The Reef Retreat is a great choice for a stay in Cairns. You can get a morning swim in at the outdoor pool, and the spa tub makes for a relaxing end to the day. A terrace and a garden are offered, and apartments have conveniences like refrigerators and microwaves. Fellow travelers say good things about the pool and location.
Languages
English
At a glance
Arriving/Leaving
Check-in start time: 2 PM; Check-in end time: 5:30 PM
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18
Check-out time is 10 AM
Contactless check-out available
Restrictions related to your trip
Check COVID-19 restrictions
Special check-in instructions
This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); guests must contact the property with arrival details before travel, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
The front desk is open Monday - Friday (8:00 AM - 5:30 PM) and Saturday - Sunday (9 AM - 2:00 PM)
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival
If you are planning to arrive after 5:30 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Required at check-in
Credit card, debit card, or cash deposit required for incidental charges
Government-issued photo ID may be required
Minimum check-in age is 18
Children
Babysitting*
Pets
Pets not allowed
Service animals welcome
Property amenities
Beach
Near the beach
Pool/Spa
Outdoor pool
Sun loungers
Spa tub
Internet
Free WiFi
Parking and transportation
Free self parking on site
Wheelchair-accessible parking available
24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle (surcharge)
On site car rental
Family friendly
Babysitting (surcharge)
Food and drink
Refrigerator
Stovetop
Microwave
Electric kettle
Toaster
Cookware/dishes/utensils
Coffee/tea maker
Bedrooms
Bed sheets provided
Rollaway/extra beds: AUD 35.00 per night
Bathrooms
Free toiletries
Hair dryer
Towels provided
Living spaces
Library
Entertainment
LCD TV with cable service
DVD player
Outdoor areas
Terrace
Balcony or patio
Barbecue grill
Garden
Picnic area
Laundry
Dry cleaning/laundry service
Laundry facilities
Work spaces
Desk
Comfort
Air conditioning
Ceiling fan
Pets
Service animals only (pets not allowed)
Suitability/Accessibility
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
No elevators
Upper floors accessible by stairs only
Wheelchair accessible (with limits)
Wheelchair-accessible parking
10 on-site accessible parking spaces
Wheelchair-accessible concierge desk
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Tour/ticket assistance
Limited housekeeping
Iron/ironing board
Luggage storage
Blackout drapes/curtains
Safe at front desk
Location highlights
Near the sea
Near the boardwalk/promenade
In a rural location
Things to do
Kayaking nearby
Snorkeling nearby
Scuba diving nearby
Fishing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horse riding nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector installed (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
Fire extinguisher
General
32 rooms
3 floors
Built in 1997
Access via exterior corridors
Fees & policies
Optional extras
Airport shuttle service is offered for an extra charge of AUD 27 per person (one-way)
Housekeeping is offered for an extra charge
Children & extra beds
Babysitting is available for an extra charge
Cribs/infant beds are available for AUD 10.0 per night
Rollaway beds are available for AUD 35.00 per night
Airport shuttle for children between the ages of 4 and 11 costs AUD 14 (one-way)
Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve high chairs
Policies
Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms.
This property does not have elevators.
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 indicated there is a smoke detector on the property.
Guests can rest easy knowing there's a fire extinguisher on site.
This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted.
This property is professionally cleaned.
Also known as
Reef Retreat
Reef Retreat Hotel
Reef Retreat Hotel Palm Cove
Reef Retreat Palm Cove
The Reef Retreat Hotel Palm Cove
Reef Retreat Apartment Palm Cove
Reef Retreat Apartment
The Reef Retreat Palm Cove
The Reef Retreat Aparthotel
The Reef Retreat Aparthotel Palm Cove
Frequently asked questions
Does The Reef Retreat offer free cancellation for a full refund?
Yes, The Reef Retreat does have fully refundable room rates available to book on our site. If you’ve booked a fully refundable room rate, this can be cancelled up to a few days before check-in depending on the property's cancellation policy. Just make sure to check this property's cancellation policy for the exact terms and conditions.
Is there a pool at The Reef Retreat?
Yes, there's an outdoor pool.
Are pets allowed at The Reef Retreat?
Sorry, pets aren't allowed, but service animals are welcome.
Is parking offered on site at The Reef Retreat?
Yes, there's free self parking.
Is airport shuttle service offered by The Reef Retreat?
Yes, an airport shuttle is available. The charge is AUD 27 per person one-way.
What are the check-in and check-out times at The Reef Retreat?
Check-in start time: 2 PM; Check-in end time: 5:30 PM. Check-out time is 10 AM. Contactless check-out is available.
What is there to do at The Reef Retreat and nearby?
Have fun with nearby activities like fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. Enjoy a relaxing soak in the spa tub and an invigorating swim in the outdoor pool. The Reef Retreat also has a picnic area and a garden.
Does The Reef Retreat have any outdoor private spaces?
Yes, each apartment features a balcony or patio.
What's the area around The Reef Retreat like?
The Reef Retreat is a short 12-minute walk from Palm Cove Beach and 11 minutes' walk from Vie Spa Palm Cove. Travelers say this aparthotel is in a good location.
The Reef Retreat Reviews
Reviews
9.0
Wonderful
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.More informationOpens in a new window
9.0/10
Cleanliness
9.0/10
Staff & service
8.6/10
Amenities
8.6/10
Property conditions & facilities
8.0/10
Eco-friendliness
Reviews
10/10 Exceptional
21 Oct 2024
Lovely setting
The Reef Retreat setting is very nice and tranquil. The only drawback for us was our room was a top floor one. We had lots of suitcases due to our cruise before we disembarked in Cairns. The location is very good and close to many restaurants. The room was comfortably and had everything we needed.
Pimjai
Pimjai, 3-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review
8/10 Very good
18 Sep 2024
Good room quiet paths were the only issue as they were very uneven so had to watch where you walked
Chris
Chris, 2-night family trip
Verified Wotif guest review
10/10 Exceptional
15 Sep 2024
Cristina
Cristina, 4-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review
10/10 Exceptional
4 Sep 2024
We loved our stay — the apartment was comfortable and well planned, and the trees in the central court provided shade and coolness. Will come again.
Patricia
Patricia, 2-night family trip
Verified Wotif guest review
10/10 Exceptional
2 Sep 2024
Laura
Laura, 2-night trip with friends
Verified Hotels.com guest review
8/10 Very good
25 Aug 2024
Nick
Nick, 2-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review
8/10 Very good
15 Aug 2024
Verified traveller
2-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review
10/10 Exceptional
14 Aug 2024
Lovely surroundings in the better end of Palm Cove. Beware some apartments are on the 3rd Floor with no lift.
Jaak
Jaak, 2-night romance trip
Verified Expedia guest review
8/10 Very good
31 Jul 2024
I am a cleaner by trade so am probably a bit synical but was surprised to find mould on the windows and windowsill. I cleaned it as it got the better of me.
Julie
Julie, 4-night romance trip
Verified Wotif guest review
10/10 Exceptional
9 Jul 2024
This place is well maintained, lovely surroundings around the pool and spa, all day. Clean and perfectly positioned, close to everything but as well tacked away. Lovely place to stay
Cecylia
Cecylia, 8-night romance trip
Verified Lastminute guest review
10/10 Exceptional
8 Jul 2024
Fantastic Accomadation in a very convenient location. Highly recommend 😊
Verified traveller
14-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review
6/10 Good
24 Jun 2024
Jorge
Jorge, 6-night trip
Verified Expedia guest review
8/10 Very good
14 Jun 2024
Proprietors and other staff were very helpful. The location is great. The room and kitchenette were comfy.
The one thing that was unpleasant was the bathroom had sliding doors with slats, which did not provide any sound barrier between the bathroom and bedroom.
Claire
Claire, 4-night family trip
Verified Expedia guest review
10/10 Exceptional
27 May 2024
Reef retreat excellent value.
Excellent value. Great location.
paul
paul, 4-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review
10/10 Exceptional
21 May 2024
Great place - I would definitely stay here again, right in the heart of Palm Cove. Only downside was heater in pool was not working the second week of my stay, though I know they were trying to get it fixed - I'm sure it's good by now. Beautiful grounds, loved the balconey, the "library", laundry. Even provided a rack for drying clothes and an umbrella in my unit. Great place!
Heather Cheryl
Heather Cheryl, 11-night trip
Verified Expedia guest review
6/10 Good
16 May 2024
Good location
The room was ok but the bathroom shower has a window straight in from of it and ather off putting that people can ee in through louvre blinds. Power point didnt work on one side and neighbours very noisy. Excellent location and kitchen facilities.
Helen
Helen, 2-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review
8/10 Very good
3 May 2024
Selvan
Selvan, 2-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review
10/10 Exceptional
29 Apr 2024
Business Trip - Sales Rep Stay
Great place to unwind after a long day drive and seeing sales appointments.
Staff were amazing, room was super relaxing and everything I needed was in walking distance.
Highly Recommend staying here for a break away and or your next business trip!
Benjamin
Benjamin, 3-night business trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review
10/10 Exceptional
7 Apr 2024
Excellent position just off the beach, and lots of great restaurants nearby. Very quiet and relaxing, the pool is surrounded by large original trees, it’s like swimming in the rain forest.
Nigel
Nigel, 5-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review
10/10 Exceptional
6 Feb 2024
Best place ever will be back again
Nicole Fay
Nicole Fay, 7-night romance trip
Verified Expedia guest review
8/10 Very good
4 Jan 2024
This a great place to stay for a longer visit to the area. Room was very spacious and well appointed. There is a binder in the unit that details everything you need to know about the property (laundry) and surrounding area. Having access to laundry on the property was fantastic and the machines did a great job ($9 AUD). The Beach is just around the corner from the property - amazing paths with access to shops, restaurants -- ideal vacation spot - so laid back. Palm Cove is a gem - less than an hour to Port Douglas and the drive is so beautiful, yet very windy roads. Highly recommend Palm Cove area.
Amy
Amy, 6-night trip
Verified Expedia guest review
8/10 Very good
3 Jan 2024
Great place to stay, with all you need.
The Reef Retreat was perfect for the few nights we were is Cairns. The pool and A/C made the heat a little more bearable and Jim was always available to assist with cabs/transport bookings and offer advice.
50m from the beach and the esplanade, which leads in both directions to a variety of excellent shops, bars and eateries.
Mark
Mark, 4-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review
10/10 Exceptional
9 Dec 2023
Steve
Steve, 3-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review
8/10 Very good
7 Dec 2023
Lovely beach walks
louise
louise, 2-night trip
Verified Wotif guest review
10/10 Exceptional
10 Nov 2023
Excellent management. Restaurants near by. Cleanliness of units.