Stratford Travel Guide
Cairns
Visit Stratford
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.
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 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.
Cairns Night Markets
During your trip to Tropical North Waterfront, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Cairns Night Markets. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area or seek out the local tours.
Things to do
Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail Tour
Ocean Spirit Sail to Michaelmas Cay on the Great Barrier Reef
Fitzroy Island Transfers and Tours from Cairns
Big Cat Green Island - Great Barrier Reef Cruise
Kuranda Scenic Rail & Skyrail including Gold Class Tickets
Big Cat Green Island - Half-Day Great Barrier Reef Cruise
Top hotels in Stratford
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
"Loved the Shangrila, only stayed one night before flight but would definitely come back and stay longer. Bed really comfy, great size room and bathroom. Great pool too."
Reviewed on 23 Jun 2026
Cairns Colonial Club Resort
"Microwa"
Reviewed on 21 Jun 2026
Pacific Hotel Cairns
"The staff were very helpful with accommodating my arrival on an early flight. A lovely big and light room!"
Reviewed on 24 Jun 2026
Cairns Harbourside Hotel
"Thanks for a wonderful stay"
Reviewed on 24 Jun 2026
Crystalbrook Flynn
"Overall the stay was just OK. The couple of bad points… the shower pressure and temperature was woeful. We were on floor eleven - trying to get the temperature where it didn’t burn you or was cold was difficult to say the least. We also got charged three nights parking despite not being able to get ..."
Reviewed on 24 Jun 2026
Ramada By Wyndham Cairns City Centre
"The room was very clean and the cleaning staff were amazing. The location is within easy walking distance of the Esplanade and many pubs and eateries. The Cairns Aquarium and Tomb of the Pharaohs exhibition is directly opposite the Ramada. The room and small TV that we were allocated is dated but ..."
Reviewed on 23 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Stratford
Palm Cove
Palm Cove is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Palm Cove Beach and Vie Spa Palm Cove, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Cairns.
Cairns Central Business District
Cairns Central Business District is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Esplanade Lagoon and Cairns Marlin Marina.
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.
Cairns North
The beaches and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Cairns North. A stop by Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland or Cairns North Beach might round out your trip.
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.
