A selection of the best five star hotels in Cairns, Australia. A selection by Laura Becker
Pullman Reef Hotel Casino
Offering an unparalleled experience, Pullman Reef Hotel is only 250 metres from Cairns Esplanade and 5 minutes away from the Cairns Convention Centre. Each modern air-conditioned room features a large bathroom with luxury C.O. Bigelow toiletries, flat-screen cable TV, a tea and coffee maker, a spa bath, and a balcony with a view of either Cairns or Trinity Inlet. The hotel also boasts a casino, 4 bars with live music, a rooftop swimming pool, spa pool, sauna, and the award-winning Tamarind Restaurant, serving Thai-inspired fusion cuisine. Guests can explore the nearby Cairns Wildlife Dome, with koalas, wallabies, and crocodiles, or take part in activities such as diving and snorkeling, and day trips to the Great Barrier Reef.
Rooms: 127 Stars: 5
Check availabilityCairns Aquarius
Experience the best of Cairns at the luxurious Cairns Aquarius Apartments. Located on The Esplanade, this apartment hotel offers self-contained apartments with full or partial ocean views and free Wi-Fi. Relax in one of the 2 outdoor pools, a hot tub, or the sauna. Play a game of tennis or enjoy a BBQ in the outdoor area. The Reef Fleet Terminal is a 5-minute walk away, while Cairns Train Station is a 5-minute drive and the airport is 10 minutes away. Each air-conditioned apartment has a fully-equipped kitchen, laundry facilities and a living room with a flat-screen TV and DVD player. Start your Cairns adventure today at Cairns Aquarius Apartments.
Rooms: 17 Stars: 5
Check availabilityPullman Cairns International
Experience the epitome of luxury at the 5-star Pullman Cairns International. Located in the heart of this vibrant city, this hotel offers stunning views of either the harbour or mountains from its spacious rooms and executive suites. Enjoy a dip in the outdoor pool, relax with a spa treatment at Vie Spa, and savour the delicious cuisine at Coco’s Restaurant. Unwind with a cocktail at the Lobby Bar or take a walk to the nearby Cairns Pier – all just 500 metres away. Pullman Cairns International is the perfect place to stay for a truly indulgent getaway.
Rooms: 321 Stars: 5
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Vision Apartments
Situated on the Cairns Esplanade, Vision Apartments offers 5 star accommodation with self-contained apartments. Enjoy 2 swimming pools, a sauna, fitness centre and sun loungers surrounded by a palm tree garden. Each apartment has a spacious living room that opens onto a balcony/patio with outdoor setting, fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities and satellite TV. Take advantage of the tour desk, massage service and BBQ area. The property is just 100 metres from restaurants, shops and bars, 5-minute walk from Cairns Reef Fleet and Cruise Ship Terminal and 7 minutes’ drive from Cairns Airport.
Rooms: 26 Stars: 5
Check availabilityIngenia Holidays Cairns Coconut
Experience a luxurious stay at Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort, one of the best 5-star hotels in Cairns. Located on 28 acres of lush tropical gardens, this award-winning resort boasts a family-friendly water park, tennis courts, mini golf, 2 large pools with waterslides and 2 spa pools. All accommodation provides a private balcony, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and cooking facilities. Enjoy free on-site activities like volleyball, badminton, basketball and a children’s playground with jumping pillows. Cairns city centre is 7 minutes away and the local bus service stops at the doorstep (fees apply). Cairns Golf Course is 5 minutes away and Cairns Pier 12 minutes away. Free parking is also available at your door.
Rooms: 71 Stars: 5
Check availabilityHilton Cairns
Experience a sense of luxury at Hilton Cairns, located on the waterfront of Cairns Esplanade. Just 2 minutes’ walk from the Reef Departure Terminal and a 5-minute walk to the CBD and Cairns Convention Centre, the hotel offers the most recently refurbished rooms with private balconies and stunning views. Relax in the spa pool or outdoor lagoon-style pool with bar, soft seating, deck chairs and umbrellas. Enjoy al fresco dining at the award-winning Mondo on the Waterfront, and the famous fajitas or a decadent Mondo BBQ. The signature restaurant serves local produce and international inspirations, while Room Service and a Grab and Go outlet provide dining convenience. Cairns Airport is a 15-minute drive away.
Rooms: 263 Stars: 5
Check availabilityCrystalbrook Bailey
Experience the ultimate luxury in Cairns at the 5-star Crystalbrook Bailey, opened in September 2019. This apartment-style hotel offers stunning city views, free WiFi, a restaurant, outdoor pool, fitness centre and bar. Rooms feature a desk, flat-screen TV and private bathroom, while a 24-hour front desk and room service are available. Popular attractions close by include Cairns Convention Centre, The Center of Contemporary Arts and Cairns Regional Gallery. Cairns Airport is 7 km away, making it the perfect destination for a getaway.
Rooms: 255 Stars: 5
Check availabilityBest areas to find hotels in Cairns, Australia
Cairns is one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations, and it’s easy to see why. The city is home to some of the country’s most stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant nightlife. It’s also the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s seven natural wonders.
When looking for a hotel in Cairns, there are a few areas that are particularly popular with tourists.
The Esplanade: This area is located right in the heart of Cairns and is a great spot to stay if you’re looking to be close to the city’s attractions. The area is full of restaurants, cafes, and bars, as well as plenty of accommodation options.
Port Douglas: Located just north of Cairns, Port Douglas offers a more relaxed atmosphere than the city. Here, you’ll find stunning beaches, plenty of restaurants and bars, and accommodation ranging from budget to luxury.
Palm Cove: This is another popular tourist destination located north of Cairns. Palm Cove is known for its stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere. The area is also home to a variety of accommodation options, from budget to luxury.
Trinity Beach: Trinity Beach is located between Cairns and Palm Cove and is a great option for those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere. The beach is popular with locals and tourists alike and is home to a variety of accommodation options.
Kuranda: Kuranda is located in the rainforest, just outside of Cairns. Here, you’ll find plenty of accommodation options, as well as access to some of the area’s most stunning scenery.
Mission Beach: Located on the coast between Cairns and Townsville, Mission Beach is a great spot for those looking for a more laid-back atmosphere. The area is home to plenty of accommodation options, as well as access to some of the area’s most beautiful beaches.
Yungaburra: Located in the Atherton Tablelands, Yungaburra is a great option for those looking for a more rural experience. Here, you’ll find plenty of accommodation options, as well as access to some of the area’s most stunning scenery.
No matter what kind of experience you’re looking for, Cairns has plenty of accommodation options to suit your needs. From the hustle and bustle of the Esplanade to the laid-back atmosphere of Mission Beach, there’s something for everyone in Cairns.
