Palm Cove, Trinity Beach, Kuranda and the surrounding rainforest.

Seaside Azul

Seaside Azul Airbnb Cairns
Cool off in the rooftop pool.

Best for: City-centre convenience

Airbnb status: Superhost property

Just a 15-minute stroll to Cairns Esplanade and directly next to Cairns Central Shopping Centre, the cosy Seaside Azulstudio 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: From $250 per night.
Insider tip: Head up to the rooftop pool just before sunset for city views without the crowds.

Central Cairns • Pet Friendly • Walk to Esplanade

Central Cairns • Pet Friendly • Walk to Esplanade Airbnb
The relaxed deck flows into lush tropical gardens.

Best for: Pet-friendly stays

Airbnb status: Superhost property, Guest Favourite and Top 5% of homes

Travelling with your four-legged friend? This charming cottage offers the best of both worlds, combining a peaceful setting with a location close to Cairns’ restaurants, cafes and attractions. Tucked away just moments from the Esplanade, it features a spacious rear deck, lush tropical gardens and a fully equipped kitchen, making it easy to settle in for a few days.

Guests can borrow the complimentary bicycles to explore the nearby waterfront and bikeways, while the pet-friendly policy means no member of the family has to miss out on the holiday.

Location: Cairns City
Average price: From $280 per night
Insider tip: Borrow the complimentary bikes and head to the Esplanade early in the morning when the waterfront is at its most peaceful.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

AI Prompt

Maison Daintree

Maison Daintree Airbnb Cairns
This holiday home in Cairns offers a spacious wooden deck.

Best for: Spacious family stays

Airbnb status: Superhost property and Guest Favourite

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 and a meticulously landscaped garden that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Location: Whitfield
Average price: From $550 per night
Insider tip: The Cairns Botanic Gardens are only a few minutes away and make an easy morning outing before the tropical heat sets in.

Rainforest Sunsets

Rainforest Sunsets Airbnb Cairns
Immerse yourself in nature at Rainforest Sunsets.

Best for: Romantic mountain escape

Airbnb status: Superhost property and Guest Favourite

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 while still enjoying a comfy bed, hot shower and coffee on hand. In the evening, light up the outdoor fire pit and watch the spectacular sunset views overlooking rolling green hills.

Location: Kuranda
Average price: From $280 per night
Insider tip: Arrive before golden hour and settle in by the fire pit – the sunset views are one of the property’s biggest highlights.

Spring Haven Kuranda – Rainforest Garden Retreat

Spring Haven Kuranda – Rainforest Garden Retreat Airbnb Cairns
Soak up the views from your private bath.

Best for: Luxury couples’ escapes

Airbnb status: Superhost property, Guest Favourite and Top 1% of homes

Tucked away in a lush rainforest garden just five minutes from Kuranda Village, Spring Haven is the kind of Airbnb designed for slowing down. This contemporary one-bedroom cabin combines modern comforts with a peaceful natural setting, complete with wildlife encounters, leafy outlooks and an outdoor bath made for long soaks beneath the trees.

Fully self-contained and thoughtfully designed for privacy, it’s an ideal choice for couples looking to switch off and reconnect while still being within easy reach of Kuranda’s markets, cafes and attractions.

Location: Kuranda
Average price: From $250 per night
Insider tip: Pack a bottle of wine and make time for an evening soak in the outdoor bath – it’s one of the property’s standout features and the perfect way to unwind after exploring the village.

Weekly travel news, experiences
insider tips, offers, and more.

Coral Sea View

Coral Sea View Airbnb Cairns
Enjoy the elevated pool at Coral Sea View.

Best for: Close to the beach

Airbnb status: Superhost property and Guest Favourite

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: From $300 per night
Insider tip: Trinity Beach is generally quieter than Palm Cove, making it a great choice if you’re after a more laid-back coastal stay.

Pura Villa

Pura Villa Airbnb Cairns
Embrace coastal luxury in this stunning four-bedroom home.

Best for: Coastal luxury

Airbnb status: Superhost property and Guest Favourite

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

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

Location: Palm Cove
Average price: From $800 per night
Insider tip: Pick up supplies from nearby Clifton Village and make the most of the outdoor entertaining area and private pool.

Stoney Treehouse

Stoney Treehouse Airbnb Cairns
Be surrounded by tropical rainforest.

Best for: Nature lovers

Airbnb status: Superhost property, Guest Favourite and Top 5% of homes

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: From $690 per night
Insider tip: Bring reef shoes if you plan to explore Stoney Creek and nearby swimming holes.

Looking beyond Airbnb? Explore our complete guide to Cairns accommodation for hotels, resorts, apartments and family-friendly stays across Tropical North Queensland.

Want to see more stories from Australian Traveller in your Google search results?

  1. Click here to set Australian Traveller as a preferred source.
  2. Tick the box next to "Australian Traveller". That's it.
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!)
View profile and articles
Guest room at hilton palm cove cairns resort and spa
Cairns

Palm Cove is getting a breezy new resort just steps from the beach

The much-loved tropical destination is set to gain a new resident with The Hilton Palm Cove Cairns Resort & Spa.

Read more
a woman walking by the pool at Crystalbrook Flynn, best accommodation in Cairns
Cairns

The ultimate guide to the best accommodation in Cairns

Accommodation in Cairns is as diverse as its landscape, so you can afford to be choosy on your next sojourn to Tropical North Queensland.

Read more
a balcony with sea view at Mantra Trilogy Cairns
Cairns

13 hotels and resorts in Cairns you should know about

Your go-to list on where to spend your next luxury escape in Cairns.

Read more
a private tub with sea views at Drift Palm Cove accommodation
Cairns

The absolute best accommodation in Palm Cove to try now

Your go-to guide on where to find Palm Cove accommodation to suit all budgets.

Read more
hero media

9 experiences in and around Noosa you haven’t tried yet

    Lee Mylne Lee Mylne
    Continue
    Noosa’s magic extends beyond the sun and sand. Uncover this popular region’s natural charms and secret spots to get more from your visit.

    Wander through bushland and paperbark forests, linger on a curve of quiet beach, hit the water or hike up a mountain. Whether you’re seeking long languid lunches, savouring the region’s best food and wine, are ready to rejuvenate or are up for an active adventure, there are Noosa experiences for everyone.

    Winter is the perfect time to visit – it’s still warm enough to bask in Queensland’s sunshine and mild temperatures while discovering the natural beauty and sustainable experiences that make this region so popular. It’s easy to see why Australian Traveller readers voted Noosa Australia’s top town to visit.

    1. Explore the hinterland

    Two women kayaking during a Noosa experiences.
    Kayak through Noosa’s peaceful hinterland.

    Choose your Noosa experience – kayaking, abseiling, rock climbing, camping or hiking – with Noosa-based Adventure Tribe. They host guided experiences throughout the region, including in Rainbow Beach, Cooloola and the stunning Noosa Everglades.

    Small group tours with Joel’s Journeys combine hinterland villages with wine and cheese or chocolate tasting, a gourmet lunch, waterfalls, the Everglades and memorable views.

    Plan ahead for the Great Noosa Trail Walk. This 56-kilometre three-day trek into the Noosa Biosphere will help you reconnect with nature over the October long weekend.

    2. Accommodation to suit all budgets

    The bedroom at Elysium Noosa Resort noosa experiences.
    Book into Elysium Noosa Resort. (Image: Elise Hassey)

    Indulge in luxury at one of Noosa’s premium resorts or bring the family for a laidback beach-focused holiday. Anywhere you choose will mean you’re never far from the vacation vibes of Hastings Street.

    The recently rebranded Elysium Noosa Resort has given new life to one of the most central spots in Noosa Heads, while Number One in Hastings Street offers a range of luxury one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and exclusive penthouse suites, surrounded by the national park and boutique shopping.

    Families will love the space and pools of Mantra French Quarter Noosa. Over at RACV Noosa Resort, a water park and games room compete with the beach for the kids’ attention while adults indulge in the day spa or hit the tennis court or gym.

    For couples, Noosa Blue Resort’s studios and one-bedroom suites have sweeping river, bay and hinterland views from its perch atop Noosa Hill. With two outdoor heated pools, spa, steam room, yoga studio and more, it’s the complete package.

    Travelling on a budget? Halse Lodge offers heritage-listed colonial-style accommodation for backpackers and budget travellers without sacrificing style or comfort, and is just a few minutes’ walk from the beach. Family-friendly Ivory Palms has three pools, a children’s playground, jumping pillow, tennis courts and more.

    3. Reset and rejuvenate

    the massage bed at Sensaura Day Spa, Noosa experiences
    Unwind with spa treatments at Sensaura Day Spa.

    Banish stress, slow down and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Noosa while indulging in pampering treatments. Reset and recalibrate with packages from one of the many day spas – try Sensaura Day Spa Noosa or Noosa Springs Spa.

    Noosa Bespoke offers three thoughtfully designed packages that focus on wellness, active adventures and fresh local produce, all with a focus on sustainability, allowing guests to choose their own way of discovering Noosa.

    For something different, try forest bathing and take a walk in Noosa National Park.

    4. New dining experiences

    Cibaria Noosa experiences
    Enjoy authentic Italian at Cibaria Noosa. (Image: Elise Hassey)

    Stroll Hastings Street to find your own dining vibe. For authentic Italian, head to Cibaria Noosa for everything from a coffee and pastry to amazing pasta and seafood platters.

    Over in Noosa Junction, try something lighter at Atelier Wine Bar. Taste a selection of bar food and platters including charcuterie, cheeses, oysters and more. Then finish off with ‘dessert in a glass’.

    Order out or dine in at Somedays Pizza, where all the ingredients for the organic, wood-fired pizzas are sourced from local farmers, artisans and winemakers.

    5. Where the locals eat

    Rickys River Bar And Restaurant noosa experiences
    Enjoy waterfront views at Rickys. (Credit: Manuel Freudenmann)

    Perennial favourites Bistro C, Season Restaurant Noosa and Sails are absolute beachfront dining options overlooking Laguna Bay. You can almost feel the sand between your toes as you enjoy some of the finest cuisine on offer.

    Locale Noosa’s seasonal Italian menu features handmade pasta, traditional antipasti and delectable desserts. On the riverfront, Rickys River Bar and Restaurant has been luring the locals for years; come for the elegant setting and fabulous food and wine, and stay for the sunsets.

    6. Spot humpback whales

    humpback whale sighting noosa experiences
    Spot whales from May to October. (Credit: The Edit Suite)

    There are plenty of great places to watch the gentle giants of the sea make their annual migration from Antarctica to the warm waters of the Queensland coast between May and October.

    To see whales at play and teaching their calves to breach and tail slap, head to Hell’s Gates or Dolphin Point in Noosa National Park, or to one of the many vantage points along the coast from Sunshine Beach to Peregian Beach. For closer encounters, book a whale-watching boat tour.

    7. Take a country drive

    Three people walking towards Pomona during a Noosa getaway.
    Sample craft spirits at local distilleries.

    Download the Noosa Country Drive map from the Visit Noosa website, or pop into the visitor information centre for a printed copy, then jump in the car to explore craft breweries, gin distilleries, bookshops, country pubs, scenic lookouts and cute cafes.

    Through the villages of Cooroy, Pomona, Eumundi, Cooran and Kin Kin, look out for local markets and galleries for that special souvenir. Want to stay longer? There are farm stays, boutique B&Bs and glamping tents to rest your head. Take time to go horse riding or mountain biking, ride a steam train or explore a small museum. And don’t forget to pick up some fresh produce from a roadside stall.

    8. Explore the eastern beaches

    Sunshine Beach near noosa
    Visit Sunshine Beach, just minutes from Noosa. (Credit: Amy Higg Photo)

    Noosa’s near neighbour beaches, Peregian and Sunshine, are just a short drive south. Peregian Square has boutique shopping, vintage finds, homewares, day spas and antiques, and weekend markets are held twice a month in the beachside park.

    Drop into the Peregian Beach Hotel for a meal and live music, or head to the Sunshine Beach Surf Life Saving Club for views of the patrolled beach. Grab a coffee or juice at plastic-free Sunshine Social and linger on the deck under the pandanus trees.

    9. Discover the Noosa River

    A scenic boat trip during a Noosa getaway.
    Discover Noosa from the water on a scenic boat trip.

    Taking time out on the Noosa River is a serene way of exploring more of this region. Whether by canoe or kayak, a small boat or scenic boat trip, being on the water gives a new perspective on Noosa.

    Head to Terrace Marina for small boats and great coffee, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and jet skis to explore independently, or join Noosa River Cruise Co for a romantic gondola ride.

    At sunset, board the Noosa Queen to cruise along the river – cool drink in hand – to the shores of Lake Cooroibah.

    Start planning your Noosa getaway at visitnoosa.com.au.