Cairns Trip
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Where to stay in Cairns
Cairns Central Business District
The Cairns CBD is a bustling waterfront hub where tropical adventure begins. This vibrant district borders the scenic Esplanade and marina, offering stunning Coral Sea views. Great Barrier Reef tour boats dot the harbour, ready to whisk visitors to underwater wonders. The free Esplanade Lagoon provides safe swimming with a postcard-perfect backdrop. Aboriginal art fills the Night Markets as travellers plan tomorrow's reef explorations. Modern hotels stand beside colonial buildings in this purpose-built tourist zone. The walkable district puts everything within reach – from seafood restaurants to the Reef Casino. Most visitors make this their base for discovering both reef and rainforest treasures.
Cairns North
Cairns North offers a laid-back alternative to the busy CBD with budget-friendly stays that attract backpackers exploring the Great Barrier Reef. This welcoming area blends residential charm with practical amenities like casual cafes and small supermarkets. Queenslander-style homes line quiet streets where tropical birds call from palm trees. Just minutes from Cairns Airport with regular bus connections to city centre, this area serves as a convenient base for regional adventures. Visitors appreciate the authentic Australian suburban experience and lower prices compared to central areas. The nearby Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland provides a pleasant green escape.
Edge Hill
Edge Hill offers a leafy escape just minutes from Cairns, where tropical gardens meet authentic Australian charm. The stunning Botanic Gardens and Centenary Lakes showcase vibrant blooms and wooden boardwalks where water dragons bask in the sun. Towering palms create a lush canopy throughout this peaceful suburb. The converted World War II oil tanks of Tanks Arts Centre host cultural performances in their unique concrete spaces. Mount Whitfield Conservation Park provides scenic walking trails with mountain views. Classic Queenslander homes with wide verandas line the quiet streets, offering a glimpse into genuine Australian suburban life.
Parramatta Park
Parramatta Park offers a peaceful retreat from Cairns' tourist bustle with tropical gardens and quiet residential streets. This green oasis features traditional Queenslander homes alongside modern dwellings, giving visitors an authentic glimpse of Australian suburban life. Sports enthusiasts can catch events at Cazaly's Stadium or explore Barlow Park's recreational facilities. The area appeals to budget-conscious travellers with affordable accommodation compared to the Esplanade. Wide tree-lined streets create perfect walking conditions through this garden suburb. While dining options are limited within the area, the central shopping district lies just a short journey away.
Palm Cove
Palm Cove charms visitors with its palm-lined tropical beach and upscale resorts. This peaceful coastal haven offers pristine swimming waters protected by stinger nets. The scenic esplanade features sophisticated dining spots and boutique shops. Wellness seekers flock to the area's luxury day spas offering tropical-inspired treatments. Beachfront cocktail lounges and wine bars create perfect sunset viewing spots. Palm Cove serves as an ideal gateway for Great Barrier Reef adventures.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Cairns
Cairns Central Shopping Centre
Cairns Hotel Deals
"Clean room"
"Amenities were great, mainly adults not many kids running around so nice and peaceful"
"Property was nicely placed right by the beach. The staff was friendly."
"Wonderful hotel conveniently located on the marina where most tours start. Great breakfast, helpful and friendly staff. Love the breakfast, especially the fruit processor to make fresh juices ! Perfect bedroom, nice balcony with a lovely view."
"Great location, around a 5 minute walk to the sea front and shops"
"The hotel is in a brilliant position and the facilities are wonderful. A good place to stay. Check-in and out was quick and easy. Even had no issues checking us in early when we arrived at 11:30. Really appreciated that !"
"What a hidden gem right in the heart of Cairns. Hotel’s location was excellent. Steps away from marina where all the snorkeling tours start, steps away from grocery store and all kinds of other stores, and steps away from the lagoon which is so great to relax in after any of the tours. Hotel room was modern, spacious and clean and the amenities were very appreciated. The barista coffee station where you can make yourself a great coffee and enjoy it right there sitting comfortably in chairs or...
Find out more about Cairns
Things to do in and around Cairns
Shopping
Cairns Central Shopping Centre offers a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of shops and entertainment options. The Cairns Night Markets provide a unique experience with local crafts and food. If you're up for a drive, Clifton Village Shopping Centre features great family-friendly shopping and dining options.
Recreation
At Cairns Convention Centre, immerse yourself in vibrant cultural events, perfect for entertainment seekers. For golf enthusiasts, Cairns Golf Club offers a serene outdoor experience amidst lush landscapes. Meanwhile, Muddy's Playground provides a delightful outdoor space for families, combining fun and relaxation in a picturesque setting.
Adventure
Experience the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for a breathtaking gondola ride over the lush rainforest, offering stunning views and a unique perspective of the area. At Cairns Cable Ski, enjoy thrilling water sports on the cable ski park. For an adrenaline rush, try your hand at paintball at Cairns Paintball.
Nightlife
Cairns boasts a vibrant nightlife, with the Esplanade offering lively bars and restaurants. Experience the local atmosphere at venues like The Woolshed and Gilligan's, where you can dance and enjoy live music. Don't miss the night markets for a taste of local culture and cuisine.
Find the best attractions in Cairns
Cairns, Queensland, is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, offering a blend of beach, esplanade, and marina experiences. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Cairns Esplanade and Cairns Aquarium, providing both cultural and beachside adventures. Whether you seek relaxation or exploration, Cairns has something for everyone, making it an ideal spot for a memorable holiday.
- Cairns Esplanade: This vibrant esplanade offers a picturesque promenade perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities. With stunning views of the Coral Sea and lush parklands, it’s ideal for families and couples alike, providing a romantic atmosphere and plenty of recreational options, including lagoons and playgrounds.
- Cairns Marlin Marina: A hub of adventure, Cairns Marlin Marina features an array of water-based activities, from fishing charters to diving excursions. The marina buzzes with energy, surrounded by cafes and restaurants, making it a fantastic spot for beach lovers and thrill-seekers to indulge in the coastal lifestyle.
- Palm Cove Beach: Renowned for its idyllic setting, Palm Cove Beach boasts soft sands and swaying palm trees. It’s perfect for relaxation and sunbathing, offering a serene escape where you can unwind by the water, enjoy a swim, or indulge in beachfront dining.
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.
Tips to save on your trip to Cairns
- Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Cairns.
- Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically February to March and November) for more affordable package holidays to Cairns.
- Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
- Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Cairns holiday package cost?
You can grab a holiday package to this popular destination on Expedia. However, how much your holiday to Cairns costs will depend on factors like your hotel choice, length of stay and season.
What are the cheapest months to go to Cairns?
If you'd like to book a cheap Cairns holiday package, consider planning a trip in April, May and September. You'll typically find better prices on flights and accommodation during these quieter months — perfect for a budget-friendly break.
How many days is enough for Cairns?
We recommend planning a Cairns holiday for at least 3 days. This gives you time to visit popular sights such as St Monica's Cathedral and Crystal Cascades & Lake Morris, and check out neighbourhoods like Cairns Central Business District and Cairns North. You might even be able to squeeze in a day trip (or two) beyond Cairns.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Cairns?
Cairns has everything you need for a wonderful escape. Get your Cairns holiday off to a flying start by exploring popular attractions like Cairns Marlin Marina.
How to find the best Cairns package deals?
Start your search for a Cairns package deal by entering your destination and preferred travel dates under our "Packages" tab. Then apply a few filters, like "Guest rating" and "Property type," to tailor the results to your exact style. You can also sort by "Package discount" and browse offers that come with big savings. If you don't find the ideal Cairns package deal straight away, simply switch up your dates and search again. Keep in mind that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Cairns escape off to a flying start.
Is it cheaper to book a Cairns holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday packages are designed to help you keep more money in your pocket. Bundle your car rental, flight and hotel into one great-value price and you could save hundreds of dollars. You'll typically snag a better deal than booking each component separately. And you'll still enjoy the freedom to create a tailored Cairns holiday by choosing your preferred airline, accommodation type and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Cairns?
If you're planning a spontaneous Cairns adventure, browse our last-minute deals that can be booked up to one week before you go. Prefer not to wait until the last minute? You can find amazing deals on your flights and hotels by booking well in advance.
How to plan a trip to Cairns?
- Choose the perfect time to travel: Your schedule, preferred season and the type of weather you enjoy can all influence your decision on when to visit Cairns.
- Budget wisely: Besides the price of your accommodation, you'll need to factor in other expenses too. These include transportation, food and flights. Also, set aside a little extra for unexpected expenses that may crop up during your trip to Cairns.
- Decide how long to go for: Now that you know more about Cairns, you can figure out the perfect length of your holiday. Create a rough itinerary and allocate enough time for all the things you want to do.
- Bundle your accommodation and airfare: Once you've nailed down your trip dates and duration, lock in the perfect Cairns holiday package for you.