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Our top choices for Great Barrier Reef hotels

Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
5.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1002)
Luxurious waterfront hotel overlooking Cairns Marina, just 5 minutes from the Esplanade. Enjoy the outdoor pool complex with children's area, fitness centre, and 2 stylish bars. Perfect launching point for reef excursions with Reef Fleet Terminal nearby.

"Great location and a great hotel "
United States
Gustavo
The price is NZ$236
includes taxes & fees
18 Jan - 19 Jan 2026
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

Airlie Beach Hotel

Airlie Beach Hotel
3.5 star property
Airlie Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1000)
Immerse yourself in coastal charm at this Airlie Beach hotel with direct beach access. An outdoor pool awaits after exploring nearby Airlie Beach Market. Enjoy pizza at The Pub restaurant, with free WiFi and parking completing your seaside retreat.

"Great stay great price "
Australia
Neil
The price is NZ$254
includes taxes & fees
18 Jan - 19 Jan 2026
Airlie Beach Hotel

Cairns Harbourside Hotel

Cairns Harbourside Hotel
4.0 star property
Cairns North
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1001)
Overlooking the Cairns Esplanade, this hotel offers spacious rooms with large balconies and sea vistas. An outdoor pool, local cuisine at Harbourside Bar & Kitchen, and easy access to shopping make this quiet retreat perfect for sightseeing adventures.

"awesome location great service "
Canada
Mary ann
The price is NZ$181
includes taxes & fees
10 Jan - 11 Jan 2026
Cairns Harbourside Hotel

Crystalbrook Flynn

Crystalbrook Flynn
5.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1009)
Unwind at this luxurious retreat steps from Cairns Esplanade. Indulge in deep-tissue massages at the full-service spa, cool off in the outdoor pool, or enjoy delicious meals at Boardwalk Social. Just 12 minutes from Cairns Station and Night Markets.

"Excellent location; close to all amenities"
Canada
moyra lee
The price is NZ$232
includes taxes & fees
11 Jan - 12 Jan 2026
Crystalbrook Flynn

Hilton Cairns

Hilton Cairns
5.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1000)
This luxurious Cairns hotel offers stunning ocean views and sits just steps from the Esplanade and Reef Fleet Terminal. Enjoy the outdoor pool, poolside bar, and 24-hour fitness centre after a day of nearby sightseeing adventures.

"Fantastic stay , great staff"
Australia
Taymour
The price is NZ$229
includes taxes & fees
21 Dec - 22 Dec
Hilton Cairns

Magnums Airlie Beach

Magnums Airlie Beach
2.0 star property
Airlie Beach
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (695)
This lively hotel sits moments from Airlie Beach Lagoon and popular markets. Enjoy outdoor activities with on-site volleyball courts, relax in the garden, or explore using complimentary parking. The attentive staff ensures a memorable Queensland coastal getaway.

"Clean and close to everything"
Australia
Monica
The price is NZ$129
includes taxes & fees
23 Dec - 24 Dec
Magnums Airlie Beach

Pacific Hotel Cairns

Pacific Hotel Cairns
4.5 star property
Cairns Central Business District
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1007)
"Great hotel walking distance to main areas"
Australia
Rosemin
The price is NZ$239
includes taxes & fees
14 Jan - 15 Jan 2026
Pacific Hotel Cairns

Coral Sea Resort

Coral Sea Resort
4.0 star property
Airlie Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1001)
"Great location, beautiful pool and delicious food. Would definitely stay here again! "
Australia
Liz
The price is NZ$441
includes taxes & fees
16 Jan - 17 Jan 2026
Coral Sea Resort

Reef View Hotel

Reef View Hotel
4.0 star property
Whitsundays
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1000)
Unwind at this oceanside retreat offering free airport transfers and tennis courts. Spend sunny days at nearby Catseye Beach, then enjoy drinks at the poolside bar. The Pool Terrace Restaurant serves meals with refreshing views of the outdoor swimming pool.

"Great staff, fantastic views from the rooms facing the ocean. Shuttle to and from the airport was great!! "
Canada
Jagjiwanjot
The price is NZ$515
includes taxes & fees
11 Jan - 12 Jan 2026
Reef View Hotel

Mission Beach Lodge

Mission Beach Lodge
2.0 star property
Mission Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (31)
This beachside motel offers a refreshing outdoor pool, convenient free WiFi, and complimentary parking. Located near Mission Beach and the Community Arts Centre, guests enjoy daily housekeeping service in this tranquil Queensland escape.

"Very friendly staff. "
Australia
Aaron James
The price is NZ$126
includes taxes & fees
19 Jan - 20 Jan 2026
Mission Beach Lodge

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
4.5 star property
Cairns Central Business District
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1002)
Located 15 minutes from Cairns Esplanade, this luxurious hotel features 2 restaurants, a poolside bar, and a 24-hour fitness centre. Enjoy peaceful surroundings close to dining and entertainment options while receiving exceptional service from the helpful staff.

"Very friendly staff, super helpful when we opted to extend our stay and arrive early"
United Kingdom
Bradley
The price is NZ$217
includes taxes & fees
23 Dec - 24 Dec
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

Quest Mackay on Gordon

Quest Mackay on Gordon
4.5 star property
City Centre
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (440)
Stylish accommodation near Artspace Mackay feature refrigerators and microwaves. Take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool, stay fit at the fitness centre, or unwind with spa treatments. The helpful staff and room service create a luxurious escape.

"The room was comfortable. The pool was nice and the staff were all exceptional. Thanks for the great stay!"
Canada
Mia
The price is NZ$216
includes taxes & fees
8 Jan - 9 Jan 2026
Quest Mackay on Gordon

Quality Resort Parkhurst

Quality Resort Parkhurst
4.5 star property
Parkhurst
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (551)
Experience pure comfort at this Rockhampton hotel featuring an outdoor pool and The Oasis Restaurant. With a fitness centre, bar, and terrace, plus free WiFi and parking, you're perfectly positioned near Heritage Village and Limestone Creek Conservation Park.

"Great staff, very clean and quiet. A great place to stay. A nice pool too. Our second visit and it was great!!"
Canada
Steve
The price is NZ$191
includes taxes & fees
23 Dec - 24 Dec
Quality Resort Parkhurst

Crystalbrook Riley

Crystalbrook Riley
5.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1000)
Overlooking Cairns Esplanade, this luxury hotel boasts a full-service spa offering massages and body wraps. Enjoy Asian cuisine at Paper Crane restaurant, then unwind at the outdoor pool with drinks from 1 of 2 stylish bars.

"Great place to stay."
Australia
Mohmmadaftabhusen Altafhusen
The price is NZ$242
includes taxes & fees
15 Jan - 16 Jan 2026
Crystalbrook Riley

Daydream Island Resort

Daydream Island Resort
4.5 star property
Whitsundays
7.8 out of 10, Good, (874)
Immerse yourself in luxury at this Whitsundays resort with a spectacular living reef. Explore the marina, indulge at 5 bars and 3 restaurants, or enjoy complimentary breakfast after snorkelling adventures. Guests rave about the spectacular views and peaceful atmosphere.

"The view was amazing."
Australia
PENG
The price is NZ$364
includes taxes & fees
18 Jan - 19 Jan 2026
Daydream Island Resort

Pullman Cairns International

Pullman Cairns International
5.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1003)
Minutes from Reef Fleet Terminal, this opulent hotel offers rejuvenating spa treatments and a serene outdoor pool. Savour delicious breakfast before exploring nearby attractions, with the helpful staff ensuring a memorable tropical getaway.

"Beautiful hotel. Staff was very helpful with activities and polite."
United States
Tony
The price is NZ$240
includes taxes & fees
21 Dec - 22 Dec
Pullman Cairns International

Cairns Colonial Club Resort

Cairns Colonial Club Resort
4.0 star property
Manunda
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1011)
This family-friendly resort creates a relaxing retreat with 3 beautiful outdoor pools and international cuisine at Thirsty Flamingo Poolside. Just a 5-minute drive from Cairns Esplanade and Central Shopping Centre, enjoy free WiFi and parking in well-maintained gardens.

"Great place to stay!"
Australia
Shelby
The price is NZ$159
includes taxes & fees
6 Jan - 7 Jan 2026
Cairns Colonial Club Resort

Rambutan Resort

Rambutan Resort
5.0 star property
Townsville
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (782)
Capture panoramic city scenes from the rooftop terrace and outdoor pool at this luxury Townsville retreat. Enjoy 2 bars, a poolside bar, and Amarti's barbecue dining. Museum of Tropical Queensland and Cultural Centre are nearby, with free WiFi and parking included.

"Excellent customer service and support "
Australia
Sheena
The price is NZ$152
includes taxes & fees
11 Jan - 12 Jan 2026
Rambutan Resort

Pullman Reef Hotel Casino

Pullman Reef Hotel Casino
5.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1002)
Situated along Cairns Esplanade, this peaceful retreat offers stunning views and casino excitement. Enjoy 4 restaurants including Tamarind's fusion cuisine, plus 3 bars and a fitness centre. Only 14 minutes from the airport and praised for exceptional staff service.

"Loved my stay! Everyone I met were so friendly and helpful!"
United States
Douglas
The price is NZ$285
includes taxes & fees
11 Jan - 12 Jan 2026
Pullman Reef Hotel Casino

Oaks Port Douglas Resort

Oaks Port Douglas Resort
4.5 star property
Port Douglas
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1000)
Embrace international cuisine at Oak & Vine after a day exploring nearby Four Mile Beach Park and Wildlife Habitat. This luxury hotel offers an outdoor pool, full-service spa, and attentive staff that guests consistently praise.

"N/A - Staff ( Rhiana) at the front desk was excellent in her service."
Australia
Gordon
The price is NZ$189
includes taxes & fees
22 Dec - 23 Dec
Oaks Port Douglas Resort
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.

Great weekend hotel deals in Great Barrier Reef

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Stay near popular Great Barrier Reef attractions

Learn more about Great Barrier Reef

Explore this natural paradise home to spectacular marine life when you venture out into the balmy waters off the coast of Cairns.

Great Barrier Reef showing scuba diving, marine life and coral
Photo by Tourism and Events Queensland
Open Photo by Tourism and Events Queensland

Top Great Barrier Reef Hotel Reviews

More cheap accommodation in Great Barrier Reef

Find out more about Great Barrier Reef

Top reasons to visit Great Barrier Reef

  • Stunning Marine Life: Experience the vibrant underwater world, home to diverse species of fish, coral, and other marine creatures.
  • Adventure Activities: Engage in thrilling activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, and reef tours, perfect for all ages.
  • Breathtaking Views: Enjoy stunning vistas from boat tours or scenic flights over the iconic reef.
  • Eco-friendly Experiences: Participate in sustainable tourism and learn about conservation efforts to protect this natural wonder.
  • Cultural Encounters: Explore local markets and engage with Indigenous culture and traditions in the nearby communities.

Things to do in Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef offers an array of outdoor and eco-friendly activities perfect for families. You can enjoy day trips, boat tours, and unique holiday experiences, alongside nature adventures and thrilling marine activities. Don't miss the recreational areas, public markets, and shopping spots nearby, all contributing to an unforgettable adventure in this stunning natural wonder.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Great Barrier Reef

Planning a trip to the Great Barrier Reef on a budget can be rewarding. Use Expedia to filter accommodation by budget and eco-certification, ensuring both savings and sustainability. Consider package deals that combine flights and activities for better rates. For transport, public buses are a cost-effective option to explore the area. Additionally, take advantage of free activities like visiting the local markets or enjoying the natural beauty of the reef from designated viewpoints. To save more, visit during the off-peak season, typically from November to April, when prices are lower and crowds are fewer.

  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can cut costs by combining your Great Barrier Reef accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Best time to go to Great Barrier Reef

The best time to visit Great Barrier Reef depends on your weather preferences. The hottest average temperature around Great Barrier Reef is in January and February. February is mostly cloudy. The coolest average temperature around Great Barrier Reef is in June when weather is mostly sunny and rainfall is no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudiness
January79.5°F (26.4°C)Frequent RainMostly Cloudy
February79.5°F (26.4°C)Moderate RainMostly Cloudy
March76.5°F (24.700000000000003°C)Light RainMostly Sunny
April72.3°F (22.4°C)Light RainMostly Sunny
May66.6°F (19.200000000000003°C)No RainMostly Sunny
June62.6°F (17.0°C)No RainMostly Sunny
July63.9°F (17.7°C)No RainMostly Sunny
August63.5°F (17.5°C)No RainSunny
September68.4°F (20.200000000000003°C)No RainMostly Sunny
October72.5°F (22.5°C)No RainMostly Sunny
November76.5°F (24.700000000000003°C)Light RainMostly Sunny
December78.3°F (25.700000000000003°C)Light RainMostly Sunny

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