Cairns Plaza Hotel

The hotel is a popular choice, particularly noted for its spacious rooms and balconies that often provide captivating ocean views, creating a memorable stay for many. Its prime location on the Esplanade, coupled with attentive service, makes it a standout option for various travelers. It is an excellent fit for families due to its large accommodations and direct proximity to a popular playground, ensuring entertainment for children. Meanwhile, sightseers and couples appreciate the easy access to central attractions and the serene, quiet atmosphere that prevails at night, allowing for restful evenings. Budget-conscious travelers consistently highlight its exceptional value. To make the most of your stay, consider requesting a room on a higher floor for enhanced vistas and be sure to take advantage of the discount offered at the popular cafe located directly across the road, a recurring tip from satisfied guests.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently praise the hotel's swimming pool, which has recently undergone renovations, making it a pleasant spot for relaxation, though some note it is small and can lack sufficient shade. Many rooms are equipped with a convenient kitchenette, featuring a microwave, mini fridge, and kettle, along with basic crockery and cutlery, allowing for simple meal preparation. However, some guests expressed a desire for additional cooking facilities like a toaster or hotplate. The laundry facilities on-site are highly appreciated, offering efficient, US-sized machines for guest use. While free Wi-Fi is available, some guests experienced inconsistent speeds, particularly during peak evening hours. Rooms also include a Smart TV with access to streaming services, and most boast a balcony for enjoying the fresh air. Complimentary parking is a significant advantage, though availability can be limited during busy periods. Guests also value the provision of umbrellas at the front desk, a thoughtful touch during the rainy season. Most rooms do not include an in-room safe, but valuables can be securely stored at the front desk.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel consistently receives high marks for its cleanliness, with guests frequently describing rooms as spotless and immaculate upon arrival and throughout their stay, thanks to diligent daily servicing. The spacious rooms are a highlight, offering ample space for relaxation and movement, often featuring comfortable layouts. Most guests find the beds to be very comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, complemented by plenty of pillows and quality linen. Feedback on the bathroom is mixed; while the shower pressure is generally excellent with ample hot water, some guests found the bathrooms to be small or noted awkward door layouts. A few mentioned a need for updates in the bathrooms or issues with shower drainage. Regarding noise levels, the hotel is generally quiet at night, but some guests reported hearing occasional sounds from adjacent rooms or the nearby playground. The air conditioning is consistently praised for being effective and providing a cool environment, a crucial amenity in the local climate. Many rooms also feature balconies that enhance the overall comfort and offer pleasant ocean views.

Dining & Food Quality
While the hotel does not currently operate an on-site restaurant, guests have abundant dining options conveniently located within easy walking distance. A significant highlight is the arrangement with Muddy's Cafe, situated directly across the road, where hotel guests receive a discount on their purchases. This cafe is highly recommended by many for its delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner offerings, and its early opening hours are particularly appreciated for morning coffee. Beyond Muddy's, the hotel's proximity to the main strip means a wide variety of nearby restaurants and cafes are readily accessible, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Some guests noted the availability of breakfast packs for purchase at the hotel, providing a quick and easy option for those who prefer to dine in their rooms. The kitchenettes in many rooms also allow for simple self-catering, though they lack full cooking facilities.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently highlighted as one of its strongest assets, placing guests within easy reach of Cairns' key attractions. Situated directly on the Esplanade, it offers immediate access to scenic walks and is just a short stroll from Muddy's playground, a popular spot for families. Guests appreciate being able to walk to the Reef Fleet Terminal for boat tours, as well as numerous shops, cafes, and nearby restaurants in the city center. While it's close to the action, the hotel is positioned far enough from the busiest areas to offer a relatively quiet environment at night. Public transport options are also conveniently accessible. For those traveling by car, complimentary parking is available on-site, a valuable amenity in the city, though some guests noted that spaces can become limited during peak times or special events. The hotel is also a short drive from the airport, making arrivals and departures straightforward.

Staff & Service
The hotel's friendly staff consistently receive glowing reviews, with guests frequently commending their helpfulness, attentiveness, and welcoming demeanor. From the moment of check-in, which is often described as quick and efficient, staff go above and beyond to assist guests, whether it's providing local recommendations for activities and nearby restaurants, or helping to book day trips. Many guests highlighted the staff's willingness to accommodate requests, such as early check-in or late check-out (sometimes for a fee), and their efficiency in handling issues like room changes or luggage storage. The daily housekeeping service is also highly praised, ensuring rooms are kept clean and tidy with fresh towels and replenished toiletries. Overall, the dedication of the team to providing excellent customer service significantly enhances the guest experience, making visitors feel valued and well-cared for throughout their stay.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel has been undergoing renovations, particularly in the pool area and front of the building, which some guests noted could occasionally lead to noise from construction during the day. While the lobby might appear a bit dated, many rooms have been updated, offering a fresh and comfortable experience. The hotel maintains a strict no smoking policy throughout the property. A security deposit is typically required upon arrival, and while most guests have no issues, a few reported delays in receiving their refund. Despite being an older structure, the hotel is widely regarded as offering excellent value for money, providing spacious and clean accommodations in a prime location. It is also noted for its convenient laundry facilities and the availability of umbrellas for guest use, adding practical benefits to the stay.