Cairns vacation rentals

We found 1,655 vacation rentals — enter your dates for availability

Bask in the tropical allure of Cairns, where stunning beaches meet the vibrant ambiance of bustling neighborhoods. Dive into coral reef adventures or unwind along the picturesque Cairns Esplanade, perfect for family outings and romantic strolls. Explore serene Palm Cove for a tranquil retreat or engage in the lively atmosphere of the Central Business District. With a variety of spacious vacation rentals, from cozy apartments to expansive houses, you’ll enjoy the comfort, convenience, and home-like experience that makes your getaway truly unforgettable.

Popular Cairns destinations on Vrbo

Holiday rentals with weekly discounts - Cairns

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Find out more about Cairns

Why visit Cairns

  • Stunning Beaches: Cairns boasts beautiful beaches perfect for relaxation and water activities.
  • Coral Reef Adventures: Experience the Great Barrier Reef with snorkeling and diving tours.
  • Cultural Events: Enjoy vibrant festivals like the Cairns Festival that celebrate local culture and arts.
  • Natural Parks: Explore nearby national parks for hiking and stunning landscapes.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Visit attractions like the Cairns Aquarium for an engaging family experience.

Popular types of accommodation in Cairns

Planning a getaway to Cairns? The excitement of your adventure begins with selecting the perfect accommodation. From cozy apartments to spacious houses and inviting caravan parks, Cairns offers a variety of vacation rentals to suit every traveler’s needs. Explore your options for Cairns holiday rentals and find the ideal home rental or apartment rental to make your stay unforgettable.

  • Apartments: The top choice for visitors to Cairns, offering convenience and modern amenities for a comfortable stay.
  • Houses: A popular option for groups or families seeking a home-like atmosphere during their getaway.
  • Caravan Parks: Ideal for adventurous travelers, these parks provide a unique outdoor experience with facilities for caravans and campers.
  • Villas: A luxurious choice, perfect for those looking for spacious accommodations with upscale features.
  • Condos: A practical option that combines the benefits of home living with resort-style amenities, great for short or extended stays.**

Top attractions in Cairns

Cairns offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities, making it a perfect vacation destination. Explore stunning beaches, the scenic esplanade, and nearby national parks. Don't miss attractions like the Cairns Aquarium and the vibrant Cairns Festival, which showcase the area's unique culture and natural beauty. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Cairns has something for everyone.

  • Cairns Esplanade: This vibrant esplanade offers stunning views along the waterfront, perfect for family outings or romantic strolls. Enjoy outdoor activities, picnic areas, and a beautiful lagoon, making it a hub for relaxation and fun.
  • Palm Cove Beach: A serene beach retreat, Palm Cove Beach boasts soft sands and swaying palm trees. Ideal for sunbathing and swimming, it offers a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for unwinding by the ocean.
  • Cairns Marlin Marina: This bustling marina is a gateway to adventure, featuring boat tours and water activities. Enjoy a lively atmosphere with cafes and shops, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.

Things to do recommended for couples

For a romantic getaway in Cairns, consider a visit to Paradise Palms Country Club. Indulge in the luxury atmosphere while enjoying a round of golf or a leisurely meal. The serene setting is perfect for couples seeking relaxation and connection amidst stunning natural beauty.

Things to do recommended for families

Families will love exploring the Great Barrier Reef, where kids can snorkel among vibrant marine life. The Cairns Esplanade offers a fun lagoon and playground, while Kuranda Skyrail provides breathtaking views of the rainforest, making for an unforgettable adventure.

Things to do recommended for groups

Groups visiting Cairns can embark on a Great Barrier Reef tour for snorkeling and diving, explore the lush Daintree Rainforest, and enjoy a vibrant evening at the Cairns Night Markets, where local crafts and cuisine come together in a lively atmosphere.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

What do I need to keep in mind when booking a vacation in Cairns

When you're traveling with a group, family, or pets, or if you're planning an extended stay, it's essential to prioritize your preferences. Here are some helpful Vrbo booking tips to guide you.

  • Traveling to Cairns with a group: Think about how many bedrooms you require and any additional features you might want, like a full kitchen or outdoor area for group gatherings. Luckily, you can easily filter for these options and many more on Vrbo.
  • Traveling to Cairns with young kids: Traveling with young kids can be a bit tricky. It's important to prioritize their comfort and safety, along with having access to suitable amenities, like a private swimming pool. Additionally, it's wise to think about how close you are to family-friendly attractions.
  • Taking your pets with you to Cairns: For many families, a vacation isn't truly fulfilling without their furry companion by their side. If this resonates with you, explore Vrbo listings that welcome pets. Many of these pet-friendly properties offer feeding bowls and beds, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and at home.
  • Planning for a long term stay visiting Cairns: If you're in search of vacation rentals that offer discounts for stays of a month or more, you've come to the right spot. By using the appropriate filters, you can effortlessly discover and save on monthly rentals. Don't forget to include options like a parking space, a well-equipped kitchen, or a private pool in your search as well.

Where to stay in Cairns

Cairns is a tropical paradise perfect for outdoor adventures and family-friendly experiences. Explore stunning beaches, vibrant markets, and charming neighborhoods that reflect a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. Dive into the breathtaking coral reefs or relax in the serene surroundings. Whether you're seeking romance or relaxation, Cairns offers an unforgettable getaway filled with friendly locals and a unique blend of natural beauty and city vibes.

  • Cairns: Cairns is a vibrant city that serves as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. The city's picturesque esplanade offers stunning waterfront views and a range of recreational options, from cycling paths to picnic areas. You can explore local markets, enjoy shopping at modern malls, or catch a live performance at the theater. Cairns also boasts beautiful urban parks, perfect for a relaxing day out. With its tropical climate and rich biodiversity, Cairns offers an unforgettable travel experience filled with natural beauty and excitement.
  • Palm Cove: Nestled along the coastline just north of Cairns, Palm Cove is a serene suburb known for its stunning beaches and luxurious resorts. This tranquil destination is ideal for families looking to spend quality time together while enjoying outdoor activities. Visitors can indulge in spa treatments, pamper themselves with body therapies, or unwind on the family-friendly beach. The palm-fringed esplanade is perfect for leisurely strolls, offering breathtaking views of the Coral Sea. With its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful scenery, Palm Cove is a prime spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.
  • Cairns Central Business District: The Cairns Central Business District is the bustling heart of the city, where urban life meets tropical charm. This vibrant neighborhood is a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, offering a variety of shopping centers and malls. The area is home to popular theaters, making it easy to catch a show after a day of exploring. The nearby esplanade and urban parks provide beautiful spaces to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The blend of city excitement and natural beauty makes the Cairns Central Business District an essential stop for any visitor.

Booking with Vrbo is simple

Looking to save on your next trip? Consider being flexible with your travel dates, as prices can fluctuate. Additionally, extending your stay can often result in significant savings. To discover the ideal Vrbo property that fits your budget, take advantage of our filters to search by price, location, and type of vacation rental. We're here to help you find the best options for your getaway.

Vrbo Trips: Planning made easy

Vrbo's cutting-edge Trip Board offers you a dedicated area to plan new adventures, pick up where you left off, or manage your travel arrangements. You can easily access properties you've saved or booked, now organized into Potential, Upcoming, or Current Trips. To start using Trip Boards, simply visit: https://www.vrbo.com/trips.

**Based on Vrbo properties bookings.

Take in the oceanfront beauty of Cairns

The rainforest and beaches provide a pleasant backdrop to your vacation home in Cairns. Travelers to this welcoming city praise the coral reefs, shopping and restaurants. If you need more space to accommodate a family vacation or friends trip, rental homes often come with separate dining areas and spacious living rooms.

Sightseeing in and around Cairns

Do you want to discover things to do while you're in the area? Venture out of your vacation home and check out everything that makes Cairns a fun spot to vacation. Here are some of the major attractions to see, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:

  • Esplanade Lagoon (0.2 mi / 0.4 km)
  • Half Moon Bay Golf Course (8.7 mi / 14 km)
  • Rainforestation Nature Park (10.6 mi / 17.1 km)
  • Kuranda Koala Gardens (11.8 mi / 19 km)
  • Vie Spa Palm Cove (13.6 mi / 21.9 km)
  • Hartley's Crocodile Adventures (22.6 mi / 36.4 km)

Exploring the coral reefs and other natural features in Cairns

Whether you're an active traveler or just want to appreciate the scenery, Cairns is a great place to get out in nature. Here are a few of the area's most stunning natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:

  • Esplanade Lagoon (0.2 mi / 0.4 km)
  • Muddy's Playground (0.5 mi / 0.8 km)
  • Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland (0.9 mi / 1.5 km)
  • Crystal Cascades (6.9 mi / 11.1 km)
  • Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Station (7.4 mi / 11.9 km)
  • Yorkeys Knob Beach (7.6 mi / 12.2 km)

Traveling to and around Cairns

The nearest airport is in Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS), located 3.5 mi (5.6 km) from the city center.

If you prefer to travel by train, Cairns Station, Freshwater Station and Redlynch Station are the main stations that serve the city.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Cairns when booking a vacation rental?
Grab your vacation property in Palm Cove and you'll be in one of Cairns's leading areas. Vie Spa Palm Cove and Palm Cove Beach are two of the major attractions here that'll entertain you during your visit.
What is the most popular type of vacation rental accommodation in Cairns?
Based on our research, apartments are the most sought-after type of property in Cairns. But as you'd expect, everyone's idea of the perfect stay is bound to be different. Vrbo has vacation homes in a variety of shapes and sizes, and we'll help you discover your ideal fit.
How much does it cost to rent a vacation rental in Cairns?
The average price for a vacation rental in Cairns can vary based on factors such as length of stay, property type and season. Whether you're in search of a sprawling villa with lots of bedrooms or an apartment for you and your other half, just add your travel dates to view stays with exceptional value.
How much does it cost to rent a beach house in Cairns?
Prices for beach houses in Cairns vary depending on the size and type of the property and when you're traveling. Simply enter your travel dates into Vrbo and the number of guests to see your options and prices. From there you can use our filters to narrow down your search by nearby activities, amenities, ratings and more.
Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Cairns?
With 1,252 properties that allow pets, your happy hound can join you on your Cairns vacation. Use the filter tool to browse our pet-friendly vacation rentals and find a stay that'll set tails wagging on Vrbo.
Can I rent a house with a pool in Cairns?
Add a whole new level of fun to your trip by staying in one of the 995 houses with a private pool in Cairns. Use our search filter to find properties with pools on Vrbo, then spend your downtime splashing about in a swimming pool that's all your own.
What are popular rental amenities in Cairns?
When it comes to rental amenities that people are looking for in Cairns, a nearby waterfront, a water view and a lake view are at the top of the list. With Vrbo vacation homes, you'll discover options to suit your taste and style, whether you're traveling with your partner, your family or even pets.
Are there large group vacation rentals in Cairns?
You can pick from 102 vacation properties in Cairns that can accommodate a group of 10 or more guests. Whether you're organizing time away with the family or a special event, there's enough space to get your loved ones together under the same roof.
Are there vacation rentals in Cairns that welcome kids?
Cairns has 1,214 family-friendly vacation rentals to choose from. And booking a stay that welcomes kids is a cinch with Vrbo's "Properties good for families" filter. Besides having the whole place to yourselves, you'll also get access to amenities and perks like dining rooms, kitchens and yards.
What are the top attractions for families in Cairns?
Keep the kids amused at these popular family-friendly attractions in Cairns:

  • Copperlode Dam
  • Cairns Cable Ski
  • Grey Peaks National Park

Are there one-bedroom vacation rentals in Cairns?
You can choose from 242 one-bedroom rentals in Cairns. Whether you'd like an apartment or a cabin, Vrbo's one-bedroom properties are great if you don't require huge amounts of space. One of the best things about having your own place? You won't need to share your vacation with strangers.
Can I find two-bedroom vacation rentals in Cairns?
Cairns has 385 two-bedroom properties for you to pick from. Enjoy a vacation home with all the space and privacy you're looking for at a fantastic price on Vrbo.
Are there vacation rentals with WiFi in Cairns?
Choose from 581 vacation rentals with WiFi in Cairns. If you'd like to disconnect from the world while on vacation, but still need to be connected to the web, these properties have just what you need. Narrow your search by applying the WiFi filter on Vrbo.
How can I find vacation rentals with air conditioning in Cairns?
Pick your dates and then use the filters to see vacation rentals with ac in Cairns on Vrbo. With 1,173 air-conditioned properties to choose from here, you can enjoy a cool and comfortable trip.
How old do you have to be to rent a vacation rental in Cairns?
The minimum age permitted can vary across properties on Vrbo, so check the rules of the vacation home in Cairns you want to book. But usually, it's 16, 18 or 21.
How long can I rent a vacation rental in Cairns for?
It really depends on the Cairns property. To see all available options offering extended stays, simply enter your travel dates and guest number into the Vrbo search page. You can enjoy having the property to yourself, along with amenities such as a full kitchen, air conditioning and a yard where the kids can play. Keep your eyes peeled for long-term stays that offer discounted weekly or monthly prices.
Does Vrbo offer discounts for vacation homes in Cairns?
Whether you've got your eye on one of our newly listed homes, or one of our weekly or monthly discounts on vacation rentals, you're sure to find some great deals and discounts on Vrbo. From short stays to extended getaways, we've got the perfect place for your next Cairns escape.

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