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181 The Esplanade

Cairns - QLD · Australia

181 The Esplanade, 181View location

8.6/10Excellent357 Reviews
Cleanliness8.2/108.2
Service8.6/108.6
Comfort8.4/108.4
Condition8.0/108.0
Location8.2/108.2
Neighborhood8.8/108.8
Value8.4/108.4
Amenities8.6/108.6
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  • Hotels with spa
  • Sport hotels

Room prices, availability, meal plans and cancellation terms are confirmed for your selected dates.

About 181 The Esplanade

Stop at 181 The Esplanade Resort to discover the wonders of Cairns. The hotel offers a wide range of amenities and perks to ensure you have a great time. Take advantage of the hotel's free Wi-Fi in all rooms, grocery deliveries, taxi service, ticket service, wheelchair accessible.

Guestrooms are designed to provide an optimal level of comfort with welcoming decor and some offering convenient amenities like television LCD/plasma screen, additional bathroom, carpeting, complimentary instant coffee, complimentary tea.

Recuperate from a full day of sightseeing in the comfort of your room or take advantage of the hotel's recreational facilities, including hot tub, sauna, outdoor pool, spa, garden. 181 The Esplanade Resort combines warm hospitality with a lovely ambiance to make your stay in Cairns unforgettable.

Read more about this hotelShow less

Located in Cairns (Cairns North), 181 The Esplanade is steps from Cairns Esplanade and a 2-minute drive from Cairns Esplanade Lagoon. This beach aparthotel is 1.5 mi (2.5 km) from Cairns Marlin Marina and 13.3 mi (21.5 km) from Palm Cove Beach.

Treat yourself to a stay in one of the 21 guestrooms, featuring private hot tubs. Your room comes with a pillowtop bed. Rooms have private balconies. Kitchens are outfitted with full-sized refrigerators/freezers, stovetops, and microwaves.

Cable programming and DVD players are provided for your entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, dry cleaning/laundry services, and luggage storage. Free self parking is available onsite.

Popular amenities

Free WiFi
Parking available
Concierge
Laundry
Spa
Entertainment
Non-smoking
Childcare
Accessible facilities

Check-in and check-out

Check-in from 2:00 PM
Check-in until Anytime
Check-out until 10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age 18

Hotel policies

Guests will receive an email with special check-in instructions Professional property host/manager Pets not allowed

Cleaning and safety

Sanitization
Property uses a professional cleaning service Contactless check-in is available Contactless check-out is available

Important information

  • You need to know
    • This property's policy is to refuse certain bookings for the purpose of group events or parties, including pre-wedding stag/bachelor and hen/bachelorette parties.
    • The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation.
    • The property is professionally cleaned.
    • Contactless check-in and contactless check-out are available.
  • Special Instructions
    The front desk is open daily from 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM. To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property ahead of time using the information on the booking confirmation. If you are planning to arrive after 6 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation. Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions and an access code. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools.
  • Instructions
    • Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
    • Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
    • Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
    • This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
    • Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
    • Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
    • Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
    • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
    • This property is professionally cleaned
  • Minimal age
    18
  • Optional fees
    • Crib (infant bed) fee: AUD 11.0 per night
    • Rollaway bed fee: AUD 25.0 per night

    The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

  • Spoken Language

    English

    Chinese (Mandarin)

Nearby attractions

Cairns Esplanade 0.1 km / 0.1 mi
Cairns Mudflats 0.3 km / 0.2 mi
Cairns Base Hospital 0.3 km / 0.2 mi
Icon Cancer Centre Cairns (Liz Plummer) 0.4 km / 0.3 mi
Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland 0.5 km / 0.3 mi
Icon Cancer Centre Cairns 0.7 km / 0.4 mi
Cairns Private Hospital 0.7 km / 0.4 mi
St Monica's Cathedral 0.9 km / 0.6 mi
Muddy's Playground 0.9 km / 0.6 mi
Bulmba-ja Arts Centre 1.4 km / 0.8 mi
Cairns Performing Arts Centre 1.4 km / 0.9 mi
Cairns Night Markets 1.4 km / 0.9 mi
Michaelmas Cay 1.5 km / 0.9 mi
Cairns Esplanade Lagoon 1.5 km / 1 mi
Cairns Regional Gallery 1.8 km / 1.1 mi

Hotel facilities & services

Services and fees can vary. Check the selected room details and hotel policies before booking.

  • Year of construction: 1996
  • Year of most recent renovation: 2012
  • Number of floors (main building): 9
  • Apartments: 24
  • Accessible rooms: 2
  • hotel
  • American Express
  • MasterCard
  • Visa
  • Bus/Train station
  • Nearest Bus / Metro Stop
  • 24-hour reception
Show 36 more facilities & services
  • Check-in hour
  • Check-out hour
  • Mobile phone coverage
  • Wi-fi
  • Car hireExtra charge
  • Secure parking
  • Laundry serviceExtra charge
  • Launderette
  • Babysitting serviceExtra charge
  • 24-hour security
  • Bellboy serviceExtra charge
  • Air conditioning in public areas
  • Hotel safe
  • Cloakroom
  • Lift access
  • ShopExtra charge
  • Garden
  • Terrace
  • Sun terrace
  • Luggage roomExtra charge
  • Clothes dryer
  • BBQ facilities
  • BarExtra charge
  • Non-smoking area
  • Smoking area
  • Highchairs
  • Photocopier
  • Sun loungers
  • Sauna
  • Steam bathExtra charge
  • Hot tub
  • MassageExtra charge
  • Spa centre
  • Non-smoking establishmentExtra charge
  • Banana boatingExtra charge
  • DivingExtra charge
Meal plans

Meal plan types

Meal options depend on the room and rate you choose. Search your dates to see which meal plans are included.

RO

Room Only

Accommodation only. Meals are usually not included.

Upon availability

Room types

These are the hotel's room types, rather than live offers. Choose your travel dates to see available rooms, prices and booking conditions. Check availability

  • APARTMENT QUEEN BED TWO BEDROOMSAPARTMENT • QUEEN BED TWO BEDROOMSAPT.B2-QN

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    181 The Esplanade

    APARTMENT QUEEN BED TWO BEDROOMS

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
    Room type
    APARTMENT
    View / characteristic
    QUEEN BED TWO BEDROOMS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: APT.B2-QN

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • APARTMENT OCEAN VIEW TWO BEDROOMSAPARTMENT • OCEAN VIEW TWO BEDROOMSAPT.B2-OV

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    181 The Esplanade

    APARTMENT OCEAN VIEW TWO BEDROOMS

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
    Room type
    APARTMENT
    View / characteristic
    OCEAN VIEW TWO BEDROOMS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: APT.B2-OV

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • APARTMENT GARDEN VIEW TWO BEDROOMSAPARTMENT • GARDEN VIEW TWO BEDROOMSAPT.B2-GV

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    181 The Esplanade

    APARTMENT GARDEN VIEW TWO BEDROOMS

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
    Room type
    APARTMENT
    View / characteristic
    GARDEN VIEW TWO BEDROOMS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: APT.B2-GV

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

Guest reviews

What other guests saying about 181 The Esplanade

8.6
Excellent
357 Reviews
Cleanliness
8.2 /10
Service
8.6 /10
Comfort
8.4 /10
Condition
8.0 /10
Location
8.2 /10
Neighborhood
8.8 /10
Value
8.4 /10
Amenities
8.6 /10
100 reviews shown
10/10
Exceptional
17 May 2026
Mark
Have stayed multiple times. Great communication and stay.
Only note is no BBQ area even though still mentioned on some sites.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
30 Jan 2026
Edward
location
Business
6/10
Pleasant
18 Sep 2025
Ben
Mould in shower and tiolet had plumbing issue, other wise spacious
Business
10/10
Exceptional
11 Sep 2025
Carol

Spacious Cairns unit

The size of the 2-bedroom unit was fantastic. The location was perfect and at the quieter end of the Esplanade with an easy flat walk to the centre and markets. The addition of a first-class restaurant next door was a real plus, and they opened for coffee at 7 am. Would definitely stay here again.
Friends_and_family Family
8/10
Excellent
07 Sep 2025
Dannielle and Anthony
Room needed maintenance. We brought up several things and lady on Saturday came and looked at what she could straight away. Was very helpful.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
28 Aug 2025
Derrick
This place is great! As other reviews stated, the inside has 1980s Miami vibes but we loved it! It wasn’t the cleanest place I’ve stayed, there was a dirty towel and qtip sticking out from the bed when we checked in and because the accessories are dated it just doesn’t feel super clean. All that said, this place is perfect if you’re looking for a place for your family to stay while you’re out seeing the sights all day. Great views, places to play games and hang out, laundry, and amazing location! We are at Muddy’s a lot and the food was incredible! I would definitely stay here again!
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
18 Aug 2025
Allison
Easy access, good communication, friendly staff unit was clean and had a great view. Would stay here again.
Leisure Family_with_children
8/10
Excellent
17 Aug 2025
R

Stort stay in Cairns

This was a short 2 night stay in Cairns prior to heading home. The property was conveniently close to Cairns airport, and was a high rise apartment block appearing to be generally permanent residents, with a few rooms available for short term rental.
The room itself was well equipped and everything was clean and comfortable.
Whilst the room was a little dated in decor, all of the equipment was new and clean.
Secure underground parking was also included.
Certainly I would stay here again.
Friends_and_family Friends
10/10
Exceptional
13 Jul 2025
Quentin
Stayed in 2 bedroom ocean view apartment on 3rd floor.
While slightly dated still excellent and would highly recommend, clean and very generous amount of space throughout. Great location, 15 minute walk along the Esplanade to the marina terminal. Restaurant next door was fantastic also.
Leisure Family_with_children
10/10
Exceptional
09 Jun 2025
Sam
Very accommodating- early check in, late check out
Leisure Family_with_children
4/10
Poor
31 Mar 2025
Mark
Property is a 30 minute walk to city centre. Nothing near hotel. Also, reception desk is only open until 12:00 on Sundays but check isn’t allowed until 2:00. They were supposed to send me check in instructions but didn’t even after I sent an email from the airport. When I showed up at11:30 I couldn’t get onto the property because the address is on a street with a locked gate. Go somewhere else. Terrible location and worse service and poorly maintained property.
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
20 Feb 2025
Colleen
This properly was clean and neat. The 2 bedroom is a large unit with a large kitchen and sitting area. I do recommend getting some more AC in the bedrooms, but the living area was comfortable.
Leisure Family
4/10
Poor
30 Aug 2024
Thierry

Mr T

The place is nice and pleasant with a nice esplanade. Wonderful view. But now fir the price we have paid thats nit enough. I stay for 1 week.
The furniture are old
Nobody come to change for towels or change the sheet of the bed. If it's only to pay for 1 week in advance and after the Tartare Desert with nobody... better to go to the hotel for the same price.
Very desapointed.
Partner
4/10
Poor
22 Jun 2024
LEWIS
booked an ocean view room and didn’t get one they blamed Expedia
Business_and_leisure
8/10
Excellent
31 Dec 2023
Jacob

Not a 4 star hotel - just a very decent apartment

Clean enough - there was dust on top of fridge and under bed (it moved). Overall it was clean and good location. Didn’t appreciate we had to take the garbage out and put in the chute - wish it was known. Furniture was dated could use an upgrade. Better coffee instead of just powdered. Maybe a bottled waters when people arrive. And WiFi range was not great in bedroom. I would still recommend this - we were staying in some 5 star properties before getting here - hence my expectation was higher. Appreciated having the laundry after all the cairns adventures.
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
13 Nov 2023
Dennis
At the quiet end of the esplanade with great views over the ocean .
Easy walking distance to muddys and playground, cafe and beach volleyball and and not much further to main activity hub
We walked to RSL and cenotaph on the esplanade for 11/11 commemoration and then on to public pool for a dip. Really easy walk.
Staff were really friendly and accommodating as we needed to stay a bit longer, no problem for them
Everything we needed in the apartment, really comfortable lots of room , large lounge and balconies,full kitchen and good bathrooms. Really nice pool.
Would highly recommend and will definitely stay again
Leisure Family_with_children
8/10
Excellent
28 Oct 2023
Sharron
Excellent location and our apartment had a fabulous view of the sea and esplanade. Furnishings and the bathrooms would benefit from some updating, but this would not deter us from staying again. Car parking was very secure - great to have a dedicated, numbered bay.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
23 Oct 2023
Arnola
Perfect location, view and wonderfully helpful and friendly proprietors, that being said the apartment is untouched circa 1990's, run down to the point of threadbare.
The couches need to be thrown out, and all the kitchenware is in such a degraded state that an op shop wouldn't resell it.
Please fix these things and you would be on a winner.
Leisure Family
6/10
Pleasant
08 Oct 2023
Barry
There are lots of good points that should have scored this apartment higher - the location is good, and very quiet; the sea view was wonderful; the secure parking in the basement was outstanding; the apartment was spacious, clean and well kitted out; the shower was very powerful and it was great having two bathrooms. However, the flat was quite tired; the spa bath had been disconnected (so was only a bath, which was not as advertised); there was no DVD (so also not as advertised); TV channels were limited; there was no remote for the bedroom TV; and the internet connection was poor. Overall, it could have been so much better with some attention to detail. The owners might want to take note, as this apartment is no longer exactly as advertised on Expedia.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
04 Jul 2023
Joey
Stay as long as you can in this delightful spot. The building itself was clean and secure. The apartment, specifically, was roomy, well maintained, and easily felt like home as soon as you walk in. Fantastic views of the ocean and mountains (and bats at sunrise!). This is on the north end of the esplanade, so it was a bit quieter but within a few minutes walk you are in the heart of the hustle and bustle of it all. I would recommend this spot highly to my friends.
10/10
Exceptional
24 Jun 2023
Ryan
Great location and big open rooms. View was excellent. Had issues with the water pressure, which was fixed by a plumber that day.
Leisure Family
6/10
Pleasant
19 Jun 2023
Peter
A/C was broken. Furniture tired. Floor coverings tired
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
30 May 2023
Gayle
The apartment we stayed in had a beautiful view of the esplanade, it had all the amenities we needed for a long stay it was clean and the staff are very friendly and helpful
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
29 Apr 2023
Yu
Location is perfect, we also liked the pool and spa there. Staff are kind and helpful. Will definitely come back again!
Leisure Family_with_children
8/10
Excellent
12 Mar 2023
Veronica

Ocean View?

Ocean view or Garden view? If you look closely you can see the ocean through the trees but I paid for an ocean view. This was not it!

Lots of great space with two bathrooms, laundry and all the basics in a kitchen. A local phone in the apartment/lobby would have been very helpful. Bit of a hike to get to the Esplanade/Marina but definitely doable. Surfaces were all very clean but if you look up or down you will find plenty of dirt, ants and even mold. For a short term stay this place will do the trick but a bit of investment or even fresh paint would do this building some justice.
Self
4/10
Poor
10 Jan 2023
Ningappa
Old apartment , amenities are limited , A/C was too cold in one room vs nothing in the other bed room, blinds were not closing property . Need revamp . no nearby convince store as well .
Leisure Family
6/10
Pleasant
30 Nov 2022
Robin
Nice sea view and very spacious accommodation. For the price however, it all felt a bit old and tired. Mmmmm beige. The kitchen was well equiped but the cups were all filthy with coffee rings. The laundry was great but the machine was excessively loud which meant we couldn’t have it on while kids were in bed. We were woken at 2am each night from a loud plumbing noise that we guess was the cistern filling when a person in another apartment used their toilet. Being directly under the 6am flight path capped off the lack sleep.
Family_with_children
8/10
Excellent
07 Oct 2022
Lisa
Really spacious and great layout. Full kitchen and allowed easy cooking. While supplies were good, the packaged dish detergent etc is just not as good as dishwasher tablets or a bottle of dishwashing liquid but we realise that is hotel style. Very secure and lock up parking but hard to get a park. Having numbered car parks for guests units would be good, instead of having to find one.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
23 Sep 2022
Yeng
Great place with view. It's a little out dated but still functional. Great time and place to stay
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
17 Jul 2022
Auke

Great stay!

This was a great accommodation for a family of four adults. Two bedrooms and two full bathrooms and spacious living space. Location is excellent with (partial) ocean view (depending on which floor you are on) and walking distance to city centre.
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
07 Jul 2022
Mayank
Very good for family or group stay. Excellent location. One magic key opens all doors :-)

The toilets should have exhaust fans installed.
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
03 Jul 2022
Catherine
Good value and great views.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
23 Jun 2022
Krishti
Clean and spacious serviced apartment. A bit far from main town centre (on the outskirts of cbd) but that’s the only negative.
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
17 Apr 2022
Maria
The position of the property and the amazing views from our 7th floor apartments.
Leisure Family_with_children
6/10
Pleasant
21 Feb 2022
Dylan
Very loud aircon unit at property, couches were okay looking (Bali theme) but very uncomfortable.
Beds were comfy, outdoor area with fish pond nice.
Leisure Family_with_children
10/10
Exceptional
21 Oct 2021
Melissa

Family Getaway to Cairns

Great location and amenities. Apartment perfect for a family of 4. Stocked with all items needed. Lagoon pool was awesome and surrounded by beautiful plants - to make the setting great.
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
21 Jul 2021
Verified traveler
Close to all amenities. Walking distance to Cairns city. . Nice view from the front balcony
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
17 May 2021
Verified traveler
5 star
Well done
Leisure Family
6/10
Pleasant
19 Oct 2020
Kirsty

Great location

181 The Esplanade is a beautiful building in a great location. Unfortunately the cleanliness left a lot to be desired, however Glen was very quick to rectify any complaints that were made. I will book again next time I am in Cairns
Business
8/10
Excellent
23 Sep 2020
Ruby
Great views and large apartments. Very secure. Could do with a good clean.
Friends_and_family Family_with_children
10/10
Exceptional
06 Jan 2020
Verified traveler
The property was nice and spacious. The units are a bit dated but are functional and great for a family holiday.
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
15 Jul 2019
Verified traveler
We were very happy with our stay a 181 The Esplanade. Location great right on the Esplanade and out unit # 25 had an amazing view of the waterfront. Unit was 90's styling ,very spacious and well supplied. Location great right next to the hospital and quiet area. Only a 10 -15 min walk along the boardwalk to lagoon and marina area if you want some action. Would definitely stay again if in Cairns.
Family
8/10
Excellent
11 Jul 2019
Verified traveler
Lots of room and nice view from balcony. Helpful staff with lots of info for booking tours etc
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
08 Jul 2019
Verified traveler
Spacious and within walking distance to the main st
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
05 Jul 2019
Verified traveler
Very clean and well decorated room makes you feel home. We were lucky with the excellent view and tiled floor (Some property in the building are carpeted) .
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
24 Jun 2019
Verified traveler
Excellent location and view (from ocean view room); very spacious; fully equipped kitchen and laundry with dryer. Nice swimming pool and spa. Also parking is easy and available inside. Love to revisit.
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
05 Jun 2019
Cheerie

Great holiday

The apartments were across the road from the esplanade which was great to go for walks, also an easy walk to town. Wifi good
Partner
8/10
Excellent
26 Apr 2019
Verified traveler
Nice swimming pool and Jacuji with ocean facing apartments
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
27 Mar 2019
Verified traveler
The friendly and helpfull checkin as well as being up graded was a great start to our stay
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
15 Jan 2019
Verified traveler
it is unclear that this is a service apartment offering, I thought it was a hotel, with food for late arrivals ad breakfast.
the self contained large apartment was grand, but I was keen on a hotel with food prepared by others for sale for our brief overnight stay.
Business_and_leisure Family_with_children
8/10
Excellent
10 Jan 2019
Verified traveler
Excellent sized condo with two bedrooms - nice pool. Had difficulty getting our wash completed with the small load snd hard to work machines. It is a few extra blocks to downtown but a nice walk along the boardwslk
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
10 Jan 2019
Ann
Our apartment was fantastic. It was clean, spacious, had everything we needed both in the kitchen and otherwise. The view was really beautiful and the pool was a lot deeper than the pictures lead you to believe. We couldn't fault the accommodatiom in any way and have got it as our top place to stay out of our last 5 trips to Far North Queensland. We will definitely be back.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
08 Jan 2019
Verified traveler
Very comfortable with excellent views of ocean and friendly staff
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
04 Dec 2018
Verified traveler
Convenient location, close to CBD and lagoon, great view of the beach.
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
29 Nov 2018
Verified traveler
The location was excellent. Staff were friendly and knowledgeable.
Leisure Partner
4/10
Poor
30 Oct 2018
Verified traveler
Constant smell of mold in the room, stuck in air con I think.
Cupboards in en-suite moldy and falling off the hinges.
8/10
Excellent
10 Oct 2018
Verified traveler
dryer did not work, area is good 2 mins driver to CBD
8/10
Excellent
22 Sep 2018
Verified traveler

Great location, but some faulty and broken things.

It was a great location to stay. Great view. Very spacious apartment. But the air conditioning was hard to figure out. Most of the time it was always very warm in the room during the day and sometimes the night. There were some little damage things in the apartment as well. Like for instance the toilet roll holder in the guest bathroom was loose.
10/10
Exceptional
16 Aug 2018
Verified traveler
spacious and great location
spacious and great location
spacious and great location
spacious and great location
spacious and great location
4/10
Poor
03 Aug 2018
Robbo88

Will not return!

Was very disappointed in our recent stay at 181 the esplanade, Cairns. There was a thick layer of dust everywhere especially on the lamps. The apartment looked very used, there was scuff marks on the walls, there was a hole in the wall that was being hidden behind a bed. All the furniture has dents and sratches. There was dirt and hair on the couch. There was pubic hair on the towels. One of the showers leaked while in the other bathroom the flow direction fixture was missing so you couldn't switch from shower to spa. The room was suppose to be ocean view but it was on the side of the building, you had to peak through the trees to see the ocean. There were notes around the entrance & elevator advising the outside of the building will be painted, which is great but what about the rooms? The room are screaming for new paint. I feel as though not much money is being put into the property but the owners are more than happy to take your hard earned money. The room was not cheap & what makes this worse if that this trip was for my daughter's birthday and we left leaving feeling disgusted & disappointed!
8/10
Excellent
02 Aug 2018
Verified traveler
Beautiful layout. Could not get spa to operate. Room showing age but still very pleasing to stay in
6/10
Pleasant
30 Jul 2018
Verified traveler
problems with both toilets which were unable to be fixed for 4 days due to public holiday and weekend. One toilet was leaking constantly and towels had to be on floor and changed by us to absorb leak.
8/10
Excellent
28 Jul 2018
Brian
Spacious unit with water front views. Short walk to a great play ground for kids and good restaurant.
8/10
Excellent
14 Jul 2018
Pam

Enjoyable stay

Excellent position on the waterfront nice walk to restaurants although a bit far for small children to walk. Great play park for kids on the waterfront called Muddy's not to far away where the children can play with a cafe for parents. All in all a great stay and we would certainly stay here again.
8/10
Excellent
02 Jul 2018
Verified traveler

Great location

We loved the view and location the apartment was very generous in size.
It was the size of a house.
6/10
Pleasant
28 Jun 2018
Verified traveler

Room with a view but unit needs lots of maintenanc

Short stay on level 7 room 28 great views very spacious. Vertical blinds missing & broken. Dishwasher & toaster non operational. Didn’t use spa bath has broken ceiling above & too dangerous to use. Shower screen needs resealing and shower head replaced. Overall needs detailed clean free from dust, cobwebs & mould.
10/10
Exceptional
20 Jun 2018
Paul
Spacious, great location and views, service was good as well.
6/10
Pleasant
20 Jun 2018
Verified traveler

Disappointing second stay after good first stay

We previously had a wonderful stay at 181 The Esplanade in 2016. We specifically wanted somewhere with a spa but couldn't find anything suitable. Despite wanting to try out a new place, we booked at 181 The Esplanade because of its spa.

While the overall room was in good condition, there were a few disappointments.

There were food crumbs around resulting in ants. Just as owners expect customers to clean up before they leave, I would expect the kitchen at the very least to be clean upon arrival. We had to request for some cleaning to be done the next morning.

The doorway into the main bedroom was damaged. We had a 2 and 4 year old with us and they could have easily tripped, stubbed their toe or worse. We had to request that this be fixed after our arrival. Any paying customer would expect the accomodation to be in a good condition upon arrival.

Finally, on trying to use the spa on our first morning, we found it wasn't working. We asked reception to look into it but were just told there was no one available to fix it. We paid for a place with the spa, that was advertised as having a spa, but didn't get that. Not only wasn't it repaired but there was no offer of swapping rooms to one with a Spa or any other compensation. What a disappointment given that our primary motivation for booking at 181 The Esplanade was the Spa.

After our last experience, we probably would not book at 181 The Esplanade or recommend to others again, if we had the option.
10/10
Exceptional
16 Jun 2018
Bronwyn

Great size unit

Great size 2 bedroom unit with comfy bed & spa!! Will definitely stay again.
Family
10/10
Exceptional
15 Jun 2018
Robert O.

Perfect Location and Space

View of the ocean, secure place, plenty of parking, easy access to walking and bike path, easy access to CBD, comfortable beds and nice staff. I will stay here next time and can't recommend it enough.
6/10
Pleasant
06 Jun 2018
Verified traveler

Nice place needs help

Good location and unit spacious and livable.But lounge chairs and couch in poor condition,mould in laundry ceiling and doorway,shower needed good clean as mould was evident toilet in ensuit kept running had to turn valve off to stop during night, each morning heard the truck pick up the bins from the hospital next door quite noisy. Oveall enjoyed stay buts needs TLC
10/10
Exceptional
26 May 2018
jen

Sister holiday

We had a great time, friendly,helpful service, used push bikes to get around
8/10
Excellent
29 Apr 2018
mark

Close to the beach & hospital

If you have kids you may find the walk into the town area a bit long, its not to far from muddys playground. the pool and rooms are spacious and the reception is always welcoming. Lots of advice where to go.
8/10
Excellent
25 Apr 2018
Verified traveler

Cairns Experience

Has great location about 1.5 K from the center which gives you pace and quiet at night and early in the morning, the view was incredible, sauna, pool and spa helped to distress and relax, the apartment was spacious and had all the creature comfort to accommodate all of us with a fully fitted kitchen and accessories, and a laundry area, with an ensuite and separate toilet gave us privacy, had two balconies to have breakfast while admiring the esplanade and water views.
Gardens and pool areas were kept clean and manicured.
Reception was friendly and provided us with the support to arrive / check in late.
it just need some minor cleaning around door frame, carpet had stains, and shower curtain needed changing.
2/10
Poor
17 Apr 2018
michael

1 STAR and that’s generous

Worst bed ever - zero comfort. Hole in wall in bedroom. Decor dated. Shower over spa bath comical and mouldy.Toilet cistern noisely refilled every 10 minutes. Noisy aircon. Zero stars.
10/10
Exceptional
13 Apr 2018
nicole

BRILLIANT LOCATION, Lily LEE amazing hostess

Lily was so welcoming to us when we arrived in Cairns
The facilities were great with the pool and free wifi
Great convenient location, opposite great walking path with exercise facilities and lagoon pool
there was only one grumpy man at the desk

Highly recommend !
10/10
Exceptional
11 Apr 2018
Verified traveler

Tropical getaway!

Perfect location for a family! Just a wander to the playgrounds - and away from the tourist crowds!
8/10
Excellent
10 Apr 2018
Verified traveler

Very spacious

Great town, lots of activities to choose from, great weather. Slightly to far to walk to night markets as parking closer to the action is a pain in the butt. Parking meters don't work properly.
4/10
Poor
07 Apr 2018
mahiro

Manager is good!!

This apartment is very old.Some parts took apart ex,a bar for towels...for toilet paper.
6/10
Pleasant
29 Mar 2018
S.

Safe and spacious hotel

It waa a spacious hotel. It was comfortable and safe. We had a beautiful view of the ocean. The distance to walk from downtown was about 30 minutes. There were only a few issues. The phone could use an upgrade. I wouldn’t suggest using iif you already have a cell phone. There’s a fee per calll. The kitchen was huge however it could use a few more kitchenware (pot holders, cups, oven dishes). Other than the tiny ants it was very clean. Leaving the air conditioning on all the time fixed this problem.
8/10
Excellent
29 Mar 2018
nellie

Nice hotel close to the beach

Perfect location across the road from the beach. Walking distance to variety amenities. Hotel clean and tidy
8/10
Excellent
18 Mar 2018
Verified traveler
Convenient location, pool & all the facilities needed to holiday with kids
6/10
Pleasant
11 Mar 2018
Andy

Room for improvement

This a nice apartment hotel close to the water but in need of a spruce up.
8/10
Excellent
27 Feb 2018
William

Cairns Espanade.

I’m sure 25 Year’s ago it was an awesome place. Very dated but clean. In- room amenities at a bare minimum. Bare mismatch collection of glasses, individual coffee dispenser with no coffee, no bathroom amenities provided, etc. . No free local calls was a surprise at checkout. Great location.
Family
8/10
Excellent
20 Feb 2018
Steven

Nice hotel close to the Esplanade

We had a great 8 days staying there, nice and close to the CBD but yet far enough that it was very quiet. Have to give a big plug to Uber, they were fantastic and the price was great. Overall it was a great holiday and we really enjoyed the pool in the morning.
6/10
Pleasant
06 Feb 2018
Momo

Nice hotel

Nice hotel easy walk to city and shop
Just a bit old
Good price for family to stay
We book sea view love the view to see out from room
10/10
Exceptional
28 Jan 2018
Shirley

Ticks all the boxes

A great unit with plenty of space.
Beautiful ocean views & good position.
10/10
Exceptional
27 Jan 2018
john

Great value for families

Great central location great value for families short walk to central cairns huge two bedroom apartment nice pool
4/10
Poor
24 Jan 2018
Ruth

great position right across the road from the park

the air-conditioning was very poor - the rollaway bed was not in the room - the toilet lid was broken - however these were quickly fixed.
8/10
Excellent
23 Jan 2018
Pamela F.

Good and bad

The property was as expected and presented but a little farther from the wharf than expected.
However, we arrived at 11pm and the room was boiling and tried to adjust the thermostat and did not know that there was a dual system with a separate one for the bedroom areas. We slept very poorly in very hot weather as the thermostat was present to 28. A little info in that would’ve been helpful.
10/10
Exceptional
11 Jan 2018
jenny

Beautiful balcony sea view.

Very comfortable hotel with beautiful sea view. Close to airport, esplanade, restaurant.
Would stay again if we visit cairns.
8/10
Excellent
05 Jan 2018
Anissa
Aircon didn’t work in night time mode, made for a very uncomfortable nights sleep!
10/10
Exceptional
04 Jan 2018
Verified traveler
We had a very pleasant stay.Staff very helpful great views.
6/10
Pleasant
02 Jan 2018
Siva

Old apartment with clean but out dated decor

The apartment 28 on the 7th level had balconies to the magnificent water views,. The kitchen and bathrooms are quite old interior but clean and functional. The apartment is clean (tiled floor throughout), comfortable beds with clean linens.
Easy walk to the wharfs and shoreline.
8/10
Excellent
31 Dec 2017
Judy and Greg

Hotel with ocean views

We had a relaxing stay in a well appointed hotel. Friendly and helpful staff. We walked to a fantastic restaurant for dinner. Gorgeous sunset and sunrises from our balcony and close to tourist attractions.
10/10
Exceptional
12 Dec 2017
Heather

Great place

Great place good location friendly staff
Family
8/10
Excellent
28 Nov 2017
Mike

Great Stay

Very spacious apartment with plenty of kitchen supplies to make meals. The woman at the front counter was very nice and helpful. This is not a five star hotel but a great apartment in a great location.
Family
10/10
Exceptional
28 Nov 2017
Rachel

Great stay with a great view

The check in process was so easy! The manager Lily was very friendly and accommodating. The place was spacious and clean. The kitchen was top notch!! We loved having the 2 balconies with ocean view and enjoying our morning coffees out there. There were books on things to do/ see in the area and even some menus for local restaurants! I’d definitely stay again
Family
8/10
Excellent
27 Nov 2017
Diana

Great stay

Enjoyed our time at 181 The Esplanade. Our apartment had a lovely panoramic view of the foreshore which was really nice. Good size balcony, too!
10/10
Exceptional
25 Nov 2017
Syd

Great apartment in perfect location.

Spacious comfortable apartment with 2 bathrooms and full kitchen and laundry. Located on The Esplanade it is quiet but an easy, scenic walk to the centre of cairns and all it has to offer.

Location & surroundings

181 The Esplanade
181 The Esplanade, 181, Cairns City, Australia

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181 The Esplanade

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