8 picture-perfect Cairns resorts for stays in 2021 | Finder
finder.com.au

8 picture-perfect Cairns resorts to book for 2021

Lose yourself in the top accommodation options tropical north Queensland has to offer.

cairns hotel
Avatar
Tamara Medojevic
Posted
Fact checked

We’re reader-supported and may be paid when you visit links to partner sites. We don’t compare all products in the market, but we’re working on it!

Thinking of heading up to the northern end of our sunshine state? Want a slice of luxury that makes you feel a million miles away? Well, you're in luck because these are the resorts that will have every kind of holiday-maker sorted.

Our top picks for Cairns resorts

shangri

1. Shangri-La Hotel The Marina Cairns

Situated in the heart of Cairn's bustling CBD area, the Shangri-La is within 10 minutes from the Reef Casino and Esplanade Lagoon. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are sorted with the hotel's restaurant and an abundance of local cafes.

  • Star rating: 5 stars.
  • Cost: Mid price range*
  • Features: Swimming pool, fitness centre, gardens, children's pool, 24-hour reception, babysitting services, ballroom, gift shop and express check in/out.
  • Why do we love it? Bask in incredible views from the rooftop terrace.
Check availability

novotel

2. Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

Staying at the Novotel in Cairns means taking your pick from soaking up the sun by the pool or by the private beach. Yes, you heard that right, this tropical resort features its own shoreline that guests can spend their days relaxing on.

  • Star rating: 4.5 stars.
  • Cost: Low price range
  • Features: Swimming pool, massage parlour, fitness centre, tennis courts, garden, water activities, children's pool, gift shop and 24-hour reception.
  • Why do we love it? Close proximity to Cairns main attractions, including the esplanade.
Check availability

rydges

3. Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns

Indulge in picturesque mountain views and being within walking distance to all of Cairns hotspots. Rydges on the Esplanade features multilingual staff, two dine-in restaurants and customisable services to make your stay that much easier.

  • Star rating: 4 stars.
  • Cost: Low price range
  • Features: Swimming pool, fitness centre, tennis court, garden, sauna, jacuzzi, gift shop, ballroom and express check in/out.
  • Why do we love it? Do something a little different with a unique horse-riding experience.
Check availability

mantra

4. Mantra Esplanade Cairns

If you're after quick and easy access to everything Cairns has to offer, look no further than the Mantra Esplanade. This resort-style accommodation is the perfect spot if you want to give your credit card a bit of a workout, given the plethora of shops nearby.

  • Star rating: 4 stars.
  • Cost: Mid price range
  • Features: Swimming pool, fitness centre, 24-hour reception, luggage storage, Wi-Fi, free parking, dry cleaning and wake-up services.
  • Why do we love it? Previous travellers have highlighted the location, private balconies and accommodating staff.
Check availability

cairns

5. Cairns Colonial Club Resort

Nestled in Manunda, the Cairns Colonial Club Resort makes you feel like you're encased in Queensland's rainforests. This kid-friendly stay offers a children's pool, water slides, playground and rooms specially designed for families.

  • Star rating: 4 stars.
  • Cost: Low price range
  • Features: Swimming pool, salon, gardens, 24-hour reception, multilingual staff and luggage storage.
  • Why do we love it? Guests who have stayed here have raved about the in-house bar and restaurant.
Check availability

cairns hotel

6. 201 Lake Street

Let the busyness of reality fall away entirely as you unwind poolside. After a day of sightseeing, come back to a fully air-conditioned apartment to re-energise followed by dinner at the picnic area.

  • Star rating: 4.5 stars.
  • Cost: Mid price range
  • Features: Swimming pool, garden, tour desk, Wi-Fi, free parking and on-site picnic areas.
  • Why do we love it? The rooms feature sizable balconies that are perfect for having breakfast before heading out.
Check availability

paradise cairns hotel

7. Paradise on the Beach Resort Palm Cove

Under half an hour from Cairns airport, Paradise on the Beach is just as the name suggests. Hosting a luxury outdoor setting, you can enjoy the sun poolside or on your own private balcony.

  • Star rating: 4 stars.
  • Cost: Low price range
  • Features: Swimming pool, tour desk, gardens, wake-up service, luggage storage and Wi-Fi.
  • Why do we love it? Honeymooners have the option to upgrade to the specialised suite for their stay.
Check availability

cairns hotel

8. Palm Royale Cairns

This tropical oasis sits in Manunda, which conveniently neighbours North Cairns. You'll be a short drive from the Lake Morris Reserve and the Mount Whitfield National Park. The resort also offers easy attraction bookings through the tour desk.

  • Star rating: 4 stars.
  • Cost: Low price range
  • Features: Swimming pool, jacuzzi, children's pool, gardens, tour desk, free parking and 24-hour reception.
  • Why do we love it? Its tropical style ensures guests feel a million miles away.
Check availability

*Price ranges include low: $150 and below, mid: between $150 and $290 and high: $300 a night and above.

Where should I stay at a resort in Cairns?

One of the great things about Cairns is that everything is quite close in distance, so you can't go wrong with location. We recommend looking at the following areas:

  • North Cairns: Otherwise known as the heart of Cairns, this is where to book if you want to be in the city centre. Tourists and locals alike can enjoy walks down the esplanade or have a shop in one of the many local stores.
  • Palm Cove: Situated north of Cairns CBD, Palm Cove features its renowned tree-lined shore, water sports, beach clubs and close proximity to the Kuranda National Park.
  • Trinity Beach: If you're after a quieter escape up north, Trinity Beach is a great option. We recommend spending your days by the beach or exploring the Barron Gorge National Park.

Still looking for the right Cairns Resort? Browse for more here:

Latest Cairns travel deals:

WotifWotif

Up to 53% off Australia-wide getaways

Available on select travel dates in 2021. Destinations include Cairns, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Sunshine Coast, Sydney, Brisbane and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal

Deal ends

Trip.comTrip.com

Up to 46% off Australia stays + Extra $50 off with code

Available on stays until 31 December 2021. Destinations include Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Hobart, Cairns, Darwin, Canberra and more. Minimum spend of $250 required. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Show code

Coupon code ends

Booking.comBooking.com

Up to 15% off Australia hotels

Available on stays from 1 April - 30 September 2021, including Easter weekend, on select hotels. Destinations include Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Cairns and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal

Deal ends

Luxury EscapesLuxury Escapes

Up to 50% off Australia holiday packages

Available on select dates until December 2021, including over Christmas and New Year's Eve. Destinations include Adelaide, Gold Coast, Byron Bay, Sydney, Cairns, Canberra, Hunter Valley and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal
Lastminute.com.auLastminute.com.au

Up to 43% off domestic getaways

Available on select dates in 2021, plus get free cancellation with select hotels. Destinations include Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Cairns, Brisbane, Townsville, Adelaide, Canberra and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal
RedBalloonRedBalloon
Exclusive

Extra $10 off Australia getaway packages

Available on select travel dates when you spend a minimum of $300. Destinations include Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Blue Mountains, Cairns, Canberra and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Show code
GrouponGroupon

Up to 73% off getaways

Available for travel on select dates to Sydney, Sunshine Coast, Adelaide, Brisbane, Launceston, Newcastle, Noosa Heads, Cairns and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal
Expedia.com.auExpedia.com.au

Up to 40% off Australia stays + free cancellations

Available on select travel dates to Broome, Mackay, Launceston, Darwin, Perth, Cairns, Sydney, Gold Coast and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal

More guides on Finder

Ask an Expert

You are about to post a question on finder.com.au:

  • Do not enter personal information (eg. surname, phone number, bank details) as your question will be made public
  • finder.com.au is a financial comparison and information service, not a bank or product provider
  • We cannot provide you with personal advice or recommendations
  • Your answer might already be waiting – check previous questions below to see if yours has already been asked

Finder only provides general advice and factual information, so consider your own circumstances, or seek advice before you decide to act on our content. By submitting a question, you're accepting our Terms of Use, Disclaimer & Privacy Policy and Privacy & Cookies Policy.
Go to site