What is the best area to stay in Cairns?

What is the best area to stay in Cairns?

Written by: Cameron Ward

Published: 03/18/2021

Reading time: 3 mins

With the city offering snorkelling trips to hop on, and city highlights to enjoy, working out where to stay should be the least of your worries when travelling to Cairns.

Therefore, knowing the regions of Cairns, and the pros and cons for all of them and help you easily pick the right hotel, hostel, or Airbnb for you!

Cairns Beach

  • The Esplanade

    The Esplanade is located alongside the CBD and the north of Cairns. Nestled right along the stunning waterfront, the region is picture-perfect for a stunning summer vibe. Due to its picturesque location of the water, a number of restaurants and bars line the region, making your hotel a perfect walking distance to some of the best highlights around! The Esplanade is also home to the popular Cairns Lagoon, a man-made beach which is typically chock-a-block with both locals and tourist trying to stay cool on a hot summers day!

  • The City Centre

    One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Cairn’s bustling city is by stay right in the middle of it. With towering hotel buildings to Airbnb apartments, the CBD is always alive with the bars, restaurants, and tourist attractions lighting up the night! A variety of visitors stay in the inner city, from backpackers wanting a taste of the nightlife to couples craving a private balcony of the entire city, no matter what kind of accommodation you are after, the city has you covered!

  • Parramatta Park

    Just 500 metres west of the inner CBD, the Parramatta Park is perfect for those who love open greenery. As the region is dotted with a number of glorious park spots. Due to its close location to the city, its walking distance to everything worth seeing, while also providing a great breath of fresh air from the crowds. Parramatta Park is great for those on a budget, as it is a bit cheaper than both the inner city hotels as well as the Esplanade’s accommodation.

  • Cairns North

    Cairns North is known for being the hipster side to the city. Home to an array of coffee shops, tattoo stores and vegan restaurants, everyone is laid back and goes with the flow on these streets. It’s on the calmer side, with locals barefoot as they wander the streets and nearby beach spots. This spot is great for those wanting to truly relax in the tropical region, while also being close enough to the action not to miss out!

  • Trinity Beach

    Trinity Beach is a beloved suburb, only a short 15-minute drive from the Cairns Airport. It’s perfect for families, being near the city as well as outer region highlights such as Kuranda. Due to it being a residential suburb, its on the quieter side, perfect for families who are after a tranquil base point when enjoying a couple of day trips out to the surrounds!

Related article: Hostels v BnB; which should you choose?

Cameron Ward
Cameron Ward
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.

Previous article: