Southeast of the Daintree National Park lies the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns. Known for its marine life and Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest, this far north Queensland city is an oasis for biophiles while also offering bustling markets and vibrant eateries for the epicureans.
Spend your days wandering the rainforests and waterfalls, stroll down the Cairns Esplanade teeming with bars and restaurants, or sail around the coastline and nearby islands when exploring this tropical spot.
From Palm Cove sanctuaries to beachfront Kewarra opulence, we’re curated an edit of the most luxe Cairns Airbnbs to book for your next getaway up north.
Luxe Cairns Airbnb with ocean views
Coral Sea Views Retreat, Redlynch
Sleeps: 10 guests
Looking out to rainforest, pastures, the ocean and even Green Island, this primely positioned Cairns stay is for the aesthete. Take in the views over a barbecue on the deck on upon one of the underwater seats in the pool.
Reasons to stay:
- Large private decks
- Swimming pool with shallow bench
- Barbecue
- Elevated mountain views
Luxe beachfront Cairns Airbnb
Luxury beachfront home, Kewarra Beach
Sleeps: 10 guests
Want the resort experience but not the actual resort? This luxury property blends Federation style with the contemporary, sleeps 10 guests and is right on the beachfront. Featuring cathedral ceilings, wraparound decks, a swimming pool, and a pool bar fit with a cooktop, pizza oven, bar fridge and ice maker, you have all you need to stay in for a tropical retreat up north.
Reasons to stay:
- Five master bedrooms with private ensuites
- Poolside bar with cooktop, pizza oven, bar fridge and ice maker
- Large heated swimming pool
- Cathedral ceilings
- Direct beach access
Luxe Airbnbs in Palm Cove
Belle Escapes rainforest villa, Palm Cove
Sleeps: Eight guests
Just a short walk from the beaches, eateries and boutiques of the iconic Palm Cove Esplanade, this contemporary villa backing onto rainforest is something of a summertime oasis. With an inground magnesium pool, an expansive central timber deck, free access to the nearby Ocean’s Edge Health Club, and overlooking a stream, you’re all set for luxuriating.
Reasons to stay:
- Expansive central timber deck
- Rainforest backdrop with stream
- Access to a health club’s facilities
- Private magnesium inground pool
Ocean Drive home, Palm Cove
Sleeps: Six guests
Airy and architecturally designed, this Palm Cove boasts a sheltered alfresco entertaining where you can share a glass by the mineral pool on the timber deck no matter the weather. With a kitchen featuring a walk-in butler’s pantry and servery, contemporary furnishings and high ceilings, this stay is ideal for the lowkey holiday entertainer.
Reasons to stay:
- 200m from beach
- Soaring ceilings
- Walk-in butler’s pantry and servery
- Access to a health club’s facilities
- Internal magnesium swimming pool
Luxe Airbnb in Edge Hill
Lazenby Lodge, Edge Hill
Sleeps: Six guests
A traditional Queenslander in Edge Hill – the suburb home to Cairns Botanic Gardens and gourmet delis – Lazenby Lodge is a sweet escape from the bigger smokes. With four bedrooms, a shaded pool and an open plan design, it’ll backdrop your getaway with quiet luxury.
Reasons to stay:
- Traditional Queenslander
- Open plan living
- Swimming pool
- Alfresco dining setup
Luxe Airbnb in Cairns North
NO:37 Boutique, Cairns North
Sleeps: Eight guests
Positioned on the fringe, just five minutes from Cairns City, this thoughtfully restored cottage marries old timey charm with contemporary luxuries. Spend an afternoon by the pool before firing up the barbecue and sharing a meal around the table outside.
Reasons to stay:
- Boutique city Queenslander
- Swimming pool
- Fully air-conditioned
Related articles:
- The best restaurants in Queensland right now
- 6 luxe Airbnbs in Noosa for your next Sunshine Coast getaway
- 6 Sunshine Coast Airbnbs to backdrop your luxuriation in the salt and sun