Cairns Hotels: browse accommodation in Cairns

Why visit Cairns

Cairns is one of Australia's most popular holiday destinations, for tourists and residents of Queensland alike. Boasting direct access to both the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, it's easy to see why. Positioned just north of Townsville, this magnificent town has the culture, lifestyle and incredible weather to continue to attract visitors year after year. With many international visitors, this tropical seaside town must be on your Australian itinerary.
The most important part of your trip is locking in the perfect Cairns accommodation. In a location famous for gorgeous weather and stunning natural scenery, Accor hotels, resorts and apartments deliver the relaxation of a tropical getaway and the convenience of being near the must-see attractions.

Best time to visit Cairns

Cairns has a tropical climate and is subject to a wet and dry season instead of the usual four seasons. Wet season is over the usual Spring/Summer months in Australia (November to March) while dry season is over the usual Autumn/Winter months in Australia (June to October). The best time to visit Cairns is over the dry season. The temperature is still warm but there are less tropical storms however this is peak travel time for Cairns so be prepared for some crowds. The water in Cairns is warm year round however ocean swimming is not recommended during the wet season due to jellyfish.

Getting around Cairns

There are buses to get around Cairns or, if you're looking to head out a little more remotely, there are tour companies operating that can take you away from the CBD to attractions further away. Trains mostly operate on a scenic capacity and take you from one scenic attraction to the other. Getting around central Cairns is easy by foot.

What to do in Cairns

Indulge in the local cuisine or stroll through the many markets, perhaps take a refreshing swim at the iconic Cairns Esplanade Lagoon. Try scuba diving or snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, or experience the reef from an underwater observatory. After spending time below sea level, grab some fresh air and stunning vistas atop the rainforest by gondola at Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Then pack a picnic and head to one of Cairns' many waterfalls. End your day dining on some of the best seafood in Australia.

The Great Barrier Reef

Cairns is known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef so anyone looking to head out for a scuba or snorkel will need to make their way through Cairns.There's no shortage of choice when it comes to finding a charter or tour that can take you out to the Great Barrier Reef for a day trip so make sure you do your research and find a company that suits your travel needs and budget. If you are planning to visit the Great Barrier Reef on your Cairns holiday, The Sebel Cairns Harbour Lights is located on the waterfront and right next to the departure point for most tours to the Great Barrier Reef.

Where to eat & drink in Cairns

For dining in Cairns you can't go past the waterfront, conveniently located by the CBD. Indulge in a lazy brunch at The Chambers, a former bank building that has been converted into a dining precinct and has lost none of the grand charm of its 1920's era architecture. For your daily caffeine hit, head over to Caffiend, where you'll find coffee from local roasters along with other local fare.

Where to stay in Cairns

Let Accor's Cairns accommodation serve as your perfect home base in between all your adventures. With stunning resort hotels overlooking the harbour and spacious apartments in the city-centre, Accor has exactly what you need in a Cairns hotel.