Shargri-La Hotel
The elegant Shangri-La occupies prime real estate at the Cairns Marina, with 255 rooms alongside a business center, gym, and poolside bar. The Shangri-La's reputation for service and hospitality applies here with airport transfers and taxis easily arranged. Horizon Club guests have access to a private lounge and buffet breakfast, as well as use of the hotel's meeting rooms.
Onsite restaurant the Backyard is a local favorite, with outdoor seating and a contemporary Australian-Japanese menu, while visitors have easy access to tours of the Great Barrier Reef from the nearby dock. Rooms start from AU$205 per night.
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Riley
Riley is the coolest hotel in town, home to the city's first rooftop bar, the Mediterranean-inspired Rocco, which looks out over the Esplanade. Part of the Crystalbrook Collection, this property is made up of 311 rooms and suites, plus two dining offerings, a huge swimming lagoon, and a spa.
Despite its focus on environmental sustainability, this modern resort has a playful attitude and plenty of contemporary design flourishes. Rooms start from AU$239 per night.