Cairns Holidays

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Our guide on where to stay in Cairns

Find the best Cairns areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Cairns

Cairns Holiday

Things to do in Cairns

Cairns offers a fantastic blend of outdoor and family-friendly activities, making it a great holiday destination. You can enjoy theatre performances, shop at local shopping centres and malls, or embark on exciting reef tours and charter boat excursions. Don’t miss out on exploring the recreational facilities and local tours that showcase the stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture of this amazing region.

Shopping

Cairns Central Shopping Centre offers a vibrant mix of shops, entertainment, and dining options right in the heart of Cairns. For a unique experience, visit Cairns Night Markets for local crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, explore nearby shopping malls for even more variety.

Recreation

Explore Muddy's Playground for a fun family day with outdoor play and picnic areas. Enjoy a round at Half Moon Bay Golf Course, where you can soak up the sun while playing a scenic game of golf. For a cultural experience, visit Tanks Arts Centre for engaging performances.

Adventure

At Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, glide above the lush rainforest, taking in breathtaking views. Experience the thrill of ziplining at Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome, where you'll soar through the treetops. For a splash of fun, visit Sugarworld Waterpark, featuring exhilarating slides and pools perfect for the whole family.

Nightlife

Cairns offers a vibrant nightlife with venues like the Cairns Convention Centre and Cairns Performing Arts Centre, both showcasing culture and entertainment. For a more intimate vibe, Jute Theatre presents captivating performances, making every evening in Cairns a memorable experience full of romance and family-friendly fun.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in Cairns

Cairns, Queensland, is perfect for outdoor, family, and city-themed holidays, offering stunning beaches, the vibrant esplanade, and a beautiful lagoon. Visitors can explore attractions like the Cairns Aquarium and the popular Cairns Esplanade, immersing themselves in outdoor activities and cultural experiences. This tropical paradise caters to those seeking a beach getaway, making it an ideal destination for all types of travellers.

  • Cairns Esplanade: Stroll along the vibrant Cairns Esplanade, where you can enjoy the stunning waterfront views, picnic spots, and local markets. This lively area is perfect for couples and families alike, offering outdoor activities, playgrounds, and beautiful gardens.
  • Palm Cove Beach: Relax on the pristine sands of Palm Cove Beach, known for its tranquil atmosphere and swaying palm trees. Ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a leisurely walk along the shore, this beach presents a quintessential tropical experience.
  • Esplanade Lagoon: Take a refreshing dip in the Esplanade Lagoon, a picturesque man-made swimming area surrounded by lush landscaping. Perfect for families, it offers safe swimming and stunning scenery, making it a great spot to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.

Best time to go to Cairns

The best time to visit Cairns is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January and February are its hottest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January80.4°F (26.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February80.4°F (26.9°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March79.2°F (26.2°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
April76.5°F (24.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May73.0°F (22.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.3°F (21.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July69.3°F (20.7°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August69.6°F (20.9°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September72.7°F (22.6°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October75.7°F (24.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November78.1°F (25.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December79.9°F (26.6°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cairns

Cairns is perfect for budget-conscious travellers, offering free attractions like the Cairns Esplanade, Palm Cove Beach, and Esplanade Lagoon. For transport, consider using the affordable bus system or renting a bike. To save on accommodation, visit during the cheaper months of February to March or November, and book about a month in advance. Wednesdays are the best day for lower hotel rates, while Saturdays are pricier. Look for last-minute deals on Expedia and combine your hotel with flights for extra savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Cairns are February to March and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Cairns about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Cairns is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Cairns is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Cairns hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Our pick of the best Cairns Hotel Deals

Cairns Colonial Club Resort

Cairns Colonial Club Resort

4 out of 5
18-26 Cannon Street, Manunda, QLD
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NZ$125 per night from 2 Dec to 3 Dec
NZ$125
2 Dec - 3 Dec
includes taxes & fees
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,035 reviews)
Good food but not included. Great pools. Staff were mostly friendly. Had a nice room but lots of ants from the moment I got there.

Reviewed on 1 Nov 2025

Cairns Colonial Club Resort
Hilton Cairns

Hilton Cairns

5 out of 5
34 Esplanade, Cairns, QLD
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NZ$277 per night from 3 Dec to 4 Dec
NZ$277
3 Dec - 4 Dec
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (1,005 reviews)
The location was the best ever.

Reviewed on 27 Oct 2025

Hilton Cairns
Cairns Harbourside Hotel

Cairns Harbourside Hotel

4 out of 5
209-217 Esplanade, Cairns North, QLD
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NZ$182 per night from 3 Nov to 4 Nov
NZ$182
3 Nov - 4 Nov
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,010 reviews)
Great location. Free parking. Modern facilities. Friendly staff

Reviewed on 28 Oct 2025

Cairns Harbourside Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Discover the most popular places to visit in Cairns

What to do in Cairns

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