If you want to walk to the waterfront but sleep somewhere quieter than the city centre, Cairns North is the sweet spot. It runs from the edge of the CBD up towards the airport, with the Esplanade on one side and Sheridan Street on the other.
Walk to the Esplanade
From most of Cairns North the Esplanade is a short walk. Head down for a morning stroll on the boardwalk, a play at Muddy's Playground, or a walk south to the free Lagoon pool and the city's restaurants.
Buses to the city and the beaches
Sheridan Street is the main road between the city and the northern beaches, and Sunbus services run along it. You can get into town in a few minutes, or head north to the beaches without driving. Check the Translink journey planner for current routes and timetables.
Things to do from Cairns North
- The Esplanade, Lagoon and Muddy's, all free.
- Reef trips from the Reef Fleet Terminal, a few minutes away. See our reef tours.
- Cairns Botanic Gardens in Edge Hill, a short drive.
- The northern beaches: Trinity Beach, Kewarra and Palm Cove.
- Kuranda by train and Skyrail. Read our Kuranda guide.
Where we stay: Zion Escapes Tropic Towers
Our Tropic Towers apartment on Sheridan Street has two queen bedrooms with air-conditioning, a full kitchen, a palm-fringed balcony, and a resort pool, spa and BBQ area, with free parking. It's about a five-minute walk to the Esplanade and there's a bus stop right outside the driveway. It's an Airbnb Guest Favourite, rated 4.86 from 100 reviews.
Book direct to pay less than on Airbnb.