
The Reef Retreat Palm Cove
A well-regarded retreat at Palm Cove near Cairns with a 4.4 rating across 260 guests.
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Why it's worth checking out
The Reef Retreat Palm Cove is a boutique accommodation base in Palm Cove, around 22 kilometres north of Cairns and just 50 metres from the beach and Esplanade. Its location puts guests within an easy stroll of the village’s cafés, restaurants, boutiques and waterfront, while the surrounding tropical gardens and Melaleuca rainforest setting give the property a shaded, quiet feel. It suits travellers who want access to the coast without staying in a large resort-style complex.
The main retreat at 10–14 Harpa Street offers self-contained studios, apartments and spa suites, with options ranging from compact stays for solo travellers or couples through to three-bedroom accommodation for larger groups. The rooms are designed with open-plan living, private balconies or patios, air-conditioning, ceiling fans, Wi-Fi, TVs with Foxtel and kitchenettes. Larger apartments add full kitchens and laundry facilities, while the spa suites include a spa bath for two and views towards the gardens and pool. Shared facilities at the retreat include a heated pool and spa, BBQ and entertainment area, guest laundry, parking and a tour information and booking desk.
There are also two separate accommodation choices managed under the same banner. The Reef Retreat Townhouses are across the road at 5 Harpa Street and provide three bedrooms, two bathrooms, full kitchens, laundry facilities and space for up to seven people. They have their own small plunge pool and garages, but guests staying in the townhouses do not have access to the main retreat’s facilities. Tranquility Apartment, at 5–7 Amphora Street, is diagonally opposite and offers a more private two-bedroom, one-bathroom setup close to the beach and Esplanade. Reception and check-in for the townhouses are handled at the main retreat.
The accommodation is a practical fit for several types of stay: couples can choose a studio, one-bedroom apartment or spa suite; families can spread out in two- or three-bedroom accommodation; and groups can consider the townhouses, which accommodate up to seven. Self-catering facilities provide flexibility for relaxed meals, while the nearby Esplanade offers dining options. The onsite tour desk can help arrange experiences across Cairns and Tropical North Queensland, including tour pick-up and drop-off, car hire and airport shuttle services. With access to Palm Cove Beach, a heated pool and spa, and advice on exploring the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, Atherton Tablelands and nearby destinations, The Reef Retreat provides a well-placed, independently managed stay for beach holidays and regional exploring.
Practical details
Opening hours
Closed- Monday
- 08:00 – 19:00
- TuesdayToday
- 08:00 – 19:00
- Wednesday
- 08:00 – 19:00
- Thursday
- 08:00 – 19:00
- Friday
- 08:00 – 19:00
- Saturday
- 08:00 – 19:00
- Sunday
- 08:00 – 19:00
Menu
View the latest menu directly from the venue.
Open menuSpot Score
- Reputation
- 74
- Popularity
- 73
- Information quality
- 30
- Category fit
- 70
- Freshness
- 30
Our independent editorial score — not a user rating.
Nearby venues

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Vivo Palm Cove
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Tom McDonald Park
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