181 The Esplanade Aparthotel Cairns Interior photo181 The Esplanade Aparthotel Cairns Exterior photo181 The Esplanade Aparthotel Cairns Amenities photo
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From124US$ /night
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

Hotel Overview

181 The Esplanade, Cairns, Australia, 4870
-
Near the Cairns Aquarium
Very good
7.8
8.1
/10
4.5
4.0
/5

Location

181 The Esplanade is situated along the Cairns Esplanade, offering direct access to the swimming lagoon and a variety of restaurants and entertainment options. The hotel is within a 20-minute stroll along the foreshore to the heart of Cairns, where shopping and attractions abound. Its proximity also provides easy access for tours to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.

Rooms

The hotel offers fully self-contained apartments with one or two bedrooms, each featuring large private balconies that showcase ocean views of Trinity Bay. The deluxe two-bedroom apartments provide views of the Esplanade, while the top-floor penthouse apartment boasts panoramic views and modern appliances. Each apartment is equipped with a well-furnished kitchen, and complimentary Foxtel for entertainment.

Amenities

Guests can enjoy the on-site swimming pool that adjoins a lagoon, a sauna, and a heated Jacuzzi for relaxation. BBQ facilities are available for outdoor dining experiences amidst the tropical gardens. Secure underground parking and a tour desk ensure seamless access to the best local attractions.

Wellness

The hotel provides access to a sauna and heated Jacuzzi, presenting options for relaxation after an active day in Cairns. Guests can enhance their wellness experience through tranquil moments spent in the beautifully landscaped gardens. The facilities invite guests to unwind in a serene environment.

Family-Friendly Features

181 The Esplanade accommodates families with apartments that include multiple bedrooms and fully equipped kitchens. Children can have fun exploring the nearby Muddys Playground and Water Park located just 300m away. The hotel's spacious layouts and easy access to local attractions make it a great choice for family holidays.

Highlights

Location: Cairns Esplanade, close to shopping and attractions

Rooms: Fully self-contained one and two-bedroom apartments

Amenities: Swimming pool adjoining a lagoon

Wellness: Sauna and heated Jacuzzi

Family-Friendly: Apartments with multiple bedrooms

Dining: BBQ facilities in tropical gardens

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll through the Cairns Night Market for unique souvenirs.
  • Taste fresh seafood at the Marina Restaurant on the Esplanade.
  • Visit the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair for a cultural immersion.
  • Explore the lush Cairns Botanic Gardens for stunning flora.
  • Take a scenic day trip to the Atherton Tablelands for waterfalls.
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Pick the Room That Suits Your Travel Needs

Rooms for singles, families, or groups—many with breakfast, free cancellation, and exclusive airport packages
Two-Bedroom Apartment WIFI Access
2 persons
1295 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Coffee machine
Deluxe Two-Bedroom Apartment Ocean View WIFI Access
2 persons
1295 sq. feet 
1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Sea View Two Bedroom Apartment WIFI access
2 persons
1295 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Coffee machine
2 Bedroom Ground floor apartment Garden view WIFI
2 persons
1295 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Coffee machine
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Facilities

Comfortable Rooms and Convenient Services to Enhance Your Layover
Facilities: Very good
7.8/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Parking
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • Security
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • Smoke detectors
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • Fire extinguishers

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle
  • Dryer
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

  • Car hire
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Tours/Ticket assistance

Business

  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots

Spa & Leisure

  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Beach access
  • Garden area
  • Sauna
  • Jacuzzi

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Air conditioning
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Terrace
  • Dining table
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Washing machine
  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Dryer
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • CD player
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Location & Directions

181 The Esplanade, Cairns, Australia, 4870
Map view
181 The Esplanade, Cairns, Australia, 4870
Nearby
Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland
1500 ft
6 Grove St
Cock 'n' Bull
1900 ft
Restaurants
Bayleaf Balinese Restaurant
2000 ft
227 Lake St Corner of Lake & Gatton Street
Blue Mango Cafe and Wine Bar
800 ft
209-211 The Esplanade
Charlie's On The Esplanade
1100 ft
223-227 Esplanade Acacia Court Hotel 1st floor
Tandoori Nights
2400 ft
209 Sheridan St
Pedro's Pizza
2700 ft
223 Sheridan St
Sushi Train
2600 ft
221 Sheridan St
Little Ricardo's
2900 ft
191 Sheridan St
Coral Hedge Brassiere Restaurant and Bar
1900 ft
209-217 Abbott Street
Sheridan Bar & Grill
3500 ft
157 Sheridan St
Explore Cairns
Local Experiences
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Cairns Botanic Gardens
Cairns Botanic Gardens
25 minutes walking
Stunning gardens showcasing tropical flora. Ideal for leisurely strolls and picnics, with free guided tours available.
Cairns Aquarium
Cairns Aquarium
14 minutes walking
Marine wonder showcasing local aquatic life. Educational and family-friendly, with interactive exhibits and feeding sessions.
Muddy's Playground
Muddy's Playground
10 minutes walking
Family-friendly park with water play areas, climbing structures, and picnic spots. A safe environment for kids to enjoy.
St Monica's Cathedral
St Monica's Cathedral
12 minutes walking
Historic cathedral known for its stunning stained glass windows. A serene spot for reflection or simply admiring the architecture.
Green Arrow Walk
15 minutes walking
Scenic walking trail offering lush surroundings and views. Great for nature lovers and those looking to enjoy the outdoors.
Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome
Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome
25 minutes walking
Thrilling activities include zip-lining and interactive wildlife experiences. Suitable for adventurous families and thrill-seekers.
Yoga on the Esplanade
5 minutes walking
Relaxing outdoor yoga sessions by the waterfront. Suitable for all levels and perfect for those seeking calm and wellness.
Charlie's On The Esplanade
Charlie's On The Esplanade
4 minutes walking
Casual beachfront dining with a focus on local seafood. Signature dishes include fresh fish and gourmet burgers.
Bayleaf Balinese Restaurant
Bayleaf Balinese Restaurant
8 minutes walking
Offers authentic Balinese cuisine in a warm setting. Must-try dishes include Nasi Goreng and chicken satay; vegetarian options available.
Blue Mango Cafe and Wine Bar
Blue Mango Cafe and Wine Bar
3 minutes walking
Charming cafe with a relaxed vibe. Known for its gourmet breakfast and delicious coffee; perfect for a leisurely brunch.
Tanks Arts Centre
Tanks Arts Centre
25 minutes walking
Cultural hotspot featuring art exhibitions, concerts, and performances. A vibrant venue for enjoying local talent and creativity.
Cairns Civic Theater
18 minutes walking
Hosts a variety of live performances including theater and music. Check the schedule for family-friendly shows and events.
How to Navigate the City
City Centre
Cairns15 min  ·  4000 ft
Airports
Cairns (CNS)8 min  ·  3.0 mi
Train
Cairns Central Station21 min  ·  1.1 mi
Bus
Bus stop5 min  ·  1400 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:59
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room.  There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Year renovated:
2012
Number of floors:
9
Number of rooms:
15
Former name
181 the esplanade resort

Real Guest Reviews & Ratings

What Previous Guests Had to Say
Review score
Based on 305 verified reviews
7.7/10
Very good
78%
Recommend
Breakfast
5.0/10
Cleanliness
7.8/10
Comfort
7.9/10
Facilities
7.8/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.7/10
Location
8.7/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.4/10
Staff
8.6/10
Value for money
7.8/10
Pros
Spacious apartment
Excellent view
Good location
Friendly staff
Cons
Dirty bathrooms
Old furniture
Faulty aircon
Guest reviews
based on 671 reviews
7.8/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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Questions of the users
About 181 The Esplanade
Can I convert the two single beds in a two-bedroom apartment into a double bed?
05 November 2024
Yes.
Is there a separate shower available in the main bathroom?
10 December 2024
Yes, there is a separate shower in the main bathroom.
Are there two bedrooms and bathrooms along with access to an ocean view pool and spa?
15 January 2025
All apartments feature two bedrooms and two bathrooms, and higher floors offer ocean views with access to an outdoor pool and heated spa.
What is the distance from the property to the Cairns Domestic Airport?
20 February 2025
The property is located approximately 5.2 kilometers from Cairns Domestic Airport.
Will I have access to the upper floor of the Ocean View Penthouse?
25 March 2025
Yes, the upper floor is included in the booking, although it features a sitting room instead of a fourth bedroom.
Is smoking permitted on the balcony?
30 April 2025
Yes, smoking is allowed on the balcony.
Does the kitchen in the apartment include a stove?
05 May 2025
Yes, each apartment comes equipped with a stove in the kitchen.
Are there any laundry facilities, including a dryer, within the apartment?
12 June 2025
Yes, there is a clothes dryer in the unit along with hair dryers.
Is there secure parking available on-site for guests?
18 July 2025
Secure parking is available in the basement for guests, free of charge.
Is it possible to split the room tax receipt between two names?
24 August 2025
Yes, the room tax receipt can be split into two names.
Can luggage be stored after checking out if I have a late flight?
02 September 2025
Yes, luggage can be stored until the office closes at 5:00 PM.
How far is the hotel from the nearest attractions and the Great Barrier Reef?
10 October 2025
The property is about a 25-minute walk to the center of Cairns and approximately 90 minutes by boat to the Great Barrier Reef.

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Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room