13 hotels and resorts in Cairns you should know about

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

Whether you’re looking for the luxury of a five-star stay along the iconic Cairns Esplanade, a stylish haven in the heart of the city centre or perhaps an award-winning resort in the peaceful community of Palm Cove, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to Cairns hotels and resorts.

From beachfront escapes to urban retreats, Cairns in Tropical North Queensland offers something for every kind of traveller.

Check out our list below to discover some of the best hotels and resorts in Cairns and find the perfect place to lay your head in this thriving tropical destination.

1. Crystalbrook Riley

the pool at Crystalbrook Riley, Cairns hotels
The five-star Crystalbrook Riley resort features a spacious lagoon-style pool spanning over 1,000 square metres. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Best for: Stylish sustainability

Part of the five-star Crystalbrook Collection portfolio, Crystalbrook Riley is a luxury resort situated on Cairns Esplanade with a huge focus on its environmental responsibility. Inside the beautiful yet sustainably modern rooms, choose between feature views of the Cairns city skyline, the iconic Cairns Lagoon, or spectacular Coral Sea views.

With luxury in mind, bring out the best of yourself at the resort’s Eléme Day Spa ahead of rooftop cocktails and share-style Mediterranean food at Rocco or tastes of Asia with a playful spin at Paper Crane .

Location: 131 – 141 Esplanade, Cairns City

Average price: $$$$

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2. Crystalbrook Bailey

the bed at Crystalbrook Bailey, Cairns hotels
Bed down at Crystalbrook Bailey. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Best for: Appreciation for the arts

The second member in the Crystalbrook trio is the innovative Bailey, known for celebrating individuality and artwork of every description. Its goal is to make art accessible, inclusive and empowering for all, so you’ll find dedicated display areas and exhibitions, as well as paint-and-sip classes, poetry recitals or live graffiti sessions.

When you’re ready for a bite to eat, transport your taste buds to the rugged Australian outback at CC’s Bar and Grill . Pet-friendly rooms are also available.

Location: 163 Abbott Street, Cairns City

Average price: $$$$

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3. Crystalbrook Flynn

The Reef Eye views from Crystalbrook Flynn, Cairns hotels
Crystalbrook Flynn offers incredible views of the esplanade. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Best for: Fun and flair

Last but not least of the Crystalbrook trio is the life of the party, Crystalbrook Flynn. From glass swimming pools and DJ sessions to direct access to the esplanade, this social butterfly wants to put on a show, so be prepared to be entertained.

Feast on pub classics alongside live music at Boardwalk Social , enjoy a sophisticated Italian spread at Flynn’s Italian , or treat yourself to some of the best whiskey and wine in Cairns at Whiskey & Wine . When you’ve had enough of the limelight, retreat to your deluxe city views room.

Location: 85 Esplanade, Cairns City

Average price: $$$$

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4. Hilton Cairns

Best for: Business trips

With first-class business facilities, an executive lounge, a mix of rooms and suites to choose from and a fitness centre, a stay at Hilton Cairns is perfect for those dropping into Cairns for work.

Peckish? Grab a delicious continental or buffet breakfast at its onsite Cafe Sunrise, taste the tropical flavours and freshness of the region at Signature Restaurant, or sip your way through the extensive collection of gins and craft beers at Gin Social.

Location: 34 Esplanade, Cairns City

Average price: $$$$

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5. Oaks Cairns Hotel

the rooftop Oak & Vine restaurant at Oaks Cairns Hotel
Enjoy rooftop drinks at Oak & Vine restaurant. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Best for: Simple luxury with rooftop drinks

For a sprinkle of luxury on the simpler side, consider staying at Oaks Cairns Hotel. While you won’t find a pool or balcony here, the rooms are modern and comfortable and are priced at an affordable rate on Cairns Esplanade.

The hotel’s main attraction is the rooftop Oak & Vine restaurant, serving up breakfast and share plates daily, showcasing modern Australian cuisine As the sun sets over the Coral Sea, the terrace transforms into a lively cocktail bar where you can take your pick of signature cocktails, fine wines, craft beers and botanical gins with spicy tonics.

Location: 59 – 63 Esplanade, Cairns City

Average price: $$$

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6. Mantra Trilogy Cairns

a balcony with sea view at Mantra Trilogy Cairns
Stay in a spacious room with ocean views. (Image: Mantra Trilogy Cairns)

Best for: Large groups and families

Looking for a hotel the whole family can enjoy? Mantra Trilogy offers spacious, open-plan rooms — some with fully-equipped kitchens and laundry facilities. Kids will love the lagoon-style swimming pool (with ocean views!) and children’s wading area, and there’s a 25-metre lap pool and onsite gym for the adults to enjoy too.

When you’re ready for lunch, hit the outdoor BBQ facilities before wandering to the nearby attractions along the esplanade.

Location: 101/105 Esplanade, Cairns City

Average price: $$$

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7. Pacific Hotel Cairns

Best for: Accessible rooms

Enjoy a stay in one of the accessible rooms at Pacific Hotel Cairns, which carry a tropical paradise theme. Fitted with features that cater to every guest, there’s a wider doorway, lower benches, a walk-in shower, handrails, a specialised toilet, and elbow-operated taps.

For dinner, head downstairs to Bushfire Flame Grill , an award-winning Brazilian-inspired restaurant serving a unique Australian BBQ-style experience where the theatre of the kitchen is brought to your table.

Location: 43 Esplanade, Cairns City

Average price: $$$

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8. Pullman Cairns International

a couple walking inside Pullman Cairns International
Pullman Cairns International mirrors the architectural style and grandeur of the city’s past. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Best for: Spoiling yourself

Pullman Cairns International offers the ideal fusion of convenience and comfort in the city. Its rooms are the largest in Cairns at over 40 square metres and mirror the architectural style and grandeur of the city centre’s illustrious past. The Deluxe Room Harbour View, which has plenty of natural light and stunning views of the harbour, is our top pick. From here, you can watch the boats return from a day of exploring the Great Barrier Reef.

For an extra treat, stop in for a massage at Vie Spa before indulging in a delicious high tea experience .

Location: 17 Abbott St, Cairns City

Average price: $$$$

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9. Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

a woman relaxing by the pool at Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Relax by the pool with a fresh mojito. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Best for: Exceptional service and seascape views

Receiving worldwide recognition for its legendary hospitality, the five-star Shangri-La Hotel is known for its warm welcome (there’s a complimentary shoeshine service for one) and luxury accommodation.

Each room features a private balcony overlooking either Trinity Bay, Marlin Marina or a tropical garden. Relax by the swimming pool with a fresh mojito or sample the flavours of Tropical North Queensland in their waterside restaurant, The Backyard , serving modern Australian cuisine.

Location: Pier Point Rd, Cairns City

Average price: $$$$

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10. Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

a couple inside their room at Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
Each guest room is spacious with its own private balcony. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Best for: Cairns’ only swim-up pool bar

Treat yourself to five-star resort-style accommodation in the heart of Cairns at Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort. There’s a range of bright guest rooms to choose from — each with its own private balcony or terrace with views overlooking either the lagoon pool, the hotel’s tropical gardens or Cairns city. With its sandy lagoon-style pool with a fun swim-up bar, guests can relax by the pool with a drink in hand.

For sustenance, head to Moku Bar & Grill for drinks and daily specials, including 1kg of Buffalo wings for $23.

Location: 122 Lake Street, Cairns City

Average price: $$$

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11. Cairns Harbourside Hotel

a couple relaxing in the pool at Cairns Harbourside Hotel
Laze by the outdoor pool with spa at Cairns Harbourside Hotel. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Best for: Kids stay and eat free

Located on Cairns Esplanade, check in to paradise at the family-friendly Cairns Harbourside Hotel for relaxed holiday vibes all year round. Unwind with cocktails on tap by the outdoor pool with spa, enjoy a moment of serenity in the lush secret garden, taste the local produce at the on-site Harbourside Bar & Kitchen and take advantage of the free shuttle bus to the Central Business District and night market.

Location: 209-217 Esplanade, Cairns City
Average price: $$$

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12. Alamanda Palm Cove by Lancemore

a woman relaxing at the infinity pool with a backdrop of palm trees at Alamanda Palm Cove by Lancemore
Soak up the picturesque Coral Sea from one of the pools. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Best for: Direct beach access

Alamanda Palm Cove by Lancemore is the only resort in Tropical North Queensland with direct beach access, making it easier than ever to unwind.

If you’re looking to drop and flop, join a beach yoga class or relax by one of the three pools (choose between family-friendly and adults-only options), indulge in a treatment at the hotel’s famed L. M. Spa, or dine at the fabulous Nu Nu beachside restaurant nearby.

Location: 1 Veivers Road, Palm Cove

Average price: $$$$$

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13. The Reef House Adults Retreat

a Japanese-style pool at The Reef House Adults Retreat
Take a relaxing dip in the Japanese-style pool. (Image: The Reef House Adults Retreat)

Best for: A couple’s retreat

Another Palm Cove favourite is The Reef House, the perfect adults-only getaway for a peaceful stay in Cairns. On arrival, you’ll be greeted with a gin-infused drink, and that’s just the start.

Enjoy award-winning dining on the deck overlooking the beach at Reef House Restaurant , rejuvenate in the tranquillity and heated mineral pools, join in on the daily wellness and interactive classes (including cocktail mixing and wine tasting) or relax with cruiser bikes, chess sets, the guest library, or complimentary sketch pads.

Location: 99 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

Average price: $$$$$

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If spacious houses and apartments are more your style, here are some of the dreamiest Airbnbs in Cairns to call home.

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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What it’s really like to stay on the world’s largest sand island

    Kassia ByrnesBy Kassia Byrnes
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    Exploring the world’s largest sand island starts with the perfect K’gari homebase.

    The morning light is still soft, but it’s already a perfect sunny day. We left our K’gari homebase at Kingfisher Bay Resort  with our guide, Peter Meyer, at 9 am to make the most of our time to explore all that the world’s largest sand island holds. The size of K’gari is hard to grasp until you arrive here. This is no sandbar. Stretching 120 kilometres, unique lakes, mangrove systems, rainforest, 75 Miles of beach, historic shipwrecks, small townships and even one of Queensland’s best bakeries are all hidden within its bounds.

    But first, one of the island’s most iconic sights: the pure silica sand and crystal clear waters of Lake McKenzie.

    Laying eyes on it for the first time, I’m finally able to confirm that the photos don’t lie. The sand is pure white, without the merest hint of yellow. The water fades from a light halo of aqua around the edges to a deeper, royal blue, the deeper it gets (not that it’s particularly deep, six metres at most). The surface remains surprisingly undisturbed, like a mirror.

    Arriving with our guide before 10 am means that no one else is around when we get here. Which means we have the pleasure of breaking the smooth surface with our own ripples as we enter. As a self-confessed wimp with chilly water temperatures, my fears are quickly assuaged. Even in the morning, the water stays around 23 degrees – perfect for lazing about all day. But we have more sights to see.

    Exploring K’gari

    ariel of in lake mckenzie on k'gari fraser island
    Relax in the warm waters of Lake McKenzie. (Image: Ayeisha Sheldon)

    This was the Personalised 4WD tour offered by Kingfisher Bay Resort, and my absolute top pick of experiences. Over the course of the day, we had the freedom to create our own bespoke itinerary (plus a provided picnic lunch along the way), with an expert guide who had plenty of stories and local expertise to give context to what we were looking at. From the history of the SS Maheno shipwreck, which survived the First World War only to be washed ashore by a cyclone in 1935, to a detailed description of how an island made of sand could sustain such diverse flora.

    If it’s your first time to K’gari, the Beauty Spots Tour is another great option. Departing daily from Kingfisher Bay Resort (you’ll start to notice a trend, as many of the tours do start and end here), an air-conditioned, 4WD bus takes guests to the island’s most iconic locations, including the best places to swim, like Lake McKenzie and Eli Creek. The latter offers a gentle current, perfect for riding with a blow-up tyre out towards the ocean.

    The next day, for a look at a completely different side of K’gari, I joined one of Kingfisher Bay Resort’s Immersive Ranger-guided tours to kayak through the mangroves of Dundonga Creek. This long, snake-like stretch of creek winds its way inland from the ocean outlet we entered by, at times too narrow for three kayaks to be side-by-side. Small insects buzz from leaf to leaf, while birds call overhead. Occasional bubbles indicate we’ve passed some fish that call this place home.

    kayak tour through the mangroves at k'gari island
    Learn about the island’s mangroves from your Ranger. (Image: Reuben Nutt/ TEQ)

    If kayaking isn’t for you – or if, like me, you simply want more – other ranger-led experiences include nature walks and a dedicated Junior Eco Ranger Program for kids ages five to 12 (these run every weekend, and daily over the peak December holidays). Just ask for a timetable of upcoming tours when you check in.

    While during whale season, Hervey Bay Whale Watch & Charters operates tours from the hotel’s jetty to get up close to the famous Humpback Highway of Hervey Bay, from 7 November to 31 May, attention turns to the Aqua Oasis Cruise . Departing from the resort every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday for resort guests, adventure along the island’s remote western coast, pointing out wildlife like dolphins, turtles, flying fish and eagles along the way.

    The cruise drops anchor so guests can jump into the water using the boat’s equipment – from SUP boards to inflatable slides and jumping platforms. Then refuel with a provided lunch, of course.

    Unwind at sunset

    two people drinking cocktails at sunset bar, kingfisher bay resort
    Unwind at the Sunset Bar. (Image: Sean Scott)

    As much as days on K’gari can be filled with adventure, to me, the afternoons and evenings there are for unwinding. Sunsets on K’gari are absolutely unbelievable, with Kingfisher Bay on the west side being the best spot to catch the colours.

    The Sunset Bar , located at the start of the resort’s jetty and overlooking the beach, is the ultimate location for sundowners. Let chill beats wash over you as you sip on cool wines, beers and cocktails in a relaxed, friendly vibe. Personally, a cheese board was also absolutely called for. As the sun sinks, the sand, sea and horizon turn a vibrant shade of orange, with the jetty casting a dramatic shadow across the water.

    When the show is over, head back to the hotel for dinner at the Asian-fusion Dune restaurant, or the pub-style Sand + Wood. But if your appetite is still whetted for more lights and colours, the evening isn’t over yet.

    Settle into the Illumina stage for Return to Sky, an immersive light and sound show leading viewers on a captivating journey through K’gari’s stories and landscapes.

    Indulge and disconnect

    woman setting up massage room at kingfisher bay resort Island Day Spa
    Find bliss at Island Day Spa. (Image: Jessica Miocevich)

    Of course, there is a type of traveller who knows that balance is important, day or night. While Kingfisher Bay Resort offers more than one pool for guests to spend all day lounging by (they’ll even serve you food and drinks while you do it), you’ll find me at the Island Day Spa.

    The masseuses could match the magic hands of any big city spa, and I felt the warm welcome as I walked into the light, breezy reception. Choose from a range of botanical facials, beauty treatments and soothing massages using traditional techniques (obviously, I couldn’t go past a relaxing massage). All products used contain organic, native botanical ingredients with nutrient-rich plant extracts to soothe skin and mind. To really indulge, try out one of the packages, couples treatment or even a pre-wedding day offering.

    Getting there

    kingfisher bay resort 4wd tour driving passed ss maheno on k'gari island
    The world of K’gari awaits. (Image: Jessica Miocevich)

    Getting to K’gari is shockingly easy. Find daily flights into Hervey Bay from Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. Kingfisher Bay Resort offers a shuttle bus between the airport, their headquarters in Hervey Bay and the ferry to take you to K’gari.