The dreamiest Airbnbs in Cairns to call home

Jemma Fletcher 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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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.