Waterfront holiday rentals in Cairns

Find and book unique waterfront accommodation on Airbnb

Top-rated waterfront accommodation in Cairns

Guests agree: These waterfront accommodation options are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

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Guest favourite
A spacious deck offers a large outdoor dining table with seating for six and a comfortable lounge area. Fans provide airflow under the high ceiling, while views of the surrounding greenery and beach are visible beyond the railing, creating a relaxing outdoor environment.
Cottage in Holloways Beach
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 162 reviews

Absolute Beach Front Surf Shack

Unique beachfront shack nestled in the quiet streets of Holloways Beach. Just 10mins from the Airport and 15mins from the CBD, this is one of few absolute beachfront locations in Cairns offering a place to escape. The cosy open living accom has sea views from the deck and front rooms. With direct beach access, all you have to do is step off the deck. Here you can enjoy a cuppa or quiet beverages looking out over the sea. Experience falling asleep listening to the waves gently lapping the shore.

Top Guest favourite
An outdoor dining area features a spacious wooden table surrounded by six ergonomic chairs. Lush greenery and palm trees are visible through expansive glass doors, with a peaceful view of the beach and ocean in the background.
Apartment in Palm Cove
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 104 reviews

Spacious, Beachfront Living Amongst the Palm Trees

Welcome to our beachfront paradise, where you can fall asleep to waves crashing and wake up to the sunrise over the ocean. Perfect for up to 6 guests, this bright apartment offers stunning beach and mountain views from two balconies. It features a master bedroom with ensuite, a second bedroom, and a sofa bed in the lounge. Enjoy access to the pool, Wi-Fi, a fully equipped kitchen, and laundry. Just steps from the beach, shops, and 5-star restaurants, it’s the perfect place to relax and recharge.

Guest favourite
An aerial view showcases a large infinity pool surrounded by lush greenery and tropical plants. The pool features a unique heart shape with a shallow area for lounging and a deeper section for swimming. Sunlit stones and patio areas enhance the natural setting.
Guest suite in East Trinity
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 155 reviews

ABSOLUTE BEACHFRONT! 🌴 Cairns Beachside retreat

Come and relax in our beachfront retreat. This spacious self contained apartment includes a combined kitchen, living and dining room with beachviews. Two queen size bedrooms (one with additonal single bed), modern twoway bathroom and a shared laundry facility for your convenience. Perfect for a couples sneaky weekend away or perfect for a family fun holiday. Enjoy a stroll on the beach, roam around our beautiful gardens or a splash in our large infinity pool. Relax, unwind, recharge!

Guest favourite
An expansive balcony features comfortable seating, overlooking the Coral Sea and lush mountains in the distance. The sunset creates a vibrant sky filled with hues of orange and pink, enhancing the serene view.
Apartment in Cairns City
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 100 reviews

The Reef Retreat | Waterfront by Reef Terminal

Positioned above the Cairns Reef Terminal within the Waterfront Precinct, this spacious ninth-floor one-bedroom apartment offers an ideal base for exploring tropical North Queensland. The complex includes a pool, sauna, BBQ facilities, and outdoor dining areas, with Cairns’ best restaurants and cafés just downstairs on the boardwalk. After a day exploring the Reef or Rainforest, relax on the balcony with a drink and take in wide-open views across Trinity Inlet and the hinterland beyond.

Top Guest favourite
An airy living space features a soft sectional sofa and a large smart TV. Expansive windows allow natural light to illuminate the room, with views of greenery visible outside. A dining area with a table and chairs is set for gatherings, enhancing the open-concept design.
Condo in Cairns North
5 out of 5 average rating, 151 reviews

Waterfront 3BD Condo - 5 minute drive to airport

Welcome to your dream escape, an exclusive three-bedroom Waterfront Condo perfectly perched on the northern end of the iconic Cairns Esplanade. From the moment you arrive, you will be captivated by the water views across the stunning Trinity Inlet waterway, while the serene backdrop of lush mountain ranges creates a truly unforgettable setting. Ideal for couples, families, small groups, business travelers or a romantic getaway seeking a luxury coastal experience in the heart of Cairns.

Top Guest favourite
A spacious living area features a comfortable sofa with decorative cushions and a large round coffee table. Floor-to-ceiling balcony doors showcase views of greenery and natural light, creating an airy environment. A flat-screen TV and stylish lamp enhance the contemporary furnishings.
Apartment in Cairns City
5 out of 5 average rating, 139 reviews

Exclusive 2bed Apt Cairns Marina

Beautiful renovated 2-bedroom apartment in the unparalleled location of Cairns Marlin Marina. This stylish apartment, nestled in a tranquil corner of the iconic Harbour Lights, offers privacy, natural light and 5-star amenities offered by Sebel Harbour Lights Hotel. Minutes away from a vibrant boardwalk of cafes and award-winning restaurants, and in walking distance to supermarkets, art galleries, Cairns Museum, Cairns Central Shopping Centre and the Great Barrier Reef ferry terminal.

Superhost
A bright and airy living area features large glass doors leading to a private balcony. A comfortable sofa is positioned beside a flat-screen TV, while a woven pendant light adds texture to the space. A small dining table sits nearby, completing the open layout.
Apartment in Cairns City
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 140 reviews

Stunning Waterfront Apartment in 5-star Complex

This beautifully presented stylish apartment is located on the 3rd floor of Harbour Lights complex hotel-wing. Flat screen TV to lounge and bedroom as well, modern functional kitchen with all the appliances you might need, including dishwasher. King-size bed in the bedroom plus comfortable sofa bed in lounge if needed/required. Stunning views, privacy, comfort and absolute blue-chip location with all the best restaurants, cafes, Reef Terminal, shops being within an arm's reach.

Superhost
A view of a well-maintained tennis court area is framed by lush greenery and palm trees. The clear blue sky adds brightness, while the nearby road and parked cars are visible in the background, enhancing the outdoor setting.
Apartment in Cairns North
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 177 reviews

Ocean View Apartment - Cairns City

Welcome to our piece of paradise on the Esplanade waterfront, right in the heart of Cairns city. Our retro 2-bedroom apartment has been renovated with love & is filled with industrial chic touches & loads of charm! Sit back & relax on the balcony overlooking the ocean. Watch a spot of tennis as the boats sail in. Or take a short stroll along the waterfront to find a huge selection of restaurants, cafes, bars & shops. Everything you need for an awesome tropical getaway!

Top Guest favourite
The image captures a resort pool surrounded by palm trees and lush greenery, with guests relaxing on the poolside. Sunshades offer relief from sunlight, while the tranquil waters reflect the clear blue sky. The beach is visible beyond the resort premises.
Apartment in Trinity Beach
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 123 reviews

Beachfront Beauty

Beautiful tropical apartment right across the road from Trinity Beach. You have sea views and can hear the waves crashing in your bedroom. This holiday apartment is in the Coral Sands Resort, its a modern, fully self contained apartment, with privacy and an incredible outlook. Prime location within walking distance to restaurants and cafes. Perfect place to sit back and relax. Essential Pantry items, wide range of tea and plunger coffee Netflix, unlimited WIFI.

Guest favourite
A scenic view captures the Coral Sea with boats docked at the marina. The foreground features a verdant landscape with trees and a vibrant lagoon-style pool, while the distant mountain range adds depth to the horizon under a clear blue sky.
Apartment in Cairns City
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 350 reviews

ABSOLUTE STUNNING WATER VIEWS IN THE CITY

Fabulous waterfront LOCATION with stunning views of the Coral Sea, Cairns Esplanade and LOCATED above the night markets. Positioned on the 5th level in the very heart of Cairns city where you can conveniently walk everywhere within a couple of minutes, markets, great restaurants & shopping. Walk across the park to the jetty for all the reef tours or you may prefer to just relax on the balcony and watch the world go by. YOu will enjoy endless relaxation.

Guest favourite
A serene pool area is framed by lush palm trees and tropical plants. A thatched gazebo provides shaded seating options, while a lounge chair area is perfectly positioned for relaxation. The ocean horizon glows softly under a sunset sky with hues of pink and purple.
Villa in Holloways Beach
4.83 out of 5 average rating, 121 reviews

Mylara Beachfront Holiday Home

A waterfront holiday home at Holloways Beach (15-minutes north of Cairns), Mylara is a seaside getaway that’s set in a suburb that’s more local than touristy. Here at Mylara, it’s all about easy-going days by the waterside; relax on your very own private poolside deck overlooking the Coral Sea, or with direct beach access from our yard, lounge on the sandy shores. The choice is yours!

Guest favourite
A view from the balcony showcases the shimmering waters of the coastline, framed by lush palm trees. Mountains rise gently in the background, and the scene includes a glimpse of a nearby marina and vibrant greenery lining the promenade.
Apartment in Cairns City
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 141 reviews

Ocean View Esplanade Apartment, Kitchen, Carkpark

Esplanade Views. Self Check In. This 10th floor 1 bedroom apartment features include queen bed, double sofa bed (recommended for child/teenager), fully equipped kitchen, balcony, communal gym, pool, and BBQ area. Please advise prior to check in if sofa bed will be required (a minimum of 72 hours notice is required).

Popular amenities for Cairns waterfront rentals

When is the best time to visit Cairns?

MonthJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg. price$232 AUD$216 AUD$222 AUD$236 AUD$228 AUD$261 AUD$336 AUD$319 AUD$301 AUD$280 AUD$267 AUD$298 AUD
Avg. temp28°C28°C27°C26°C24°C23°C22°C22°C24°C25°C27°C28°C

Quick stats about waterfront rentals in Cairns

  • Total holiday rentals

    Explore 320 holiday rentals in Cairns

  • Nightly prices starting at

    Cairns holiday rentals start at $28 AUD per night before taxes and fees

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 17,700 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Family-friendly holiday rentals

    210 properties offer extra space and kid-friendly amenities

  • Pet-friendly accommodation

    Find 10 rentals that welcome pets

  • Holiday rentals with a pool

    310 properties feature pools

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    130 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wi-Fi availability

    320 of Cairns holiday rentals include Wi-Fi access

  • Popular amenities for guests

    Guests love Kitchen, Wifi and Pool across Cairns rentals

  • 4.8 Average rating

    Cairns stays are highly rated by guests—averaging 4.8 out of 5!

  • Nearby attractions

    Cairns's top spots, include Cairns Aquarium, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, and Cairns Botanic Gardens

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