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Check-in
05Mar2026Select date
Check-out
06Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Cnr Spence & Grafton Streets, Cairns, Australia, 4870
-
Close to Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
Great
8.3
8.5
/10
3.6
3.9
/5

Location

The Benson Hotel stands at the edge of Cairns' sought-after lagoon, providing scenic views of the surrounding areas. Positioned just a short walk from the Esplanade and the vibrant Cairns Night Markets, the hotel connects guests with the local culture. The Great Barrier Reef departure points and rainforest excursions are easily accessible from this central location.

Rooms

The hotel offers a range of spacious rooms, including deluxe suites with extensive living areas and kitchenettes. Many rooms feature balconies with stunning views, allowing guests to enjoy the natural beauty of Cairns. Each accommodation is thoughtfully designed to ensure a comfortable stay.

Dining

On-site dining options include the renowned Benson Restaurant, where guests can experience locally sourced cuisine. A bar area provides a selection of drinks, making it an enjoyable spot for relaxation after a day of exploration. Breakfast offerings are available each morning to start the day right.

Wellness

The fitness center at The Benson Hotel offers a range of equipment appealing to health-conscious travelers. Guests can unwind at the outdoor swimming pool, surrounded by tropical landscaping that enhances the relaxation experience. Spa treatments can also be arranged to rejuvenate body and mind.

Business Facilities

Business travelers can utilize the dedicated meeting rooms equipped with the necessary technology for events and conferences. The hotel also provides high-speed internet access to ensure smooth communication. Additional support services are available for those hosting corporate gatherings.

Highlights

Location: Edge of Cairns' lagoon .

Rooms: Spacious deluxe suites .

Dining: Benson Restaurant with locally sourced cuisine .

Wellness: Outdoor swimming pool & fitness center .

Business: Dedicated meeting rooms with support services .

“In my opinion, this property balances a central Cairns location with some appealing refinements, namely renovated rooms. I think the proximity to the waterfront and Cairns Central shopping is a real advantage. Though some past guests cited inconsistencies, improvements seem to be ongoing.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type

The Benson Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Standard King Room
2 persons
240 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Air conditioning
Standard Queen Room
2 persons
240 sq. feet 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Air conditioning
Standard Accessible Room
2 persons
240 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Air conditioning
Deluxe Terrace Room
2 persons
240 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Air conditioning
Click button to see more rooms
Show all rooms
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Facilities

The Benson Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.3/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • On-site car park
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • Security
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • Coffee shop
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Diving
  • Snorkelling
  • Canoeing
  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Cycling
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Car hire
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink
  • Happy hour

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Children's menu

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled
  • Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Rooftop pool
  • Sun loungers
  • Live entertainment
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Dining table
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

At The Benson Hotel, diverse culinary offerings invite guests to indulge in authentic Australian flavors. From hearty breakfasts to delightful dinners and innovative cocktails, each dining venue captures the essence of local cuisine amidst a welcoming atmosphere.
The Benson Hotel Cairns Restaurant photo
The Benson Hotel Cairns Restaurant photo
The Benson Hotel Cairns Restaurant photo

The Benson

Australian
Ambiance
Located on the third level, this elegant restaurant features deco-inspired decor that enhances the dining experience.
Key Offerings
Breakfast options include a variety of vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free dishes, while dinner showcases modern Australian flavors complemented by a signature cocktail hour.
Reservation
Recommended
Breakfast: Monday-Sunday, 6:30 AM - 10:00 AM; Dinner: Friday-Saturday, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM; Dinner: Monday-Thursday, 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM

The Benson Bar

Cocktails and light bites
Ambiance
A stylish and cozy bar that offers a perfect setting for socializing and relaxation with a rich selection of beverages.
Key Offerings
Enjoy a creative array of cocktails crafted from local ingredients, making it an excellent spot for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Reservation
Not needed
Open Tuesday-Saturday, 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM

The Benson Hotel Location

Cnr Spence & Grafton Streets, Cairns, Australia, 4870
Map view
Cnr Spence & Grafton Streets, Cairns, Australia, 4870
Nearby
52-54 The Esplanade
Cairns Cenotaph
1400 ft
The Esplanade
1876 Landing Party
1400 ft
Gallery
Samurai Gallery Australia
900 ft
Shop 4
Underart Gallery
700 ft
Gallery
KickArts Contemporary Arts
900 ft
1/47 Shields St
Bones and Jones
800 ft
Gallery
Doongal Aboriginal Art Gallery Cairns
1300 ft
58 Lake St Suite 3-4
Foot and Body Massage
700 ft
Gallery
Michael Seebeck Gallery
1700 ft
Shopping Area
Orchid Plaza
700 ft
Shopping Area
T Galleria by DFS
1000 ft
Park
Anzac Park
2500 ft
Shopping Area
Oceana Walk Arcade
200 ft
Main Street Arcade
Reef Teach
500 ft
Restaurants
Marinades Indian Cuisine Cairns
300 ft
43 Spence St
LILO Restaurant + Bar + Pooldeck
100 ft
50 Grafton Street Level 3
Bobby's B1 Restaurant
100 ft
Ocean Walk Lake Street Shop 16
The Lillipad Cafe
600 ft
72 Grafton St
Candy
200 ft
70 Grafton St
Pantry 15
200 ft
62 Grafton St 15
Caffiend
500 ft
Shop 5 78 Grafton St
Explore Cairns
Explore Cairns
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Cairns Night Markets
Cairns Night Markets
9 minutes' walk
Vibrant night markets offering local crafts, souvenirs, and delicious street food. Perfect for a casual evening stroll.
Rusty's Markets
Rusty's Markets
9 minutes' walk
Colorful markets featuring fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local delicacies. A must-visit for food lovers.
Cairns Regional Gallery
Cairns Regional Gallery
9 minutes' walk
Contemporary art gallery showcasing local artists and rotating exhibitions. Free entry encourages art appreciation.
Cairns Aquarium
Cairns Aquarium
15 minutes' walk
Home to Pacific marine life and interactive exhibits. Great for families and marine enthusiasts alike.
Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome
Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome
9 minutes' walk
Thrilling zipline experience above wildlife exhibits. Perfect for adrenaline-seekers and family fun at the same time.
Green Arrow Walk
15 minutes' walk
Scenic walking trail ideal for relaxation and enjoying nature. Picturesque views of Cairns and the surrounding greenery.
Marinades Indian Cuisine Cairns
Marinades Indian Cuisine Cairns
2 minutes' walk
Authentic Indian restaurant known for flavorful curries and a cozy atmosphere. Vegetarian options available.
LILO Restaurant + Bar + Pooldeck
LILO Restaurant + Bar + Pooldeck
1 minute' walk
Stylish venue offering diverse dishes and cocktails, featuring a relaxing pool deck for leisurely meals.
Candy
Candy
1 minute' walk
Charming café offering sweet treats, coffee, and light meals in a bright, casual setting. Perfect for a sweet break.
Cairns Marlin Marina
9 minutes' walk
Bustling marina with dining, shopping, and nightlife options. Ideal for evening strolls and enjoying the waterfront vibe.
KickArts Contemporary Arts
KickArts Contemporary Arts
5 minutes' walk
Gallery featuring contemporary art from diverse artists. Hosts various cultural events and exhibitions year-round.
Getting around
City Centre
Cairns9 min  ·  2300 ft
Airports
Cairns International Airport (CNS)11 min  ·  4.4 mi
Train
Cairns Central Station6 min  ·  1700 ft
Bus
Bus stop2 min  ·  400 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:59
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site (reservation might be needed) at AUD 25 per day.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
A full breakfast is served at the price of AUD 32 per person per day. 
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Year renovated:
2012
Number of floors:
10
Number of rooms:
101
Former name
Rydges Plaza

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Benson Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 867 verified reviews
8.1/10
Great
82%
Recommend
Breakfast
7.1/10
Cleanliness
8.8/10
Comfort
8.8/10
Facilities
8.3/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.0/10
Location
9.0/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.0/10
Staff
8.6/10
Value for money
8.1/10
Pros
Comfy beds
Clean rooms
Central location
Cons
Loud air conditioning
Staff understanding
Breakfast cost
Guest reviews
based on 1536 reviews
8.3/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room