Where to stay to see the Great Barrier Reef

Where to stay to see the Great Barrier Reef

Written by: Cameron Ward

Published: 11/29/2019

Reading time: 3 mins

You’ve decided to go to the Great Barrier Reef. You’ve bought new bathers, you’re ready to book a reef cruise, but where are you going to stay?

Cairns is the perfect home base for any trip to the Great Barrier Reef, but with so many accommodation options available for you, how do you know which is best for you? To help you on your search we’ve compiled our favourite Cairns hotels, BnBs and hostels below!

  • Ryan’s Rest

    Ryan’s Rest welcomes you with Queensland charm and a homely feel. With apartments suited for groups of up to 7, Ryan’s is the perfect place for a mate’s trip. Just a two-minute walk from the Cairns Shopping Centre you can stock up food to cook in their commercial size kitchen. Grab a few beers and lounge around under the veranda soaking in the warm tropical air. A true Queensland experience -ask any local!

  • JJ’s Backpacker

    JJ’s pride themselves in being the perfect place to meet new friends and enjoy the region. The small, family run hostel is perfect for the budget holiday seeker. Plus, with small dorms (no bigger than 5 people) you don’t need to worry about huge share rooms. This significantly reduce your chance of encountering an incredibly loud snorer! JJ’s is the perfect place for your budget trip. Plus all bookings include fresh linen, breakfast each morning, and free internet usage.

  • South Pacific BnB Clifton Beach

    Just a stone’s throw from the beach the South Pacific BnB Clifton Hill is the tranquil getaway you’ve been searching for. Spend your morning relaxing with a tropical breakfast and local coffee and teas. Wander down to the beach to relax on the sand or take a cooling dip in the heavenly blue water. Choose from king or queen rooms, both with stunning yard views. Relax as you are surrounded by Queensland’s amazing tropical flora.

  • Oasis Inn

    With their convenient city location, Oasis Inn is the perfect spot to settle for those weekend trips away. Its walking distance to the esplanade and fantastic restaurants and bars. So there’s no better place to base yourself for a few days. With a range of rooms suited for all group sizes, Oasis can provide you with the facilities you require for your stay. Cool down in their super-sized pool or relax under the air conditioner while making use of the large flat screen tv!

  • Barrier Reef Motel

    Centrally located for easy access to all your Cairns plans, the Barrier Reef Motel comprises of 41 air-conditioned units, ensuring you get a good night’s sleep in Queensland’s tropical heat. After a busy day out on the reef, treat yourself to dinner at Reef’s Restaurant. With an extensive menu including great steaks, local seafood and Aussie pub classics you’ll be grateful for the feed after tiring yourself out on the reef all day.

Wherever you choose to stay you can rest assured that you’ll be perfectly located for your tours to and trips out to see the Great Barrier Reef.

Related article: Basic Scuba Diving Rules in the Great Barrier Reef

Cameron Ward
Cameron Ward
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.