When planning a family holiday, finding the right hotel is crucial to ensuring everyone’s comfort and enjoyment. During our recent trip to Cairns, Australia, we found the perfect spot that catered to both kids and adults—offering not just a place to stay, but an experience that made our holiday even more memorable. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teenagers, this hotel is a fantastic option for a seamless family getaway.
1. The Search for the Perfect Family Hotel in Cairns
Planning a trip to Cairns with kids can be tricky. There are many factors to consider: accessibility, activities that can keep the little ones entertained, proximity to natural attractions like the Great Barrier Reef, and of course, comfort for the parents after a long day of adventures. After scouring numerous websites and reading countless reviews, we stumbled upon a gem—The Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort.
This resort ticked all the boxes. It’s centrally located, close to Cairns’ Esplanade, and offers family-friendly amenities that make it an ideal choice for a relaxed yet adventurous family holiday.
2. Location: A Central Hub for Exploration
The Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort is nestled in the heart of Cairns, only a short walk from the Esplanade Lagoon and the Cairns Night Markets. For families, this location is perfect. You’re not just close to local attractions, but you’re also surrounded by various dining options, parks, and shops.
Whether you want to stroll along the waterfront or explore the nearby Reef Fleet Terminal for diving trips, everything is within reach. The convenience of having Cairns’ vibrant cultural scene at your doorstep was a major selling point for us. Plus, being near the Cairns Convention Centre means that if you happen to attend any events, you’re already right there.
3. The Hotel Experience: Relaxing Yet Fun for the Whole Family
From the moment we checked in, we were greeted with warmth and efficiency. The check-in process was smooth, and the staff made sure to accommodate our needs with a smile. The lobby itself is spacious and welcoming, with an open-air feel that set the tone for a relaxing holiday.
We stayed in a family suite, which was an absolute delight. Spacious, well-appointed, and designed with families in mind, it offered all the comforts of home, plus a few luxurious touches. The suite included a large king-sized bed for the parents, as well as a separate area with two single beds for the kids. It’s the little things that really made the difference: the kids had their own space to hang out and play, while we could unwind in the other room. There was plenty of storage for all our gear, and a balcony that offered views of the lush tropical gardens.
One of the standout features was the room’s bathroom. With young children in tow, having a spacious bathroom with both a shower and bathtub was essential. This made bath time after a long day at the beach or pool so much easier and more enjoyable.
4. Kid-Friendly Facilities: A Splash of Fun
If there’s one thing that truly makes this hotel a great choice for families, it’s the amazing pool area. The Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort boasts one of the most spectacular resort pools we’ve ever seen. The pool is massive, with a sandy beach entry, waterfalls, and even a swim-up bar for the adults to enjoy. But it’s the children’s section that really stole the show. A shallow area with water fountains and splash zones kept the little ones entertained for hours on end. It’s safe, fun, and perfect for younger kids who just want to splash around and cool off.
We spent a good portion of each day by the pool. The kids loved it so much that they didn’t want to leave—definitely a sign of a well-designed family-friendly hotel.
The hotel also offers a kids’ club, which, while we didn’t use it ourselves, was an excellent option for parents wanting a bit of time to themselves. The kids’ club organizes arts and crafts, games, and even movie nights. It’s a great way to give your children some structured fun while you enjoy some downtime.
5. Dining Options: Catering to All Tastes
For meals, the Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort offers a range of family-friendly dining options. We loved the buffet breakfast, which was included with our room rate. It’s a great way to start the day with a wide variety of fresh fruits, pastries, hot dishes, and made-to-order eggs. The best part? The kids were able to help themselves to whatever they wanted, making the meal an easy and relaxed experience for everyone.
For lunch and dinner, the resort offers a selection of dishes that cater to various dietary preferences. We enjoyed dining at the “Moku Bar and Grill,” which serves a blend of Australian and international cuisines. The kids had a blast picking from their kid-friendly menu, while we indulged in some local seafood dishes and refreshing cocktails. Dining in the open-air courtyard, surrounded by tropical plants and greenery, added to the laid-back vibe of the entire experience.
We also discovered a number of great restaurants nearby. Cairns is known for its vibrant food scene, and with the hotel’s central location, we had no trouble exploring local eateries for a change of pace.
6. Activities and Excursions: Nature at Your Doorstep
Cairns is the gateway to many of Australia’s most iconic natural wonders. During our stay, we took a few excursions that were perfect for families. The hotel can help organize trips to the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, and other nearby attractions. Our kids loved the snorkeling experience at Green Island, where the clear waters and abundant marine life kept them entranced for hours. For nature enthusiasts, there’s no shortage of eco-tours that provide both education and adventure.
If you’re staying in Cairns for a few days, I recommend taking a day trip to the nearby Kuranda Village. You can take the scenic Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to the village and explore the markets and local wildlife parks. The experience of gliding over the rainforest was something the whole family enjoyed, and there’s even a butterfly sanctuary that was a big hit with our kids.
7. Costs and Booking
The pricing at Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort is quite reasonable, considering the facilities and location. For our family suite, we paid approximately AUD 300 per night, including breakfast. Rates vary depending on the season, so it’s best to book in advance if you’re traveling during peak periods, like school holidays or the Christmas season.
We booked our stay through Booking.com, which offers flexible cancellation policies and competitive rates. The platform also provided us with user reviews, helping us make an informed decision about the property. Other booking platforms like Agoda and Expedia also feature the Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort, so it’s worth checking for any exclusive deals or promotions.
8. What to Know Before You Go
Transport: If you’re traveling with young children, it’s worth noting that the hotel offers on-site parking, which is ideal if you’re planning to rent a car. Public transport options are also nearby if you prefer not to drive.
Weather: Cairns can get quite hot and humid, especially during the summer months. Be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and swimwear. The hotel’s tropical gardens and the refreshing pool will help you cool off after exploring the city.
Special Requests: If you have any special needs (such as a crib or a high chair), make sure to mention them when booking. The hotel is very accommodating, and they’re happy to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
In summary, our stay at the Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort was one of the most enjoyable family holidays we’ve had in a long time. The combination of a fantastic location, child-friendly amenities, and an easygoing atmosphere made it a perfect base for exploring the beauty of Cairns and the surrounding area. Whether you’re in town for the Great Barrier Reef or just looking for a family-friendly hotel where everyone can unwind and have fun, this resort is a fantastic choice for families of all sizes.