1. Best kept secret
Fitzroy Island Resort
Only 45 minutes by fast cat from Cairns, the islands’ picturesque location, turquoise warm waters and postcard worthy sunsets give Fitzroy Island Resort a real “WOW” factor that won’t stay secret for long.
The reef system surrounding the island is a part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, making it the perfect base for snorkeling, diving and exploring the reef. The safe, sheltered waters that fringe the resort are also ideal for swimming, water sports and boating.
2. Hottest hotel bar…
QT Port Douglas
TNQ has never been so chic…..QT Port Douglas is the area’s newest five star offering. For the ultimate place to relax alfresco day and night, the onsite bar Estilo offers guests exquisite cocktails that can be enjoyed on the lawn or by the pool. The vibe is in keeping with that of the hotel: contemporary yet quirky with a classy beachside feel. Private booths are available too (make sure to book ahead on Friday or Saturday nights) – very VIP, darling.
3. Which restaurant rules…
Pullman Reef Hotel Casino
This is a tough one but the multi-award winning cuisine of Tamarind, the signature restaurant of the Pullman Reef Hotel Casino, is hard to beat.
The contemporary Australian menu with Asian influences changes regularly to reflect the seasons. And the impressive Australian wine list and cocktail menu will suit any taste.
It’s also the only restaurant in Cairns with a Chef’s Hat courtesy of the 2013 Australian Good Food Guide so you know you’re onto a good thing.
4. Straight up ‘Pool bar’ with a twist …
Peppers Beach Club & Spa Palm Cove
I know, I know. I’m kind of cheating by including two bars in the list but when it comes to tropical getaways, pool bars really do deserve their own category.
Peppers Beach Club and Spa’s swim up pool bar, ‘On the Rocks’ is the perfect place to laze the day away – all in the comfort of your bathers! The stunning setting offers a selection of tempting cocktails and lights snacks combined with relaxing poolside tunes, and fragrant gardenia scented air. If you don’t feel relaxed and rejuvenated after a stay at this beachfront resort, you’re doing it wrong.
5. Views to die to for…
Sea Change Beachfront Apartments
Now this is a view we could get very used to….
Sea Change Beachfront Apartments at Trinity Beach provide gorgeous views of the Coral Sea. Each of the self-contained apartments are ‘absolute beachfront’ so you know you’re guaranteed a Facebook photo worthy view no matter which room you get.
6. Lounge-worthy pool…
Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas
When a resort has two hectares of sparkling lagoons to get acquainted with, you know it’s going to be tough to beat in the pool stakes. Not only does Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas boast a lagoon with pure white sandy shores, you can also laze in the freshwater pool with a cocktail from the swim-up bar, relax on your own secluded beach or if you’ve got kids, join them in the Aqua Play area.
7. Get up close with nature …
The Canopy – Rainforest Treehouses & Wildlife Sanctuary
Bring out your inner child with a stay in your very own tree house in the Cairns Highlands region. The luxury ‘pole homes’ are secluded and boast a double corner spa, wood fireplace, full gourmet kitchen plus a hammock on your very own spacious balcony.
From birdlife to tree kangaroos and possums to wallabies, the wildlife at the resort make it perfect for nature lovers.
8. Day Spa detox …
Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa
If you’re in need of a spa-cation, this is where it’s at. Daintree Wellness Spa is a unique mind, body and soul experience, harnessing the potent natural forces from the surrounding rainforest. With a range of treatments from 30 minutes up to three hours, there’s something to suit everyone. The surroundings here are best described as a mix of Avatar and Jurassic Park!
9. Location, location, location…
Angsana Resort & Spa
Absolute beachfront … five-star luxury … exactly the words you want to hear when booking your next holiday and this is the resort where you can find them! Angsana Resort & Spa is the only resort in the Cairns and Palm Cove region to boast absolute beach frontage to the magnificent Coral Sea. Take that someone special or a group of your girlfriends and step through the line of palm trees onto the sandy shores of the Coral Sea. Bliss! Make sure you try out the award winning restaurant and day spa while you’re there too.
10. An escape within an escape…
Shangri-La Hotel, the Marina
Just when you thought a stay in a five-star hotel couldn’t get any better, you step into the exclusive retreat that is Horizon Club Lounge at Shangri-la Hotel, The Marina. Who says flash lounges are just for airports?!
Enjoy bonuses with your Club Lounge access including brekkie, refreshments served throughout the day plus evening drinks and canapés. Fancy! Take refuge in the comfort of your lavishly appointed Horizon Club room – or suite if you want to further indulge –and enjoy your waterfront views … cue the relaxing sighs!
