Best Wedding Venues in Cairns: A Tropical Paradise!

As a wedding photographer based in Cairns, I’ve had the pleasure of shooting at some of the most beautiful venues in the area. Whether you’re a local bride or planning a destination wedding, Cairns has a wealth of stunning locations to choose from.

Here are some of my favorites:

  1. Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina Cairns: Located in the heart of Cairns, the Shangri-La Hotel offers a stunning waterfront setting for your wedding. With panoramic views of the marina and Trinity Bay, this venue is perfect for couples who want a luxurious, modern wedding with a tropical twist. The hotel’s ballroom can accommodate up to 400 guests, while its outdoor terrace is perfect for intimate ceremonies and cocktail receptions.
  2. The Sugar Wharf : If you’re looking for a rustic, industrial-chic wedding venue, the Sugar Wharf in Port Douglas is an excellent choice. This restored heritage building boasts original timber beams, exposed brick walls, and stunning views of the Coral Sea. The Wharf’s expansive outdoor space can accommodate up to 500 guests, making it perfect for large, outdoor weddings.
  3. Pullman Cairns International : For a wedding that oozes glamour and sophistication, the Pullman Cairns International is hard to beat. Located in the heart of the city, this iconic hotel features a grand ballroom that can accommodate up to 350 guests, as well as a variety of smaller function rooms for more intimate weddings. The Pullman’s outdoor pool deck also provides a stunning setting for wedding ceremonies and cocktail receptions.
  4. Cairns Colonial Club Resort: Nestled in the lush tropical gardens of Cairns, the Colonial Club Resort offers a tranquil and secluded setting for your wedding day. The resort’s picturesque lagoon and waterfall provide a stunning backdrop for ceremonies and photos, while its spacious ballroom can accommodate up to 300 guests. With on-site accommodation available, this venue is perfect for couples looking to make a weekend of their wedding celebrations.
  5. Thala Beach Nature Reserve: If you’re after a truly unique wedding venue, look no further than the Thala Beach Nature Reserve. Set on a private beach in the midst of a 145-acre rainforest reserve, this venue offers a one-of-a-kind experience for couples who want a wedding that’s both romantic and adventurous. Thala Beach’s open-air pavilion provides the perfect setting for outdoor ceremonies and receptions, while its luxury eco-tents offer a unique and unforgettable honeymoon experience.
  6. Paradise Palms: For couples who love the idea of a golf course wedding, Paradise Palms is a must-see. Set amidst a stunning rainforest backdrop, this venue offers a range of indoor and outdoor spaces to suit weddings of all sizes. Whether you’re after a formal ballroom reception or an intimate garden ceremony, Paradise Palms has something to offer.
  7. St Mary’s by the Sea: Located in Port Douglas, St Mary’s by the Sea is a picturesque chapel that provides a stunning setting for your wedding ceremony. Built in 1880, this heritage-listed building boasts stunning stained-glass windows and a traditional pipe organ, making it perfect for couples who want a traditional church wedding with a tropical twist.
  8. The Cairns Aquarium: For a wedding venue that’s truly out of the ordinary, why not consider the Cairns Aquarium? This state-of-the-art facility provides a stunning backdrop for your wedding, with its immersive underwater exhibits and stunning marine life. The aquarium can accommodate up to 300 guests for a sit-down reception, or up to 600 for a cocktail-style event.