About Pools In Paradise
Pools In Paradise is an outdoor poolside event space in Smithfield (northern Cairns) operated by Placid Pools. It’s essentially a private tropical oasis venue built around a custom-designed swimming pool (www.ticketfairy.com ) (placidpools.au ). Placid Pools is a long-established Cairns pool builder (family-owned since 1978 (placidpools.au )), so the venue feels like a resort demonstration pool area rather than a conventional club or concert hall. The lush tropical landscaping, palm trees and cabanas create a vacation-like atmosphere – the owners themselves describe it as a “stunning tropical oasis” (www.ticketfairy.com ) (placidpools.au ). Ingeniously, the pool was originally designed as a showcase for the company’s craft, giving the space an unusually spacious L-shaped pool (as noted in event write-ups (www.ticketfairy.com )) surrounded by lawns, decks and lounge seating. In practice it’s entirely open-air, with a large pool as the centerpiece, shaded lounge decks, a fully licensed poolside bar, and plenty of floor space for guests. This unique setup – essentially a backyard party venue on the edge of town – is a notable departure from typical Cairns venues. (Interestingly, Placid Pools even built Australia’s largest backyard pool in the 1980s (placidpools.au ), so their expertise shows.)
The venue is located at 2–4 Mount Koolmoon Street, Smithfield (see Getting There below) – just north of the Smithfield Village shopping center (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.sapphirespas.com.au ). It’s not in downtown Cairns proper, but rather near the highway on the way to Palm Cove, about 15 km from the Cairns CBD. In its relatively short history, Pools In Paradise has become known as one of the only indoor-outdoor party spots in the region. It hosted a number of one-off pool parties and private events, though there was no set weekly schedule. Visitors should note one important caveat: as of 2024 the Placid Pools site has announced that Pools In Paradise is currently “closed for the foreseeable future” (www.ticketfairy.com ), so any planned events should be checked for confirmation of location. When open, however, this venue really stood out in the local scene for its tropical vibe and novelty.
Events and Programming
Pools In Paradise has primarily hosted casual daytime-to-evening pool parties and social events, rather than traditional concerts or theatre shows. The most prominent series was a drum-&-bass pool party organized by Cairns Drum & Bass HQ; for example, a January 2024 Australia Day weekend party and a March 2024 “New Beginning” event ran on Saturday afternoons with full DJ lineups by well-known local DJs (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Those sailed under names like “Cairns Drum & Bass HQ Pool Party” and featured Cairns artists (Neptun3, Stookey, No Keys, S.O.T.A, Fazah, Jack Bussit, etc. (www.ticketfairy.com )). Attendees could sip cocktails and enjoy chill-out pools with these DJs providing upbeat yet relaxed electronic sets (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Ticket prices for these events tended to be modest (for instance, a January 2024 DnB party had a $20 entry fee (www.ticketfairy.com ), while an October 2023 family-friendly pool party was $15 (www.ticketfairy.com )). There were often tiered pricing models (e.g. early bird versus standard) and typically advance online sales, although unsold tickets were sometimes available at the door if capacity allowed (www.ticketfairy.com ). These events were usually open to various age groups – one October 2023 party was explicitly family-friendly with free admission for kids and an all-ages lineup (www.ticketfairy.com ), while some others (like the January 2024 party) were strictly 18+ (www.ticketfairy.com ). In short, programming at Pools In Paradise has been mostly ad-hoc pool parties and electronic music gatherings on weekend afternoons, focusing on local artists or niche party promoters. Outside of these public parties, the space was also promoted as available for private events (birthdays, weddings, corporate functions, community workshops, etc.) (www.ticketfairy.com ). In practice this meant there was no fixed weekly schedule like a club. Instead, when events did occur they were often one-off celebrations that played up the unique poolside setting – everything from international themed nights to local DJ showcases could be held here.
Tickets and Booking
There is no permanent box office at Pools In Paradise; tickets for events are sold exclusively online or through the event promoters' channels (www.ticketfairy.com ). For example, local Carlaubs (Ticket Fairy) event listings and Entertainment Cairns have handled sales for past pool parties. Tickets typically go on sale a few weeks in advance, and major events often have early-bird deals. In one case, advance tickets for a Cairns Drum & Bass HQ party were $15 plus a small fee (www.ticketfairy.com ), rising to $20 for later sales (www.ticketfairy.com ). Strategies for hot events include buying early (ticket sites often warn of limited capacity) and watching for presale codes on social media. On the day of an event, organizers usually allow door sales if the event isn’t sold out, but there’s no guarantee (popular pool parties can sell out ahead of time).
For private hires, booking is handled directly through Placid Pools’ events team. The Placid Pools website encourages parties, corporate bookings, and community gatherings – essentially, you call or email the venue to reserve the date and services (www.ticketfairy.com ). This might include rental of the entire space, use of the pool, staffing, and optional add-ons like food trucks or bartenders. Pricing and packages for private events vary (one would cover costs like lifeguards and clean-up). In summary, if you just want to watch or attend a scheduled pool party, you buy online per that event; if you want to throw your own event, you contract the venue. And keep in mind, since capacity is limited by the outdoor site, even private events have headcount caps and you should book well ahead especially in Cairns’ busy season.
Seating and Layout
Pools In Paradise’s layout is essentially a single outdoor courtyard built around a large swimming pool (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are no fixed rows of seats – instead, guests are free to mingle anywhere around the pool or on the lawn. Along one edge is a covered deck area with shaded lounge seating, couches, benches and tables (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Under the shade canopy and near the bar there are places to sit out of the sun. Across the open end of the pool and on the grassy lawn beyond, patrons usually stand or sit in the grass. At a typical event, a small stage or DJ booth is set up by the pool’s side (www.ticketfairy.com ), with speakers facing the crowd. In practice, the best viewing spots are right at the water’s edge or on the covered veranda (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you prefer a seat, grab a seat on the outdoor couches or claim one of the lounge chairs under the canopy or umbrellas (www.ticketfairy.com ). Because the ground is mostly flat and grassy, people often dance barefoot in the lawn or the pool itself.
There is no separate VIP section or assigned seating – it’s all general admission. Wheelchairs and strollers can roll onto the main patio (ramps are provided (www.ticketfairy.com )), and the restrooms are all on level ground. The built environment is quite minimal – mostly open sky, a pool deck, a bar hut and furniture – so acoustics are just the pool + grass setting. (Past reviews note that at night there are soft party lights and ambient pool lights, and speakers around the area (www.ticketfairy.com ).) In short, expect a relaxed, open layout: if you want shade, head for the covered deck; for the highest energy experience, stand poolside or on the lawn. Good sightlines mean you rarely have a bad view, but space can feel crowded, so arriving early (especially for the shaded spots) helps.
Getting There and Parking
Pools In Paradise lies at 2–4 Mount Koolmoon Street in Smithfield, QLD (www.sapphirespas.com.au ). For drivers, it’s a quick turn off the Captain Cook Highway (Highway 81) going north out of Cairns. Because it sits on a light industrial/professional block, on-site parking is somewhat limited. There is room for a handful of cars on-site, but in peak event times that fills quickly. Nearby street parking along Mount Koolmoon and the surrounding industrial streets is often used, and the Smithfield Village shopping centre car park is just south of the venue (a short walk from the north side of the complex (www.ticketfairy.com )). If you park there, you can walk north on Mount Koolmoon or Clarke Street directly to the pool. As with many Cairns-area outings, carpooling is common – in fact local guides note that “most locals will arrive by car” because late-night buses are sparse (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Public transport is possible but indirect. Cairns’ Kinetic (formerly Sunbus) buses run to Smithfield Shopping Centre from the city (e.g. routes 110/112), which is a few blocks south of the venue. From the Smithfield Transit Terminal or shopping centre, you would need to catch another short bus or a taxi/ride-share the final 800m. The Smithfield Tavern and Village Centre (grocery, shops) are within easy walking distance (www.ticketfairy.com ), so you’re roughly a 10-minute walk from the bus stop area. Note that if you stay late, taxi and Uber services become the practical option; local advice is to pre-book a cab if your event goes after sunset, since the next city-bound buses don’t run very late (www.ticketfairy.com ).
For ride-share or drop-off: the main gate is on Mount Koolmoon Street. You can ask the driver to let you out at the Koolmoon Road entrance. There is no dedicated taxi rank at Pools In Paradise itself. For out-of-towners driving up, the Cairns International Airport is about 17 km south; from there follow the highway north past the city and exit at Smithfield/Mount Coolmoon. (Remember the drive home will cross back through coastal suburbs or via the Bruce Highway, and after dark you’ll rely on taxi/Uber as noted.)
Inside the Venue
On arrival at Pools In Paradise, expect a very informal, holiday atmosphere. Entry is typically through a booth near the pool – there’s no large indoor lobby. For security, event staff usually check tickets or scan a QR code and may screen bags. Since the venue is licensed alcohol is available – there is a fully-stocked poolside bar serving beers, cocktails, spirits and soft drinks (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). (Importantly, outside alcohol is not allowed by Queensland law in drinking venues (www.ticketfairy.com ), so all BYO is prohibited – you’ll be advised to use the bar, and plastic cups/stubbie holders are provided.)
Once inside, you can order at the bar or grab seats. Many events rent one or two food trucks or pop-up snack stalls on-site (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ), so you can usually buy burgers, tacos, etc if you arrive hungry. Alternatively, the nearby tavern, pizza places and shops at Smithfield Village (a two-minute walk south) offer quick bites (www.ticketfairy.com ). Seating is casual: guests lounge on couches around the bar or on daybeds around the deck area (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Additional tables and padded benches let groups relax when not dancing. Typically there *is* a rain cover or shade cloth overhead on the main deck, but the lawns and pool edges are open to the sky.
Facilities include fixed restrooms in a small block just behind the bar (www.ticketfairy.com ). These are standard unisex toilets (not portable loos), and they are on level ground. However, 48†L110-L112] notes the block is adjacent to the bar area, so it’s easy to find. There is no cloakroom or locker service ([www.ticketfairy.com ), so bring only what you need. Most people keep bags or wallets on a table or chair while dancing. Wi-Fi is not guaranteed outdoors (www.ticketfairy.com ), so be sure to have any tickets or payment apps ready on your phone before leaving them alone. If the event runs into dusk, gentle accent lighting and pool lights come on to create ambiance (past reports mention “dimmed lighting and poolside speakers” in the evening (www.ticketfairy.com )).
If swimming is allowed, organizers will provide towels or waterproof bands, and a waiver is signed on entry. Most daytime parties encourage some pool use – a DJ booth at one corner of the pool might be surrounded by floaties or pool noodles (www.ticketfairy.com ) – but guests are usually asked to be careful (wet floors and electronics are a hazard) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). In summary, inside the venue expect a laid-back, resort-style scene: music playing, people mingling poolside, some possibly splashing in shallow water, and groups clustering around the bar or lounge furniture (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Dress code is beach-casual: swimwear with cover-ups or shorts and tee, sunscreen and hats for daytime. (Think of it as a private pool party more than a nightclub – comfortable and fun, rather than formal.)
Nearby Amenities
Smithfield has most of the conveniences you might need before or after a visit. Directly south of the venue is the Smithfield Village shopping center (www.ticketfairy.com ). This small mall includes grocery stores (Coles, Woolworths), a pharmacy, cafes and food outlets – handy for last-minute snacks or supplies. There are also several local restaurants within a short walk: for example, Chiangmai Thai Cuisine and Makin Dough pizza kitchen are popular nearby options (www.ticketfairy.com ). Fast-casual chains (burgers, chicken, etc.) and takeaway shops are clustered around the village. If you want drinks before the show, the Smithfield Tavern sports bar is just down the road (www.ticketfairy.com ) – it’s a 5-minute walk on a lit path, as noted in guides.
East of the venue on Captain Cook Highway is Paradise Palms Resort & Country Club – a larger hotel with villas, about a 10-minute drive away (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you prefer the beach, the resort areas of Palm Cove and Trinity Beach are about 15–20 minutes north of Smithfield by car, and they offer many beachfront hotels and restaurants. (Palm Cove is famous for its resorts and swimming beach.) There are also a few budget motels and stays along Captain Cook Highway near Smithfield if you need overnight lodging. For late-night returns, the same Smithfield shopping/village area is the hub – taxis and rideshares congregate near the main shopping precinct after dark. Finally, a note on “just in time” supplies: Queensland calls liquor stores “bottle shops,” and several are in Smithfield Village (www.ticketfairy.com ). So if you want to pick up local beers or wine, you can do that at the bottle shop in the shopping center area before heading to the pool.
What Makes This Venue Special
Pools In Paradise stands out in the Cairns scene because it really feels like a private resort rather than a typical club or hall (www.ticketfairy.com ). Instead of dancing in a dark, enclosed room, here you’re partying under the Queensland sun (or stars if late), with actual water and lounge settings. Palm trees around the pool and casual deck-chairs reinforce the laid-back holiday vibe (www.ticketfairy.com ). Architecturally it’s unique: the main pool is custom-built (likely as a company showcase) and the surrounding space is landscaped to mimic a luxury hotel pool area (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Over the years it hosted one-of-a-kind themed events you wouldn’t see anywhere else locally (www.ticketfairy.com ). Riders can literally dance barefoot in the grass or step into the pool between songs (www.ticketfairy.com ), something unimaginable at an indoor venue.
Because it’s tied to a family-run business, the vibe is more personal and informal – “a backyard paradise concept” as one write-up put it (www.ticketfairy.com ). This isn’t slick big-venue production; it’s more like hanging out at a rich friend’s house party. Locals appreciated that sense of authenticity. By bringing a resort-style entertainment to Cairns’ edge, Pools In Paradise achieved almost cult status in its run (www.ticketfairy.com ). The Drum & Bass series and summer parties there became somewhat legendary in the Cairns nightlife (rarely has an outdoor venue drawn such enthusiasm) (www.ticketfairy.com ). In short, the novelty of swimming and dancing side-by-side makes this venue very special. It captures the tropical Queensland lifestyle – fun, outdoors and water-centric – in a way no urban club can match (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main deck and restrooms are ramp-accessible (www.ticketfairy.com ). Most of the floor is flat; however, note that the lawn can get soft or muddy if wet. Wheelchairs should be able to reach the bar and viewing areas, but guests should plan for some uneven ground. Contact the event organizer if you have special mobility needs.What to Bring: Prepare for sun and water: bring swimmers, swim shoes or water-safe sandals, towel, sunscreen, and a hat/sunglasses. Even as the party goes into evening, a light jacket or wrap is smart (it can cool off after sunset) (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you plan to swim, be sure to sign the on-site waiver. Small waterproof pouches for keys or phone are handy. Since there’s no coat check (www.ticketfairy.com ), carry only essentials. Bring photo ID if you might drink; bartenders will check IDs (the legal age is 18).Tickets and Entry: Print or have your tickets/QR codes ready on your phone; Wi-Fi is not reliable outdoors (www.ticketfairy.com ). You may need to show your ticket upon entry, and a wristband will often be applied. Check the event listing for age rules – some parties are strictly 18+, while others are all-ages (with kids admitted free at some family-friendly events (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com )). Have one form of photo ID if 18+ (drivers licence or passport is fine).Prohibited Items: Outside alcohol or glass containers are not allowed (the venue has a licensed bar (www.ticketfairy.com ) so security will ask to discard such items). Smoking is banned in poolside areas by law – if permitted, smoking spots will be clearly away from the stage and pool perimeter (www.ticketfairy.com ). Large speaker systems or drones are usually not allowed, as they can get in the way of the sound setup. Pets and children’s toys (other than floaties) should not be brought unless it’s a dedicated family event.Food and Drink: Besides the pool bar, expect food trucks or nearby eateries to supply snacks (no formal kitchen on-site) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). You can pay by card at the bar and most vendors. It’s a good idea to eat before arriving or bring some cash/cards for food/drinks – lines can form at popular times (www.ticketfairy.com ). Hydrate frequently; tropical heat plus dancing can dehydrate you quickly.Swimming: At daytime events, guests are usually allowed to swim or splash (www.ticketfairy.com ). The pool is well-maintained and supervised during events. It’s casual “pool party” swimming (no lifeguard on duty, so tread carefully). Avoid diving or rough play – sometimes organizers even provide pool noodles or floaties. Note that electrical equipment (speakers, lights) is nearby; respect safety requests. If you enter the water, do so only when the event staff says it’s ok.Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t assume it’s like a city concert. People often underestimate how early this party can end or how casual the setting is (www.ticketfairy.com ). Many Cairns events wind up by early evening (e.g. 6–8pm), so don’t wait for late-night buses – arrange your ride in advance. Also, this is outdoors, so sunscreen is a must and mosquitoes can be active around dusk – a little insect repellent on exposed skin is wise. Finally, come in beachwear or swim-casual clothes; this isn’t the place for heels or dress shoes.Weather: Events are outdoors. In light rain, parties often continue under cover (there are shade sails and verandas (www.ticketfairy.com )). In heavy storms, organizers may pause or reschedule. It’s tropical, so monitor weather forecasts and keep in touch with permission from the promoter if the skies turn threatening. Remember that Cairns evenings can be humid and occasionally thundery; a quick check of the local forecast is a good idea.COVID and Health Policies: (If applicable) Follow any posted health guidelines – at times the venue may require proof of vaccination or mask protocols as per Queensland regulations. Hand sanitizer stations may be available, but it’s wise to carry a small bottle yourself. If you feel unwell, stay home to keep the environment safe.When to Arrive: Doors for public events usually open about 1 hour before showtime. Arrive early to find a good spot in the shade and avoid long queues (Smithfield markets nearby can get busy). On quiet days, you can wander in closer to start time without worry, but on busy party days it’s smart to be there as soon as gates open.Final Tip: Treat it like a daytime beach party. Chat with fellow guests or the friendly bartenders – it’s literally like a party at a friend’s big backyard. If you hear “Pools in Paradise” in an event listing, think holiday mode and come ready to splash and dance. And whatever you do, have fun enjoying one of Cairns’ most unique venues!
How do I buy tickets for a Pools in Paradise event?
There is no on-site box office or ticket booth. Tickets are sold only in advance, usually online through the event promoter’s site (for example, via Ticket Fairy, Entertainment Cairns, etc.). If an event isn’t sold out, limited door sales might be offered on the day. To be safe, check the event’s Facebook page or listing and buy early, since capacity is small and popular shows often sell out (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What are ticket prices typically?
Past pool parties have been very affordable. For example, local drum-&-bass events in 2023–24 charged roughly $15–$20 entry (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Prices may vary by lineup and season, but it’s generally much less than a nightclub. Some events use tiered pricing, so early-bird tickets can be even cheaper. Watch the event announcement for exact cost, and boolean fees (booking fees) are common when buying online.
Is there a seating chart or VIP ticket?
No, it’s general admission only. There are no assigned seats or VIP sections. When you arrive, seating is first-come (usually lounge chairs or tables) and standing areas are by the pool. To secure a spot, come early – shaded seating can fill up. Otherwise, it’s a very relaxed layout where everyone mixes on the pool deck and lawn (www.ticketfairy.com ).
How do I get to Pools in Paradise by public transport?
You can take the Cairns (Kinetic) bus to Smithfield Shopping Village (it’s about 15 km north of Cairns city). From the Smithfield bus exchange or mall, it’s roughly a 5-minute taxi or rideshare to Mount Koolmoon Street. Alternatively, there are some bus routes (e.g. the 112 to Smithfield station) that drop off near JCU, which is a short walk to the venue. Note that late at night buses run infrequently, so plan to grab a taxi or arrange a ride home after the party (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Is there parking available?
Yes, but it’s limited. There is a small parking area immediately outside the venue on Mount Koolmoon Street (marked for Placid Pools). Once that’s full, you can park on the street or use the Smithfield Village shopping centre car park (a block away) and walk back. Weekend events can attract many cars, so carpooling or arriving early is wise. Note that after-hours parking rules from adjacent businesses may apply – always park considerately.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No outside alcohol is allowed by Queensland law, and fresh food. The venue has a fully licensed bar, and often event vendors or local food trucks provide snacks (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). You’ll need to buy drinks from the bar (they offer cocktails, beer, soft drinks, etc.). Glass containers are strictly prohibited near the pool for safety. Non-perishable snacks can be carried in a small bag, but plan to use the on-site food options rather than bring a picnic.
Is it wheelchair-accessible?
Generally yes, especially for ground-floor areas. The main deck and bar area are on a flat, ramped surface, and the restrooms are on the same level (www.ticketfairy.com ). Some grassy sections around the pool may be difficult for wheels, so caution is advised on soft ground. Strollers and wheelchairs are able to circulate on the patio. If you have specific accessibility needs (like extra seating or assistance), it’s a good idea to contact the venue ahead of time just to ensure arrangements can be made.
Are there age restrictions?
Age rules depend on the event. Some pool parties were all-ages (one notable October 2023 event even let children in free (www.ticketfairy.com )), while others were strictly 18+ (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue itself has no minimum age, but check the event listing. If it’s an 18+ event, you must show photo ID at entry (Queensland drinking age is 18). For family-friendly events, keep in mind it’s still a casual party atmosphere around water—supervise children at all times.
Is swimming allowed during events?
Usually yes (at parties that advertise it). During daytime events guests are often free to swim or wade in the pool (www.ticketfairy.com ). Organizers might provide pool noodles or floats. Keep in mind it’s self-supervised – there may not be a lifeguard. Electrical equipment (speakers, lights) is set up nearby, so don’t splash near cords. When you enter the water, do so carefully. If an event is rain-delayed or tickets-only, the pool may be off-limits, so follow the staff’s guidance on each occasion.
What should I wear or bring?
Dress casually for a pool party. Swimwear is fine (with a cover-up or shorts on top if you prefer). Comfortable shoes or flip-flops are best for walking on deck and grass. Bring sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen). After dark it can get cooler, so a light jacket or wrap is handy (www.ticketfairy.com ). Also bring a towel if you plan to swim. Personal items like phones and cameras are okay – some guests snorkel around snapping photos – but you’ll want a water-resistant pouch or a safe place to stash valuables, since there’s no locker.
What if it rains?
Since it’s outdoors, weather can affect events. Light rain usually just means people move under covered patios – the venue has shaded/verandah areas for the deck (www.ticketfairy.com ). Heavy rain or storms could postpone or cancel a party. If you’re attending, keep an eye on the weather forecast and the event page. Organizers often update attendees by social media or text if there’s a delay. Plan to move with the party (under shelter) if needed, and note that no show is usually considered rainproof.
Is Pools In Paradise currently open?
Check before you go. As of the latest reports, Placid Pools has posted that “Pools in Paradise will be closed for the foreseeable future” (www.ticketfairy.com ). This means the venue isn’t operating right now. If you see an event advertised there, confirm that it hasn’t been moved to another nearby venue. In past practice, organizers would announce an alternate location if the pool is unavailable. In any case, always verify the status on the venue or promoter’s page before travelling amp.
