The Reef Retreat Palm Cove

We loved our 6 night stay here! It felt like a true escape — relaxing, private, and surrounded by lush greenery. The whole place has a peaceful, sheltered feel that instantly slows you down. One of our favourite features was the pool — tucked under massive trees that gave it such a magical, resort-meets-rainforest vibe. It was clean, neat and had a constant warm temperature. They swept up the leaves each morning throughout the whole complex. Our room had everything we needed. The bed was huge and super comfy, the pillows were fresh and thick (a rare win!), and the outdoor kitchen was an absolute highlight — perfect for relaxing and cooking without filling the room with food smells and steam. It made the whole stay feel more like a laid-back retreat than just another accommodation room. What really stood out was how different this place felt from your typical "cookie-cutter" resort. No massive pools packed with people, no boxy rooms stacked side by side. We had our own private deck nestled under the trees — quiet, peaceful, and perfect for morning coffee and afternoon snooze. There were a few little quirks, like the water temperature fluctuating at times — but those were easy to work with given everything else this place offers. It’s tropical, charming, well-priced, and just a short stroll to the beach and local restaurants (with nightly ice cream runs in my case!). Can’t wait to return — it’s definitely one of my most memorable holidays.

We visited the reef retreat in palm cove for the 5th time…..once again, it was fabulous. So relaxing, the weather was terrific and we had lots of opportunities to read, swim and enjoy ourselves. We would never go anywhere else… the reef retreat is our go to place. Thank you Jim and Joanne.

Very nice peaceful setting with lovely cool shady garden area around the pool. We especially enjoyed the outdoors deck area in the kitchen patio of our room. Close to the beach and esplanade with the restaurants and bars. Palm cove was a great choice for our first visit to Cairns.