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Top reasons to visit Cairns

• Stunning Natural Wonders: Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, offering breathtaking reef tours and vibrant marine life.
• Vibrant Esplanade: The Cairns Esplanade boasts beautiful walking paths, a lagoon, and playgrounds, perfect for families and relaxation.
• Outdoor Adventures: Explore lush hiking trails and scenic landscapes, ideal for those seeking adventure in nature.
• Cultural Experiences: Engage with friendly locals and immerse yourself in the vibrant city centre's shops and theatre performances.
• Family-Friendly Activities: From the Cairns Aquarium to various attractions, there's plenty for families to enjoy together.

Find great hotels in Cairns

Explore a range of accommodation options in Cairns, Queensland, from family-friendly hotels to vibrant hostels and backpacker lodgings. Whether you're seeking adventure, a relaxing family holiday, or a convenient base for business travel, Cairns has the perfect place for you. Discover the best hotels and unique stays that cater to all your needs while immersing yourself in the stunning beauty of this tropical paradise.

• Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns: Overlooking the stunning marina, Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns is a luxurious 5-star hotel that offers a delightful blend of family-friendly amenities and thrilling adventure activities. Rated 9.0 out of 10, this property is ideal for those seeking a memorable family vacation. Guests can indulge in various adventure sports such as snorkelling, horse riding, and even skydiving, all available nearby. Families are well catered for with features including a children's pool, babysitting services, and breakfast options designed for little ones, making it a top choice for adventurous families.
• Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort: Emphasising a relaxed beach getaway, the Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort is a 4.5-star accommodation that scores an impressive 8.8 out of 10. This resort is perfectly suited for families looking to enjoy direct beach access and a range of family-oriented amenities. The resort features a lagoon-style pool complete with a children's section, as well as convenient services like onsite babysitting and complimentary cribs. Its tropical setting and family-friendly atmosphere make it a great option for those who prioritise leisure and fun under the sun.
• Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns: Aimed at families, adventure seekers, and business travellers alike, Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns is a 4-star hotel that boasts a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10. Situated conveniently in Cairns, this resort offers easy access to a variety of adventure sports ranging from windsurfing to rafting. With child-friendly features like a splash pad, cribs, and breakfast options for children, it strikes a balance between leisure and practicality for families. The blend of recreational activities and essential business amenities makes it a versatile choice for different types of travellers.

Where to stay in Cairns

Cairns offers a unique blend of tropical charm and family-friendly vibes, making it a perfect holiday destination. Explore the bustling city centre, where friendly locals welcome you with open arms. Just a short drive away, discover stunning beaches and lush landscapes, ideal for relaxation and romantic getaways. With its vibrant atmosphere and outdoor adventures, Cairns promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller seeking the quintessential Australian holiday.

• Palm Cove: Nestled along the coast, Palm Cove is a picturesque suburb renowned for its stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors flock to this charming destination year-round, with peak arrivals during the winter months of June to July and September. The region offers a delightful array of outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, and city-themed experiences. Stroll along the esplanade, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, or explore the local shopping areas. The beach, particularly popular with families, is a perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming, making Palm Cove an ideal getaway for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
• Cairns Central Business District: The vibrant heart of Cairns, the Central Business District is a bustling neighbourhood that combines urban living with natural beauty. While traveller numbers peak from July to September, this area remains a lively hub throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor experiences, family-oriented attractions, and city-themed offerings. The esplanade and nearby urban parks provide lovely spaces for relaxation and recreation. With shopping centres and theatres at your doorstep, you’ll find everything you need for an exciting urban escape while being close to the stunning beaches and natural landscapes of Far North Queensland.
• Trinity Beach: Just a short drive from Cairns, Trinity Beach is a serene suburb that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and family fun. With travel peaks in June to July and September, this beachside destination welcomes visitors seeking outdoor adventures and city-like amenities. The beautiful family beach is ideal for sun-seekers and water enthusiasts alike. Enjoy the local playgrounds and shopping areas, or take a leisurely stroll along the esplanade. Trinity Beach is a fantastic choice for families looking to unwind in a picturesque setting while still having access to various activities and attractions.

Things to do in and around Cairns

Shopping

Cairns Central Shopping Centre is the main hub for retail therapy, featuring a mix of fashion and gift stores. If you're up for a drive, check out Smithfield Shopping Centre, which offers a variety of shops and dining options just north of the city.

Recreation

The Crystalbrook Flynn Spa offers a tranquil atmosphere with rejuvenating treatments using natural ingredients. Guests can unwind with massages and facials while surrounded by stunning coastal views. For yoga enthusiasts, the Cairns Esplanade provides outdoor classes in a picturesque setting, promoting relaxation and mindfulness amidst nature.

Adventure

Experience the breathtaking Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Station, where you can glide above lush rainforests and enjoy stunning views. For a thrilling adventure, take the Skyrail Kuranda Cableway Station, located 17.7km from Cairns, offering an exhilarating journey through the treetops and vibrant landscapes.

Nightlife

Cairns nightlife offers a vibrant mix of bars and clubs. For a lively atmosphere, check out The Woolshed, known for its energetic vibe, or visit Gilligan’s for a fun night of dancing. For a more laid-back experience, head to Hemingway’s Brewery, where you can enjoy craft beers by the water.

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.

Find the best attractions in Cairns

Cairns is perfect for outdoor, family, and city-themed holidays, offering beaches, the esplanade, and a marina for exploration. Key attractions include the Cairns Aquarium, Cairns Esplanade, Cairns Convention Centre, Cairns Lagoon, and Cairns Pier, catering to those seeking adventure and relaxation in a stunning coastal setting.

• Cairns Esplanade: This vibrant esplanade is a hub for outdoor activities, featuring lush parklands, picnic spots, and walking paths. Enjoy romantic sunset strolls or family outings by the lagoon, making it an ideal place to unwind and soak in the local atmosphere.
• Cairns Marlin Marina: An adventure-seeker's paradise, this marina offers thrilling water sports and diving excursions. With its lively atmosphere, you can enjoy fresh seafood at nearby cafés or embark on a boat trip to explore the stunning reef and islands.
• Clifton Beach: A serene stretch of sand, Clifton Beach is perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking in the picturesque views, providing a true slice of coastal paradise.

Best time to go to Cairns

The best time to visit Cairns can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Cairns falls in January and February. February has slightly low visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather. The coolest average temperature in Cairns falls in July, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
April	76.5°F (24.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	70.3°F (21.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	69.3°F (20.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	69.6°F (20.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	72.7°F (22.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	75.7°F (24.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Cairns

Flying into Cairns, Queensland is convenient via Cairns International Airport (CNS), located approximately 4.8km from the city centre. Notable hotels nearby include the luxurious Hilton Cairns, situated 6.4km from the airport, as well as the Shangri-La The Marina and Crystalbrook Riley, both located just 4.8km away. Each of these 5-star establishments offers easy access to the airport, ensuring a smooth transfer for travellers. With its stunning natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere, Cairns is an ideal destination for your holiday.