A $600 million funding boost has redefined this entry point to the Great Barrier Reef in Far North Queensland.
Well-known as a hub for backpackers, Cairns has seen a significant rise in its appeal recently. A $600 million investment from Syrian billionaire Ghassan Aboud, who has established three modern and eco-friendly Crystalbrook Collection hotels in the city since 2018, provided a major boost to the area, prompting numerous other upgrades and renovations.
CAIRNS
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
Perfect for:Families with young children, relaxation enthusiasts, corporate travelers
Featuring the sole swim-up pool bar in Cairns and a spacious lagoon-style pool with a sandy shoreline, this renovated resort makes it simple to get into a holiday rhythm. Children soon form friendships while using the provided beach toys, while parents relax in a cabana or on a day bed enjoying mojitos and margaritas. The resort experienced a multi-million-dollar upgrade in 2019, updating its 314 rooms and suites, along with the Moku Bar and Grill restaurant and Moku Beach Club.
Starting at $220 per night. 122 Lake St, Cairns. Phone: (07) 4080 1888. View novotelcairnsresort.com.au
Crystalbrook Riley
Perfect for: Instagrammers, eco-conscious Infos, families
The first of three eco-friendly and stylish Crystalbrook Collection hotels to debut in Cairns – succeeded by the artisticBaileyand enjoyable, and conveniently located Flynn – this upscale hotel's 12-floor tower is immediately noticeable in the city's skyline. Its 1000-square-metre pool featuring a man-made beach makes it an ideal choice for families. Enjoy a meal at the Esplanade at its Asian-inspired restaurant, Paper Crane; relax at the tropical rum bar and seafood eatery Calypso Club, and enjoy the amazing views from one of the city's highest rooftop bars, Rocco.
From $349a night. 131/141 Esplanade, Cairns. Phone: (07) 4252 7777. View crystalbrookcollection.com/riley
Mercure Cairns
Perfect for: People on a budget who appreciate a touch of elegance Frugal tech enthusiasts with a flair for design Savvy buyers who value both affordability and aesthetics Those looking for cost-effective options with a stylish twist Economical shoppers who don't want to compromise on appearance Individuals seeking affordable tech with a fashionable edge Budget-friendly users who enjoy a bit of class in their gadgets Cost-conscious consumers who love a dash of sophistication
This fashionable four-star hotel is conveniently close to several major attractions, such as the Cairns Aquarium and Cairns Performing Arts Centre, located just a few blocks away from the Esplanade. The former Hotel Ibis Styles was rebranded in early 2022 following a modern renovation, featuring its Queenslander-style design and cane furnishings with palm-patterned cushions in the entrance area, instantly creating a tropical ambiance. The 75-room hotel boasts a stepped pool and a tiled terrace, equipped with round wicker loungers, offering a pleasant spot to relax after a day of exploring.
From $179 per night. 15 Florence Street, Cairns. Phone: (07) 4051 5733. View all.accor.com
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Perfect for:Families and couples traveling to the reef, single travelers, business information
Located just a short distance from Marlin Marina – the starting point for trips to the Great Barrier Reef – this hotel allows you to press snooze at least once on your morning alarm, knowing that a must-visit excursion is waiting. With 255 rooms and suites available, many provide scenic views of the marina or Trinity Inlet, along with the same vistas from its food-centric restaurant, The Backyard. Additionally, guests can enjoy a pool area complete with a sun deck and a bar that serves meals in eco-friendly, biodegradable and recyclable cardboard containers.
From $250. Pier Point Road, Cairns. Phone: (07) 4052 7500. See shangri-la.com
Cairns Harbourside Hotel
Perfect for:Families with limited funds, business information
In terms of cost and convenience, this hotel located on Cairns Esplanade is tough to surpass. Previously known as the Holiday Inn, it's a five-minute drive from the airport, approximately a 25-minute walk along the boardwalk towards the town centre – or you can take the complimentary shuttle bus. The property features 173 rooms and suites, all with a balcony, plus a swimming pool and a vibrant, flower-decorated restaurant called Harbourside Bar & Kitchen. Additionally, families benefit from the fact that children aged 12 and younger can stay and dine at no cost.
From $180a night. 209-217 Esplanade, Cairns. Phone: (07) 4080 3000. View cairnsharboursidehotel.com.au
Little Drifter Cairns
Perfect for: Budget-conscious Infos
Following a multimillion-dollar renovation in early 2025, Little Drifter provides a modern and budget-friendly accommodation option near the main attractions. Formerly called The Village Cairns, this 54-room venue features a combination of smart dormitory-style accommodations and elegant private rooms. The interiors are vibrant and lively, with shared areas that encourage interaction and unwinding. A well-equipped kitchen, a comfortable TV room, laundry services, and free Wi-Fi enhance its attractiveness.
Starting at $60 per night for a shared bunk room and $150 per night for a private queen-sized room. 1/7 Shields St, Cairns. Phone:1800 180 288. See thedrifter.com/cairns
Alivio Hotel Cairns
Perfect for:Fashion-conscious individuals looking for new, environmentally conscious high-end options
Cairns' well-known Sunshine Tower Hotel has transformed into the Alivio Hotel Cairns after a complete renovation by the acclaimed Alivio Group. The 61-room hotel located on Sheridan Street now features a modern, stylish design, including a Mediterranean-themed pool surrounded by blooming frangipanis. The lobby and restaurant area include photo walls that reflect the essence of Tropical North Queensland. Guest rooms provide views of the surrounding hills or beautifully kept gardens, with new glass railings adding a contemporary touch to private balconies. The Lobby Bar and Kitchen offers casual meals and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere. Environmental considerations have also been addressed, with the installation of a 100kW solar system.
From $199. 136 Sheridan St, Cairns.Phone: (07) 4041 1133. See aliviohotelcairns.com.au
BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Cairns Coconut Resort
Perfect for:Lively familiesThe children will enjoy competing against each other on twin waterslides that lead into the pool, playing in the splash zone and cycling pedal carts throughout this fantastic holiday park, located approximately seven minutes' drive from Cairns. This pet-friendly holiday park provides lodging for all budgets, including villas, cabins, apartments and caravan and camping areas. Featuring resort-style pools, a play area, bounce houses, mini golf, basketball court, tennis court and events such as outdoor films, you'll need to convince the kids to leave to explore the Great Barrier Reef.
From $149a night. 23-51 Anderson Road, Woree. Phone (07): 4054 6644. View ingeniaholidays.com.au
PORT DOUGLAS
Silky Oaks Lodge
Perfect for: A love-filled escape or memorable occasion
Picture yourself gently rocking in a hammock on the deck of your own private villa, surrounded by the sounds of the Daintree Rainforest. Or relax in an outdoor bath while looking out at the treetops. Or watch the flowing waters of the Mossman River from the open-air pavilion called Jungle Perch, sipping a sunset drink before enjoying a meal at the Treehouse Restaurant. These are the sorts of experiences you can look forward to at this high-end luxury getaway located in Mossman, north of Port Douglas.
From $1200a night. 423 Finlayvale Road, Mossman. Phone: (07) 4098 1666. View silkyoakslodge.com.au
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Port Douglas
Perfect for: Influencers striving to make an impression on Instagram, families, and couples
Providing high-end experiences such as the ability to walk directly from the pool to your room's balcony, a visit to this coastal resort may resemble being in Bali or the Maldives rather than Australia. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and featuring its own golf course, the 295-room resort offers a bar that is accessible from the pool, a restaurant where you can observe your meal being made in an open kitchen, and a multi-award-winning Harrisons Restaurant.
From $385 per night. 168-190 Port Douglas Road, Port Douglas. Phone: (07) 40995888. See marriott.com
Thala Beach Nature Reserve
Perfect for: Nature-loving couples, special-occasion trips
Immerse yourself in your inner naturalist by staying among the treetops at this eco-friendly retreat, located approximately an hour's drive north of Cairns and 15 minutes south of Port Douglas. Situated on a former sugar cane plantation featuring its own private beach and two free-form pools complete with rock waterfalls and hidden grottos, it provides bungalow-style lodging along with an open-air pavilion restaurant. Keep yourself engaged with butterfly and nature walks as well as stargazing excursions, or simply relax in a hammock beneath a palm tree.
From $562a night. 5078 Captain Cook Hwy, Oak Beach, Port Douglas. Phone: (07) 4098 5700. View thalabeach.com.au
PALM COVE
The Reef House Adults Retreat Palm Cove
Perfect for: Girls' trips, couples, wellness enthusiasts, food lovers
Previously the home of former federal minister Brigadier David Thomson, who entertained notable visitors like Prime Minister Gough Whitlam, this colonial-style, adults-only hotel is located in the relaxed area of Palm Cove, approximately 30 minutes' drive north of Cairns. Begin your day with beachfront yoga, schedule a spa session, take part in a cocktail-making or wine-tasting class, or simply relax by the Mineral or Tranquillity pools, where a pool attendant provides chilled towels and sorbet.
From $1029 for two.99 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove. Phone: (07) 4080 2600. View reefhouse.com.au
Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort and Spa
Perfect for: Couples, families, spa lovers
Located near a large pool and featuring a highly appealing bar at the southern end of Palm Cove, this trendy resort offers a perfect setting for a tropical getaway. Families appreciate the contemporary, roomy apartments, while couples relax with luxurious treatments at Vie Spa, enjoy romantic walks along the beach, and have candlelit dinners at the poolside restaurant Temple of Tastes, where Asian-influenced meals are skillfully made using fresh local ingredients.
From $299 per night. 5 Triton St, Palm Cove. Phone: (07) 4059 9600. Viewpullmanpalmcove.com.au
ISLANDS
Fitzroy Island Resort
Perfect for:Eco-friendly travelers, cost-effective families, friend groups
Hey … care to learn a secret? There's a budget-friendly resort located on a tropical island that's only a 45-minute boat trip from Cairns, featuring one of the most stunning stretches of sand you'll ever see, Nudey Beach (not to be interpreted literally). The island also houses a turtle recovery center, and visitors can sign up for community science excursions led by marine biologists, where they can witness coral nurseries being cultivated to aid in the restoration of the Great Barrier Reef just off the coast.
Starting at $185 per night. Fitzroy Island, Queensland. Phone: (07) 4044 6700. View fitzroyisland.com
Bedarra Island Resort
Perfect for:Honeymooners, couples valuing privacy, enthusiasts of luxury
Isolated, peaceful and exclusively for adults, Bedarra Island Resort represents the height of relaxed luxury. The sole resort on the island, located near the coast of Mission Beach, this small, all-inclusive establishment features only 12 private villas constructed around natural rocks with views of the Coral Sea. Spend your days snorkelling in waters free from stingers, paddling to secluded beaches and having romantic meals on private decks. Although it's very exclusive, it's also very sociable, with guests coming together at a circular table at the bar for drinks before dinner every night.
Starting at $1690 per night. Bedarra Island. Phone: (07) 4068 8233. View bedarra.com.au
Lizard Island Resort
Perfect for: Honeymooners, affluent nature enthusiasts, baby boomers using their children's inheritance
This unique resort located on Lizard Island, at the northern part of the Great Barrier Reef, is pure fantasy. It features 40 suites and villas – some including personal plunge pools – along with a high-end waterfront dining establishment. Request a basket, take out a dinghy, and head to a secluded beach for a lunchtime picnic, ascend to Cook’s Lookout for breathtaking vistas, and visit the Australian Museum Lizard Island Research Station.
From $2516for two per night. Lizard Island, Queensland.Phone: 1800 867 169. See lizardisland.com.au
The Elandra Mission Beach
Perfect for:Specialty enthusiasts, pairs, wedding attendees, and those seeking seclusion
Perched high above the Coral Sea on a hill covered in rainforest, The Elandra on South Mission Beach is a dreamy tropical retreat located just a short drive from the peaceful hideaway of Mission Beach, approximately two hours south of Cairns. Once a popular spot for celebrities that fell into disrepair, the resort has been carefully restored by the owners of Bedarra Island Resort. It now features only a few beautifully renovated, white-washed suites. Mornings start with yoga and end with a cocktail by the stunning infinity pool. It's a cozy, exclusive, and effortlessly stylish place – ideal for romantic escapes or unforgettable destination weddings.
From $590 per night. 23 Explorers Drive, South Mission Beach. Phone: (07) 4054 9300. View elandraresorts.com
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