07 4082 7470

Best Waterfront Bars In Cairns

Updated Sat 20 Apr 2024

Some of the best waterfront bars in Cairns are neatly located along the Cairns esplanade and are in close proximity of each other, so if one bar doesn’t fit your vibe, you can hop, skip or walk over to the next. The Cairns Esplanade looks over the views of the Coral Sea and is the perfect spot to get a drink and catch up with mates on a sunny arvo in the tropics. In Cairns, you also have the option to have a view of the seascapes and boats in the Trinity Inlet from the bar. We have picked the best waterfront bars in Cairns based on atmosphere, range of drinks, customer service and views to impress, as recommended by the Cairns locals!


Best Waterfront Bars In Cairns

Rocco’s

Address: Level 12, Tower, 131/141 Esplanade, Cairns City QLD

If you want to wow your mates or your date in Cairns, take them to Rocco’s rooftop bar. Cairns City's highest rooftop bar boasts 270-degree panoramic views! You can enjoy the sunset over the Cairns hills whilst drinking a tasty cocktail. If you’re celebrating, be sure to check out the champagne menu! Aside from cocktails, Rocco offers Mediterranean mezze and sweet treats to accompany your cocktails. An intimate venue with outstanding views of Cairns, there’s no place in Cairns quite like it.

Three friends cheersing at a rooftop bar


Whisky Wine Bar

Address: Level 2/85 Esplanade, Cairns City QLD 4870

One of the newer bars in town is Whisky Wine Bar by Crystalbrook. They serve whisky, wine and delicious cocktails to sip whilst you take in the views of the Coral Sea all the way out to the mountains over East Trinity. The interior is a classic 50’s style with Chesterton couches, the only thing missing at this venue is a cigar room. For a classy cocktail to impress your guests, take them to Whisky Wine bar; A laid-back and sophisticated atmosphere with plenty of outdoor space no matter your party size.

Close up of cocktails


The Pier Bar

Address: The Pier Shopping Centre, 1 Pier Point Rd, Cairns City QLD 4870

The Pier bar is always a good after-dinner bar. Live music every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, ensures an exciting atmosphere and plenty of seating inside and outside to catch up with mates. The Pier Bar overlooks the water and is known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas, burgers, chips, seafood, steaks and pasta! Expect casual dining, live sports, live music and a large selection of beers on tap.

two colourful cocktails


Salt House

Address: Marina Point, 6/2 Pier Point Rd, Cairns City QLD 4870

Salt House is an iconic venue in Cairns, located on the corner of the marina, boasting views of boats, mountains, Trinity inlet and the Coral Sea. It is a large venue with two bars, a pizzeria and a restaurant serving fresh local seafood. Salt house has a delightful cocktail menu with special attention to the classics. Lounge with a loved one in their outdoor cabanas whilst you listen to music from local DJs. A tropical, relaxed venue to take your friends and a highlight to Cairns.

aerial shot of two cocktails in salt house


Hemingway's Brewery

Address: Wharf St, Cairns City QLD 4870

Visit Cairns's local craft brewery, Hemingways! Walk to the end of the boardwalk, at the Cruise liner terminal, and you can’t miss the large converted warehouse that is the Hemingways Brewery. Check out its trivia Tuesdays a fun way to enjoy a weekday in Cairns. With beer brewed on-site and views of the Trinity Inlet, this is a night not to be skipped. The venue is very large and open, with two bars and hard-to-miss vat’s in the back, working hard to brew a fresh cold one. For a casual night, walk along the boardwalk to the Hemingways brewery, and take in the views, all whilst sipping a fresh cold beer.

Pouring a beer at Hemingways Brewery


For more information on how to spend your time in Cairns and the best place to eat, see and drink, check out our fun and affordable day trips to the Great Barrier Reef!

And if you need any top picks for your stay, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly local team.

Jayme
Click To Chat

OUR CAIRNS EXPERTS
ARE READY TO HELP YOU

  • Can answer all your Cairns questions
  • We will build you exclusive packages to save you money
  • Available by email or chat 24/7

Quick Enquiry

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.