Ellis Beach Travel Guide
Cairns

Visit Ellis Beach
Popular places to visit

Cairns Esplanade
Stroll along the boardwalk surrounded by palms tree and landscaped gardens and watch the sun set over the Coral Sea.

Cairns Marlin Marina
Enjoy views of the harbour and and unwind with al-fresco dining, entertainment and shopping beside the bay.

Cairns Central Shopping Centre
During your visit to Tropical North Waterfront, you can do some window-shopping at Cairns Central Shopping Centre. Discover the spectacular coral reefs in this walkable area or enjoy its local tours.

Palm Cove Beach
Located in between the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, this palm tree-lined beach is an idyllic spot to take it easy or begin an adventure.

Esplanade Lagoon
Relax after a day of sightseeing or cool down from the summer heat in this fresh-water lagoon, one of Cairns’ best city attractions.

Cairns Convention Centre
Learn about the events happening in Cairns Convention Centre during your trip to Tropical North Waterfront. Discover the spectacular coral reefs in this walkable area or enjoy its local tours.
Things to do

Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise

Kuranda Scenic Rail & Skyrail including Gold Class Tickets

Big Cat Green Island - Great Barrier Reef Cruise

Fitzroy Island Transfers and Tours from Cairns

Full-Day Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise & Snorkeling Tour

Fitzroy Island Day Trip 11am to 5pm Ferry INC Snorkel Equipment
Top hotels in Ellis Beach

Ellis Beach Oceanfront Bungalows
Clean room, quiet beachfront cabin. Spectacular views.
Reviewed on 26 Feb 2026

Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Nice enough hotel but not 5 star. It is very tired and needs a renovation. The decor has been updated but everything else is very dated. Staff were all friendly and helpful. Hotel is in a great location on the marina. Room was clean and beds comfortable.
Reviewed on 6 Apr 2026

Hilton Cairns
Absolutely perfect location in very close proximity to the water and my scuba boat in the Marina. I would definitely recommend adding on the breakfast as they had a lot of great options and it was very convenient before going out to explore the city every day. I love having a view of the city, which ...
Reviewed on 31 Mar 2026

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
Staff made beautiful corners on the toilet paper but forgot to make the bed
Reviewed on 5 Apr 2026

Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns
Good property near to everything
Reviewed on 6 Apr 2026

Cairns Harbourside Hotel
Friendly welcoming staff, very dated room and bathroom
Reviewed on 6 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Ellis Beach

Palm Cove
Palm Cove is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Palm Cove Beach and Kuranda National Park, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Cairns.

Clifton Beach
Clifton Beach is known for its pristine beaches, and you can make a stop by Clifton Beach and Palm Cove Beach while in the area.

Trinity Beach
Trinity Beach is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Trinity Beach and Kewarra Beach, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Cairns.

Kewarra Beach
Unique features of Kewarra Beach include the beaches and golf courses. Make a stop by Kewarra Beach or Kuranda National Park while you're exploring the area.

Trinity Park
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Trinity Park and surrounding area, you can visit Half Moon Bay Golf Course and Trinity Beach.

Yorkeys Knob
Yorkeys Knob is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Half Moon Bay Golf Course and Yorkeys Knob Beach.
