Top 10 Resorts in North Queensland, Australia

June 17, 2023 Myesha Cogley

Discover the best Resorts in North Queensland, Queensland including Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort, Mantra Amphora Palm Cove, Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas, Mantra Esplanade Cairns, Hilton Cairns, Thala Beach Nature Reserve, Peninsula Boutique Hotel, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns, Reef Palms, Tropical Heritage Cairns.
Things to do in North Queensland

1. Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

122 Lake St, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Australia
Excellent
65%
Good
22%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
2%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 259 reviews

Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

The Novotel Cairns Oasis is a 4.5 star resort featuring a gorgeous lagoon pool, complete with a sandy beach, children's pool and a swim-up bar. The hotel is a short walk from the Esplanade, Cairns city center and the Reef Casino. Recently refurbished lobby and Moku Bar and Grill puts you at ease upon walking into the hotel. The Deluxe Room types have recently been fully refurbished. All rooms are air-conditioned and feature a private balcony, broadband internet and a flat-screen TV. Whether you seeking a casual or more formal fine dining restaurant experience, there are a range of options at Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort.

Holiday

Reviewed By dianalQ7730LC

Awesome location great hotel loved the pool both for small children and big children alike kids loved the sandy area. Deborah was fantastic with the kids club with movie on sat night and bringing out the pool things for kids. Can't wait for next visit.

2. Mantra Amphora Palm Cove

49-63 Williams Esp, Palm Cove, Queensland 4879 Australia
Excellent
42%
Good
39%
Satisfactory
13%
Poor
4%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 1959 reviews

Mantra Amphora Palm Cove

Mantra Amphora Resort is located on the spectacular waterfront of Palm Cove's palm-fringed beach at one of Tropical North Queensland's most sought-after destinations. Enjoy an early morning dip in the tranquil Coral Sea directly opposite the resort or bask in the tropical warmth beside the lagoon swimming pool with its many coves and nooks shaded by towering palm trees. Accommodation at Mantra Amphora Resort ranges from hotel rooms to self-contained one, two and three bedroom apartments all with quality finishes and most featuring an indulgent spa bath, all have private balconies with garden or ocean views providing the perfect space to kick back and relax. Wander the stretch of Palm Cove Esplanade to discover a chic range of restaurants and cocktail bars that will satisfy both discerning palates and family appetites, or dine at Vivo Bar and Brill which sits just next to the Mantra Amphora Resort and offers delicious Italian with subtle tropical flavours. Please note this property has stair access only. Important information: In accordance with recent Government directives in response to slowing the spread of COVID-19, Hotel facilities may experience temporary closures or changes to operating times and/or services provided. Please contact our reception for further details. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your understanding during this time.

Great stay for families!

Reviewed By Lia K

This resort was spectactular! My kids in particular loved the pool and it was a decent size. Good for both small and older kids. The room was spacious and the location was phenomenal. The only complaint I would have is that the portacot didn't look the cleanest. Not sure if they are outsourced but ours was stained but apart from that no other fault. I would definitely stay again!!

3. Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas

20-22 Davidson St, Port Douglas, Queensland 4877 Australia
Excellent
55%
Good
28%
Satisfactory
11%
Poor
4%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 2308 reviews

Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas

Ideally positioned within a short stroll of the township of Port Douglas, Peppers Beach Club offers couples and families perfectly situated resort accommodation. Spoil yourself during your next holiday to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest by staying in one of the beautifully appointed One, Two and Three Bedroom Suites or our spacious Penthouse. Lush gardens surround your accommodation, providing a tranquil ambiance throughout the resort grounds. For a touch of added luxury, some of the room types offer a swim-up pool deck, providing direct access to the tropical lagoon pool, bordered with swaying palm trees. Amenities are inclusive of complimentary WiFi, air-conditioning, stylish kitchen with all of the latest amenities, along with a spacious balcony to relax and enjoy the tropical vibe. Daily housekeeping allows you to completely unwind, leaving all the day-to-day cares to us. Leisure is at the heart of what we offer at Peppers Beach Club, with a large lagoon pool to cool off in, with some of the rooms featuring private decks where you can lounge on the pool edge with drink in hand while soaking in the Tropical North Queensland sunshine. When fitness is essential to your stay, our onsite gymnasium provides a place to keep fit, and we also offer bicycle hire for you to explore the local attractions at your own pace. For all of your activities and excursions, visit the Tour Desk located within the resort to discuss your plans for your time with us. Whether you’re planning to discover the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef, explore the Daintree Rain Forest or hop onboard the Kuranda Skyrail, there are a myriad of experiences to be had. Experience hot ballooning, a helicopter or seaplane ride, try skydiving, snorkelling or diving; or simply throw down a towel on Four Mile Beach and watch the waves lap the shore. Koko Poolside Bar & Kitchen is the perfect spot for lounging. Fresh seafood that’s easy to eat and share, classic cocktails to enjoy in beautiful settings. Comfort food with a luxury twist. Important information: In accordance with recent Government directives in response to slowing the spread of COVID-19, Hotel facilities may experience temporary closures or changes to operating times and/or services provided. Please contact our reception for further details. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your understanding during this time.

Nice hotel but probably not worth the $$$

Reviewed By 6toris

Lovely room, nice pool area although the way it’s set out with the lounges, if you’re in the pool you feel a bit like you are in a fishbowl. Atmosphere could be improved with some music rather than silence. Our room had a kitchen which was great but didn’t have basic condiments and cooking necessities which was disappointing. Restaurant needs a wider selection of food to cater for different guests. Overall nice stay, but not sure if ultimately worth the $$$

4. Mantra Esplanade Cairns

53 - 57 Esplanade, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Australia
Excellent
37%
Good
39%
Satisfactory
15%
Poor
6%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 2448 reviews

Mantra Esplanade Cairns

Just steps away from the Cairns Swimming Lagoon and offering sweeping ocean, city and mountain views Mantra Esplanade offers a range of Hotel Rooms to fully self-contained One and Two Bedroom Apartments, featuring air conditioning, a balcony, cable TV, hair dryer, internet access (fee), iron and ironing board, and tea and coffee making facilities. Onsite facilities include 24 hour reception desk, tour desk, swimming pool, spa (not heated), exercise room and barbecue area. In the evening, stroll down the Esplanade to the night markets where you'll find souvenirs, aboriginal art work, crafts, homewares and jewellery. Cairns is a nature lover's paradise and the gateway to the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef, as well as the Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation. Take the SkyRail cable car and glide above the spectacular rainforest canopy to the laid-back market town of Kuranda. Catch the Kuranda Scenic Railway back to Cairns to enjoy more breathtaking scenery. Important information: In accordance with recent Government directives in response to slowing the spread of COVID-19, Hotel facilities may experience temporary closures or changes to operating times and/or services provided. Please contact our reception for further details. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your understanding during this time.

Great location.

Reviewed By MRKSL1984

Great location. Easy walking distance to many local sites, shops and restaurants. comfortable stay. Very welcoming entrance. The outlook from this hotel is very good and provides you the genuine sense of being in the tropics.

5. Hilton Cairns

34 Esplanade, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Australia
Excellent
44%
Good
33%
Satisfactory
14%
Poor
5%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 3026 reviews

Hilton Cairns

Located in the heart of the city, the Hilton Cairns hotel is the perfect base for exploring the diverse wonders of this truly unique region, famous as the meeting place of two natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef and World Heritage Rainforest. Our modern and inviting Cairns hotel rooms and suites are luxurious oases of comfort and convenience, offering pristine bathrooms and spacious balconies with views of Trinity Inlet or Cairns Esplanade and the unique cityscape and blue-green mountain ranges beyond. The large lagoon style pool has ample deck chairs and umbrellas, soft seating spaces and a Pool Bar with cold beverages and light bites and snacks.. Enjoy relaxed, al fresco dining at the award-winning Mondo on the waterfront, or discover modern, refined dining in Signature Restaurant. Experience modern, tropical, paradise today!

Probably more expensive than needed.

Reviewed By cameron h

My husband and I stayed here for a few nights. We got a Waterview Delux king. The view was lovely, and the balcony, though small was well laid out with chairs to sit in. The bed was comfy and the room had an expresso pod machine. There was plenty of storage. It is located on the Trinity inlet,close enough to the city to enjoy yourselves but not close enough to get the noise from crowds. The downsides The bathtub/shower combination was tiny and un-useable as a bathtub. The bathroom light switch was outside the bathroom, next to the front door rather than the bathroom door making it annoying to use in the middle of the night. The soundproofing was inadequate, with plenty of outside noise making it into the room. I have only stayed in a Hilton once before and feel the price I paid may have been paying for the hotels name rather than the room. Whilst there is a nice indoor garden in the centre of the hotel, it is unusable and I am unhappy to pay the same price I did at this stay in the future.

6. Thala Beach Nature Reserve

5078 Captain Cook Hwy, Oak Beach, Port Douglas, Queensland 4877 Australia
Excellent
71%
Good
20%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
3%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1783 reviews

Thala Beach Nature Reserve

Thala Beach Nature Reserve is a family owned 58 hectare nature and wildlife reserve 15 minutes south of Port Douglas. Get there from Cairns via a spectacular 45 minute drive along Captain Cook Highway. Elevated on stilts, 83 eco designed timber bungalows are discretely concealed within the forest canopy, blending in with the natural environment and feature ocean, mountain or forest views. Panoramic views are enjoyed from open-sided Osprey's Restaurant across the forest canopy and beyond to the Coral Sea. Guests and visitors dine amongst birds in the surrounding treetops, whilst enjoying modern Australian cuisine with friendly and attentive service. Granite boulders, waterfalls and overhanging trees create natural swimming pools blending discretely within the environment. Paths wind through rainforests and woodlands, connecting with secluded coves and beaches, passing through habitats for endemic birds, wildlife and flora. Guests enjoy complimentary guided nature tours by onsite rangers including tree planting, stargazing at an outdoor observatory, beach discovery, wildlife walks and bird-watching tours. A completely organic 650 tree coconut plantation is home to a unique coconut odyssey tour highlighting the extraordinary qualities of the 'tree of life'.

Thala Beach Nature Reserve, Stunning !

Reviewed By FellowTraveler787507

Thala Beach Nature Reserve is the absolute benchmark for a special getaway to remember. Thala sits on a quiet peninsula overlooking the Coral Sea atop the stunning Oak Beach. It is full of beautiful native flora and fauna and is quite simply an environmental paradise. We relaxed from the minute we arrived and were greeted by very friendly staff, then settled into our lovely cabin with its views of that stunning sea. Heaven. Thala's irresistible billabong pool with its beautiful surrounds and unique and clever layout made us feel like we always had our privacy, even while others were swimming there. The owners of this lovely place really did their homework. Ospreys Restaurant, beautiful food for breakfast and dinner and wow, what stunning views! We never wanted to leave before the sunset.. Also, highly recommend an afternoon visit to the bar (it too with lovely views). You will love the "Thala Collins" cocktail! We were sad to leave this special place and its fabulous staff who went out of their way to make our week so enjoyable and special, it's beautiful Oak Beach and its resident Goannas, birds, Papuan frogmouth and its glorious butterflies. Complete relaxation, complete enjoyment, a holiday we will never forget. Thank you Thala Beach Nature Reserve. My husband and I can't wait to return.

7. Peninsula Boutique Hotel

9 - 13 Esplanade, Port Douglas, Queensland 4877 Australia
Excellent
78%
Good
15%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1425 reviews

Peninsula Boutique Hotel

The Port Douglas Peninsula Boutique Hotel is ideally located on the Esplanade in Port Douglas, overlooking the famous Four Mile Beach and just a short stroll to the shops and restaurants in Macrossan Street. This 4 1/2 star Boutique Hotel offers 34 modern fully serviced suites, with both ocean and/or pool views. The hotel has 3 levels (pool/ground, 1st and 2nd floors) each has lift access to upper the level suites. Our multi tiered outdoor heated pool oasis ensures year round enjoyment of this tropical paradise. Unique to this boutique style of accommodation each suite features discreetly concealed kitchenette with full size refrigerator, dishwasher and microwave. A full selection of glassware and crockery compliments this facility giving you the flexibility for self catering if you wish. Your suite offers a light and tropical open plan sitting/lounge and dining area offering you the perfect setting to relax, indulge & enjoy... All our suites are fully air conditioned and have ceiling fans allowing you year round comfort. Our spacious ensuite bathrooms boast walk-in shower and large contoured twin 2 person bath. Each suite also has a private in room safe, iron & ironing board. 2 Complimentary guest laundries are located on the 1st & 2nd levels of the hotel. As a special touch during your stay all our suites offer exclusive aromatherapy burners and eco friendly bathroom amenities. Complimentary use of bathrobes is provided. On arrival you are welcomed with a cooling aromatherapy infused refresher towel and welcome drink. To allow you to stay in touch with the outside world during your stay each suite has Wi-Fi internet access, cable TV, complementary DVD players (DVDs are available from our library), ISD telephone and iPod docking station. Hi Tide Restaurant the only restaurant overlooking Four Mile Beach is open for breakfast, lunch & light snacks daily and dinner Sunday through to Friday evenings. The hotel is suitable only for adults and does not cater for children aged 17 and under.

Great location.

Reviewed By brettaG3549KN

A very nice, well located and very relaxing hotel. We will be back and highly recommend. Comfortable, quiet, close to the beach, cafes, bars and restaurants. Staff pleasant and helpful. Hi Tide restaurant for meals was sensational.

8. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

121-123 The Esplanade, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Australia
Excellent
35%
Good
41%
Satisfactory
16%
Poor
4%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 2796 reviews

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

Boasting uninterrupted views of the Coral Sea, and a stunning natural setting amidst landscaped tropical gardens, the oceanfront DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns is just a short walk from the city center, and Cairn's business, retail and entertainment districts. The hotel overlooks the picturesque Cairns Esplanade, and is just moments from Cairns Lagoon and Cairns Casino. Enjoy easy access to Cairns Convention Center and lots of attractions, including the World Heritage listed Daintree Tropical Rainforest and the Atherton Tablelands. The Great Barrier Reef departures terminal is 100m away, and Cairns International Airport is only 10 minutes' drive from our Cairns hotel. Our onsite tour desk will help you explore the wonders of this unique region.

Solid property with good location

Reviewed By nldogbert

For Hilton group hotels, although there's 2 in the area, this was the only property with a reasonable price for room to accommodate 3 adults for 3 nights. [I did walk by the Hilton Resort which is closer to the habour/yacht area, it did not look too appealing at least from the exterior as the building did look rather dated - like the Shangri-La next to it]. In the end I made the right choice for the price-quality I received. Location The property is located about 10-15 mins drive from the airport and about 10 mins walk to the downtown area. Cairns itself it's not too big excluding the suburbs - making lots of touristic attractions and activities from this property all walkable. The hotel is situated sea front, and just across the street is the start of the seafront promenade and lots of shops and F&B outlets close by. The nightmarket is situated about 5 mins walk from the property. There's ample street parking around the hotel and I was also offered complimentary parking as an Elite member, which was a nice touch. Check In I arrived at the property around 5 pm, where I luckily just missed the chaos of a tour group which arrived before me. I was called forward immediately by the Duty Manager that afternoon. Although there was no upgrade given (I guess due to the specific room I had) - I was given a room with a partial view of the sea and on the highest floor (without a balcony). I was also given a run down of the amenities and facilities of the property - which seemed to be just coming out from all the different restrictions related to the pandemic. I was also informed of in my opinion quite a generous breakfast offering. Outside of that, I was provided the usual Doubletree choc cookie (seems the hotel is proud of this cookie as they had a large cookie as a wall decoration) The whole check-in process was efficient and friend, with a feeling of being warmly welcome to the property and not seen as just another guest a small gesture but a big impact. Therefore a very good initial feeling of the property. Room The hotel seems to have 2 different locations for the lifts, one situated within the check-in/main building area and the other is outside of the main building in one of the connecting bridges between the 2 (round) shaped buildings. It was clear that the building is on the older side - and this was also reflected of the room - it did seem it was partially refurbished, however, still some obvious indication of the age of the building (late 80's/90's style). The room size was ok - with two double beds in the room, the real estate of the room was clearly fully used up. Other than that, the furnishing was in good state and functional - with a long table, a desk chair and a small sitting area (for one). There was coffee/tea making facilities and an (empty) minibar. There were 4-5 bottles of water provided (the usual Mount Franklin brand). View of the room was partially towards the waterfront area and the other half towards the hotel next. Other than that, the blackout curtains was good - especially since the sun does rise quite early. Sleep quality was good - with close to no interior/exterior noise disturbance. The climate control worked well - just slightly on the noisier side even on low fan speed, but it's expected for this older building. Internet speed was in general sufficient and stable - throughout the property. The TV as expected was on the older (and smaller side). The channel select was in general mainly Australian local channels with a few international options. The bathroom was on the smaller side and it's also one of the most obvious part of the room which showed the age of the property. There was a bathtub which functioned as the shower area with a fixed glass separation. The toiletries were the usual crabtree and evelyn. With this type of shower area, the floor as expected did get wet. The shower pressure and temperature control was sufficient. Breakfast Breakfast is served in the main restaurant of the property - it starts from 0630 during the workweek, which is good especially for those joining the tours out to the reef which usually starts from 0800. On the first 2 days, the hostess was efficient in processing of the guests (who is eligible and who not), however on the last day, with another hostess, it was quite a mess - as it seems she did not have the correct breakfast list or she was just not organized, as she needed to call the front desk after every 1-2 guests which caused a line to build up even that early in the morning. Outside of that, there was a good offering and selection for both hot and cold dishes. There was a small area which seems to be (for the 3 breakfast I had) catered specifically for the Indian clientele, which did not seem to change from day to day, as it seems to be more or less the same options. There was also a fresh juicer which guests can make their own fresh juice/smoothie. And as like most of the Doubletree's in Australia (based on other Doubletrees) - specialized coffee was not complimentary but requires additional payment. (it was at least Barista made and not from a coffee machine). As for eggs, I am not sure if there was any made to order option, as I was not informed about that and the breakfast team were always quite busy. Used plates and glasses were removed efficiently. All in all, the breakfast offering was sufficient for a Doubletree and quality was ok. Pool The hotel has smallish pool at the back of the hotel - with the water temperature at least for me on the colder side. It was a mix of being busy and quiet on different times of the day. There was a hot tub - which seems to be quite busy most of the time. Also in the pool area, it was showing the age of the hotel - although it was still functional, but not the most luxurious (or in current age and time, instagrammable place). One of good thing is that the hotel has an happy hour every day from 4-6 pm every day which is also valid at the pool bar. There is no service at the pool bar, however there's a small counter where orders are taken. Towels are freely available for use. Service Service from the different associates and housekeep was very good and friendly. All the different associates met and which I interreacted with were helpful and always warm. Overall All in all, I would say despite the property being on the older side, this is a very solid property at least from price-quality point of view. Recognition of elites was good in my opinion. Only complain like all the other Hilton properties in Australia is again the additional charge for using credit card for payment - when there's no options for guests (because they have all gone cashless). I would recommend this property for those looking for something decent, not too flashy/expecting luxury and clean when in Cairns.

9. Reef Palms

41-47 Digger St corner McKenzie Street, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Australia
Excellent
49%
Good
35%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
4%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 771 reviews

Reef Palms

Welcome to Reef Palms, your Cairns “home away from home.” Reef Palms aims to make your visit as relaxing and enjoyable as possible, which is why so many guests continue to come back year after year. For those interested in checking out popular landmarks while visiting Cairns, Reef Palms Hotel is located a short distance from McLeod Street Pioneer Cemetery (0.5 mi) and St Monica's Cathedral (0.9 mi). Rooms at Reef Palms offer a flat screen TV, air conditioning, and a refrigerator providing exceptional comfort and convenience, and guests can go online with free wifi. A pool and breakfast will also help to make your stay even more special. If you are driving to Reef Palms, free parking is available. If you’re looking for a Mediterranean restaurant, consider a visit to Villa Romana Trattoria, Piato, or Cafe Strada, which are all conveniently located a short distance from Reef Palms. If you are interested in exploring Cairns, check out one of the art galleries, such as Cairns Art Gallery, Doongal Aboriginal Art, and Underart Gallery. Reef Palms puts the best of Cairns at your fingertips, making your stay both relaxing and enjoyable.

Stay away

Reviewed By Melissa M

Very disappointed. Upon walking through the dirty corridor to get to my room I began to worry. This poor standard of cleanliness was maintained through the apartment as well. Plates with bits of food scraps in the cupboard, glasses with lip marks still on them, stove top covered in crumbs and food splatters all over kitchen walls although this was consistent with the dirty walls throughout. Floors, including carpet, sticky to the point I would not take my shoes off inside. The bottom sheet of the hard, creaky bed was too small to cover the mattress leaving my feet on the mattress protector and only 1 cotton sheet on top leaving me cold throughout the night (winter stay). There was a blanket in the cupboard but I was too scared to touch it. Flannel, hair and empty shower products left in the shower from the previous guest. I sat on the leather couch which had paint splatters all over and was overwhelmed by the musty, mouldy smell that I chose to sit on a chair to watch the tv. After a sleepless night I left this apartment tired and feeling dirty. I was too tired from travelling to complain while I was there but now feeling stronger I wish I had of although it would have taken hours to have it cleaned to an acceptable standard.

10. Tropical Heritage Cairns

8 Minnie St, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Australia
Excellent
46%
Good
39%
Satisfactory
12%
Poor
2%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 554 reviews

Tropical Heritage Cairns

Taxi service is available approx $20 each way between airport and hotel. Pool is basically large Spa. Internet is available at reception and wifi available throughout hotel. All rooms have tea/coffee making facilities, fridge, flat screen TV, en-suites and air conditioning . All rooms recently refurbished. We look forward to your visit to Cairns.

Great Budget Hotel

Reviewed By Tony M

Although old and somewhat tired, it was clean but had the friendliest staff. Less than 10 minute walk into Cairns Esplanade it was a good choice for a short stay whilst we had so many touristy option available.

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