Located in Palm Cove, a neighbourhood in Cairns, Drift Palm Cove is in the entertainment district and on the beach. Clifton Village Shopping Centre and Smithfield Shopping Centre are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Palm Cove Beach and Cairns Esplanade. Hartley's Crocodile Adventures and Tanks Arts Centre are also worth visiting. Take the opportunity to explore the area for water adventures such as fishing.
Clifton Village Shopping Centre - 3 min drive - 2.9 km
Back Shot Beach - 4 min drive - 1.8 km
Getting around
Redlynch Station - 19 min drive
Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) - 25 min drive
Restaurants
‪Nu Nu Restaurant - ‬12 min walk
‪Palm Cove Tavern - ‬1 min walk
‪Burger Inn - ‬9 min drive
‪Trinity Beach Tavern - ‬10 min drive
‪The Bluewater Tavern - ‬10 min drive
About this property
Drift Palm Cove
Guests of this beach aparthotel will appreciate convenient on-site amenities such as a hot tub and a fitness centre. Each apartment boasts a jetted bath and offers free WiFi and a kitchen. Guests will appreciate conveniences, such as a washer/dryer and a fridge, while a flat-screen TV with digital channels and Netflix provide a bit of entertainment. Weekly housekeeping is available.
Drift Palm Cove offers 65 accommodations with washers/dryers and a safe. Rooms open to balconies or patios. Each accommodation is individually furnished and decorated. Accommodation at this 4-star aparthotel has kitchens with fridges, stovetops, microwaves and kitchenware and utensils. Bathrooms include a separate bath and shower with in-room jetted baths, complimentary toiletries and hairdryers.
Guests can surf the web using complimentary wireless Internet access. 40-inch flat-screen televisions come with digital channels and Netflix. Additionally, rooms include an iron/ironing board and a ceiling fan. Housekeeping is provided on a weekly basis.
An outdoor pool, a children's pool and a hot tub are on site. Other recreational amenities include a fitness centre.
Children aged under 12 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool, fitness facility or hot tub without adult supervision.
Policies
Check-in
Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; check-in end time: 7:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age - 18
Check-out
Check-out before 10 AM
Contactless check-out
Special check-in instructions
This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); to arrange pick-up, guests must contact the property 48 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
The property charges 1.5 per cent for credit card payments
The front desk is open from Monday to Thursday (8:00 AM to 4:00 PM), Friday to Friday (8:00 AM to 5:00 PM) and Saturday to Saturday (8:00 AM to 4:00 PM)
Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after noon please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Access methods
Staffed front desk
Pets
Pets not allowed
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
1 child, up to the age of 2 years, can stay for free if using existing beds when occupying the parent or guardian's room
Rollaway/extra beds are available for AUD 44.0 per day.
Cots (infant beds) are available for AUD 10.0 per night
Payment types
Important information
Fees
You'll be asked to pay the following charges at the property. Fees may include applicable taxes:
Deposit: AUD 200.00 per accommodation, per stay
We have included all charges provided to us by the property.
Optional extras
Airport shuttle fee: AUD 30 per person (one-way)
Airport shuttle fee per child: AUD 10 (one-way), (up to 15 years old)
Crib (infant bed) fee: AUD 10.0 per night
Rollaway bed fee: AUD 44.0 per day
Credit card charges are subject to a surcharge of 1.5 per cent
The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.
You need to know
Property # 1665283
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards and debit cards; cash is not accepted
Noise-free guestrooms cannot be guaranteed
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 that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is professionally cleaned
Property class
This property has been awarded a star rating from the Australian star ratings agency, Star Ratings Australia.
Frequently asked questions
Does Drift Palm Cove have a pool?
Yes, this property has an outdoor pool and a children's pool. Pool access is from 7 AM to 9 PM.
How much does it cost to stay at Drift Palm Cove?
As of 22 September 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Drift Palm Cove on 27 September 2026 start from NZ$517, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Is Drift Palm Cove pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Drift Palm Cove?
Self-parking is free at this property.
What time is check-in at Drift Palm Cove?
Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; check-in end time: 7:00 PM. Late check-in is available during limited hours.
What time is check-out at Drift Palm Cove?
Checkout is at 10 AM.
Does Drift Palm Cove provide a shuttle to the airport?
Yes, there's an airport shuttle that runs at scheduled times. A fee of AUD 30 per person applies.
Where is Drift Palm Cove located?
Located in Palm Cove, this beachfront aparthotel is in the entertainment district and within 1 mi (2 km) of Palm Cove Beach, Back Shot Beach and Buchan Point. Kuranda National Park and Wet Tropics of Queensland are also within 1 mile (2 km).
Can I cancel my reservation for free and receive a full refund?
Yes, this property offers free cancellation on selected room rates because flexibility matters! Please refer to the property cancellation policy on our site for more details about any exclusions or requirements.
Drift Palm Cove Reviews
Reviews
8.4
Very good
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Honestly 10/10 what a great stay we had, coffee shops & food right there, beautiful beach & heaps of wildlife walking around, watch your step in the hotel (we were on the 4th floor and had to carry a little lizard down the elevator)
The second time we've stayed at Drift in Palm Cove and we would stay again. The property has everything you need and is in the perfect location. The only thing that would help would be a heated pool, however you don't really need it if you go in the Summer.
Have stayed here many times - love this apartment block
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveller
19 January 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
Clean and spacious room, comfortable stay, and a great location. Staff were friendly and helpful. Would stay again.
Stayed 9 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review
6/10 Okay
Anna
24 March 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
Good property for the valu
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Cheryl
13 November 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, communication
Room was spotless and staff was amazing.
Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Allison
2 May 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Great place to stay, will definitely be back.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
Verified review
8/10 Good
Jaclyn
6 October 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
We had a nice time staying at Drift. Comfortable and close to cafes, beach and friendly reception.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Kylie
1 September 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Absolutely beautiful hotel
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Hayley
17 October 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a relaxing affordable holiday that is pleasant and clean and close by many food options and grocery store, room has kitchen so can also cook
5 stars all round you guys honestly earnt it, the reception lady (sorry for not remembering your name) for check in was very friendly and informative and made sure it was known we could just come see her with any question or any needs for our room, we had room 3102, it was truly a home away from home, as our family walked in it was clean and tidy even through the rush of early check in which we greatly appreciate you guys making sure it was ready for us. Loved the open kitchen full of utensils fancy and both rooms set up so well and the washing machine and dryer amazing then right out our back door was a very nice spa and pool area which looked even better at night, we also tried the palm cove tavern food was really nice everything was pricy but truly did level out price for quality and was worth it in the end so to me 5 stars are definitely earnt hands down thank so much to you all for such a great stay a home away from home
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Semra
19 January 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
The girls at reception were extremely helpful, friendly and professional.
Stayed 10 nights in Jan 2026
Verified review
8/10 Good
Pip
25 September 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, communication
A nice place to base yourself right on the beach & with a big pool = happy kids!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Lynda
18 November 2025
Great pool
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review
8/10 Good
Michael
8 January 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
The room could have been cleaner on arrival, however overall we were happy with our stay.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2026
Verified review
8/10 Good
Kate Myra
18 January 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Nice studio apartment overlooking garden. Kitchen well supplied. Comfy bed.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Karl
6 October 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Great location in beautiful surroundings. Friendly and helpful staff. Very nice hotel with a lovely pool area with a nice pool and green tropical surroundings.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Jani
27 November 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
I loved everything about Drift Palm Cove! Absolutely stunning and comfortable and beautiful. The staff was out of this world amazing to us and so very helpful in every aspect!!
Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review
8/10 Good
Lauren
22 April 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, listing accuracy
Disliked: Check-in
I really enjoyed this place. All amenities were great. Check in was my only issue. Check in was listed at 1400. I arrived shortly after this & I was told the unit wasn't ready. This was shortly rectified. There's also renovations happening at the moment so quite a bit of noise during the day. Otherwise a comfortable relaxing stay
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Chris
11 March 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
great location great facilities kids loved the pool
cannot wait to go back
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Elizabeth
11 March 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Great quite location right across the beach, beautiful surroundings ,we liked the BBQ facilities
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Chloe
5 January 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
Great stay, loved the pool and being right on the beach front was awesome!