How to find the best hotel deal in Cairns
Our search engine is a pro at finding flight deals. The awesome news? It's every bit as talented at hunting down bargains on Cairns hotels. Book smarter and pay less with these tips.
Save on your Cairns hotel and get access to a fuller range of rooms when you book early. You'll also have extra time to weigh up your options and choose the ideal place.
Still, be prepared to grab any last-minute offers. Some places discount their rates right before arrival to fill empty beds. It's more likely this will happen during off-peak season or on quieter days, however.
Another hack for cheaper hotels? Being flexible. If your itinerary isn't fixed, experiment with your travel dates to discover where the best value is.
Search for accommodation options with free cancellation and book with peace of mind. You can amend or cancel your stay without fees if your plans shift or you spot a better deal.
Where to stay in Cairns
Central Cairns
Choose the city centre and be where it all happens. Take your pick of these stays that keep you close to the must-see attractions in central Cairns.
Nightcap at Balaclava Hotel makes it easy to head out and explore. Around 5 kilometres away, this 4-star stay is one of the most well-known hotels near Cairns Harbour Cruises. It's a top choice for families in particular.
When it comes to hotels near Mike Ball Dive Expeditions, Cairns Harbourside Hotel ticks all the right boxes. Set your bags down at this 4-star hotel in Cairns and you'll be roughly 2 kilometres away. While it's a great fit for most travellers, families find it especially appealing.
Hotels near Skyrail-ITM are also well worth checking out. Mantra Esplanade is 0.48 kilometres or so from this sight and caters perfectly to families. It has a 4-star rating and is a convenient launch pad for exploring the city.
When to go to Cairns
If you're planning a peak season trip, book your hotel in Cairns for July. This is when the city's main events and top sights are in full swing, giving you plenty to fill your days with.
September is the quietest month to visit. Lock in a Cairns hotel then to explore without the crowds.
Consider your weather preferences when deciding your travel dates. With maximum highs of 31ºC, January offers the warmest conditions.
The weather is at its coolest in August. Expect lows of 16ºC.
If you're hoping for clearer skies, search for Cairns hotels in September. With an average of one day of rain, this is the driest month.
January brings the wettest weather. You can expect around 17 days of rainfall.
Best hotels in Cairns
Best budget hotels
Keep your travel spend in check by choosing from around 20 budget Cairns hotels. Perfect for when you want to spend less on check-in and more on checking things out, these stays come with essentials like fresh linens and towels, and simple breakfast options.
Keep your wallet happy at Koala Beach Resort Cairns. It has a 3-star rating and amenities such as luggage storage and Wi-Fi.
Alternatively, check the availability at Cairns Reef Apartments & Motel. Equipped with conveniences including a ticket office and luggage storage, this 3-star Cairns hotel keeps things simple and affordable.
Another nice win for your pocket is Adobe Motel. This 3-star stay features air conditioning and a restaurant.
Best 4-star hotels in Cairns
When you're craving a little more from your stay, the 4-star hotels in Cairns deliver. With around 30 choices, they generally feature well-designed rooms, attentive service, and extras such as on-site bars and restaurants. These hotels are upscale without going over-the-top.
Find a room at The Benson Hotel and enjoy the elevated comforts that come with this 4-star stay. Take advantage of car hire options and diving services here.
Another Cairns hotel that stands out is Oaks Cairns Hotel. It features thoughtful amenities such as room service and a restaurant.
Pacific Hotel Cairns is one more to keep on your radar. It comes with an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant, among other extras.
Best hotels in Cairns for families
Family trips can be challenging, but your hotel should be the least stressful part. You'll find roughly 20 family-friendly hotels in Cairns that work hard to keep both kids and adults happy. These stays often come with handy features like rollaway beds, adjoining rooms, kids' menus, and high chairs.
If you'd like a little more luxury, treat the kids (and yourself) to a stay at Nightcap at Balaclava Hotel. This 4-star Cairns hotel offers a games room and a playground.
Best hotels with a spa
Begin your journey to zen at one of the ten or so Cairns hotels with a spa. They offer anything from hot tubs and saunas, to gyms and couples treatment rooms. Throw in meditation classes, manicures, and massages and get set for serious relaxation.
Your sanctuary is waiting at Cairns Southside International. This sought-after accommodation option comes with all the right perks, including a spa.
Wanggulay Treetops Cairns City is another top pick where unwinding comes easy. Make the most of a spa and more at this hotel in Cairns.
Best hotels with a pool
Add a splash of fun to your getaway with a pool. If you choose a city hotel, expect rooftop and indoor options. Resorts? They usually come with expansive outdoor layouts and maybe even a swim-up bar. There are at least 40 pool hotels in Cairns made for your next adventure.
Find your quiet spot by the water at Koala Beach Resort Cairns. As well as an outdoor swimming pool, this Cairns hotel comes with a laundry and Wi-Fi.
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort also guarantees you a good time. Choose this popular option and take advantage of an outdoor swimming pool, a lounge and massage services.
Alternatively, make room for a little fun at Mantra Esplanade. An outdoor swimming pool, this hotel has a 24-hour front desk and tour services.
Flying to Cairns
Cairns Airport (CNS)
Book a flight to Cairns and step off the plane at Cairns Airport (CNS), the main airport for this city. It's about 5 kilometres from the centre.
The drive to central Cairns takes about 15 minutes, while public transport is roughly 25 minutes.
Koala Beach Resort Cairns is a handy place to stay if you're flying in after dark. Within easy reach of the airport, guests speak highly of this 3-star option's cleanliness.
Cairns Harbourside Hotel is a trusted 4-star stay that's also close to CNS. It's earned a solid overall rating of 4-plus out of 5 from satisfied guests.
Need another solid pick? Crystalbrook Bailey might be just the ticket. It has a 5-star rating and often appeals to couples.
