Located in Palm Cove, Drift Palm Cove offers a welcoming outdoor pool, spa tub, sun loungers, and on-site car rentals. Guests love the helpful staff, comfy accommodations, and free in-room WiFi at this well-situated aparthotel.
Located in Palm Cove, a neighborhood 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 Wet Tropics of Queensland. Hartley's Crocodile Adventures and Tanks Arts Centre are also worth visiting. Take an opportunity to explore the area for water adventures such as fishing. Visit our Cairns travel guide
Guests of this beach aparthotel will appreciate convenient onsite amenities such as a hot tub and a fitness center. Each apartment boasts a jetted tub and offers free WiFi and a kitchen. For a bit of entertainment, a flat-screen TV comes with digital channels, and guests can also appreciate conveniences like a washer/dryer and a refrigerator. Weekly housekeeping is available.
Drift Palm Cove offers 65 accommodations with washers/dryers and safes. Rooms open to balconies or patios. Each accommodation is individually furnished and decorated. Accommodations at this 4-star aparthotel have kitchens with refrigerators, stovetops, microwaves, and cookware/dishes/utensils. Bathrooms include separate bathtubs and showers with jetted bathtubs, complimentary toiletries, and hair dryers.
Guests can surf the web using the complimentary wireless Internet access. 40-inch flat-screen televisions come with digital channels. Additionally, rooms include irons/ironing boards and ceiling fans. Housekeeping is provided weekly.
An outdoor pool, a children's pool, and a hot tub are on site. Other recreational amenities include a fitness center.
Children under 12 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool, fitness facility, or hot tub without adult supervision.
24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle at scheduled times for a surcharge
Car rental
Free self parking on site
Family friendly
Children stay free (see details)
Children's pool
Kitchen
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dishwasher
Electric kettle
Microwave
Refrigerator
Stovetop
Bedrooms
Alarm clock
Bedsheets provided
Rollaway/extra bed: AUD 44 per day
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Hair dryer
Jetted bathtub
Separate bathtub and shower
Shampoo
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided
Entertainment
40-inch flat-screen TV with digital channels
Outdoor areas
Balcony/patio
Barbecue grill
Garden
Picnic area
Terrace
Laundry
Dry cleaning/laundry service
Laundry detergent
Laundry facilities
Washer/dryer
Climate control
Air conditioning
Ceiling fan
Pets
No pets allowed
Suitability/Accessibility
Hardwood flooring in room
No elevator
Tile flooring in room
Smoking not allowed
Services and conveniences
Concierge services
Iron/ironing board
Luggage storage
Safe
Safe at front desk
Tour and ticket assistance
Wedding services
Weekly housekeeping
Location highlights
In an entertainment district
Near the ocean
On the Strip
On the waterfront
Things to do
Children's pool
Gym
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 (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
Fire extinguisher
General
4 floors
65 units
Garden
Individual decor
Individual furnishings
Reception hall
Policies
Check-in
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
Check-out before 10 AM
Contactless check-out available
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
Access methods
Staffed front desk
Pets
Pets not allowed
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
1 child, up to the age of 12 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
Cribs (infant beds) are available for AUD 10.0 per night
Property 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 percent
The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.
You need to know
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 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, 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
This property is professionally cleaned
We should mention
This property does not have elevators
Pool access available from 7 AM to 9 PM
Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms
Children under 12 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool, fitness facility, or hot tub without adult supervision
National rating
This property has been awarded a star rating from the Australian Star Ratings Agency, Star Ratings Australia.
Property is 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 have a pool?
Yes, this property has an outdoor pool and a children's pool. Pool access is from 7 AM–9 PM.
How much does it cost to stay at Drift Palm Cove?
As of Mar 6, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Drift Palm Cove on Mar 8, 2026 start from ¥41,958, excluding 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?
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?
Check-out 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 a 10-minute walk of Palm Cove Beach and Vie Spa Palm Cove. Clifton Beach and Wet Tropics of Queensland are also within 2 mi (3 km).
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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
Rating 10 - Excellent. 391 out of 868 reviews
10 - Excellent
391
Rating 8 - Good. 302 out of 868 reviews
8 - Good
302
Rating 6 - Okay. 111 out of 868 reviews
6 - Okay
111
Rating 4 - Poor. 42 out of 868 reviews
4 - Poor
42
Rating 2 - Terrible. 22 out of 868 reviews
2 - Terrible
22
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Sophia
Jan 19, 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.
Sophia
Stayed 9 nights in Dec 2025
10/10 Excellent
Semra
Jan 19, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
The girls at reception were extremely helpful, friendly and professional.
Semra
Stayed 10 nights in Jan 2026
10/10 Excellent
Cheryl
Nov 13, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, communication
Room was spotless and staff was amazing.
Cheryl
Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2025
10/10 Excellent
Lynda
Nov 18, 2025
Great pool
Lynda
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2025
8/10 Good
Jaclyn
Oct 6, 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.
Jaclyn
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Hayley
Oct 17, 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
Hayley
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Jani
Nov 27, 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!!
Jani
Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2025
10/10 Excellent
Anita
Dec 11, 2025
Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
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
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025
8/10 Good
Pip
Sep 25, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, communication
A nice place to base yourself right on the beach & with a big pool = happy kids!
Pip
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
SHARON
Nov 9, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
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
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2025
10/10 Excellent
Karl
Oct 6, 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.
Karl
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
6/10 Okay
helen
Nov 10, 2025
The room bland, furniture sub standard for a large resort &!a weird floorplan. Pool was great. Staff were friendly
helen
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2025
8/10 Good
Desi
Jan 6, 2026
Liked: Communication
Disliked: Cleanliness
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
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2025
10/10 Excellent
Rory M
Sep 27, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Have stayed at Drift twice. Is excellent in just about all respects. Lovely staff, amazing pool and great rooms. Would recommend.
Rory M
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Mark
Sep 22, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
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
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025
8/10 Good
Maja
Oct 3, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Staff were great , friendly and helpful.
Maybe in the future of getting better bed pillows.
Maja
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Sophia
Dec 8, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
I had an amazing stay at Drift. From the moment I arrived, the atmosphere felt calm, stylish, and welcoming. The design is modern and minimal yet incredibly comfortable, and every detail feels thoughtfully curated.
My room was spotless, cozy, and beautifully put together — the kind of space you look forward to coming back to after a long day. The bed was especially comfortable, and the little touches throughout the room made a big difference.
The staff were friendly, professional, and always happy to help with anything I needed. Check-in and check-out were seamless, and the overall vibe of the hotel was relaxed but refined.
The location was perfect as well — easy to get around, with great spots to eat and explore nearby.
I’d definitely stay at Drift again and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a comfortable, stylish, and memorable place to stay.
Sophia
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
10/10 Excellent
Patricia
Sep 3, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Beautiful property and comfy beds . Loved that I did a load of washing too . Lived the jacuzzi pool and serenity
Patricia
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Ingrid
May 16, 2025
Best pool in Palm Cove, lovely staff
Ingrid
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Elizabeth
Mar 11, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Great quite location right across the beach, beautiful surroundings ,we liked the BBQ facilities
Elizabeth
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025
8/10 Good
Ian
Mar 13, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Centrally located near everything
Great staff, comfy with lifts
Ian
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Julie
Sep 14, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, communication
We stayed in a 2 bedroom apartment that was modern and clean. The units are very quiet unless you are on the versndah you hear the noise from people at the pool. The hallways have stained carpet from water damage . Staff were excellent and very helpful. We would stay again.
Julie
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Chris
Mar 11, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
great location great facilities kids loved the pool
cannot wait to go back
Chris
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024
10/10 Excellent
Susan
Apr 29, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
It has an excellent pool and all of the staff were friendly and helpful. Our apartment was very clean and well equipped.
Susan
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
6/10 Okay
Timothy
Apr 23, 2025
Liked: Amenities, communication
Pool and facilities were great. However the room was average and needs to be refurbished.