13 hotels and resorts in Cairns you should know about

Jemma Fletcher 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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Exploding supernovas & gold fever: discover the past at this outback Qld town

    Kassia Byrnes Kassia Byrnes
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    Under wide-open outback skies, discover a fossicking gem that’s managed to slip under the radar.

    While the name Clermont may feel new to even the most intrepid traveller, its gilded history stretches back centuries. You’ll find it just off the highway, humming quietly under the hazy veil of Queensland’s outback sun. It’s here, hemmed in by mountains and perched atop soil heavy with the earth’s treasures, that one of Australia’s most accessible outback adventures awaits.

    Thanks to deposits of gold, copper and gemstones – souvenirs left by exploding supernovas and the heave of tectonic plates – Clermont became a centre point of Queensland’s Gold Rush. And now? Australia’s fossicking capital is yours to discover.

    Getting there

    car driving along Capricorn Way in queensland
    Take a drive through Queensland’s Mackay Isaac region. (Image: Sean Scott/ TEQ)

    You’ll find Clermont in Queensland’s Mackay Isaac region. To get here, it’s an easy three-hour drive over sealed roads from Mackay. Or, if you’re heading from the Sapphire Fields of Emerald, the drive will carve out just over an hour from your day.

    Whether you’re road-tripping through outback Queensland or just tracing your way through all that Australia has to offer, Clermont is remote but easily accessible.

    Best accommodation in Clermont

    Theresa CreekDam in clermont
    Camp by Theresa Creek Dam. (Image: Riptide Creative/ TEQ)

    All accommodation comes with a generous helping of country hospitality here. The choice is yours between modern hotels, parking up the camper or pitching a tent.

    Theresa Creek Dam lies just outside town. Begin each day with crisp country air and bright outback sunrises. Spend the night under the sparkling country stars and your days out on the dam fishing or kayaking. Even if you aren’t camping, be sure to save space in your itinerary for an afternoon on the red dirt shore.

    To stay closer to town, opt for a central hotel to base yourself between exploring and fossicking, like Smart Stayzzz Inn and Clermont Country Motor Inn .

    Things to do in Clermont

    three people on a tour with Golden Prospecting
    Join a tour with Golden Prospecting.

    One does not visit Clermont without trying their hand at fossicking. There are strict rules when it comes to fossicking, so stick to areas dedicated for general permission and make sure you obtain your license beforehand. Try your luck at McMasters , Four Mile , Town Desert, McDonald Flat and Flat Diggings . To increase your odds, sign on for a tour with the expert team at Golden Prospecting . They’ll give you access to exclusive plots and expert advice along the way.

    Once you’ve tried your luck on the gold fields, head to the Clermont Township and Historical Museum . Each exhibit works like an archaeologist’s brush to dust away the layers of Clermont’s history. Like the steam engine that painstakingly relocated the entire town inch by inch to higher ground after it was decimated by flooding in 1916. See the tools that helped build the Blair Athol mine, historic fire engines, shearing sheds and all sorts of relics that make up Clermont’s story.

    The historic Copperfield Chimney offers a change of pace. Legend has it that fossickers found a solid wall of copper here, over three metres high, kick-starting Queensland’s first-ever copper mine.

    Bush Heli Services flying over clermont queensland
    See Clermont from above with Bush Heli Services. (Image: Riptide Creative/ TEQ)

    For hiking, nearby Dysart is the best place to access Peak Range National Park. Here, mountainous horizons stretch across the outback as if plucked from another world. Set off for a scenic drive along the Peak Downs Highway for access to countless geological wonders. Like the slanting rockface of Wolfang Peak. Summit it, and you’ll find yourself looking out across a scene surely conjured up by Banjo Paterson. Dry scrub dancing in the warm breeze, grazing cattle, eucalypts and the gentle creak of windmills. Don’t miss visiting Gemini Peaks, either, for one of the park’s best vistas, and a blanket of wild flowers after rain.

    Then, take to the skies with a scenic helicopter tour with Bush Heli-Services . Shift your perspective and cruise above all the sights from your trip. Spots like Lords Table Mountain and Campbell’s Peak are best viewed from the skies.

    Before you head home, be sure to explore the neighbouring townships. Spend a lazy afternoon in the shade of Nebo Hotel’s wrap-around verandahs . The hotel’s 1900s dance hall has since been replaced with one of the area’s biggest rodeo arenas, so consider timing your trip to line up with a boot scootin’ rodeo. Or, stop by a ghost town. Mount Britton was once a thriving town during the 1880s Gold Rush. It’s been totally abandoned and now lies untouched, a perfect relic of the Gold Rush.

    Best restaurants and cafes in Clermont

    meal at Commercial Hotel
    Stop into the Commercial Hotel Clermont.

    Days spent fossicking, bushwalking and cramming on history call for excellent coffee and hearty country meals. Luckily, Clermont delivers in spades.

    Lotta Lattes Cafe is beloved by locals for a reason. Start your days here for the best caffeine fix in town and an impeccable brunch menu.

    For a real country meal, an icy cold beer and that famed country hospitality, head straight to the town’s iconic hotel: the Commercial Hotel (known endearingly to locals as ‘The Commie’). It’s been a staple in Clermont since 1877. The hotel even survived the flood of 1916 when it was sawn in two and moved to higher ground.

    Naturally, time spent in the outback must include calling into the local bakery. For delicious pies and a tantalising array of sweet treats, make Bluemac Bakehouse your go-to while in town.

    Discover more of The Mackay Isaac region, and start planning your trip at mackayisaac.com.