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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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From reef to rainforest: Discover the best Port Douglas experiences

(Credit: TTNQ)

    Lucy Cousins Lucy Cousins
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    Ancient rainforest, coral reefs, laid-back luxury and adrenaline-fuelled adventures, Port Douglas offers a side of Australia unlike anywhere else.

    Mornings in Port Douglas start with a beautiful symphony. As day breaks, the lyrical calls of Rainbow Lorikeets, cries of the sulphur-crested cockatoos and rhythmic Coral Sea waves create a colourful soundtrack for Tropical North Queensland’s sunrise. If there’s one place in Australia that captures the sweet spot between luxury and laid-back living, it’s here. This small, seaside village has just enough glamour to feel indulgent and just enough barefoot charm to make you feel like you’ve escaped the chaos of everyday life.

    Whether you’re diving into the warm waters on Four Mile Beach or enjoying an ice-cold drink and a Barramundi burger overlooking the marina, Port Douglas offers more than just a seaside holiday.

    Local gourmet goodies

    Nautilus restaurant port douglas
    Nab an open-air table beneath a canopy of palms at Nautilus. (Image: Toby Stanley)

    The tropical food scene in Port Douglas is influenced by the rich agricultural regions surrounding it, with fresh produce arriving daily from nearby farms and tropical growers across the region. At Nautilus – a hidden, palm-fringed restaurant just off Macrossan Street – the menu showcases regional flavours. Its Signature Nautilus Mango Soufflé is a long-time favourite.

    Nearby, Hi-Tide by the Beach offers a relaxed way beachfront dining experience overlooking the Coral Sea. From crocodile and lemon myrtle spring rolls to wild barramundi and a volcanic hot stone steak, taste the diverse flavours of Tropical North Queensland.

    Visitors can also explore the region’s local markets. Port Douglas Markets offers artisan products and tropical treats each Sunday, while the Saturday morning Mossman Markets is the place for fresh local produce from the surrounding farming community.

    Just outside of Port Douglas, Ospreys at Thala Beach Nature Reserve has one of the region’s most memorable dining outlooks. Perched on a small headland between rainforest and sea, take in views across the coastline and mountains while you dine. The seasonal menu highlights local seafood, tropical fruits and native ingredients sourced from across the region

    Travelling with young humans

    Hartley's Crocodile Adventures port douglas
    Catch a spectacle at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. (Credit: TTNQ)

    Port Douglas caters for all types of visitors, but families especially love the walkable streets, wide beaches and range of activities nearby. An attraction that never fails to delight all ages is Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures – a wildlife sanctuary and ecotourism park with some of the region’s largest crocodiles. Here, you’ll also find koalas, cassowaries, turtles and other Australian wildlife.

    For something slower paced, sit back and enjoy a tranquil visit aboard the historic Lady Douglas River Cruise. Glide along the calm waters of Dickson Inlet, keeping an eye out for birdlife and estuarine crocodiles along the mangroves. Children can take part in activity sheets onboard and even have the opportunity to help steer the boat.

    This region is also deeply connected to Indigenous culture, and a Dreamtime Walk is one way to learn about it. Discover the stories, traditions and connection to Country of the local Kuku Yalanji people from local Indigenous guides, while exploring the rainforest and waters of Mossman Gorge.

    Exploring local waterways

    Coya Beach port douglas
    Walk along the peaceful Cooya Beach. (Credit: TTNQ)

    Join a guided tour with Walkabout Cultural Adventures to explore the peaceful Cooya Beach. Led by deeply knowledgeable local Aboriginal guides, try seasonal local bush tucker, take in the beautiful landscape and gain insight into the history, culture and traditions of this land.

    Surrounded by dense canopy and ancient species, nearby Hartley’s Creek Falls are at their finest after rain. These beautiful falls are reached via a lush rainforest walk that winds through creek crossings, towering greenery and moss-covered boulders.

    To swim where the locals swim, head out past local farms and into the foothills of the Mossman River to Shannonvale – a low-key freshwater swimming hole surrounded by sun-warmed rocks and deep pockets of clear water. It’s a quiet area to spend a few hours retreating from the world.

    Adrenaline adventures

    Sailaway Port Douglas
    Take to the ocean with Sailaway Port Douglas. (Credit: TTNQ)

    One of the most high-octane ways to enjoy the nature of Tropical North Queensland is white-water rafting down the impressive Barron River. With Grade two and Grade three rapids, expect plenty of splashing, some teamwork, and a few moments where everyone in the raft screams and laughs at the same time.

    Join Back Country Bliss for the most unique floating experience you’ll ever encounter. Head into the rainforest and float along the serene Mossman River on your individual board, taking in the sights and sounds of the ancient landscape around you.

    If you prefer ocean swimming, Sailaway Port Douglas explores the idyllic Low Isles and the outer reef on their snorkelling tours. Enjoy the Great Barrier Reef from above or below and look out for coral gardens, giant clams, colourful reef fish and, if you’re lucky, sea turtles.

    For land-lovers, the Devil’s Thumb is a challenging but rewarding hike with incredible views over the coast and endless cane fields. This 10km return hike will take around six to eight hours, so leave a whole day and pack snacks!

    Experiences that give back

    Skyrail Rainforest Cableway port douglas experiences
    See the rainforest from above on The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. (Credit: TTNQ)

    With two UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites – the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics of Queensland rainforest region – it’s not surprising Tropical North Queensland is a hub for eco-tourism. The stunning Daintree Ecolodge was founded on the principles of minimising environmental impact, supporting the local community and teaching guests about the local Indigenous culture. Their elevated rainforest-style ‘bayans’ are tucked among the trees, bringing nature into every part of a guest’s stay.

    Further down the coast, the luxury bungalows and treetop hideaways of Thala Beach Nature Reserve are dotted across 45 acres of protected headland, forest and beach. The property’s design intentionally preserves large areas of native vegetation and beachfront ecosystem, while conserving the surrounding habitat. The private beach and various swimming pools offer a cool retreat from the heat of the day, while the main lodge offers the perfect place to read and relax.

    The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, a 7.5-kilometre cableway between Cairns and nearby Kuranda, has won multiple tourism and environmental awards. It’s also the first tourism attraction in the world to achieve Platinum EarthCheck Accreditation, for its long-term environmental management and sustainability initiatives.

    Start planning your Port Douglas adventure at tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au.