Whitfield Travel Guide
Cairns
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.
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 Marlin Marina
Enjoy views of the harbour and and unwind with al-fresco dining, entertainment and shopping beside the bay.
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
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
Fitzroy Island Transfers and Tours from Cairns
Full-Day Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise & Snorkeling Tour
Top hotels in Whitfield
Hilton Cairns
The best breakfast ever
Reviewed on 25 Feb 2026
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
The room does not have a toaster, microwave or a sink. They do not even provide drinking water in a jug. They wanted me to bring my food down to reception/lobby and they will not allow me to use their microwave but heat my food without washing hands. Absolutely unacceptable to me as a doctor. Use ...
Reviewed on 2 Mar 2026
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Very good location and the horizon lounge a must
Reviewed on 2 Mar 2026
Cairns Colonial Club Resort
The pools and 2 restaurants made it a very convenient stay. It’s close to grocery stores so we could get some snacks. The resort dated, but clean and comfortable! The fire alarm went off in our room at 7am the morning we were leaving, so that got us out of there early. I’m sure a battery change would ...
Reviewed on 2 Mar 2026
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
Yes
Reviewed on 2 Mar 2026
Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns
Hotel looks a bit tired and worn-out but rooms were clean. Staff friendly but inconsistent with information.
Reviewed on 1 Mar 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Whitfield
Edge Hill
You'll enjoy the museums and parks in Edge Hill. You might want to make time for a stop at Centenary Lakes Botanic Gardens or Mount Whitfield Conservation Park.
Aeroglen
If you're spending some time in Aeroglen, Mount Whitfield Conservation Park and Skydive The Reef Cairns are top sights worth seeing.
Manunda
Shopping, gardens and spas are some highlights of Manunda. You might stop by Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland or Cairns Performing Arts Centre while you're in the area.
Cairns North
Pristine beaches and ample dining options are well-reviewed features of Cairns North. Make a stop by top sights like Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland while you're exploring the area.
Barron
Barron might not have many top sights, but Australian Armour and Artillery Museum and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Station are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Westcourt
You'll enjoy the casinos and shopping in Westcourt. You might want to make time for a stop at DFO Cairns or Cazalys Cairns.
