Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 07-4051 1501;
www.acaciacourt.com
; 223-227 The Esplanade; d $120-170; )
A stroll along
the Esplanade from town, this waterfront high-rise's beachy touches and a choice of ocean
or mountain views make it great value for money. Most rooms have private balconies and
its famous buffet restaurant Charlie's is downstairs.
Shangri-La
MAP
HOTEL
$$$
GOOGLE MAP
( 07-4031 1411;
www.shangri-la.com/cairns
;
Pierpoint Rd; r from $270; )
In an unbeatable
waterfront setting towering over the marina, Shangri-La is Cairns' top hotel, a super-swish
five-star that ticks all the boxes for views, facilities (including a gym and pool bar) and
service. Off-season rates available online.
Hotel Cairns
( 07-4051 6188;
www.thehotelcairns.com
; cnr Abbott & Florence Sts; d $195-265; )
There's a true
tropical charm to this sprawling bone-white hotel, built in traditional Queenslander 'plant-
ation' style. Rooms have an understated elegance and the huge 'tower' rooms and suites
offer luxury touches including private balconies. Check the website for special deals.
HOTEL
$$$
Eating
There's something to tickle every tastebud here: pubs dish up some surprisingly fab (and
cheap) fare; the Esplanade has an overwhelming variety of chowhouses; the Pier Market-
place's boardwalk is lined with international restaurants and a random wander around the
city streets (Grafton Street especially) throws up everything from Indian to Bavarian to
hipster cuisine. Check the
Cairns Post
every Wednesday for restaurant coupons and spe-
cials.
Lillypad
MAP
CAFE
$
GOOGLE MAP
( 07-4051 9565; 72 Grafton St; dishes $10-14; 7am-3pm; )
With humungous feasts from crepes
to wraps and a truckload of vegetarian options, this is one of the best-value options in
town. It's a little bit hippy, and a whole lot busy: you'll probably have to wait a while.
Don't miss the fresh juices.
Caffiend
CAFE
$
