Cairns and Barrier Reef
Travel Guide
Visit Cairns and Barrier Reef
Where to stay in Cairns and Barrier Reef
Palm Cove
Palm Cove is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights in the area like Palm Cove Beach and Kuranda National Park.
Trinity Beach
Travelers to Trinity Beach praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Trinity Beach and Kewarra Beach.
Yorkeys Knob
Yorkeys Knob is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Half Moon Bay Golf Course and Yorkeys Knob Beach.
Clifton Beach
Travelers come to Clifton Beach for its beaches, and you can see top attractions like Clifton Beach and Palm Cove Beach while you're in town.
Parramatta Park
Parramatta Park is noteworthy for its shopping, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Cazaly's Stadium and Barlow Park.
Holloways Beach
Beaches, restaurants, and gardens are some highlights of Holloways Beach. Make a stop by Yorkeys Knob Beach or Holloways Beach while you're exploring.
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
"Room was clean, staff was friendly. So close to the marina if you are doing boat rides to the reef, green island, fitzroy island or any other ferries. Didn't use the pool or try breakfast but looked great!"
Reviewed on May 28, 2026
Cairns Colonial Club Resort
"Nice place but not a lot on offer It’s in North Cairns so about $20 each way in a taxi to cairns central Good pools and grounds and may stay again"
Reviewed on May 28, 2026
Hilton Cairns
"A great place to stay - awesome breakfasts. Walking distance to many places. We had minimal issues (eg: the TV was playing up) but the staff were eager to help out."
Reviewed on May 26, 2026
Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort
"Total 5 star experience"
Reviewed on May 22, 2026
Coral Sands Resort
"Great stay, could hear the live music they have on a Sat and Sun from the pub on the corner which was great out on the balcony. Pool was great for the kids and great location to walk out to the main strip where there’s a playground on the foreshore and restaurants. Will stay again one day!"
Reviewed on May 11, 2026
The Reef Retreat
"Place was clean and nice. The host is a poor communicator and bordering rude. No clear directions for an after hour checkin. Didn't pick 10 calls. Had to hunt down their residence to get into the apartment."
Reviewed on May 22, 2026
Popular places to visit
Cairns Esplanade
Stroll along the boardwalk surrounded by palms tree and landscaped gardens and watch the sun set over the Coral Sea.
Cairns Central Shopping Centre
During your visit to Tropical North Waterfront, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Cairns Central Shopping Centre. Discover the beautiful coral reefs in this walkable area, or enjoy its local tours.
Palm Cove Beach
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.
Esplanade Lagoon
Relax after a day of sightseeing or cool down from the summer heat in this fresh-water lagoon, one of Cairns’ best city attractions.
Cairns Marlin Marina
Enjoy views of the harbour and and unwind with al-fresco dining, entertainment and shopping beside the bay.
Cairns Convention Centre
Learn about the events happening at Cairns Convention Centre during your trip to Tropical North Waterfront. Discover the beautiful coral reefs in this walkable area, or enjoy its local tours.
