Two scuba divers exploring a vibrant coral reef with various colorful corals and marine life.

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17 Aug - 18 Aug
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18 Aug - 19 Aug
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21 Aug - 23 Aug
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28 Aug - 30 Aug

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Our top choices for Great Barrier Reef hotels

1. Pacific Hotel Cairns

Pacific Hotel Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Greg
NZ$292
includes taxes & fees
5 Sept - 6 Sept
Pacific Hotel Cairns

2. Mantra Amphora

Mantra Amphora
Palm Cove
Australia
Gary
NZ$337
includes taxes & fees
10 Sept - 11 Sept
Mantra Amphora

3. Ramada Resort by Wyndham Port Douglas

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Port Douglas
Port Douglas
United States
Sasha
NZ$284
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Port Douglas

4. Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort and Spa

Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort and Spa
Palm Cove
Australia
Maria
NZ$379
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort and Spa

5. Cairns Harbourside Hotel

Cairns Harbourside Hotel
Cairns North
United States
Venkataraman
NZ$274
includes taxes & fees
11 Sept - 12 Sept
Cairns Harbourside Hotel

6. Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Paul
NZ$352
includes taxes & fees
15 Sept - 16 Sept
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

7. Oaks Port Douglas Resort

Oaks Port Douglas Resort
Port Douglas
Australia
Larissa
NZ$239
includes taxes & fees
31 Aug - 1 Sept
Oaks Port Douglas Resort

8. Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas

Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas
Port Douglas
Australia
Charisse Mignon
NZ$576
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas

9. Paradise on the Beach Resort - Palm Cove

Paradise on the Beach Resort - Palm Cove
Palm Cove
Australia
Racquel
NZ$292
includes taxes & fees
18 Aug - 19 Aug
Paradise on the Beach Resort - Palm Cove

10. Crystalbrook Flynn

Crystalbrook Flynn
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Diarmid
NZ$415
includes taxes & fees
4 Sept - 5 Sept
Crystalbrook Flynn

11. Hilton Cairns

Hilton Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Owais
NZ$317
includes taxes & fees
4 Sept - 5 Sept
Hilton Cairns

12. Cairns Sheridan Hotel

Cairns Sheridan Hotel
Cairns North
Australia
Benny
NZ$281
includes taxes & fees
31 Aug - 1 Sept
Cairns Sheridan Hotel

13. Lazy Lizard Motor Inn

Lazy Lizard Motor Inn
Port Douglas
Australia
Molly
NZ$275
includes taxes & fees
2 Sept - 3 Sept
Lazy Lizard Motor Inn

14. Paradise Links Resort Port Douglas

Paradise Links Resort Port Douglas
Craiglie
Australia
Craig
NZ$307
includes taxes & fees
19 Aug - 20 Aug
Paradise Links Resort Port Douglas

15. Cairns Colonial Club Resort

Cairns Colonial Club Resort
Manunda
Australia
Majella
NZ$189
includes taxes & fees
15 Sept - 16 Sept
Cairns Colonial Club Resort

16. Pullman Cairns International

Pullman Cairns International
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
May
NZ$322
includes taxes & fees
4 Sept - 5 Sept
Pullman Cairns International

17. Airlie Beach Hotel

Airlie Beach Hotel
Airlie Beach
Australia
Brad
NZ$258
includes taxes & fees
14 Sept - 15 Sept
Airlie Beach Hotel

18. Regal Port Douglas

Regal Port Douglas
Port Douglas
Australia
Dragos
NZ$475
includes taxes & fees
11 Sept - 12 Sept
Regal Port Douglas

19. Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort and Spa

Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort and Spa
Craiglie
Australia
Carlos Rodriguez
NZ$391
includes taxes & fees
7 Sept - 8 Sept
Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort and Spa

20. Crystalbrook Bailey

Crystalbrook Bailey
Cairns Central Business District
Australia
Lee-rae
NZ$379
includes taxes & fees
4 Sept - 5 Sept
Crystalbrook Bailey
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Holiday Rentals in Great Barrier Reef

Aparthotel

Trinity Collective

Trinity Collective
Trinity Beach
"Great place to stay, very clean, tidy & staff were very friendly."
Trinity Collective
Aparthotel

On the Beach Holiday Apartments

On the Beach Holiday Apartments
Trinity Beach
"Clean room, great location, would definitely stay here again"
On the Beach Holiday Apartments
Aparthotel

Silkari Lagoons Port Douglas

Silkari Lagoons Port Douglas
Port Douglas
"Lovely resort, good facilities and recommend pool side rooms"
Silkari Lagoons Port Douglas
Aparthotel

The Reef Retreat

The Reef Retreat
Palm Cove
"Super easy booking, check-in and great communication. Would definitely stay again."
The Reef Retreat
Aparthotel

Alamanda Palm Cove by Lancemore

Alamanda Palm Cove by Lancemore
Palm Cove
"Great propertt"
Alamanda Palm Cove by Lancemore
Aparthotel

Shantara Resort Port Douglas - Adults Only Retreat

Shantara Resort Port Douglas - Adults Only Retreat
Port Douglas
"This accommodation was clean, spacious and comfortable. Loved how quiet and serene it felt."
Shantara Resort Port Douglas - Adults Only Retreat
Aparthotel

Agincourt Beachfront Apartments

Agincourt Beachfront Apartments
Clifton Beach
"Fabulous location in a beachfront apartment. Loved the pool and our wonderful sea views. Bus stop nearby for easy access into Cairns"
Agincourt Beachfront Apartments
Aparthotel

Melaleuca Resort

Melaleuca Resort
Palm Cove
"Clean room, facilities great, location perfect."
Melaleuca Resort
Apartment

Macrossan House

Macrossan House
Port Douglas
"Well appointed apartment, central to everything, secure parking"
Macrossan House
Aparthotel

Mirage Whitsundays

Mirage Whitsundays
Cannonvale
"Great spacious rooms in a lovely location an easy walk from town, would happily stay again"
Mirage Whitsundays
Aparthotel

Coral Sands Resort

Coral Sands Resort
Trinity Beach
"Really well located. Easy, clean accomodation which met all the basic needs of a family holiday."
Coral Sands Resort
Aparthotel

Port Douglas Retreat

Port Douglas Retreat
Port Douglas
"Ideally located for walking to restaurants/shops M"
Port Douglas Retreat
Aparthotel

Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort and Spa

Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort and Spa
Craiglie
"Best hotel in Port Douglas!!!"
Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort and Spa
Aparthotel

Silkari The Pavilions Port Douglas

Silkari The Pavilions Port Douglas
Port Douglas
"Great location "
Silkari The Pavilions Port Douglas
Holiday Home

Seascape Holidays at Seascape Temple

Seascape Holidays at Seascape Temple
Port Douglas
"Great resort for families in close driving distance to heart of port Douglas. "
Seascape Holidays at Seascape Temple
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Stay near popular Great Barrier Reef attractions

A large public swimming pool with people swimming and playing, surrounded by buildings and mountains in the background.
Photo by Tourism and Events Queensland

Cairns Esplanade

9.2/10 (7,071 reviews)
Soak up the city’s relaxed atmosphere and admire the sunset over the Coral Sea as you wander along this popular walkway.
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A sandy beach with palm trees and ocean waves.

Palm Cove Beach

9.0/10 (4,218 reviews)
Located in between the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, this palm tree-lined beach is an idyllic spot to take it easy or begin an adventure.
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A coastal landscape with clear turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and green hills.

Whitehaven Beach

9.6/10 (822 reviews)
Stroll along this famous beach on Whitsunday Island to experience its dazzling white sands and gently lapping waters in different hues of blue and green.
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A marina with several sailboats docked at the pier.

Cairns Marlin Marina

8.8/10 (3,149 reviews)
Enjoy views of the harbour and and unwind with al-fresco dining, entertainment and shopping beside the bay.
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A tropical beach with clear turquoise waters, a sandy shore, and lush greenery.

Four Mile Beach

9.2/10 (1,998 reviews)
One of Australia’s most photographed beaches has clear-blue water, pristine white sand, swaying palm trees and brilliant views of the ocean.
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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.

See all hotels in Great Barrier Reef
Two scuba divers exploring a vibrant coral reef with various colorful corals and marine life.
Photo by Tourism and Events Queensland

Top Great Barrier Reef Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Great Barrier Reef

Cairns Harbourside Hotel

Cairns Harbourside Hotel

8/10 Good
"Hotel and staff were nice. Location was about 30 mins walking from the pier and 8 min drive from airport. This meant it was a relatively quiet area (sometimes planes overhead). Pluses: a shuttle runs to the center 4 times a day, (unheated) pool on site, and free parking lot off street Negatives: only one outlet in the entire room (under a table). Mattress was a little lumpy and bathrooms a little dated - but not terrible."
Rachel 3-night trip
Posted 5 hours ago
Cairns Harbourside Hotel
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

10/10 Excellent
"We had a wonderful stay at Shangri-La Cairns, and while the hotel itself is in an excellent location and is both beautiful and comfortable, what truly made the experience exceptional was the outstanding service from the staff. From the moment we arrived, the team went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. Every interaction was warm, attentive, and genuinely thoughtful, and it was clear that nothing was too much trouble. The staff’s friendliness and care consistently elevated our stay and made everything feel effortless and well looked after. We also enjoyed the breakfast and the 5pm canapés, which were a lovely touch to start and end each day. Our room was clean, comfortable, and relaxing, but it was the exceptional service that truly defined our experience. Overall, it was a genuinely memorable stay, made special by the incredible staff, and we would happily return."
Gelu 6-night trip
Posted 12 hours ago
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Hilton Cairns

Hilton Cairns

10/10 Excellent
"The room was superb! Also the hotel property was elegant and well designed. It was a pleasure to walk around the property and take in the views. The pool and jacuzzi were also well done for the swim area."
Saeko 1-night trip
Posted 21 hours ago
Hilton Cairns
Cairns Sheridan Hotel

Cairns Sheridan Hotel

8/10 Good
"Friendly staff but like so many hotels in Cairns it is old and worn."
Stefan 2-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Cairns Sheridan Hotel
Pacific Hotel Cairns

Pacific Hotel Cairns

10/10 Excellent
"Great hotel in a good location. Room was very clean and well appointed."
Greg 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Pacific Hotel Cairns
Reef View Hotel

Reef View Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Amazing view, hotel staff and all staff on the island were excellent. Perfect hotel for getting around with a 15 month old toddler and plenty to do."
taylor 5-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Reef View Hotel
Cairns Colonial Club Resort

Cairns Colonial Club Resort

8/10 Good
"Great Thanks"
Peter 4-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Cairns Colonial Club Resort
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas

Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas

10/10 Excellent
"Such an incredible place to stay! Has spoilt my kids for life."
Joanna 5-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas
Magnums Airlie Beach

Magnums Airlie Beach

8/10 Good
"Super friendly and directly at the main street."
Philipp 2-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Magnums Airlie Beach

More cheap accommodation in Great Barrier Reef

Cairns Sunland Leisure Park

Cairns Sunland Leisure Park

49-61 Little Pease Street Manoora QLD
NZ$88
24 Aug - 25 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Cairns Sunland Leisure Park
Magnums Airlie Beach

Magnums Airlie Beach

370 Shute Harbour Rd. Airlie Beach QLD
NZ$127
14 Sept - 15 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very good! (768 reviews)
Magnums Airlie Beach
The Espy Hostel

The Espy Hostel

83 Esplanade Cairns QLD
NZ$135
16 Sept - 17 Sept
includes taxes & fees
7.6/10 Good! (91 reviews)
The Espy Hostel
The Reef Motel

The Reef Motel

228 Lake Street Cairns QLD
NZ$153
7 Sept - 8 Sept
includes taxes & fees
4.8/10 (16 reviews)
The Reef Motel
Summit Motel

Summit Motel

6 Victoria Street Townsville QLD
NZ$174
21 Aug - 22 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Summit Motel
Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort

Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort

57-89 Grafton Street Cairns QLD
NZ$254
20 Aug - 21 Aug
includes taxes & fees
8/10 Very good! (453 reviews)
Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort

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.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudiness
January79.5°F (26.4°C)Frequent RainMostly Cloudy
February79.5°F (26.4°C)Moderate RainMostly Cloudy
March76.5°F (24.7°C)Light RainMostly Sunny
April72.3°F (22.4°C)Light RainMostly Sunny
May66.6°F (19.2°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 (20.2°C)No RainMostly Sunny
October72.5°F (22.5°C)No RainMostly Sunny
November76.5°F (24.7°C)Light RainMostly Sunny
December78.3°F (25.7°C)Light RainMostly Sunny

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