holidays . accommodation . tours
The carnival atmosphere of Cairns means that accommodation is plentiful and varied, and the very competitive prices tend to fluctuate with the seasons. Visitors can choose from lively youth hostels, self catering apartments and world class luxury Cairns hotels.
Because of the city’s popularity among travellers and tourists, it is a good idea to book any Cairns accommodation in advance. Despite the vast array of accommodation options, places tend to get booked early, particularly in the high season.
As the backpacker capital of Northern Queensland, Cairns boasts more than 20 hostels for Cairns backpackers to choose from, many featuring basic dorm beds at good value prices. Many Cairns hotels and hostels are concentrated around the central business district and Esplanade area, which centres on a beautiful and vibrant sandy lagoon.
The Cairns Esplanade is a focal point for meeting friends, picnicking, water sports and enjoying the beach, while the central business centre is great for shopping and dining. Hotel rooms in the business area tend to cost more per night than elsewhere in the city, with prices often depending on location in relation to the beach and what amenities the hotel provides.
Cairns also boasts a decent selection of luxury resorts, many of them featuring panoramic sea, mountain and city views, fitness centres and spa facilities. They range from standard studio accommodation to self contained apartments and luxurious penthouse suites, and prices vary from place to place.
Cairns apartments cater for all visitors, from honeymooning couples to families and business travellers. Visitors can choose from apartments scattered all over the city, and amenities vary greatly. Some apartments feature swimming pools and tennis courts while others offer comfortable family style accommodation.
Many of the non-budget accommodation in Cairns offer transfers to and from the airport, and tour operators usually pick customers up from their hotels, thereby reducing the need to hire a car in the city.