Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns

Australia , Cairns - QLD
Cairns City, Abbott Street, 209-217
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100 reviews shown

10/10

Exceptional

12 Mar 2026

Krystal

Great staff. Great restaurant. Ocean views

Self

6/10

Pleasant

10 Mar 2026

Matt

Stayed here a few times over the years for business and in the past i've always been provided a free upgrade to ocean-view, which wasn't the case this time, but did have a nice view of the mountains.
The 12th floor lobby hadn't been vacuumed all week + my toilet seat in room1201 was falling off. The bar ( and Gus's memory for drinks over the week was amazing) & restaurant are very nice.

Business

4/10

Poor

09 Mar 2026

The hotel staff were lovely but the hotel could use a refurb as it is looking a bit dated.

Self

10/10

Exceptional

05 Mar 2026

Peter

Nice big rooms. The shower over bath is a bit outdated. Remote for TV needs to be replaced as had a hard time turning it on

Self

6/10

Pleasant

04 Mar 2026

Alex

Best part of the stay was the pool and the room size which quite generous, everything else was either underwhelming or disappointing. Fine for a place to rest your head for a night or two, but would not look to return due a number of issues across the board.

Family_with_children

8/10

Excellent

28 Feb 2026

James

Hotel looks a bit tired and worn-out but rooms were clean. Staff friendly but inconsistent with information.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

26 Feb 2026

Trevor

Pleasant service at check-in, room was nice and clean and roomy. Car parking was convenient. Short 10 minute walk to the restaurants, excellent stay.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

21 Feb 2026

Josh

Staff was courteous and helpful. Room is good size and pretty nice pool.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

19 Feb 2026

Roslyn

Staff

Self

8/10

Excellent

19 Feb 2026

Kim

We had a lovely big room, had the best ever buffet breakfast 2 mornings in a row plus a yummy dinner on our last night at the resort, compliments to chef on cooking our rump steaks to perfection 👌

8/10

Excellent

18 Feb 2026

Sharon

Nice room location good near far end if esplanade just an overnight stop so didn’t use facilities

Self

10/10

Exceptional

16 Feb 2026

Brody

Clean room, good amenities. Kind staff

10/10

Exceptional

14 Feb 2026

Soph R

Very accommodating

Leisure Friends

8/10

Excellent

11 Feb 2026

Tim

Good room with nice ocean view. Pool was large with good sun deck and loungers.
Gym is very basic

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

31 Jan 2026

Lewie

Was a night place to stay at staff were nice also had cheap drinks and had happy hour nice out door area with and pool also did room service and was cheap

Leisure Friends

10/10

Exceptional

26 Jan 2026

Ronald

Nice place, close to restaurants, good ocean view

6/10

Pleasant

25 Jan 2026

Lyndal

Room was run down 1 pillow each that was so thin had to put cushions underneath to help
soap / shampoo dispensary were near empty
Basic accommodation

Business_and_leisure Family

6/10

Pleasant

20 Jan 2026

Jonalyn

N0t applicable

Leisure Family_with_children

6/10

Pleasant

16 Jan 2026

Melanie

Room is very run down, wood peeling. Looks in need of a makeover.

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

15 Jan 2026

Robert

Amazing air con! So needed this every day. Bliss! Clean room, great size and fab view. Good breakfast. Great staff.

Leisure

8/10

Excellent

13 Jan 2026

Timothy

Good place to stay for families, good value. Though like most rydges in need of a renovation. Plenty of space in rooms which was a great bonus, liked that they offered choices of food preprepared for arrival like a fruit platter or cheese board. Though did book a certain price via expedia and the online check in increased the price further then agreed. Staff able to accomodate late check in and also keeping our bags so we could explore on our final day. Breakfast was great though was incredibly busy maybe due to the tropical low storm we had. Location was perfect to access the esplanade and waterfront as well the aquarium and harbour. Would be good to have vegetables and salads as options with the food on the room service menu as most dishes were burgers, pizza and chips on the side. Though there are restaurants within close proximity we used room service due to the weather on our first day. Staff were amazing. Only other issue being having checked in for 1adult and three kids we only had two towels in room. This was easily ammended. Balconies were slippery in the wet weather. Our next door neighbour was smoking on the balcony, so we did get some smoke wafting in for the brief moments we opened up the door, very noticeable difference between Qld and NSW towards smoking on the streets and hotels. Overall a great place for families, good location and staff. Would stay here again if planning to do lots within city or heading out and just needing a base to sleep.

Leisure Family_with_children

8/10

Excellent

11 Jan 2026

Daryl

Courteous staff, ease of check in and out. Spotless room.

Business Self

8/10

Excellent

10 Jan 2026

John

The rooms were spacious and well set up for families, with a queen bed and bunk beds. Staff were very friendly and always happy to help, which made our stay more pleasant.

The hotel itself is older and does require some maintenance, particularly around the pool area. There were a lot of birds, and bird droppings were noticeable on the deck, chairs, and surrounding areas, with some decking boards also lifting. In the room, a few basic items needed attention — the kettle didn’t stop boiling, and some cups and plates were missing.

We only had breakfast once. For families, there is better quality breakfast option just across the road with park facilities, so that’s what we preferred. However, if convenience is the priority, the hotel breakfast is fine. The pancake machine could use improvement — either more machines or just having pancakes made by the kitchen, as we waited around 15 minutes to make a single pancake.

More information at check-in would have been helpful, such as where facilities are located (laundry, restaurant), restaurant opening times, and when QR code ordering or maintenance services are available.

Overall, considering the price, location, and family friendly facilities, the hotel offers good value for money. We would stay here again. Family - 4 adults + 3 kids. - 2 rooms

Leisure Family_with_children

8/10

Excellent

10 Jan 2026

Antonio

Good location, hotel need update rooms and building. Not to many options for food.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

10 Jan 2026

Gloria

Staff and amenities

Leisure Partner

8/10

Excellent

10 Jan 2026

Dawn

Very friendly and helpful staff. Bed was comfy room had an awesome view of the ocean. Clean very spacious definitely be back.

Self

8/10

Excellent

07 Jan 2026

Andrea

Clean rooms staff good

10/10

Exceptional

05 Jan 2026

Karthik

Being a Vegetarian the options were less as I don’t eat egg aswell. Hence the price looks to be high for vegetarian.

Since there was limited veg options I had to order outside. Day 1 I got proper plates but day 2 it was reduced to paper plates and wooden cutlery. I felt this was a bit insulting

Leisure Family_with_children

8/10

Excellent

05 Jan 2026

David

Our first room had not been cleaned and the phone and tv did not work. The second day we were given a different room which was nicer and cleaner with a better view. It was nice of the hotel to do that.
The buffet fmbreakfast was ok but wirh no eggs to order only scrambled and few pastry or fruit choices.
There were a lot of young families throughout the hotel. It would have been better to have family floors and quieter floors.
All in all it is good value for the price, the staff are very helpful and the location is great.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

30 Dec 2025

Ishita

Good

Leisure

6/10

Pleasant

29 Dec 2025

Mukul

Good location and good sized room. Generally clean room and bathroom. Cons: no control over Aircon, its either on or off so freezing or too hot. Shower / Tub was dangerously small and awkward with rarely any hot water when you need it. Pools were a good size and depth, however could use regular cleaning. Parking was excellent. Would stay again primarily for the location and friendly staff.

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

28 Dec 2025

Alex

Excellent location and sea facing. Good customer service

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

28 Dec 2025

MuhammadHamzaBin

The staff was quite helpful in addressing any issues we had. It was a comfortable stay overall with Rydges

Leisure Family_with_children

6/10

Pleasant

23 Dec 2025

James

Deadly

10/10

Exceptional

21 Dec 2025

Amit

Did not have breakfast. Service at the bar was excellent.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

17 Dec 2025

Guillermo

Everything was good

6/10

Pleasant

16 Dec 2025

Caroline

Staff is awesome! The room is clean but lacks amenities and is quite small. I had the family room…a seating area or a small couch would be a nice addition. Also, a small chair and table at the balcony would be great to have coffee in the morning and enjoy the scenery.

Leisure Family

6/10

Pleasant

16 Dec 2025

Philip

Room amenities… no pen, no pad, only 4 tea bags, all the same type … room service forgot face washer .. soap dispenser empty at the beginning of day 4 … packet of soap on vanity not replaced … very average for a resort hotel

Business_and_leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

12 Dec 2025

Xianzhong

Breakfast is good and staff is very nice. Beautiful ocean view.

Leisure Family

8/10

Excellent

11 Dec 2025

Bill

The staff were great. A room makeover wouldn't go astray. It was very clean but a bit tired. Double glazed windows might be an idea.🙄

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

09 Dec 2025

Supaporn

We really enjoyed the clean and spacious room. Staff attitude is friendly and helpful.

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

01 Dec 2025

Kiera

Very clean room and great view of the ocean from the balcony. I loved the location; it was a short, interesting walk to many cafes and things to do. Massive shout out to the staff, especially hospitality, as they were helpful and friendly. As a group of young travellers we definitely felt safe

Leisure Friends

10/10

Exceptional

30 Nov 2025

Julie

We had a great stay. We found the staff very friendly and the rooms were very clean and inviting.

The only matter I would like to suggest is that when the guest arrives, if they haven't been to the area before that you advise them of the local transport in the area (pick up bus in Lake Street) and how you can easily get around with the bus.

Leisure Friends

10/10

Exceptional

29 Nov 2025

Bernard

Nice

Self

10/10

Exceptional

25 Nov 2025

john

Staff at the hotel were amazing. I had a last minute change of plans and arrived at the hotel at midnight. It was such a relief to have 24 hour service!

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

24 Nov 2025

Chris

the staff were lovely

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

23 Nov 2025

Brett

Food quality from restauraunt was a real surprise a credit to the Chef and management

Leisure Family

4/10

Poor

22 Nov 2025

Jane

Pros
The reception and bar staff were friendly, attentive, and welcoming. We paid a little extra for a sea-view room, which offered a wonderful outlook over the bay and esplanade. We tried the daily chef’s special twice; at $25 per person it was excellent value. The sirloin steak in particular was beautifully tender and flavourful, complemented by a $6 happy-hour cocktail or beer between 4–6pm. The guest laundry on several floors was also very convenient for long-term travellers.
Cons
With newer 5-star resorts along the esplanade—such as the immaculate Crystalbrook Riley—the hotel’s urgent need for a full refurbishment becomes even more apparent. Scuffed doors, worn carpets, and tired décor are visible throughout. On one morning we were woken at 6:30am by loud hammering and drilling, and staff were unable to explain the disturbance.
The outdoor pool area, though spacious, was disappointing. Across our five-night stay,there were no cushions or pads on the loungers, making them uncomfortable for more than a short sit. There were also no umbrellas or shaded areas, which is essential under the strong Cairns sun. The wooden decking and surrounding areas were soiled with bird droppings and debris, and the pool itself contained leaves and corroded fixtures, giving the impression of a neglected facility. We ultimately chose not to use it at all.
I would encourage travellers seeking a higher-quality experience to consider alternatives where all facilities can be enjoyed.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

16 Nov 2025

LENORE

the room was spotless and extremely comfortable. Only one negative comment would be the BATH in the ensuite.
we are 86 and 79 and stepping over a bath is not really safe at our ages.
Your room staff were great. We let them know that there was no need to clean our room but happly gave us more milk, coffee and tea .
Bar restaurant and front counter staff couldn't do more for us. Even your trainee on the front counter was extremely helpful.
We joined your club also whilst we were there but disappointed to see upon my return that none of the stay we had just enjoyed was recorded on our club membership
Lenore and Edward Ryan

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

15 Nov 2025

Dipti

Great stay, perfectly located. Not too close to the esplanade that the noise affects you at night, and not too far that you need a cab. Friendly staff, courteous and helpful with booking attraction tickets.

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

14 Nov 2025

Elizabeth

Everything was spectacular 10/10

Leisure Friends

10/10

Exceptional

14 Nov 2025

John

Breakfast was amazing and made the start of the day hassle free.

Leisure Family

8/10

Excellent

09 Nov 2025

Petronella

Good value for money and relatively close to Cairns CBD. We walked there every day - only takes about 20 minutes to the marina.
Room cleaning could be better - only towels replaced and beds made - bathroom not done. However - you can opt out of cleaning on a day by day basis and get discount in the restaurant.

6/10

Pleasant

28 Oct 2025

Bernd-Rainer

During my recent stay, breakfast was quite average. Each morning, the same selection of food was available with little to no variety. While it was sufficient, there was nothing particularly memorable or exciting about the options. A bit more diversity or some fresh choices would have been appreciated to improve the overall dining experience.
Cleanliness of Pool Area
One of the main issues I noticed was the lack of cleanliness around the pool areas. Over the course of four days, the surroundings were not maintained at all. Bird droppings and fallen palm tree branches remained scattered around the premises, detracting from the enjoyment and comfort of the outdoor facilities. Regular cleaning and attention to these details would go a long way in enhancing guest satisfaction.
Overall Impression
While the accommodation provided the basics, the repetitive breakfast and unkempt pool surroundings left much to be desired. Improvements in food variety and daily cleaning routines could significantly elevate the guest experience.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

28 Oct 2025

Timothy

Great housekeeping.

Leisure Family

6/10

Pleasant

27 Oct 2025

Aramic

Walls are so tiny that you can hear the next room sliding door. Be mindful of that otherwise it was a good hotel and good location.

Leisure Family

8/10

Excellent

26 Oct 2025

Cheryl Kaye

Some of the gardens looked very unloved. First impressions count. Would stay again.

Leisure Partner

6/10

Pleasant

11 Oct 2025

Angelo

The hotel is rated 4 star but its more a 3 star. Our room lacked certain things like no plug for the bathroom basin, no toilet brush, the power point in the bathroom didn't work. A small table and chairs on the balcony would be great to enjoy a coffee on the balcony. The room service was excellent, beds made daily, clean towels daily and bins emptied daily.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

10 Oct 2025

Great service, great food options, easy access to the esplanade.

8/10

Excellent

09 Oct 2025

Lekhnath

We ordered 2 butter chicken it was raw..my husband went them to show raw chicken after saw that flesh raw chicken they said still safe to eat seriously? only replaced one Food was microwaved ice cold in middle of the chicken pieces and some were raw..food was yucky after one bit straight put into the bin. Waste of money and terrible experience don’t order food from them

Leisure Family_with_children

10/10

Exceptional

08 Oct 2025

davood

6/10

Pleasant

08 Oct 2025

Eric

Looks new on the outside but old on the inside

8/10

Excellent

07 Oct 2025

Jean

The staff were friendly and helpful

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

07 Oct 2025

Linda

Great view and helpful staff

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

07 Oct 2025

Linda

Breakfast was great and the rooms were clean and quiet

6/10

Pleasant

05 Oct 2025

Desley

The complex is dated and a decent walk from Cairns restaurants, lagoon etc. the rooms were fine but the mattresses in the bunk beds in a family room where lumpy and the bathroom needs an update. Leaky vent.

Leisure Family

8/10

Excellent

05 Oct 2025

Patricia

Was a lovely stay and the view was stunning. Handy location as well but the pillows were completely flat and there was nothing on the bed except for a top sheet. Breakfast was also lovely had a fantastic selection and all cooked really well.

Leisure Family

8/10

Excellent

04 Oct 2025

Christie

Beautiful ocean views.
Staffs are friendly.

Leisure Family

8/10

Excellent

04 Oct 2025

akash

All are good except beds.

Leisure Family

8/10

Excellent

04 Oct 2025

purvi

Clean room and helpful staff

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

03 Oct 2025

david

Staff and cleanliness of building were quite good. Building itself needs a bit of improvement slightly outdated.

Leisure Family_with_children

8/10

Excellent

03 Oct 2025

Aaron

Great location, great facilities and close to everything.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

29 Sep 2025

Mandip kaur

We had a fantastic stay at this property! The room was exceptionally clean and well-maintained, which made a big difference in our comfort level. The staff were friendly, professional, and always ready to help with anything we needed. One of the highlights was the stunning ocean view from my room—it was the perfect way to start and end each day. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a relaxing and welcoming place by the sea!

Leisure Family_with_children

10/10

Exceptional

28 Sep 2025

carol

We stayed here for 3 nights. The room was clean and well presented with a balcony. Staff were plesent. Walkable to the beach within a few minutes. There are warning signs on the beach that there are crocodiles. NO walking on the beach and NO swiming. (No i'm not joking)

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

27 Sep 2025

Jenna

We stayed here for one night before heading to the reef. Very clean, comfortable, and the staff were very helpful.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

25 Sep 2025

Nancy

It was a beautiful large room. I chose the room with a view. I could see the ocean and the sunrise was beautiful. It’s a very convenient location. Staff was wonderful. I would stay here again.

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

23 Sep 2025

Sunil

Customer service was above and beyond! I had a really early flight landing in Cairns and they allowed me to check-in and were able to accomodate me on short notice!

10/10

Exceptional

22 Sep 2025

Mary Jane

Nice view from the hotel.
Free breakfast included
Swimming pool available if needed

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

21 Sep 2025

caroline

it was fairly central to everything

Leisure Friends

6/10

Pleasant

20 Sep 2025

Geoff

View was great. Rooms very dated & tired.

Business_and_leisure Family

8/10

Excellent

20 Sep 2025

Carole

Nice hotel, with pool. A little bit far away from all restaurants, but only if you have mobility issues. Bar was nice and the restaurant food was excellent, regards to the chef!

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

18 Sep 2025

Madhuvanthi

Well maintained hotel and easy to get to the city central. We were not initially allowed rooms next to each other, although was requested when booking. However, Brian at the reception was very nice to accommodate the our rooms on the same level and made our stay enjoyable. The restaurant and Bar was great. The person serving at the bar was very friendly and made some amazing drinks for us!

Leisure Family_with_children

6/10

Pleasant

14 Sep 2025

Hiral

Great location. Hotel was bit run down condition. Not enough lights in the room.

Leisure Family

2/10

Poor

14 Sep 2025

Carol

Run down property and house keeping is very average. Not really value for money and wouldn't recommend.

2/10

Poor

11 Sep 2025

Belinda

No Donna
Dirty old

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

11 Sep 2025

Lakshmanan

It was central location and hotel room was nice and clean.

Leisure Family

8/10

Excellent

11 Sep 2025

Margot

Shower was awkward to use and felt unsafe - floor was slippery .

Leisure Friends

8/10

Excellent

10 Sep 2025

gary

it was handy area a bit expensive

8/10

Excellent

09 Sep 2025

Robyn

While it is dated, it appeared well run to us .our room was fine. The restaurant and staff was excellent. Maybe a bit more cutlery and a toaster might have been handy,but minor things.a help with luggage to room may also be something to consider.

Leisure Family

4/10

Poor

07 Sep 2025

Emmanuel de

worst bed ever sleept on. dated facilities. very average breakfast.

Leisure

10/10

Exceptional

04 Sep 2025

Kay

Satisfied all my requirements

4/10

Poor

31 Aug 2025

STEPHEN

What a rundown motel, go to trip advisor that says it all. The ONLY thing this joint is the breakfast its run down, floors filthy, check in staff stuffed my parking up, WHAT A JOINT!!!!

Leisure Family

6/10

Pleasant

30 Aug 2025

Dawn

Dirty carpets, u had to ask for tea, coffee, toilet paper and blankets

Leisure Partner

8/10

Excellent

26 Aug 2025

Nikhil

Overall good.