181 THE ESPLANADE, Cairns – A Smart Stay in the City
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Key details
About the Hotel
181 The Esplanade,
Cairns,
Australia,
4870,
Queensland
-
Near Cairns Aquarium
Very good
7.8
8.1
/10
3.6
4.0
/5
Loved by 181 The Esplanade Aparthotel guests
Spacious apartment
Helpful staff
Clean rooms
Great view
Fully fitted kitchen
"The apartment, specifically, was roomy, well maintained, and easily felt like home as soon as you walk in."
neobyrth from United States
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"8th floor apartment provided 2 balconies which were wonderful relaxing spots after days out with great view over The Esplanade garden & recreation areas and sea views to NE and mountain views to the NW."
Carol from United States
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"The size of the 2-bedroom unit was fantastic."
Carol from United States
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Rooms
181 The Esplanade offers a variety of self-contained apartments, including Penthouse and two-bedroom options. The Penthouse apartment provides panoramic views of the Coral Sea and includes three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a spa on the terrace. Each apartment features private balconies that open to stunning water views, enhancing the overall experience of staying in Cairns.
Location
181 The Esplanade is located on the Cairns esplanade, providing easy access to local attractions. A 20-minute walk will lead guests to restaurants, shops, and the swimming lagoon. The central location ensures convenient transport pick-up for excursions to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.
Wellness
The hotel includes a swimming pool adjoining a lagoon, as well as a heated Jacuzzi and sauna for guest relaxation. Guests can unwind in beautifully appointed gardens, surrounded by tropical vegetation. Wellness facilities enhance the overall comfort during stays, making it easy to rejuvenate after exploring Cairns.
Business Amenities
181 The Esplanade provides various services suitable for business travelers. Facilities include secure underground parking, photocopying, and fax services. A dedicated tour desk assists guests with bookings for local attractions.
Child-Friendly Accommodations
The hotel offers family-friendly accommodations with spacious apartments accommodating multiple guests. Children can enjoy the nearby Muddys Playground and Water Park, located only 300 meters away. Families can take advantage of activities in Cairns, ensuring an engaging experience for all ages.
Highlights
Location: 20-minute walk to shops and restaurants .
Rooms: Self-contained 1 and 2 bedroom apartments .
Wellness: Swimming pool, sauna, and heated jacuzzi .
Business Amenities: Secure underground parking and tour desk .
Must-do experiences
Visit the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park for authentic culture.
Savor fresh seafood at the local Night Markets every weekend.
Explore Kuranda via the Scenic Railway for breathtaking views.
Relax at Palm Cove Beach for a quieter, picturesque escape.
Try the famous mud crab at Cairns Fish Market for a local delicacy.
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Choose the Room
From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.
Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay
Facilities:
Perfect
9.4/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Parking
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
Security
Luggage storage
Lift
Smoke detectors
Electric vehicle charging station
Fire extinguishers
Guest Parking
Electric kettle
Dryer
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Services
Car hire
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Tours/Ticket assistance
Business
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Cots
Spa & Leisure
Outdoor swimming pool
Beach access
Garden area
Sauna
Jacuzzi
Room features
Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Air conditioning
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Dining table
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Washing machine
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Dryer
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Media
Flat-screen TV
CD player
AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
Carpeted floor
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181 The Esplanade Aparthotel Location
181 The Esplanade,
Cairns,
Australia,
4870,
Queensland
Map view
181 The Esplanade,
Cairns,
Australia,
4870,
Queensland
City landmarks
Landmark
Cairns Night Markets
4700 ft
Garden
Cairns Botanic Gardens
1.5
mi
Landmark
Green Island
1.2
mi
Market
Rusty's Markets
1.3
mi
Park
Muddy's Playground
2700 ft
Aquarium
Cairns Aquarium
3800 ft
Gallery
The Center of Contemporary Arts
3800 ft
Gallery
Cairns Regional Gallery
5200 ft
Church
St Monica's Cathedral
3100 ft
Library
Cairns City Library
4600 ft
Museum
The Cairns Museum
1.1
mi
Park
Munro Martin Parklands
4000 ft
Landmark
Michaelmas Cay
4900 ft
Zoo
Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome
1.3
mi
Landmark
The Cairns Civic Theater
4800 ft
Landmark
Cairns Tropical Zoo
4100 ft
Gallery
Michael Seebeck Gallery
4500 ft
Gallery
KickArts Contemporary Arts
4900 ft
Landmark
Tanks Arts Centre
1.4
mi
Landmark
Lagoon
1.0
mi
Landmark
Cairns Cenotaph
1.1
mi
Landmark
Cairns Family Court
1.1
mi
Landmark
Cairns Esplanade
1.1
mi
Gallery
Samurai Gallery Australia
1.0
mi
Landmark
Crackerbox Palace
2100 ft
Landmark
Obelisk in memory of the Munro and Martin family
2100 ft
Landmark
RAAF Memorial
2500 ft
Landmark
Commemorative plaque of US army volunteers
4500 ft
Nearby
Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland
1500 ft
6 Grove St
Cock 'n' Bull
1900 ft
Restaurants
Bayleaf Balinese Restaurant
2000 ft
227 Lake St Corner of Lake & Gatton Street
Blue Mango Cafe and Wine Bar
800 ft
209-211 The Esplanade
Charlie's On The Esplanade
1100 ft
223-227 Esplanade Acacia Court Hotel 1st floor
Tandoori Nights
2400 ft
209 Sheridan St
Pedro's Pizza
2700 ft
223 Sheridan St
Sushi Train
2600 ft
221 Sheridan St
Little Ricardo's
2900 ft
191 Sheridan St
Coral Hedge Brassiere Restaurant and Bar
1900 ft
209-217 Abbott Street
Sheridan Bar & Grill
3500 ft
157 Sheridan St
Explore Cairns
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Cairns Night Markets
18 minutes' walk
Vibrant markets featuring local crafts, souvenirs, and street food open every night. Ideal for cultural immersion and unique gifts.
Cairns Botanic Gardens
25 minutes' walk
Lush gardens showcasing tropical plants and species. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic amidst beautiful landscapes.
Cairns Aquarium
14 minutes' walk
Unique aquarium focusing on local marine life with interactive exhibits. Great for families and marine enthusiasts.
Mud, Muddy's Playground
10 minutes' walk
Fun-filled playground perfect for kids with water play areas. A wonderful spot for families to enjoy outdoor activities together.
Green Arrow Walk
15 minutes' walk
Leisurely walking trail offering stunning views of the coast. Ideal for fitness enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Stoney Creek Falls
15 minutes' drive
Adventure destination with scenic waterfalls and swimming spots. Suitable for thrill-seekers wanting outdoor experiences.
Yoga Classes
10 minutes' walk
Well-being classes available nearby focusing on meditation and relaxation. Perfect for solo travelers looking for peace.
Blue Mango Cafe and Wine Bar
3 minutes' walk
Chic cafe offering modern Australian cuisine with fresh local ingredients. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and great coffee.
Charlie's On The Esplanade
4 minutes' walk
Casual dining with stunning water views. Signature dishes include seafood and steaks, perfect for families and couples alike.
Tandoori Nights
9 minutes' walk
Delicious Indian cuisine with a casual vibe. Offers vegetarian and gluten-free options, well-suited for diverse dietary needs.
The Cairns Civic Theatre
18 minutes' walk
Historic venue showcasing a variety of performances, including theater and live music. Great for couples and art enthusiasts.
Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome
25 minutes' walk
Interactive wildlife experience combined with zip-lining. A family-friendly venue that offers adventure for all ages.
Getting around
City Centre
Cairns15 min
·
4000 ft
Airports
Cairns International Airport (CNS)8 min
·
3.0
mi
Train
Cairns Central Station21 min
·
1.1
mi
Bus
Bus stop5 min
·
1400 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:59
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room.
There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Year renovated:
2012
Number of floors:
9
Number of rooms:
15
Former name
181 the esplanade resort
Guest Ratings & Reviews
Real Guest Experiences & Ratings
Review score
Based on 302 verified reviews
7.7/10
Very good
78%
Recommend
Breakfast
5.0/10
Cleanliness
8.4/10
Comfort
9.3/10
Facilities
9.4/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Location
8.8/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.0/10
Staff
8.6/10
Value for money
8.6/10
Pros
Excellent location
Spacious apartment
Helpful staff
Cons
Beat up couches
Water leak
Noisy helicopters
Guest reviews
based on 688 reviews
7.8/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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Questions of the users
About 181 The Esplanade
Is it possible to convert the two single beds in the two-bedroom apartment into a double bed?
12 November 2024
Yes, it is possible to change the two single beds to a double bed.
Does the main bathroom in the apartment feature a separate shower?
19 December 2024
Yes, there is a separate shower located in the main bathroom.
Are there both two bedrooms and two bathrooms available, along with an ocean view pool and spa?
22 January 2025
Yes, all units include self-contained two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and feature an outdoor pool with a heated spa.
What is the distance from the accommodation to Cairns Domestic Airport?
10 February 2025
The property is located approximately 5.2 kilometers from Cairns Domestic Airport.
Does the penthouse include the upper floor and what does it feature?
15 March 2025
Yes, the upper floor is included in the booking, featuring a sitting room and outdoor area, although it does not serve as a fourth bedroom.
Is smoking allowed on the balcony of the apartments?
28 April 2025
Yes, smoking is permitted on the balcony.
Are there cooking facilities available in the apartment kitchen?
02 May 2025
Yes, the apartment does come with a stove in the kitchen.
Can I store my luggage at the property after checking out?
23 June 2025
Yes, luggage can be stored until the office closes at 5:00 PM.
Is secure parking available for two vehicles during our stay?
30 July 2025
Yes, one car can be parked in the secure basement car park, and there is additional visitor parking available.
How far is the property from the city center and the Great Barrier Reef?
11 August 2025
The accommodation is about a comfortable 25-minute walk to the city center, and it takes around 90 minutes by boat to reach the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns.
Are pool or beach towels provided for guests?
05 September 2025
Yes, complimentary pool towels are available upon request at the reception.