Please select your travel dates to see rates and availability
Check In
Check Out
1 room2 guests1 room, 2 guests
Info
Summary of reviewsReef Palms boasts a range of positive attributes that make it an appealing accommodation option for visitors to Cairns. Its location is highly praised for its convenience, offering close proximity to the Esplanade, waterfront, cafes, restaurants and the domestic airport. Guests enjoy the quiet setting that provides a tranquil stay while remaining accessible to key attractions and the city center.
The rooms at Reef Palms, particularly appreciated for their spaciousness and practicality, come equipped with amenities such as kitchenettes—making them ideal for longer stays. The beds are often described as comfortable, contributing to restful nights. The family deluxe suites are particularly notable for their layout and quiet ambiance. However, there are mixed reviews regarding the cleanliness and condition of the rooms with some guests citing dated decor, maintenance issues and a need for more thorough housekeeping.
Despite the challenges, the pool area receives consistent praise, described as clean and inviting, providing a refreshing retreat especially enjoyed by families. The proximity to the beach and beautiful promenade leading to the city center adds to the hotel's charm.
The staff at Reef Palms are frequently commended for their friendliness and helpfulness, enhancing the overall guest experience. The positive interactions with the management and reception team contribute to a welcoming and supportive environment.
Reef Palms also offers good parking facilities with ample and convenient spaces, though some noted the need for improvement in maneuverability for larger vehicles. The Wi-Fi service, while adequate in some instances, generally falls short of guest expectations due to intermittent connectivity issues.
The hotel's breakfast offerings have seen a decline with recent reviews noting the absence of breakfast options despite past availability. Guests lament this unavailability due to COVID-19 restrictions but find some solace in the in-room kitchen facilities.
Overall, Reef Palms is regarded as a budget-friendly three-star hotel that provides good value for money. It excels in offering spacious and comfortable accommodations, a prime location and friendly service, making it a suitable choice for cost-conscious travelers looking to explore Cairns. Improvements in cleanliness, maintenance and certain amenities could further enhance the guest experience. Show more
Read review summaries for all categories
Categories
Accessible Motel
Reef Palms has wheelchair accessibility throughout its grounds. Facilities for disabled guests are available, including an accessible toilet.
Motel near The Beach
Motel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Motel with Swimming Pool
Outdoor Pool
Motel with Parking
4-Star Motel
Motel with Outdoor Pool
Room Types
Twin Room - StudioThis spacious, air-conditioned studio has a balcony, a dining area and a lounge area with a flat-screen TV.
Guests enjoy free airport drop off service (departing from hotel at 08:00 and 10:00 from Tuesday to Friday).
Please note that the rate is based on 2 guests. Maximum occupancy is 4 guests (see Hotel Policies).
Deluxe Studio with Spa BathThis spacious, air-conditioned studio features a balcony, dining area and a lounge area with a flat-screen TV.
Guests enjoy free airport drop off service (departing from hotel at 08:00 and 10:00 from Tuesday to Friday).
Please note that the rate is based on 2 guests. Maximum occupancy is 4 guests (see Hotel Policies).
Queen Room - StudioThis spacious, air-conditioned studio has a balcony, dining area and a lounge area with a flat-screen TV.
Guests enjoy free airport drop off service (departing from hotel at 08:00 and 10:00 from Tuesday to Friday).
Please note that the rate is based on 2 guests. Maximum occupancy is 4 guests (see Hotel Policies).
Quadruple Room - StudioThis spacious, air-conditioned studio includes a balcony, dining area and a lounge area with a flat-screen TV.
Guests enjoy free airport drop off service (departing from hotel at 08:00 and 10:00 from Tuesday to Friday).
Please note that the rate is based on 2 guests. Maximum occupancy is 4 guests (see Hotel Policies).
Triple StudioThis spacious, air-conditioned studio has a private balcony and a kitchenette. There is a disability friendly unit available, subject to availability.
You can request your preferred bedding configuration (subject to availability).
Guests enjoy free airport drop off service (departing from hotel at 08:00 and 10:00 from Tuesday to Friday).
Please note that rate is based on 3 guests.
Deluxe Family RoomThis spacious, air-conditioned studio has a balcony, a dining area and a lounge area with a flat-screen TV.
Guests enjoy free airport drop off service (departing from hotel at 08:00 and 10:00 from Tuesday to Friday).
Please note that the rate is based on 2 guests. Maximum occupancy is 4 guests (see Hotel Policies).
Guest Reviews
6.9
Rated
Location
Reef Palms is widely praised for its location, offering convenient proximity to key spots in Cairns. Situated close to the Esplanade, it provides easy access to a pleasant beach promenade and several dining and entertainment options. Guests appreciate the short walking distance to the waterfront, shops, cafes and restaurants.
The hotel is also noted for being conveniently near Cairns domestic airport, making it an ideal stopover for travelers with early or late flights. The central location ensures that attractions such as the Botanical Gardens, city center and various tourist spots are within reasonable reach, often just a short drive or Uber ride away.
Despite being a bit removed from the main hub of Cairns, this quieter setting allows guests to enjoy a peaceful stay while still being close enough to the action. Whether visiting the city center or taking a leisurely stroll along the beautiful boardwalk to the marina, guests find the location of Reef Palms suitable and practical for their needs.
Overall, Reef Palms stands out as a well-located, quiet and comfortable base for exploring Cairns with many appreciating the balance it offers between accessibility and tranquility.
Breakfast
Reef Palms once received praise for its breakfast offerings with guests appreciating the good continental breakfast that was both lovely and reasonable. The inclusion of breakfast was considered a positive aspect of the stay. However, many recent visitors have noted the absence of breakfast options, mentioning that breakfast was not available or not provided despite being advertised. Some guests expressed disappointment that the breakfast bar was closed during their stay and there were mentions of COVID-19 being cited as the reason for this change. Additionally, the lack of provisions like milk was pointed out. The presence of a handy kitchen, however, was noted as a redeeming feature for those who preferred to prepare their own meals.
Rooms
Reef Palms offers a mixed experience with its accommodations, predominantly highlighted by the spaciousness of its rooms. Many guests noted the large, well-sized rooms equipped with basic amenities such as kitchenettes, making them well-suited for longer stays. The beds were often described as comfortable and the presence of cooking facilities added a level of convenience for those looking to prepare their own meals.
Guests appreciated the clean and tidy presentation of some rooms with new furnishings and well-maintained spaces enhancing the appeal. The hotel's quiet ambiance and the practical layout of accommodations like the family deluxe suite further contributed to its positive attributes.
However, despite these strengths, numerous reviews pointed out significant areas needing improvement. Guests frequently mentioned that the rooms and facilities are quite dated with some areas showing visible wear and tear. Cleanliness was another recurring issue with instances of dirty rooms, visible mold and maintenance problems such as non-functional lights and dripping taps. In some cases, the presence of unpleasant odors and the need for a more thorough cleaning on arrival were noted.
The overall consensus suggests that while Reef Palms has the potential to provide comfortable and spacious accommodations, particularly for families or longer stays, it would benefit substantially from updates and more stringent housekeeping standards. The combination of positive aspects like spaciousness and kitchen facilities with the need for refurbishment and better cleaning practices makes for a varied guest experience.
Beds
Reef Palms generally receives positive feedback on its beds from guests. Many guests appreciate the comfort of the beds, describing them as comfortable, clean and providing a good night's sleep. Some guests mention the nice bedding and comfortable pillows that enhance their stay. The hotel's beds are often cited as contributing to a pleasant and restful experience.
However, opinions on bed comfort are mixed. While several guests corroborate the comfort of the beds, others complain that the beds are too hard or uncomfortable with some even describing the mattresses as so hard they would prefer to sleep on the floor. There are also mentions of the pillows being too firm or uncomfortable.
Cleanliness is another aspect that garners mixed reviews. Many guests find the beds clean and comfortable, but there are occasional mentions of issues such as stained sheets, old or broken pillows and even cockroaches in the bed.
Despite these varied experiences, the overall sentiment leans towards the beds being a good aspect of the stay at Reef Palms, making it a reasonably comfortable choice, especially considering its value for money and convenient location near parks, food and shopping.
Cleanliness
Reef Palms has garnered mixed reviews regarding its cleanliness. On a positive note, several guests have found the rooms clean, cozy and comfortable with some even describing the accommodations as very clean and spacious. Visitors appreciate the ample linen and toiletries provided and the property's proximity to the CBD has also been highlighted as a plus. The general atmosphere of the hotel with its neat furnishings and tidy appearance, has been satisfactory for some guests, making a stay here quite pleasant.
However, the cleanliness across different areas of the hotel has been a recurring concern. Many guests pointed out issues such as musty smells, visible mould and dirt in bathrooms and other parts of the rooms. The need for a more thorough deep clean was frequently mentioned with specific issues like dirty carpets, dusty areas, unclean balconies and stained cutlery and linens being common complaints. Instances of leftover hair, grime and even dead insects have also been reported, indicating lapses in housekeeping standards. Some of the furniture and facilities seem to be in need of repair and updating, as worn-out and mismatched items were noted.
Overall, while Reef Palms offers a comfortable stay with well-sized rooms, there is a significant need for improvement in the hotel's cleaning procedures to meet the expectations of all its guests.
Staff
Nestled in a prime location, Reef Palms stands out for its notably friendly and accommodating staff. The hotel staff consistently receives praise for their helpfulness and welcoming demeanor, contributing to an overall pleasant and supportive atmosphere for guests. Management and reception personnel are frequently highlighted for their efficient and respectful service, always ready to assist with any requests and ensuring smooth check-ins. The hotel owners also leave a positive impression, often described as friendly and respectful towards guests.
Despite the frequent commendations, some reviews do indicate occasional lapses. There are mentions of incidents where the staff did not fulfill room cleaning requests timely, alongside sporadic notes of unwelcoming or abrupt behavior. These instances appear, however, to be exceptions in the broader context of positive feedback.
Overall, Reef Palms' staff is depicted as genuinely pleasant, creating an inviting environment that many guests appreciate. From the reception to management, the staff's efforts in providing thoughtful and efficient service makes a significant contribution to the guests' experiences, fostering a sense of loyalty and satisfaction.
Wi-Fi
Reef Palms has received a range of feedback from guests regarding its Wi-Fi services. Many guests have noted challenges with consistent and reliable internet connectivity during their stay. Issues such as intermittent connections, rooms without coverage and weak signal strength were commonly mentioned. Some guests even faced difficulties connecting to Wi-Fi or reported that the password did not work. However, there were a few mentions of rapid internet and fast connections in some instances. Overall, while there are occasional positive remarks, the Wi-Fi service at Reef Palms often falls short of guests' expectations, indicating room for improvement in this area.
Pool
Reef Palms boasts a pool area that is frequently praised by guests for its cleanliness and inviting atmosphere. Many reviews highlight the pool as a great feature, noting that it serves as an excellent way to cool down and is particularly enjoyed by children. The pool is described as small but sufficient with several guests appreciating its warmth and cleanliness. The surrounding area is often mentioned as beautiful and serene, providing a pleasant escape for visitors.
Despite some mentions of the pool area being somewhat run down and in need of minor repairs, such as the non-functional spa, the overall sentiment remains positive. The convenient location close to both the beach and town center adds to the pool's appeal.
Families especially enjoy the pool with numerous remarks about the kids loving their time spent swimming. The pool area is also described as clean and offering ample space, making it a delightful spot for relaxation.
In summary, the pool at Reef Palms is a well-received amenity that contributes significantly to guests’ overall enjoyment of their stay, providing a refreshing and comfortable retreat despite some minor maintenance issues.
Beach
Reef Palms offers guests the perfect location for beach lovers with the sandy shores just a very short stroll away. Whether it's a mere two-minute walk or quick access to the beach promenade, the convenience is evident. Guests have continually highlighted the beautiful esplanade beach walk that leads directly to the city center, making it an ideal mix of relaxation and urban exploration. The proximity to both the airport and the vibrant city hub adds to the overall convenience. With the beach always within walking distance, visitors can easily enjoy the scenic beach walk and all its serene beauty.
Parking
Reef Palms offers a mix of parking options with plenty of positive remarks from its guests. Many appreciate the convenience of free parking, highlighting its ample availability and ease of access. The hotel provides both off-street and secure underground parking which adds to the convenience of staying there. On-site parking is frequently described as pleasant and plentiful, making it easy for guests to find a spot without hassle.
However, some reviews note that the parking spaces can be quite tight, limiting maneuverability for larger vehicles. A few guests mentioned a preference for covered parking to provide additional protection against the weather. While some found the underground parking secure, others pointed out that the parking area could be improved to enhance overall security.
Despite a few reservations about space and coverage, the general consensus is that Reef Palms provides good parking facilities that are free, convenient and easy to access, allowing guests to park their cars without major concerns.
3 Star
Reef Palms is a three-star hotel that consistently receives praise for its great value for money, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious travelers. Guests frequently highlight the budget-friendly and affordable prices, noting that the clean and spacious rooms offer excellent value without breaking the bank.
The location is another strong point, conveniently situated not far from the airport and within walking distance of the central business district, making it easy to explore the area. Many reviewers mention how they appreciate the hotel's clean facilities and well-maintained rooms, which add to the overall positive experience.
Staff friendliness and attentiveness are commonly mentioned, contributing to an overall welcoming atmosphere. The on-site facilities are deemed appropriate for the price, offering guests the basic amenities they need without excess frills.
In summary, Reef Palms stands out as a budget-friendly option that excels in cleanliness, convenience and value for money, making it an ideal choice for those seeking affordable accommodations with essential amenities.
Accessible
Reef Palms offers several features that make it convenient for many guests, including easy check-in and check-out processes, even after hours. The property boasts a ground-floor level that can be beneficial for some visitors. The staff receives high praise for their friendliness and the location is deemed convenient. However, the lack of an elevator can pose challenges for guests with disabilities or elderly travelers. This limitation makes the hotel less accessible overall for those requiring mobility assistance.
Outdoor Pool
Reef Palms features a well-maintained and lovely outdoor pool that many guests have praised as excellent and great for swimming. Families with children particularly appreciate the pool, noting that it is good for kids and offers plenty of space for everyone to enjoy. The pool area is complemented by a BBQ section, making it convenient for guests who wish to cook and dine outdoors. Both the pool and BBQ areas are described as nice, enhancing the overall guest experience. However, there were some mentions of maintenance issues, such as the pool and hot tub being out of order at times and occasional problems with mosquitoes. Despite these minor concerns, the pool remains a highlight with its clean water and inviting ambiance.
Yes, Reef Palms has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Reef Palms.
No, Reef Palms doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Reef Palms.