Perched in Palm Cove, Drift Palm Cove offers a luxurious retreat with a spa tub for relaxation and an outdoor pool for play. Guests can unwind on the sun loungers or explore nearby attractions via car rentals on site. With free in-room WiFi, helpful staff have left guests raving about this aparthotel's perfect blend of comfort and location.
Macalister Range National Park - 2 min drive - 1.8 km
Clifton Village Shopping Centre - 3 min drive - 2.9 km
Cairns Esplanade - 23 min drive - 27.3 km
Getting around
Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS) - 25 min drive
Redlynch Station - 19 min drive
Freshwater Station - 21 min drive
Cairns Station - 24 min drive
Airport shuttle (surcharge)
Restaurants
Kewarra Village Takeaway - 6 min drive
Ellis Beach Bar & Grill - 5 min drive
Il Chiosco - 10 min drive
Nu Nu Restaurant - 12 min walk
Trinity Beach Tavern - 10 min drive
About this property
Drift Palm Cove
Situated by the ocean, Drift Palm Cove is a great choice for a stay in Cairns. Guests can take a dip in the outdoor pool, and the hot tub makes for a relaxing end to the day. A fitness center and a children's pool are other highlights, and apartments feature jetted tubs and kitchens. Fellow travelers say great things about the pool and helpful staff.
At a glance
DONE
Property size
65 apartments
Arranged over 4 floors
DONE
Arriving/Leaving
Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 7:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18
Check-out time is 10 AM
Contactless check-out available
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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 percent for credit card payments
The front desk is open Monday - Thursday (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM) and Friday - Saturday (8:00 AM - 6:00 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
DONE
Required at check-in
Credit card required for incidental charges
Government-issued photo ID may be required
Minimum check-in age is 18
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Children
One child (12 years old and younger) stays free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding
PETS
Pets
Pets not allowed
WIFI
Internet
Free WiFi in public areas
Free WiFi in rooms
LOCAL_PARKING
Parking
Free onsite self parking
DONE
Transfers
Airport shuttle (available 24 hours)*
VPN_KEY
Other information
Smoke-free property
Property amenities
Beach
On the beach
Beach towels
Pool/Spa
Outdoor pool
Sun loungers
Hot tub
Internet
Free WiFi
Parking and transportation
Free self parking on site
24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle (surcharge)
Airport shuttle at scheduled times
On site car rental
Family friendly
Children stay free (see details)
Children's pool
Kitchen
Refrigerator
Stovetop
Microwave
Dishwasher
Electric kettle
Cookware/dishes/utensils
Bedrooms
Bed sheets provided
Alarm clock
Rollaway/extra beds: AUD 44.0 per day
Bathrooms
Separate bathtub and shower
Jetted bathtub
Toilet paper
Soap
Towels provided
Hair dryer
Free toiletries
Shampoo
Entertainment
40-inch flat-screen TV with digital service
Outdoor areas
Terrace
Balcony or patio
Barbecue grill
Garden
Picnic area
Laundry
Washer/dryer
Dry cleaning/laundry service
Laundry facilities
Climate control
Air conditioning
Ceiling fan
Pets
No pets allowed
Suitability/Accessibility
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Hardwood flooring in room
No elevators
Tile flooring in room
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Concierge services
Tour/ticket assistance
Limited housekeeping
Safe
Iron/ironing board
Luggage storage
Safe at front desk
Reception hall
Wedding services
Location highlights
Near the ocean
Near the sea
On the waterfront
In the entertainment district
Things to do
Fitness center
Fishing nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector installed (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
Fire extinguisher
General
65 rooms
4 floors
Individually decorated
Individually furnished
Fees & policies
Refundable deposits
Deposit: AUD 200.00 per accommodation, per stay
Optional extras
Airport shuttle service is offered for an extra charge of AUD 30 per person (one-way)
Credit card charges are subject to an extra charge of 1.5 percent
Children & extra beds
Cribs/infant beds are available for AUD 10.0 per night
Rollaway beds are available for AUD 44.0 per day
Airport shuttle service for children up to age 15 costs AUD 10 (one-way)
Pool, spa, & gym (if applicable)
Pool access available from 7 AM to 9 PM
Children under 12 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool, fitness facility, or hot tub without adult supervision
Policies
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
Noise-free guestrooms cannot be guaranteed.
Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms.
This property does not have elevators.
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 there is a smoke detector on the property.
Guests can rest easy knowing there's a fire extinguisher on site.
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.
Credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Union Pay
This property is professionally cleaned.
National rating
This property has been awarded a star rating from the Australian Star Ratings Agency, Star Ratings Australia.
Also known as
Imagine Drift Palm Cove Apartment
Grand Mercure Rockford Esplanade Palm Cove Apartment
Mercure Rockford Esplanade
Mercure Rockford Esplanade Apartment
Palm Cove Grand Mercure
Grand Mercure Rockford Esplanade Hotel Palm Cove
Mercure Hotel Palm Cove
Mercure Palm Cove
Grand Mercure Rockford Esplanade Apartment
Grand Mercure Rockford Esplanade
Imagine Drift Apartment
Imagine Drift
Frequently asked questions
Does Drift Palm Cove offer free cancellation for a full refund?
Yes, Drift Palm Cove does have fully refundable room rates available to book on our site. If you’ve booked a fully refundable room rate, this can be cancelled up to a few days before check-in depending on the property's cancellation policy. Just make sure to check this property's cancellation policy for the exact terms and conditions.
Is there a pool at Drift Palm Cove?
Yes, there's an outdoor pool and a children's pool. Guests have pool access from 7 AM to 9 PM.
Are pets allowed at Drift Palm Cove?
Sorry, pets aren't allowed.
Is parking offered on site at Drift Palm Cove?
Yes, there's free self parking.
Is airport shuttle service offered by Drift Palm Cove?
Yes, an airport shuttle is available. The charge is AUD 30 per person one-way.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Drift Palm Cove?
Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 7:00 PM. Check-out time is 10 AM. Contactless check-in and check-out are available.
What is there to do at Drift Palm Cove and nearby?
Have fun during the warmer months with activities nearby such as fishing. Enjoy a relaxing soak in the hot tub and an invigorating swim in the outdoor pool. Drift Palm Cove also has a fitness center and a picnic area, as well as a garden.
Does Drift Palm Cove have private hot tubs?
Yes, each apartment has a jetted bathtub.
Does Drift Palm Cove have a kitchen or kitchenette?
Yes, there is a kitchen which also includes cookware, a refrigerator, and a microwave.
Does Drift Palm Cove have any outdoor private spaces?
Yes, each apartment features a balcony or patio.
What's the area around Drift Palm Cove like?
Drift Palm Cove is a short 2-minute walk from Palm Cove Beach and 6 minutes' walk from Vie Spa Palm Cove. Travelers say that the aparthotel is in a great location.
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Reviews
Drift Palm Cove Reviews
8.4
Very Good
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.More informationOpens in a new window
8.2
Cleanliness
9.2
Location
8.8
Staff & service
8.0
Property conditions & facilities
Guest review summary
What guests liked
The pool area was a highlight, described as beautiful, great, lovely, and invigorating with many amenities available. (42 reviews)
The property's beachfront location was highly praised for its proximity and stunning views. (14 reviews)
The spa and hot tub were a highlight, offering a relaxing and invigorating experience. (9 reviews)
From real guest reviews summarized by AI.
Popular mentions
Room
Location
Service staff
Restaurant
Bedrooms
Beach
Apartment
Bed
Lobby
Couch
Reviews
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jan 19, 2026
Clean and spacious room, comfortable stay, and a great location. Staff were friendly and helpful. Would stay again.
Verified traveler
9-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Nov 13, 2025
Room was spotless and staff was amazing.
Cheryl
Cheryl, 8-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jan 19, 2026
The girls at reception were extremely helpful, friendly and professional.
Semra
Semra, 10-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Oct 6, 2025
We had a nice time staying at Drift. Comfortable and close to cafes, beach and friendly reception.
Jaclyn
Jaclyn, 5-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Oct 17, 2025
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
Hayley
Hayley, 3-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Nov 18, 2025
Great pool
Lynda
Lynda, 5-night trip
Verified
6/10 Good
Feb 7, 2026
The apartment was great (location, etc.) but the furniture was all pretty beat up and really needed replaced. There was also construction going on around the pool the entire stay, which was rather inconvenient. Staff were helpful but sparse.
Angela
Angela, 5-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Nov 27, 2025
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!!
Jani
Jani, 8-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Sep 25, 2025
A nice place to base yourself right on the beach & with a big pool = happy kids!
Pip
Pip, 3-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Dec 11, 2025
The apartment was adequate for our needs, clean, comfortable and with extras like washing machine and dryer, microwave/airfryer/convection plus hotplates. The pool area is lovely and access to everything was an easy walk plus right on the beach. We would definitely go back.
Anita
Anita, 7-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Oct 6, 2025
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.
Karl
Karl, 3-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Nov 9, 2025
Very happy with my stay at Drift Palm Cove. The apartment was very spacious,clean and comfortable. It had everything I needed. The resort itself was wonderful especially the pool area and the location was great. The staff were friendly and courteous. Will definitely stay here again.
SHARON
SHARON, 5-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 27, 2025
Have stayed at Drift twice. Is excellent in just about all respects. Lovely staff, amazing pool and great rooms. Would recommend.
Rory M
Rory M, 6-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 22, 2025
Reception staff were friendly and helpful.
Perfectly located to all restaurants and cafes.
There was some damp musky smells in placed (not our room)
Would stay at Drift again
Mark
Mark, 5-night trip
Verified
6/10 Good
Nov 10, 2025
The room bland, furniture sub standard for a large resort &!a weird floorplan. Pool was great. Staff were friendly
helen
helen, 5-night trip
Verified
6/10 Good
Jan 11, 2026
Room wasnt inviting. Large unit. Needed a good clean. Maybe a electric frying pan. Air cons didn't work to well and the mosquito's were horrible. The staff were nice.
Julie
Julie, 3-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Nov 2, 2025
Loved our stay! When we arrived the hotel seen multiple bookings with the same surname, they upgraded the other room to a two bedroom so we could be on the same floor, without being asked, amazing service. The apartments were great (beds a little on the harder side), the pool is amazing, walking distance to everything. We will be back :)
Cyndle
Cyndle, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Mar 11, 2025
Great quite location right across the beach, beautiful surroundings ,we liked the BBQ facilities
Elizabeth
Elizabeth, 5-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
May 16, 2025
Best pool in Palm Cove, lovely staff
Ingrid
Ingrid, 3-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Jan 6, 2026
Room itself was not clean. Dust behind the bedside tables, tv unit and on the side of the washing machine. Dust all over the ironing board. Beach towels provided to us with stains. Dryer door kept falling off. Great location and nice pool.
Desi
Desi, 6-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 3, 2025
Beautiful property and comfy beds . Loved that I did a load of washing too . Lived the jacuzzi pool and serenity
Patricia
Patricia, 2-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Oct 3, 2025
Staff were great , friendly and helpful.
Maybe in the future of getting better bed pillows.
Maja
Maja, 3-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Mar 11, 2024
great location great facilities kids loved the pool
cannot wait to go back
Chris
Chris, 7-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Mar 13, 2025
Centrally located near everything
Great staff, comfy with lifts
Ian
Ian, 7-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Jan 1, 2026
Room was clean and tidy, disappointed that the towels only were replaced after 5 days but the bed sheep were not. No WiFi