Guide to Great Barrier Reef Master Games
The Great Barrier Reef Masters Games are back—and Cairns is ready to bring the heat. Whether you're part of the action or soaking it all in from the sidelines, the Master Games promise high-energy events, feel-good community spirit, and plenty of sunshine. And when the day's action wraps? Crystalbrook has you covered with poolside cocktails, contemporary accommodation, and all the laid-back luxury you need to recover in style.
A snapshot of the Great Barrier Reef Masters Games
Running from 29 May to 1 June 2025, the Great Barrier Reef Masters Games are a celebration of athleticism set against one of the most iconic backdrops in the world. From swimming and softball to tennis and trail running, the Masters Games bring together athletes of all skill levels, age 30 and over, for four days of competition, laughter, and memories in the making.
What's on the Master Games schedule?
Expect over 20 sports across multiple venues in Cairns, including athletics, AFL, archery, beach volleyball, cricket, cycling, golf, squash, wakeboarding, underwater hockey and more.
With Masters Games events happening across the city—including the Cairns Esplanade, Mulgrave Athletics Club, Tobruk Memorial Swimming Pool, Half Moon Bay Golf Club, Cazalys Stadium and more—Crystalbrook's centrally located hotels put you right in the heart of the action.
Where to stay during the Great Barrier Reef Masters Games
When it comes to Masters Games accommodation, Crystalbrook serves up three seriously stylish stays in Cairns—all offering the perfect base to rest, recharge, and raise a glass (or two). Crystalbrook Riley, Flynn and Bailey are just a short stroll from Masters Games venues, so you can spend less time commuting and more time competing—or celebrating, depending on how the day goes.
Crystalbrook Flynn
For those who thrive on energy, Crystalbrook Flynn is your go-to. This lively waterfront hotel is the life of the party, offering everything from luxury rooms with ocean views to buzzing bars and some of the best Cairns restaurants (hello, Boardwalk Social). It's perfect for groups or solo athletes looking to wind down with a cocktail after a big day on the court or field.
Crystalbrook Bailey
Artful, thoughtful, and sustainably minded, Bailey is all about creative flair and five-star comfort. Expect contemporary rooms, curated artwork, and a location right in the mix of the Masters Games. Travelling as a team or with the crew? Bailey Residences offer spacious one, two, and three-bedroom holiday apartments with a full kitchen if you’re wanting to cook your own meals and plenty of room for all your sporting gear. When it's time to refuel, CC's Bar and Grill plates up some of the best steaks in town while Arte, our neighbourhood wine bar, pours boutique biodynamic Australian wines alongside a few international favourites.
Crystalbrook Riley
Need some post-tournament pampering? Riley is the master of chill. Unwind by the lagoon-style pool, book a rejuvenating spa treatment at Eléme Spa, or kick back at Rocco, the city's highest rooftop bar. It's everything you need for a luxurious, eco-conscious long weekend celebrating the Cairns Games.
Top Cairns restaurants
Pre-game coffee. Post-game vino. Or a lively lunch in between tennis matches and swimming races. Whatever your game-day game plan, Crystalbrook's restaurants in Cairns are the perfect place to grab a bite, relive the highlights, and join in the festivities.
At Crystalbrook Bailey, CC's Bar and Grill is a Cairns favourite. Known for its premium cuts of locally sourced beef and a menu that champions Queensland's produce, it's the place to go when only a perfectly cooked steak will do. Pachamama blends Mexican-inspired bites with tropical Far North Queensland ingredients—think jalapeño poppers, fish tacos, piri piri chicken, and a long list of cocktails.
At Crystalbrook Flynn, Boardwalk Social brings casual, market-style dining with a lively atmosphere. You'll find local beers on tap, crowd-pleasing favourites from pizza to calamari and crispy chicken burgers, and a regular line-up of DJs, live music and performances—ideal for post-match hangs or team celebrations. If you're after something a little more refined, Flynn's Italian offers a generous wine list and a menu of classic dishes, with handmade pasta perfect for carb-loading before the games.
Over at Crystalbrook Riley, rooftop bar Rocco is a must-visit during the Masters Games. With panoramic views over Cairns and the Coral Sea, it's the perfect spot to wind down with a glass of bubbly and share plates inspired by the Mediterranean coast. Calypso Club is Riley's vibrant seafood kitchen and rum bar—think soft shell crab, fresh sashimi, rainbow trout tostadas, expertly shaken cocktails and a solid list of spirits (rum lovers are in for a treat).
One tip from the locals? Cairns restaurants book out fast during the Masters Games. If you're planning a group dinner or post-event feast, it's best to lock in your table early—your team (and tastebuds) will thank you.
Getting around Cairns
One of the many perks of staying with Crystalbrook? You're right in the centre of it all. The Esplanade, Cairns Lagoon, and wharf precinct are all minutes away. Most Masters Games venues are just a stroll or cycle away (yes, we've got complimentary bikes), so you can skip the Ubers and enjoy the sunshine instead. Flying in? Cairns Airport is just 10 minutes from the city centre, and transfers are easily arranged.
What to do in Cairns after the Masters Games
Win or lose, you've earned some tropical downtime. Extend your stay and tick off some of these epic Cairns experiences.
Top of the list? The Great Barrier Reef. You're right on its doorstep, and trust us—snorkelling or diving here is a must. Expect beautiful coral, crystal-clear water, and a few curious turtles and tropical fish for company. If you prefer your adventures above sea level, don't miss the chance to explore the Daintree Rainforest, the oldest tropical rainforest in the world. You can take guided walks, spot crocs while cruising down the Daintree River, or zipline through the canopy for a high-flying finish to your stay.
If you fancy stretching your legs after a weekend of competing, hop on the Wangetti Trail for a hike or mountain-biking adventure. This new scenic 7.8km coastal track between Palm Cove and Ellis Beach offers dramatic cliffs, rainforest walks and sweeping ocean views.
For something scenic and a little closer to Cairns, hop aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway, wind through lush rainforest and waterfalls, explore Kuranda Village, and return via the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for panoramic views from above.
And, of course, if recharging is the only thing on your to-do list, book a treatment at Eléme Spa or relax by the pool with a cocktail in hand. We won't judge.
Book your stay for the Great Barrier Reef Masters Games
Whether you're here to compete or soak up the atmosphere, Crystalbrook's hotels in Cairns are here to help you make the most of the unmissable Great Barrier Reef Master Games. With luxe accommodation, unbeatable locations, and world-class dining, you'll be perfectly positioned to experience the best of the Cairns Games—on and off the field.