As the major city of Queensland’s Tropical North, accommodation options in Cairns include everything from family camping spots and caravan parks to sophisticated full-service hotels and a plethora of serviced apartments. Perfectly bound by rainforest to the east and reef to the west, this laid-back city sits right on the shoreline and is best enjoyed outdoors where its tropical climate serves up the perfect weather for holidaymaking, sightseeing, and adventures.  

Nestled between two of Australia’s biggest drawcards — the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest — Cairns still manages to deliver one of Queensland’s most adventurous and beautiful holiday experiences. But with over two million visitors a year, when it comes to choosing accommodation in Cairns, it can get a bit overwhelming. So, before you start researching where to stay, check out our in-depth Cairns accommodation guide, which covers everything from budget-friendly hostels (Cairns Central YHA) to family-friendly holiday resorts, boutique hotels, holiday apartments, and caravan parks (Ingenia Holidays Cairns Coconut). But don’t stress, the vast range of accommodation options (both backpackers and boutique) means you’re sure to find the perfect place to base your Cairns adventure from. And if you’re looking for Cairns accommodation deals, you won’t be disappointed with what you find either! 

Luxury accommodation in Cairns

As the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns not only sparkles with its seaside location but also its plethora of luxury accommodation options — from luxury resorts and well-heeled holiday apartments to boutique hotels, Cairns offers a surfeit of luxe lodgings to create unforgettable holiday experiences. Jaw-dropping views from the Esplanade-facing penthouses and hotel suites, and romantic boutique resorts and hotels nestled among tropical surrounds are just some of your luxury accommodation options in Cairns. What’s more, you’ll find no shortage of luxe dining and relaxation experiences to pair with your upscale digs. 

Home to some of Queensland’s most famous natural wonders, it should come as no surprise that Cairns hosts a wealth of eco-friendly experiences or that this focus on its exquisite natural surroundings extends to the luxury accommodation options on offer. Eco-friendly luxury accommodation in Cairns is much like Cairns itself — diverse, beautiful and not without a few surprises. Stay in one of the ten private villas at the exclusive Bedarra Island Resort which hosts a maximum of 20 people, splurge out on a stay at Lizard Island, one of Australia’s most luxurious and private hotels, head west to the Atherton Tablelands and enjoy serenity in spades at Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat, or base yourself in the city at a sustainable hotel like Crystalbrook Cairns.     

Cairns caravan parks and camping 

Whether you’re travelling with your tribe in tow and looking for Cairns family accommodation, kicking it solo or travelling as a couple or with a group of friends, you’ll find that Cairns offers no shortage of caravan parks and camping options, including secluded and peaceful beach camping at Mission Beach and Ellis Beach. And if you’re bringing your furry friend along, you’ll both be pleased to find that the Cairns region is home to a pet-friendly paradise or two — check out NRMA Cairns Holiday Park, Kuranda Rainforest Accommodation Park or Bramston Beach Campground for starters. 

For those looking for national park camping around Cairns, Upper Davies Creek Campground at Dinden National Park, School Point Campground at Danbulla National Park and Goldsborough Valley at Wooroonooran National Park are all top destinations. Cairns caravan parks are located around the city, but you’ll also find a variety of campsites and caravan parks in the surrounding countryside to base yourself while exploring local destinations like the Atherton Tableland, Ravenshoe, Mount Carbine and Malanda.