If you ever needed an excuse for a holiday it could be Trinity Beach.

Picture this: swaying coconut palms, clear blue water, the ocean lapping gently on the sand, barbecues on the beach - what more could you ask for?

Trinity Beach is one of a handful of Cairns northern suburbs that run along the coastline and with an intimate village feel and relaxed atmosphere it will leave you begging for more time off.

The list of places to stay is one of its highlights, looking after couples, groups and families in everything from luxury to budget accommodation.

High end: Vue Apartments

Prince: From $250 per night

Rating: Five stars

Every apartment has views of the Coral Sea, with a choice of luxury one, two and three-bedroom self-contained apartments, as well as sub-penthouses that wrap around the spectacular view.  Direct beachfront access awaits through security keypad control.

Mid-range: On The Beach Holiday Apartments

Prince: From $180 per night

Rating: Four stars

Right on the beachfront, there are 45 luxury one, two and three-bedroom apartments self-contained for convenience. There are seven pools and the property is in walking distance to the heart of the village.

Budget buster: Trinity Beach Pacific

Price: From $99 per night

Rating: Four stars

Affordable accommodation 500m from restaurants, shops and the beach. Apartments are air-conditioned, self-contained and have a patio or balcony.

Facilities:

Of course there are restaurants and bars on the beach, but you are well equipped with all the necessities such as a supermarket, news-agency and post office, plus chemist, dentist, doctor and bottle shop.

Activities:

Just like most places in Far North Queensland there is plenty to do and Trinity Beach is a good spot because it is close to Cairns, the hinterland and the northern delights of Palm Cove, Port Doug and the Daintree for day trips.

You can go up in a hot-air balloon, snorkel, dive, sail and fish the Great Barrier Reef, go cable skiing just outside Cairns or take the Skyrail to Kuranda.

Closer to home you can swim in the enclosure, fish, walk or shop.

Something special: One of Cairns best-kept secrets for an ideal romantic beach wedding.

Getting there: It’s a 20-minute drive from Cairns city or 15 minutes from the airport.