Every Palm Cove restaurant you need to know about

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For a taste of the tropics, add these Palm Cove restaurants to your must-eat list.

If you’re looking to enjoy a meal on the waterfront, head to Williams Esplanade in relaxing Palm Cove. This popular dining strip hosts a wide variety of restaurants with a mix of cuisines to choose from, alongside beautiful views overlooking the beach.

From high-end, award-winning restaurants to humble establishments using the very best of Tropical North Queensland’s produce, incredible dining adventures await.

The shortlist

1. Palm Cove Tavern

Embracing the region’s laid-back style in its large outdoor space, Palm Cove Tavern offers both a dining area and a beer garden. Enjoy all of your favourite Aussie classics with a nod to the tropics, such as Pulled Pork Sliders, Classic Parma and Beer Battered Market Fish. Dogs are welcome, and sports lovers will be happy with the big screen.

Cuisine: Australian
Average price: $$- $$$
Atmosphere: Welcoming
Location: 24 Veivers Road, Palm Cove

2. Il Forno Pizzeria

pizza at Il Forno Pizzeria, Palm Cove

Il Forno Pizzeria nails authentic Italian pizzas.

Sometimes all you want is a delicious pizza, and Il Forno Pizzeria knows how to deliver. Dine in at the casual atmosphere here for a taste of long-held family recipes with genuine Italian flavours, along with salads, beer, wine and homemade Tiramisu.

Cuisine: Italian
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Bustling
Location: 7/111-117 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

3. Tiger Prawn Toby’s

a sandwich loaded with shrimps at Tiger Prawn Tony’s

Tiger Prawn Tony’s is a comfort food hub serving loaded seafood sandwiches.

Serving the freshest catch straight from the Coral Sea, Tiger Prawn Tony’s takes pride in preparing and serving the area’s best seafood with passion. For the ultimate indulgence, go for the Tiger Prawn Tony’s Bonanza filled with bugs, prawns, oysters, sashimi and crayfish.

Cuisine: Australian
Average price: $$ – $$$
Atmosphere: Communal
Location: 95-97 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

4.  Choc Dee

a spread of food at Choc Dee Thai Restaurant, Palm Cove

Choc Dee serves mouth-watering soups that pair well with Jasmine Rice.

Opposite the main beach on the esplanade is Choc Dee Thai Restaurant, offering the tastes of Thailand. Simply put in their own words, it’s “just good quality food that tastes great at a reasonable price with meals large enough to share. You won’t go home hungry."

Cuisine: Thai
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Alfresco
Location: 12/123 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

5. The Reef House Restaurant

pouring wine into a glass at The Reef House Restaurant

Indulge in the ultimate seafood platter paired with wine at The Reef House Restaurant. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Want to dine under the stars? Surrounded by the candlelight, savour the tastes of North Queensland’s fresh produce at The Reef House Restaurant, where you can choose from the a la carte or degustation menu, or indulge in the ultimate seafood platter. From confit duck and house-made squid ink tagliatelle, the dishes here are as deluxe as you would imagine. All meals are accompanied by an amuse-bouche with the chef’s compliments.

Cuisine: Modern Australian
Average price: $$$$$
Atmosphere: Romantic
Location: 99 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

6. Rattle n Hum Palm Cove

Enjoy a hot stone oven pizza, burger, hearty steak or salad at the cosy Rattle n Hum Palm Cove. This bustling bar and grill offers big, delicious and great value for money meals, perfect for lunch or dinner. Finish with the Warm Chocolate Walnut Brownie for dessert. $14 kid meals are available.

Cuisine: Australian
Average price: $$$ – $$$$
Atmosphere: Family friendly
Location: 119 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

7. Miguel’s

a Spanish seafood dish at Miguel's Palm Cove

Head to Miguel’s for a true taste of Spanish cuisine.

A new addition to the Palm Cove dining scene, Miguel’s is the go-to place for exceptional tapas. You’re spoilt for choice with the likes of Jamón Serrano (sliced peppers), Champinones al Ajillo (garlic mushrooms) and empanadas – a Spanish gem to add to your culinary must-eat list.

Cuisine: Spanish
Average price: $$$$
Atmosphere: Passionate
Location: 41 – 47 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

8. El Grekos Taverna

freshly shucked oysters at El Grekos Taverna, Palm Cove

Freshly shucked oysters straight from ocean to plate at El Grekos Taverna.

How does a night filled with traditional Greek food and the sound of a bouzouki sound? Make sure to stop in at El Grekos Taverna – a place that’ll make you feel like you’re somewhere in Santorini. From a chilli feta pot and Greek village-style bruschetta to mixed grill and Mediterranean salad, it’s authentically simple and delicious.

Cuisine: Greek
Average price: $$$$
Atmosphere: Authentic
Location: 115-117 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

9. O’Donnells Palm Cove

al fresco dining at O’Donnells Palm Cove

Dine al fresco at O’Donnells Palm Cove.

One of life’s greatest pleasures is sipping a cold Guinness on the deck of O’Donnells Palm Cove, watching the bustle of Williams Esplanade. The atmosphere here is traditionally Irish with home-cooked fare to taste alongside an excellent live music line-up. From a cheeky beef pie to bangers and mash, enjoy a wee bit of Irish paradise in Palm Cove.

Cuisine: Irish
Average price: $$$$
Atmosphere: Lively
Location: 5/139 Williams Esplanade

10. Temple of Tastes Restaurant

lunch by the pool at Temple of Tastes Restaurant

Savour Southeast Asian flavours in a tropical garden setting. (Image: Temple of Tastes Restaurant)

Nestled among the tropical gardens of Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort and Spa is Temple of Tastes Restaurant, where you’re invited to experience the tantalising flavours and textures inspired by Southeast Asia using seasonal produce from North Queensland’s Atherton Tablelands. If you need help deciding, the chicken supreme with honey miso butter or the crispy skin barramundi are standouts.

Cuisine: Southeast Asian
Average price: $$$$
Atmosphere: Warm welcome
Location: 5 Triton Street, Palm Cove

11. Vivo Palm Cove

scallops at Vivo Palm Cove

Tender scallops at Vivo Palm Cove. (Image: Mitch Fong)

Set in a white colonial building along the esplanade is Vivo Palm Cove, where you can dine alfresco on the deck and watch passersby go by. From Crab Tagliatelle and old-school Fish ‘n’ Chips to an impressive Seafood Mezze, the menu here is diverse enough for everyone to enjoy.

Cuisine: Modern Australian
Average price: $$$$
Atmosphere: Beachfront dining
Location: 49 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

12. IGNIS Palm Cove

sample food at IGNIS Palm Cove

Dine on contemporary flavours at IGNIS Palm Cove.

A small, modern Italian diner on the esplanade, IGNIS (meaning passion and fire), offers contemporary flavours and exceptional ingredients. Transport yourself from the idyllic centre of Palm Cove to the heart of Europe through the taste of Vongole (classic Napoli clams), Reef Fish soubise and pistachio gelato Baklava.

Cuisine: Italian
Average price: $$$$
Atmosphere: Intimate
Location: 41 – 47 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

13. Cairns Surf Club Palm Cove

For a spot ‘where the locals eat’, stop in for lunch or dinner at Cairns Surf Club Palm Cove. Relax on the deck overlooking Palm Cove Beach and Double Island while tucking into the hearty bistro menu. From pulled pork loaded fries to fettuccine marinara and kid meal favourites, it’s the perfect family-friendly restaurant.

Cuisine: Modern Australian
Average price: $$$$
Atmosphere: Local favourite
Location: 135 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

14. Nu Nu Restaurant

a couple dining at Nu Nu Restaurant, Palm Cove

Dine under palm trees at Nu Nu Restaurant. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

It doesn’t get any better than dining at one of the country’s best beachfront establishments – the award-winning Nu Nu. This much-loved Palm Cove restaurant offers modern Australian cuisine with a seasonal menu, focusing on locally procured ingredients from the rainforest, the reef, and outback cattle stations.  Enjoy breakfast or lunch here so you can look out at the spectacular views across the Coral Sea.

Insider’s tip: Order the catch of the day — they only ever have local line-caught fish on the menu in order to celebrate the best catch of the day, so it’s a great way to try something new.

Cuisine: Modern Australian
Average price: $$$$ – $$$$$
Atmosphere: Tropical luxury
Location: 1 Veivers Road, Palm Cove

15. La Mesa

pork belly at La Mesa, Palm Cove

Order savoury pork belly at La Mesa.

Located on-site at Peppers Beach Club and Spa, La Mesa offers a shared dining experience inspired by Mexican and Latin American culture. Mix and match small traditional dishes that can be combined (the pork belly and octopus tiradito are especially good), using locally sourced ingredients fresh from the reef and the surrounding tropics.

Cuisine: Mexican
Average price: $$$$ – $$$$$
Atmosphere: Laid-back
Location: 123 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

16. Beach Almond

fried fish at Beach Almond, Palm Cove

Delight in Southeast Asian delicacies at Beach Almond.

Showcasing an array of Southeast Asian delicacies, Beach Almond is a delightfully fresh modern seafood restaurant. From chilli live mud crabs and tropical lobster to caramelised slow low-cooked sticky pork ribs, it’s worth stopping in to see what all the buzz is about.

Cuisine: Modern Asia seafood
Average price: $$$$$
Atmosphere: Relaxed hidden gem
Location: 145 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

Staying the night? Take a look at these wonderful accommodations.

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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The ultimate guide to the best accommodation in Cairns

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Accommodation in Cairns is as diverse as its landscape, so you can afford to be choosy on your next sojourn to Tropical North Queensland.

Ready to plan your next getaway? The laid-back city of Cairns is a fantastic landing pad to leisurely explore the rest of Tropical North Queensland.

If you’d rather be in the heart of the action than tucked away in the coastal suburbs, some of the best accommodation in Cairns can be found right in the city centre, combining comfort with unbeatable access to the region’s top attractions.

Whether you’re looking to bunker down in a luxury, full-service resort where you can lounge around all day in the sunshine or you prefer a simple yet stylish budget-friendly address that’s just a place to lay your head, here are the finest accommodation options in and around Cairns.

Hotels and resorts in Cairns City

There are plenty of hotels and resorts in Cairns to base your adventure from, so you’re truly spoilt for choice, but Cairns Esplanade and its surroundings is an especially popular spot as it’s brimming with world-class dining options and gorgeous harbour views.

Crystalbrook Flynn

a girl standing beside the pool at Crystalbrook Flynn

Relax poolside at Crystalbrook Flynn.

Best for: Fun and flair

Just one of the three Crystalbrook Collection properties, Flynn is a five-star boutique bolthole that continues to raise the bar on the Cairns accommodation scene.

Here you can relax poolside in one of the cabanas, dine on elevated classics at gastropub Boardwalk Social, enjoy a sundowner with friends at the super suave Whiskey and Wine bar, or kick back and relax after a day spent exploring the region and gorge on your room’s harbour, ocean or city views.

Location: 85 Esplanade, Cairns City

Average price: $$$

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Crystalbrook Riley

a suite bathroom with a tub at Crystalbrook Riley

Sink into your suite’s bathtub at Crystalbrook Riley.

Best for: Stylish sustainability

Another member of the Crystalbrook Collection is Riley, where understated luxury is the name of the game here in its spacious, elegantly appointed rooms — most of which have balconies.

When it comes to food and drink, there are three options: a rooftop bar serving Moroccan-inspired treats and panoramic views (Rocco), a modern Southeast Asian fusion experience (Paper Crane), and a delightful tropical rum bar and seafood kitchen (Calypso Club).

Guests can bliss out at the onsite day spa, swim in the huge lagoon-style pool or man-made beach or hire an eco bike to explore the city.

Location: 131 – 141 Esplanade, Cairns City

Average price: $$$$

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Mantra Esplanade Cairns

a balcony with views of the Cairns esplanade, Mantra Esplanade Cairns

This stylish stay is a great base near Cairns Esplanade.

Best for: Your choice of hotel room or an apartment

Located near the yacht harbour and offering plenty of onsite facilities including a lagoon-style pool, fully equipped gym, whirlpool spa and restaurant, Mantra Esplanade Cairns is the perfect base for those tropical north day trips.

Location: 101 – 105 Esplanade, Cairns City

Average price: $$$

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Oaks Cairns Hotel

the rooftop Oak & Vine restaurant at Oaks Cairns Hotel

Take in the beauty of the Coral Sea at the rooftop Oak & Vine restaurant. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Best for: Simple luxury with rooftop drinks

If you don’t care for extra trimmings, such as a pool or on-site parking, yet don’t want to sacrifice style when it comes to room design, Oaks Cairns Hotel is the solution. And if you don’t have the budget (or inclination) to stretch to a spacious suite or views, then you can opt for the internal hotel rooms. While they may be smaller than your average, the streamlined design and amenities on offer are just the same as the property’s deluxe options.

The rooftop bar and restaurant — Oak & Vine Cairns — has fast become a local hangout thanks to its stellar panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, taking in the Coral Sea and the neighbouring hills draped in greenery.

Location: 59 – 63 Esplanade, Cairns City

Average price: $$$

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Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns

Best for: Modern facilities

With three resort swimming pools, two tennis courts, tropical surroundings and a guaranteed private balcony to enjoy at Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns, it’s easy to spend your days relaxing here. Make sure to grab a cocktail or two at the resort bar.

Location: 209-217 Abbott Street, Cairns City

Average price: $$$

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Pullman Cairns International

a couple walking inside Pullman Cairns International

Settle into the stylish rooms at Pullman Cairns International. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Best for: Large rooms

Offering the perfect combination of comfort and convenience in the city, Pullman Cairns International reflects the architectural style and grandeur of the city centre’s rich past and has the largest hotel rooms in Cairns at over 40 square metres.

Our pick is the light-filled Deluxe Harbour View King room with a soothing neutral palette and stunning views over Cairns harbour, where you can watch the boats return from a day of adventuring on the Great Barrier Reef. Take some time to enjoy a relaxing treatment at Vie Spa and dine on the best local seafood at Coco’s Kitchen + Bar.

Location: 17 Abbott St, Cairns City

Average price: $$$$

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Pullman Reef Hotel Casino

cocktails at Pullman Reef Hotel Casino, best accommodation in Cairns

Sip cocktails while enjoying live music at Pullman Reef Hotel Casino.

Best for: Exciting entertainment

Another Pullman sibling in Cairns is the Pullman Reef Hotel Casino, boasting thrilling entertainment. With four restaurants on site (including the award-winning Tamarind restaurant), as well as gaming action, live music, sports viewing, events and more, this hotel provides the ultimate night out with friends.

Location: 35-41 Wharf Street, Cairns City

Average price: $$$$

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Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

a woman relaxing on the balcony with a glass in hand, Shangri-La The Marina, best accommodation in Cairns

Soak up waterfront views with a drink in hand. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Best for: Exceptional service and seascape view

The grand old dame of Cairns, the Shangri-La, has been part of the local cityscape for the last two decades, but following a total revamp, the look and feel of the rooms are now uber-contemporary and fresh in design.

With views of Trinity Bay, modern furnishings and lashings of natural light, the Deluxe Sea View Room is our pick of the guestrooms. But each one boasts a balcony, some with views of the city, some with views of the hotel’s tropical gardens, and others with views of the marina or Coral Sea.

Shangri-La The Marina has all the trappings you might come to expect from this high-end hotel brand (think pillow menus, white Egyptian cotton linens, a business centre, a gym, a pool and poolside bar and a casual dining restaurant) and it occupies some prime real estate on the Cairns marina too.

Location: Pier Point Rd, Cairns City

Average price: $$$$

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Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

a couple inside their room at Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

The family-friendly Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort comes with a balcony. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Best for: Cairns’ only swim-up pool bar

Within easy reach of the esplanade, Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort is especially popular with families due to its lagoon-style pool and sandy beach, large suites and kids’ activity program. Older guests will love the swim-up bar at MOKU Beach Club surrounded by swaying palms.

Location: 122 Lake Street, Cairns City

Average price: $$$

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Caravan parks and camping in Cairns

For those searching for affordable accommodation in Cairns alongside a wide range of on-site activities, caravans and campsites are an excellent solution, especially for families.

BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Cairns Coconut Resort

the accommodation at BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Cairns Coconut Resort

The caravan park is set among swaying palm trees and tropical gardens. (Image: BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Cairns Coconut Resort)

Best for: Family accommodation

Only a short 7-minute drive from Cairns town centre, the multi-award-winning caravan park BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Cairns Coconut Resort is a peaceful oasis set among beautifully landscaped grounds.

The park offers a wide variety of accommodation options, including spacious condos and villas, cabins, ensuite sites, and powered and unpowered sites. Enjoy a range of facilities on-site, such as its mini water park, tennis court, mini golf, basketball court, adventure playground, restaurant and plenty of other fun-filled activities for the whole family.

Location: 23/51 Anderson Rd, Cairns

Average price: $$

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Tasman Holiday Parks — Cool Waters Holiday Park

Tasman Holiday Parks — Cool Waters Holiday Park from above

The mountainside retreat is a peaceful oasis for families. (Image: Tasman Holiday Parks)

Best for: Pet-friendly accommodation

Cool Waters Holiday Park is a welcome retreat from the city bustle. From open-plan cabins and picturesque caravan and camping sites with a backdrop of mountains and rainforest trees bordering the creek, it’s a lovely little spot in a natural setting for all ages — and your furry friends too.

In particular, the Daintree Cabin is situated next to the swimming pool for easy access. When you’re not taking a dip or bathing in the adjoining spa, look out for turtles and platypus in the sparkling freshwater creek.

Location: 2/14 Shale St, Brinsmead

Average price: $$$

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Cairns Sunland Leisure Park

the cabins at Cairns Sunland Leisure Park

Cairns Sunland Leisure Park offers budget-friendly cabins.

Best for: Close to the city centre

Another wonderful option close to the city centre is Cairns Sunland Leisure Park, offering various types of budget-priced self-catered villas and cabin accommodations. You’ll find a large resort-style swimming pool, a fully equipped camp kitchen, and free barbeques for the guests to use. You can even hop on the local bus directly outside, taking you to Cairns Esplanade.

Location: 49-61 Little Pease St, Manoora

Average price: $

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NRMA Cairns Holiday Park

Best for: A variety of accommodation options

Just a five-minute drive from Cairns City is NRMA Cairns Holiday Park, perfect for families looking for affordable facilities or caravan owners searching for the ideal site. Choose from an ensuite studio, cabin or powered/unpowered site to start your adventure.

Location: 12-30 Little St, Manunda

Average price: $

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Airbnb and self-contained accommodation in Cairns

For more spacious accommodation options that offer far more flexibility with cooking and sleeping arrangements, or if you’re planning on staying for a while, get to know some of the dreamiest self-contained apartments and Airbnb’s in Cairns to call home.

Waters Edge Cairns Luxury Apartments

the pool at Waters Edge Cairns Luxury Apartments

Find a swim-out deck with direct pool access. (Image: Waters Edge Cairns Luxury Apartments)

Best for: 5-star self-contained apartments

A stay at Waters Edge Luxury Cairns Apartments is a luxury lifestyle experience. Each apartment has its own unique and distinctive style, with a gourmet kitchen, a large living-dining area, and spacious bedrooms. Want a private dip? Choose the Waters Edge – Swim Out Apartment or for a large balcony facing the esplanade, go for the Waters Edge – 2 Bedroom Oceanfront Apartment.

Location: 155 Esplanade, Cairns City

Average price: $$$$

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Mantra Trilogy

Best for: Large groups and families

Take your pick of one, two and three-bedroom apartments at Mantra Trilogy and take advantage of the beautiful resort pool on site, as well as a fully equipped gym, BBQ facilities and an on-site supermarket.

Location: 101/105 Esplanade, Cairns City

Average price: $$$

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Bay Village Tropical Retreat

the accommodation at Bay Village Tropical Retreat, best accommodation in Cairns

This boutique-style resort features modern and spacious apartments.

Best for: A touch of Bali

Looking for a touch of Bali in Cairns? Located just a short stroll from the esplanade, Bay Village Tropical Retreat is a Balinese boutique-style resort with one, two, and three-bedroom apartments. As well as two pools in the complex, you’ll also find the award-winning in-house Bayleaf Balinese Restaurant serving authentic Balinese cuisine.

Location: Corner Lake & Gatton Streets, Cairns

Average price: $$

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Cairns City Palms

Best for: Attentive and friendly service

A 20-minute walk from the city centre, Cairns City Palms offers family-run self-contained apartments. With one or two-bedroom options to choose from, a fully-equipped kitchen, and all the small comforts you need, you’ll feel right at home. Best of all, freshly made scones with jam and whipped cream are served daily in the communal lounge for in-house guests to enjoy with their preferred morning beverage.

Location: 199-205 Sheridan St, Cairns North

Average price: $$

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Cairns Beach Resort

a look inside one of the rooms at Cairns Beach Resort

Stay in style and enjoy modern comforts at Cairns Beach Resort.

Best for: Closest beachfront accommodation to the city

Set next to the sand and sea of Holloways Beach, Cairns Beach Resort provides a quiet and relaxed stay and is the closest beachfront accommodation to the city. With either sea view or garden views, the apartments are spacious and have a separate living/dining area, as well as a kitchen, laundry, and bathroom.

Location: 129-135 Oleander St, Holloways Beach

Average price: $$$

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City Terraces

Best for: Locally produced products

If an eco-certified apartment in the heart of the city is your criteria, look no further than City Terraces. With a variety of one and two-bedroom units to choose from, all guests are welcome to use the large swimming pool, gardens and communal BBQ area.

Location: 63-65 McLeod Street, Cairns City

Average price: $$$

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Sky High

the city skyline as seen from the window at Sky High, best accommodation in Cairns

Wake up to uninterrupted views of the city skyline. (Image: Sky High)

Best for: City skyline view and private hot tub

You never know what you’ll discover in an Airbnb property, but Cairns has plenty. One of our favourites is Sky High, where you’ll be greeted by views of Cairns City the moment you walk through the door. Equipped with a full kitchen, laundry facilities, and two bedrooms, the main attraction is your very own hot tub on your private balcony.

Location: Bayview Heights

Average price: $$$

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All that lounging around got you peckish? Check out the best restaurants in Cairns to dine at right now.