If you’re on the hunt for a vacay that serves up unreal accommodation, adventure and vibes all year long—then a sojourn to Cairns is for you.
The jewel in Tropical North Queensland’s crown, Cairns is a bucket list-worthy destination where you can snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef, immerse yourself in indigenous culture, meander through a rainforest older than the Amazon and unwind at one of Crystalbrook Collection's sustainable luxe hotels. In short—it has all the essential ingredients for a truly unforgettable escape.
There’s a beautiful stay for every type of wanderlust seeker in Cairns, and here are three of our absolute faves.
Experience 5-Star Luxury In Paradise
Nestled in the heart of Cairns, Crystalbrook Flynn is the perfect spot to base yourself if you want to explore and discover all that this slice of paradise has to offer. Mere steps from the iconic Cairns Esplanade and lagoon, you’re in the centre of the action, with a slew of vibing restaurants, bars and shops (including Cairns Night Market) on your doorstep.
While there are endless things to do just metres from your accom, don’t be surprised if you struggle to leave the blissful cocoon of Flynn. With 311 achingly cool suites and rooms available, these stunning digs are something special. There’s the sprawling Sea Suite with ocean views, a huge balcony and a plush king bed, while solo travellers or couples will love the sleek Urban Master. Travelling with little ones? The Family Urban Room sleeps up to six people.
Once you’ve checked in, cool off with a dip in the glass swimming pool boasting views of the Esplanade, before unwinding with a blissful massage or facial at Eléme Day Spa. Feast on gastro-pub classics like tacos, burgers and salads at Broadwalk Social—where 80% of the menu is locally sourced and the resident DJ keeps the vibes high.
For something a bit more refined, book a table at Flynn’s Italian and order the Daintree freshwater barramundi and crab ravioli—you can thank us later. Pre or post-meal, a tipple under the stars at Whiskey and Wine is non-negotiable. The entire curated cocktail list is truly tantalising, but you can’t go past their iconic clarified pina colada—Havana white rum, coconut and pineapple.
Unwind With A Tropical Beachside Getaway
Perched on the edge of the Coral Sea, Crystalbrook Riley simply oozes summer vacay—no matter the season. Upon check-in, you’re going to want to head directly to the pool, where powder-white sand and palms fringe a huge sparkling pool. Take your poolside experience to the next level with Calypso Club’s sip and swim packages where you’ll score a daybed, plus a fresh seafood platter and champagne. It’s giving top-tier luxury.
Still hungry? The vibrant seafood kitchen and rum bar is also open for lunch and dinner, where you can feast on prosecco-compressed watermelon (it’s a total flavour bomb), rainbow trout tostada, and tempura soft shell crab with nam jim and crispy rice. Wash it down with their unique cocktails that blend fresh tropical fruit with rum and shaved ice—it's pretty much sunshine in a glass.
But that’s not the only culinary adventure you can experience at Riley. Transport your taste buds to Asia at Paper Crane, where the menu merges North Queensland produce with aromatic flavours of Japan, Thailand and Vietnam. Pro tip: order the eggplant sambal with cassava crackers. And you can’t visit Riley without swinging by Rocco, Cairn’s highest rooftop bar. Tuck into Middle Eastern-inspired bar snacks and work your way through their herb-infused cocktail menu while soaking up 11/10 views of the Coral Sea.
When you finally slink back to your room (there are 311 rooms and suites to choose from) decked out in chic, modern furnishings, sink into your plush bed and let the zen wash over you. Or treat yo’self to a soul-nourishing experience at Eléme Day Spa. The ‘You, Me and the Sea Body Boost’ is total relaxation—including a body wrap, scalp and hair treatment and massage.
Spoil Yourself With A Culture-Rich Retreat
Bringing the rainforest indoors, the jaw-dropping interior of Crystalbrook Bailey pays homage to its beautiful tropical setting. Another show-stopper is their ever-changing art exhibition that adorns the lobby, as well as every floor of the hotel. Featuring works from Indigenous artists and local creatives, be sure to carve out some time to appreciate the roving installation.
Decked out in designs that will appeal to your inner artist, Crystalbrook Bailey offers modern rooms, family suites and spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments. And should you want to bring your four-legged friend along, these sweet digs are dog-friendly on the first floor.
Once you’ve had your obligatory dip and sip by the pool, wander just a few steps and sink into a seat at Pachamama. The Mexican open-air bar shakes up one of the best chilli mango margs we’ve ever had, while their sustainably-focused menu (all ingredients are sourced within a three-hour radius of the restaurant) is brimming with fresh classics.
Craving a top-notch steak? Award-winning eatery CC’s Bar and Grill beckons. Serving the best in Aussie produce, devour melt-in-your-mouth, slow-braised Tablelands beef cheeks smothered in truffle butter.
If you’re looking for one of the best—and most sustainable—bars in all of Cairns, you’ll find it at Crystalbrook Bailey's Arte Wine Bar. No two days are ever the same, where biodynamic Australian wines and international drops are poured by the glass or bottle and changed often. Have a yarn with the bartender while you munch on a cheeseboard and they’ll help you find the perfect drop.
Want to explore beyond your digs? The front desk team is ready to organise your next adventure. Think: snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef or learning about Mandingalbay Yidinji culture on a Mandingalbay Indigenous Tour (pro tip: the Deadly After Dark Sunset Cruise is incredible). Or grab one of the Crystalbrook Collection bikes and make tracks to Narrow Tracks Distillery and sample their small batch gin and moonshine handmade with local fruit and Australian botanicals.
Did Someone Say Discount?
Who doesn’t love a cheeky discount? *Raises hand immediately* The crew at Crystalbrook want to treat you with their discount program, Crystalbrook Crowd. Sign up here and enjoy 10% off stays and dining, plus score special access to sales before everyone else.
For more on how to make the most of a getaway to Cairns thanks to the help of Crystalbrook, visit here.
Editor’s note: this article was produced in partnership with Crystalbrook Collections.Thank you for supporting the partners who make Urban List possible. To read our editorial policy, click here.
Image credit: Supplied.