Cheap Accommodation In Cairns
Famously named the ‘Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef’, Cairns is undoubtedly a popular holiday destination in North Queensland that attracts a variety of travellers from all walks of life. From backpackers on their working holiday visas, and families with young kids, to loved up couples on their honeymoon, Cairns offers an assortment of accommodation options to suit a range of needs. And while this northern tropical mecca has many luxurious stays, this article will be your go-to guide for those looking for the best digs on a budget!
BEST CAIRNS HOSTELS FOR BACKPACKERS
Gilligan’s Backpackers Hostel and Resort
If you’re looking for a place in Cairns that has cheap accommodation, oozes high vibes and has a buzzing atmosphere, hands down the most popular option is Gilligan's Backpackers Hostel and Resort. Well-known for its lively party scene and social events, it has a huge resort style pool, and an epic onsite restaurant and bar that serves cheap food and drinks. Situated in the heart of Cairns, staying at Gilligan’s makes exploring the city easy peasy.
Cairns Central YHA
Not a party person and looking for a more quiet and relaxed hostel experience? Then the Cairns Central YHA is a great choice for you. This hostel is conveniently positioned across from Cairns Central Shopping Centre, and is only a short walk from the Esplanade. The YHA has everything a backpacker needs for a comfortable stay, making it a great option for travellers who want to unwind and chill.
Bounce Cairns
Bounce is a great central hostel with a lively social area that includes a swimming pool, pool table and onsite bar with budget-friendly drinks. The entertainment team organises a range of activities and events to show their guests the best backpacker bars and cheap eats that Cairns has to offer. Trivia night on Thursday’s is a favourite where teams compete to win a $50 Bounce bar credit!
Mad Monkey Central
Just one street away from Bounce, Mad Monkey is a popular place for those looking for budget accommodation in Cairns. With a pizza restaurant and outdoor bar on site, this place has a great social atmosphere with free events and activities to meet new people and make friends. Feel like chillin’ instead? Around the swimming pool you can relax in one of the cabanas and enjoy the good vibes! They also have two other sister hostels in town.
CHEAP ACCOMMODATION IN CAIRNS FOR FAMILIES
Cairns Plaza Hotel
Straight off the bat, if you’re looking for budget accommodation in Cairns while also staying close to all popular attractions, you can’t go past the Cairns Plaza Hotel. Ideally located on the Esplanade, and directly across from Muddie’s playground, this hotel offers affordable rooms with all the necessary comforts. The swimming pool offers views of Trinity Bay, where you can relax to the max with the whole family, or take a stroll down to the large Lagoon pool.
Cairns Colonial Club Resort
Nestled on 11 acres of lush, tropical gardens, the Cairns Colonial Club Resort is one of the best options when looking for cheap accommodation in Cairns for families. You and the kids will be endlessly entertained with the three sparkling lagoon style pools (plus a toddler pool), a man-made beach, and the newest attraction — outback golf and pedal karts. There’s even a swim up bar for the adults! With chill music and warm hospitality, The Thirsty Flamingo poolside bar and dining provides the ultimate place to kick back with the fam morning, noon or night!
The Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort
Situated just a little out from the city centre (about 10 min drive), the Cairns Coconut Big4 Holiday Park is a perfect family-friendly option that offers camping, powered sites, self-contained cabins and villas. The cabins come with basic amenities such as air conditioning, kitchenette, and TV. The resort also has a swimming pool, waterslides, mini golf, playground, and other facilities that are a dream for the kiddies, while there's a sports bar next door with drinks and snacks on offer for the grown-ups, too!
BEST CAIRNS AIRBNBS
Avant Garde City Apartment
Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but still within a short walking distance to everything, this unique little 2 bedda is one of 12 apartments in a retro 70's complex. What makes this one of the best Cairns Airbnbs on a budget is the fully equipped kitchen and beautiful light and airy bathroom that’s freshly renovated and eclectically styled throughout. Out the front of the complex there’s a small pool to cool off in, too!
Beach Dome With Ocean Views
Prefer to escape the city and chill by the beach with a drink and book in hand? Then the Beach Domes at Trinity Beach are perfect for this! Positioned directly across from Trinity beach, this boutique stay offers 1-2 bedroom domes and is fully self-contained with free wi-fi, swimming pool on grounds, free parking and more. Ideal for couples or families alike, and located a short stroll from many locally-owned restaurants and boutique shops!
Close to Airport Resort Style
If you’re on a short trip and in need of some cheap accommodation in Cairns near the airport, then Kazz and her cat Madonna have you covered. This private room in a shared 2 bedroom apartment has everything you need to be comfortable. The resort itself offers a Thai restaurant, 4 swimming pools and a tennis court, and is located just a few minutes' drive from the Cairns domestic and international airports.
CAIRNS CHEAP HOTELS FOR COUPLES
Coral Tree Inn
For couples wanting to stay in the heart of Cairns city without breaking the bank, the Coral Tree Inn is your best bet. Opposite Munro Martin Parklands, you’ll find it’s close to all the main attractions, restaurants and bars, but also offers the sanctuary of a hidden tropical oasis. There’s a cute, free book exchange in the common area, a swimming pool to take a dip in, and an on-site bbq to cook up a feed! This is one of the best cheap accommodations in Cairns CBD.
Reef Palms Hotel
Located at the northern end of the Esplanade (a couple streets back), the Reef Palms is great value for your moolah if you’re after a fully self-contained apartment that’s modern and close to both Cairns central and the airport. Quiet and private, the Reef Palms also offers a free shuttle service into the CBD. Perfect if you’re not too keen on walking!
Kewarra Beach Resort
Wanting a little reprieve from the city to enjoy the sounds of nature where tropical rainforest meets the beach? Then you can’t go past Kewarra Beach Resort. This little gem is surrounded by 33 acres of lush tropical gardens with direct access to Kewarra beach. Cool off in the tranquil rock pool that features a waterfall spa and cave, take a stroll in nature listening to the birdsong, or maybe join a yoga class on the beach!
So, whether you're a backpacker wanting to meet new people, a family after affordable, kid-friendly digs, or a couple looking for peace and quiet, you’ll have no trouble finding plenty of budget stays in and around Cairns! Chat with our friendly travel staff for more tips and tricks to make your Cairns holiday one to remember!
