About Palm Cove

Just north of Cairns, on the spectacular eastern coast of Queensland, sits Palm Cove. A wonderful seaside destination for keen beachgoers of all ages, this palm-fringed spot boasts a number of excellent accommodation options, as well as a burgeoning crop of eateries, bars and shops. Our pick of the best places to stay in Palm Cove includes a family-friendly hotel as well as a collection of superb private apartments — all clustered around swimming pools and steps from the sand.

Palm Cove’s main draw is undoubtedly its big, beautiful beach. Take scenic strolls and swims, or hone your sailing, kayaking and snorkelling skills with family and friends. Spot dolphins and turtles in clear, shallow waters, or head further out to dive amidst dazzling corals. Outdoorsy explorers can also look inland to the Kuranda National Park for wildlife encounters, challenging hikes and mountain bike rides.

Day trips to Cairns also come highly recommended for excellent shopping at boutiques owned by up-and-coming Australian designers, fantastic fare at hip eateries, and some great golf. Palm Cove is a brilliant base for those eager to unwind beachside, yet within easy reach of the city’s many amenities. Expect the best places to stay in Palm Cove to be very busy in the summer months — book your holiday well in advance!

The Best Places to Stay in Palm Cove

For Romantic Luxury

  • The Reef House is a boutique gem with a decades-long history of warm hospitality. Elegant, adults-only suites and villas are tucked within lush gardens, with four-poster beds and whirlpool tubs. There's a spa, two swimming pools, a gourmet restaurant and a bar with complimentary tropical punch and canapés each evening. A seaside delight for couples or friends, with stacks of personality and charm.

For a Family-Friendly Beach Break

  • Alamanda Palm Cove by Lancemore's lush gardens face striking Palm Beach itself. Modern apartments with up to four bedrooms are clustered around three swimming pools, as well as a smart restaurant and dedicated wedding chapel. With private kitchens, sitting rooms and balconies, these beachside apartments are ideal for long stays or trips with friends and family.
  • Peppers Beach Club & Spa is a family favourite, with blue and white bedrooms overlooking refreshing lagoon pools framed by swaying palm trees. The best suites have hot tubs or plunge pools on private terraces. Guests share access to a spa, tennis court, swim-up pool bar and great restaurant. The beach is mere moments away.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Fly to Cairns International Airport, and travel to your hotel in Palm Cove by bus or taxi in around 20 minutes. You can also arrive by train from Brisbane — a long but hugely scenic route. Many hotels will be happy to arrange an airport or railway station pick up in advance.
  • Queensland is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Like much of Queensland, Palm Cove really only has two seasons: the warm, dry season — from April to September — and the hot, wet season, between October and March. Visit during the warm, dry season if you can, avoiding the school holidays for quieter sights.

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The best hotels in Palm Cove

Alamanda Palm Cove by Lancemore

Palm Cove (Queensland)

A collection of modern, multi-bedroom apartments close to popular Palm Cove Beach. Set around three swimming pools, these stylish apartments have up to four bedrooms, plus spacious kitchens, sitting rooms & balconies. There's a chic restaurant, a dedicated wedding chapel and a soothing spa.

  • Weddings - The hotel has a purpose-built wedding chapel with striking sea views, perfect for a memorable Queensland celebration
  • Groups - Multi-bedroom apartments are ideal for seaside holidays with friends, who will love NuNu Restaurant and the spa
  • Kayaking - Take a guided kayaking trip to see turtles and dolphins in the clear ocean waters around Palm Cove
  • Great walks - Follow hiking trails through the Kuranda National Park, just inland of Palm Cove
from $167 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Peppers Beach Club & Spa

Palm Cove (Queensland)

A family favourite in Palm Cove, with multi-bedroom guest rooms & suites facing refreshing lagoon pools. Rooms are done in blue & white tones; the best suites have terraces with hot tubs or plunge pools. Facilities include a tennis court, spa, restaurant & swim-up pool bar. Steps from the beach.

  • Families - Three-bedroom suites with BBQ areas and private pools or hot tubs are ideal for fun family holidays at the beach
  • Beach Life - A smart contemporary hotel on the edge of Palm Cove Beach, perfect for lazy beach days with guests of all ages
  • Restaurant - Dine on international cuisine at La Mesa restaurant, enjoy snacks at the Lobby Bar or book the rooftop BBQ area
  • Fishing - Speak to the hotel team about organising private fishing charters, which are enormously popular
from $200 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Reef House

Palm Cove (Queensland)

A gem of a boutique hotel in Palm Cove, with a decades-long history of warm hospitality. Elegant guest rooms, suites & villas are adults-only, and many boast four-posters & whirlpool tubs. The leafy grounds are home to a spa, two pools, a restaurant & a bar for lively happy hour gatherings.

  • Total relaxation - A wonderfully relaxed beachfront boutique hotel, with two pools, a day spa, gourmet fare & welcoming traditions
  • Romantic Break - A romantic, adults-only boutique bolthole in pretty Palm Cove, with a fabulous reputation for warm hospitality
  • Restaurant - Feast on delicious fresh fare with a view of the ocean at the Reef House Restaurant
  • Swimming Pool - Two swimming pools — a tranquility pool and a heated mineral pool
from $557 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia