Refuge Barbers & Apparel Cairns City
Information about Refuge Barbers & Apparel Cairns City
4870, Cairns
Opening hours
- sunday: (closed)
- monday: 9h-17h
- tuesday: 9h-17h
- wednesday: 9h-17h
- thursday: 9h-19h
- friday: 9h-19h
- saturday: 8h-15h
Refuge Barbers & Apparel is Cairns’ leading destination for men's grooming, fashion, and quality coffee. We proudly operate as an Australian-owned business, providing modern Aussie blokes with the perfect blend of professional barber services, stylish men's apparel, and locally crafted coffee—all in one place.
With a dedicated team of experts in men's grooming, style, and specialty coffee, Refuge has established itself as one of the most trusted names in men's lifestyle in Far North Queensland. Come and experience a space where every detail is designed to offer you a unique and satisfying experience.
Visit our FNQ locations: 1/57 Grafton St, Cairns City; 110 Scott St, Bungalow; Shop 4/77 Thomson Rd, Edmonton; Shop 4, 62 Norman Street, Gordonvale; and 4 Main St, Atherton.
Our comment from BarberSpot about Refuge Barbers & Apparel Cairns City:
Refuge Barbers & Apparel in Cairns City is a popular choice for those seeking quality haircuts and a great atmosphere. Many customers have praised the skill and professionalism of the barbers, particularly highlighting Wayne and Jordan as exceptional barbers who consistently deliver excellent results. The welcoming vibe of the shop adds to the overall experience, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.
Positive reviews mention:
- The friendly and attentive staff who create a relaxed atmosphere.
- The high level of expertise displayed by barbers like Boulos, Ryan, and Thomas.
- Consistent quality, with many customers returning for regular cuts.
- The convenience of online booking and the cleanliness of the shop.
However, some customers have reported negative experiences, particularly with inexperienced barbers leading to unsatisfactory haircuts. To ensure a quality service, it is advised to specifically book with a 'senior barber.' A few customers experienced rushed appointments, resulting in uneven cuts or miscommunication regarding their desired styles.
Overall, Refuge Barbers & Apparel is highly recommended, especially for those looking for a friendly environment and professional cuts. With their commitment to customer satisfaction and improvement based on feedback, many look forward to returning for their grooming needs.
Refuge Barbers & Apparel Cairns City: Reviews
Fantastic experience: Another great barber job by Wayne, gave me exactly when I needed.
Negative experience: Terrible. Just terrible. By Far the worst haircut and service I’ve ever had. some 14 year old cut my hair and I was not happy with my haircut at all. he did not follow through on the photo ive given him and they charged me $60 for it how ridiculous on the pricing I’ll be never going there again.
Fantastic experience: Sonny’s reaction & confidence after the haircuts is a reflection of the consistent quality service received . Thank you so much Wayne ! you’re an exceptional barber !
Positive experience: Nice shop although be careful when booking! Make sure to select “senior barber” on their website as I didn’t and got an inexperienced barber cutting my hair not to the way I wanted it and charged full price. I totally understand everyone has to learn somewhere and build experience but unfortunately I’ve got a bad haircut due to this and have an event tomorrow. I wish the young man all the best in his future of barbering as I know he will do well but just warning people to be careful when booking if you want a quality haircut for the money you are going to pay. Thanks
Fantastic experience: Feel good vibe. Friendly and professional. My son loved his hair cut. Thanks Joshua. Definitely going to be a regular.
Fantastic experience: Boulos did a great job. thanks for the cut
Fantastic experience: The barber Jordan, has amazing cuts. He gave me and my son an amazing look. We felt like new men. The staff are lovely and kind , they deserve every penny they get. Me and my son both tipped him 50 dollars each and he was so thankful for it. Great day people.
Fantastic experience: Jordan is highly skilled and consistently does a fantastic job. Every cut is sharp, clean, and precise. I always leave feeling fresh and confident. Highly recommend booking an appointment with Jordan if you're looking for a barber who is genuinely passionate and dedicated to their craft!
Fantastic experience: Excellent place to get a haircut, really friendly staff and great vibes. Big shout out to Jordan for always doing a brilliant job, he's been my barber for years and I've never been disappointed
Fantastic experience: Got a haircut from Jordan. 100% would recommend. I always book with him when I go in.
Fantastic experience: Got a cut from Brodie, neat fade, listens to what the customers want, always neat and tidy.
Negative experience: I ain’t going back to refuge, dude pushed back my hairline too far, I should’ve just went bald at least he would’ve did a good job with that.
Negative experience: Hack job. The "barber" clearly didnt know what he was doing. Didn't blend a skin fade in correctly and hacked at the top so all uneven.. Went straight to somewhere else to get it done right. The other place looked at my hair and said "let me guess, refuge" before I told him where. They obviously have a bad rep. Lesson learnt In response to the comment. When I booked, I was advised it was the apprentice but hes really, really good and knows what hes doing. Nice kid but not once did anyone speak to him, give him advice or training. When I asked what I wanted he said, yup, no problem. No confusion, just misinformed and apprentice requires some proper training.
Negative experience: First time i went at this shop I Booked 1 hour fade and beard appointment with Jordan and it was very rushed like he did fade and beard in like 35 minutes. Worst haircut I ever got most uneven Fade and beard was even more worst Very bad experience with such price you expect quality from barber Don’t waste your money at this shop Please work on to improve the quality of service
Fantastic experience: My son Jeremy was very happy with his new haircut Joshua did yesterday. Thanks
Negative experience: I booked with a Senior stylish Jordan for my son who is 14 to have his haircut. It took only 15 minutes and was very rushed,. It, is uneven and doesn’t look good at all. Waste of $50!!
Fantastic experience: Will definitely be back to see Jordan again, professional and easy going!
Negative experience: They over charged and gave me the wrong hair cut, totally different from the picture I showed and what I told I wanted. I asked for a modern mullet with a fade a quite well known hair cut and the didn't even give me the fade also my ears got cut.
Fantastic experience: Young fulla Josh did the most neat skin fade and beard line-up. All my friends even commented on how sharp the line-up was. Well done.
Positive experience: Great friendly place, relaxed atmosphere. The passion for their craft show in the cuts they give.
Positive experience: Excellent service, Barber there name Jordan gave a neat fade cut under 30 mins
Fantastic experience: Really nice barber shop ! Thomas did my haircut I recommend him! He takes his time and does his job too well !
Fantastic experience: As usual, Thomas was awesome. Both for myself and my son, with clipper and tracks and he loves it.
Fantastic experience: Ryan cut my Sons hair, he was precise and listened to what he wanted, the result was a professional haircut and a very happy boy. This was a great experience and he will be back again. Thank you for listening and not cutting it too short
Fantastic experience: Got to meet and get a fade from the deadly brother Barron, was a pleasure meeting you, next time I’m in cairns I’m definitely coming back. 10/10 service. Nathan.
Positive experience: very helpful went straight in no appointment. at 9 am nice friendly staff good cut what I wanted . thanks
Fantastic experience: I am very happy with the barbers at Refuge Edmonton. The particular barber I booked is an asset to the Refuge brand as he expresses the utmost professionalism and attention to detail. As an overall the team working at refuge provide a good service, bring a good vibe to the store and work well with my sons.
Fantastic experience: I've been going to Refuge for a couple of years and i wouldn't go anywhere else. booking online is so easy and Shane is a legend Barber.
Fantastic experience: My son has not had great experiences getting his hair cut and always seems to be an issue but the young man who cut his hair yesterday put a massive smile on his face! Thank you and will definately be asking for him again!
Fantastic experience: The boys at Refuge always give my son a premium quality cut! They are the only barbers that he will commit to seeing - thanks guys!
Fantastic experience: Great friendly service. Very professional and attention to detail. Very pleased with the haircut and price.
Fantastic experience: Excellent customer service and funky scene. Really great work on the cut boys. Very satisfied with the job. Thank you Refuge
Fantastic experience: My son had an appointment with Bunji, it was our first time going to Refuge. We live on the tablelands and don't come down very often so just took a chance. Well it looks like we'll now be coming to Cairns every time he needs a haircut as he absolutely loves it! Thanks heaps, great atmosphere, best fade he's ever had! Look forward to coming back.
Fantastic experience: Fantastic service, had an initial style cut for my son that was my daughter’s preference and the result was exactly what was asked. I then changed my mind and they corrected the cut brilliantly to reflect what I had wanted for him. Will be coming back for my son’s future cuts.
Fantastic experience: Great experience, professional fade done in minimal time ,great atmosphere and friendly staff , what else could you ask for from a barber, I highly recommend Refuge Barbers in Edmonton
Fantastic experience: My son had an appointment booked with Thomas and he showed a picture example of the cut he wanted and he was not disappointed with the outcome. He absolutely loved it! Definitely recommend and we will definitely be back!
Fantastic experience: My son and husband always go to the fellas at Refuge Cairns city for haircuts. They are always patient with our little one and we never have to wait usually. Wayne cut our son’s hair yesterday and he is amazing. We love going here ♥️
Fantastic experience: The lads in the city shop were brilliant, Thomas was awesome, asked what I wanted, I told him and let his craft do the talking. He took his time and I got what I wanted. I will be back for sure!
Fantastic experience: Excellent customer service. The coffee is great and worth just going to get their coffee to. The barber was great to deal with. The facility is welcoming. Clean and pleasent with music bareable and at a good volume to have a discussion with the barber as well.
Fantastic experience: Shyro was more than excellent. He exceeded my expectations and beyond with the cut he gave me. Very professional. I'll be back.
Fantastic experience: After a technical glitch. Refuge went absolutely above and beyond to make sure this experience was mint. Ryans skill absolute perfection ✂️⚔️ Thankyou Refuge for continuing to provide the best Barber experience in FNQ. The professionalism, the vibe of the space is so chill and carefree. One of the hardest weeks of my life and walked out feeling lighter. Definitely never going anywhere else.
Fantastic experience: Jordan was awesome. He helped me decide on a cut and made it comfortable (since I don’t talk much). It’s been 2 years since I’ve had a proper cut and I’ll definitely be coming back often.
Fantastic experience: Ryan was amazing! My son is 2.5 years old and has never had his hair cut by a stranger or in a barbershop before, so I was a little worried at how he would respond to the environment. Ryan was patient and understanding and has experience cutting toddlers' hair and the outcome of his work was perfect.
Fantastic experience: Great staff, professional service. Had one of the new apprentices cut my hair, I think his name was Mikey, who new exactly what he was doing. Will come back again!
Positive experience: I have afro hair and went for a cut the other day. They specified on the phone that they know how to cut my type of hair. The barber was very nice but did a mistake by cutting my hair too short, i guess it was a misunderstanding... but even after showing him the picture (and only 1) of the model I wanted, I still had to precise what he had to do and not do along the way. I didn't feel quite serene and trustful... I unfortunately won't come back.
Positive experience: Walked in prepared with a photo/video reference to ensure i got the cut i wanted. Fade was good but hair cut was not. I asked for a little bit off the top and got left with a little bit on the top and looking nothing like what i showed and told the barber. Hair cut was on time though which is good but just disappointed about result
Fantastic experience: Shoutout to Ryan. Moved to Port Douglas a year ago and well worth the trip to Cairns when in need of a cut. Won’t go anywhere else
Fantastic experience: Rang up for last minute appointment. Was told only the apprentice was available. Gave him a go. Really friendly young fella. He honest about his strengths and weaknesses. We decided to go for a simpler cut. The result was a clean fresh cut with good attention to detail. This kid is doing great and im sure will only get better. Would have loved to shout him out, but didn't get his name.
Fantastic experience: I have been going here for a few years and it’s always a 5 star outcome. Could not be happier with the service they offer. Thank you Refuge.
Fantastic experience: Highly recommend edmonton’s refuge barbers definitely the best in the far north. Ranga & Marster has been taking care of my husband & sons haircuts for the last 3 years since we’ve moved from sydney, their service every time is top notch. Thank you refuge Edmonton
Fantastic experience: Master & the lads at edmonton don’t muck around. I walk in looking like I’ve been lost in the wilderness for months. I walk out fresher than the prince of Bel-Air. Cheers lads
Fantastic experience: Showed the barber (forgot his name), a few pictures of the general style I was looking for and he did it perfectly, only took half an hour. Very good very efficient
Negative experience: Although appointment time was confirmed, they kept changing it. Last one was 30 mins before appointment when we were already on our way. Staff sitting outside smoking and eating. Met by rude receptionist. Finally got hair done and I doubt he was a qualified barber. Awful haircut. Won’t return.
Fantastic experience: Had a cut and shave with Jubes, great experience. Fantastic attention to detail, felt like he really cared about the final product. I will be back!
Negative experience: Honestly the worst haircut and worst experience I’ve ever had getting a haircut. I’m pretty sure my barber was fresh off being an apprentice. Not only did he completely ignore me when I asked for a simple short back and sides with no fade, he then went on to butcher the entire cut. He left me with an awful fade, the left side of my hair 1/2 way up completely uncut and barely cut anything off the top. He also nicked me a couple of times with the trimmer and almost drop the scissors on my foot. Might also be the roughest cut I’ve ever had. The haircut was awful and I had to go elsewhere straight after to pay to get it somewhat fixed up. So unhappy and I’m normally pretty chilled with a bad hair cut. I’m all for someone fresh cutting my hair, but just have some supervision. One star is way too generous.
Negative experience: Complete waste of time and poor customer service, got there for 4:30 appointment at 4:20pm, waited till 4:50pm 2 barbers cutting, one finished cut and walked out, the other one still trying to figure what to do with the guy on his chair, no acknowledgment or communication about how long it will be, I end up walking out. Will not recommend to anyone.
Fantastic experience: The Barber Jordan is the best in the business. Very professional he presents well, his also very well groomed and his cuts are always on point!! Have always recommended Refuge to all my mates and wouldn't go any where else. I do have my favourite barber and it's definitely Jordan!!
Fantastic experience: Had a great haircut experience with Jubei Doi today, he was welcoming and absolutely killed it with the burst fade. 10/10! Exactly like the photo I showed him, definitely would go recommend him to anyone looking to have a bloody good haircut. Thanks mate!
Positive experience: I enjoyed the hairstyle, but there was a pricing issue. The team and management efficiently resolved the problem. I appreciate businesses that prioritize customers. Definitely recommend to others.
Fantastic experience: Rachel at Refuge Barbers is an absolute legend. She’s brilliant with kids, great at listening to our crazy requests and just in general fun to be around. Also the best haircuts we’ve had. Kids are happy, im happy. Happy days ☺️
Fantastic experience: Was fantastic, staff are always unreal. Had a few cuts there now from Jordon and Rachael and all i can say is thank you guys you are amazing dont ever change. Hair cuts are great too lol. If you read this try for yourself and experience the same friendliness and professionalism as i have. Enjoy!!
Fantastic experience: I had the pleasure of visiting Refuge Barbers for a haircut, and I can confidently say that it was an exceptional experience. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Master is not just a barber; he's a true artist with scissors and clippers. He took the time to listen to exactly what I wanted and offered valuable suggestions. The attention to detail during the haircut was second to none. What truly sets Master apart is his passion for his craft. It's evident that he takes immense pride in his work and is dedicated to making every client look and feel their best. The whole experience was not just a haircut; it was a transformation. The shop itself is clean, well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and professional. I appreciate the convenience of booking appointments and the punctuality of the service. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a top-notch barber who combines skill, artistry, and professionalism. It's clear that he goes above and beyond to make each visit a memorable one. I'll definitely be returning for future grooming needs. Thank you, Master for your exceptional service!
Fantastic experience: The best barbers in town and awesome crew. Passed their name on a few times from all the compliments. Ben is a master of his trade. Highly recommend
Positive experience: If you're after a fade, then sure this place does great fades. But if you've got longer curly hair then don't expect a good haircut. Expect dry brushing it out till it becomes a 70s fro, then have gel applied to it? Yeah if you've got short hair or long straight hair, then this is the place for you. Otherwise probs best to find someone who can properly cut long curly hair.
Negative experience: Experience I had wasn’t the best at Refuge Edmonton. First time going to a barber in 5 years. I thought I’ll go somewhere local as I had a wedding the next day and didn’t want to stuff up my hair. Maybe it was a off day for the shop but from the get go it didn’t seem professional. As I was walking in my barber was yelling at cars with his mates out front of the shop. Yes saying hi to friends driving past is fine but if i was the owner and my employee and his mates were screaming at car’s in front of my shop I wouldn’t be impressed. As I sat down I had to repeat myself several times on what I wanted done. I felt like the barber didn’t seem care about what I was saying. He was more focused on his phone and what his mates were doing outside the shop. After my head shave was done I had remind the barber that my beard needed to be cut as it was part of the package I paid for. Same problem again I had to repeat myself again and again on what I wanted. I understand the shop has music playing in the background and it was hard to hear but focus on what customer is saying would be ideal for customer service. Also no hot towel for shave or black mask. Plus watching staff vaping inside the shop isn’t very professional or legal. Head shave and beard cut was ok. 2 star isn’t the best rating but I couldn’t give any higher.
Fantastic experience: Our favourite barber shop in Cairns!!! We've been seeing same person for few years now. Shane in particular is an absolute legend!! Highly recommend!!
Fantastic experience: Best barber in Cairns the team at refuge always go above and beyond I always see Shane he's the man always looks after me and even last minute bookings always finds time for me this business looks after their regulars and are always awesome to new clients also. Even when Shane's away I've been looked after by some of the other boys and they are always on point Special shoutout to Taylah always providing the coffee and drinks goodness keeping everyone hydrated and caffeinated. Can't recommend these guys enough !
Fantastic experience: Always get a clean cut here, doesn’t matter who you get. Friendly staff always good for a laugh as well. Girl behind the counter makes a mean coffee to top it off. You can be confident these guys will get you sorted.
Fantastic experience: I had an amazing experience with this place when trying to find a good barber for my brother, especially that lady at the front. Not only is she very welcoming and chatable, she makes a very great coffee. Recommend this place 100%. Brother was very happy with his haircut.
Fantastic experience: Always the BEST haircuts making my man look amazing! Coffee is 10/10 too, great to chat to Tay while you wait. Thank you talented guys and gals x
Fantastic experience: Been taking my son to refuge barbers for a few years now and he absolutely loves it. They give him the coolest tracks/haircuts every time. I absolutely love having a coffee there while he’s getting his cut. The atmosphere is just great.
Fantastic experience: Went in for a haircut yesterday, had absolute amazing experience. Amazing customer service, super polite and friendly. Great coffee as well. 100% would recommend to anyone. Best place in town.
Fantastic experience: Friendly staff, very welcoming as soon as I was greeted by the lovely staff. I took my son and was the best cut he has received my the lovely barbers. Couldn’t thank them enough.
Fantastic experience: Wonderful service from both the barber and the girl at the front who makes a great coffee. Didn’t have to wait long. Price is cheaper than other barbers around town. Definitely would recommend to people.
Fantastic experience: "I had an amazing experience at this place! The barbers were incredibly skilled and friendly. I went in for a fade, and they absolutely nailed it! The attention to detail was impressive, and I left feeling confident and fresh with my new haircut. I highly recommend this spot to anyone looking for a top-notch fade. You won't be disappointed!"
Fantastic experience: I took my son here to have his haircut and I was very impressed with the results. The guy who looked after us took great care in making sure that my son's hair was cut evenly and properly. Prices were reasonable and all the staff were very friendly. I would recommend this place to anyone who has young boys who need a haircut at a great price.
Fantastic experience: Got myself a style cut (simple fade) with Shane Sexton. Even though it was a simple job, he cut my hair precisely, quickly, with high attention to details and exactly as I wanted. The atmosphere is great and it's located right in the city center. Pricing is more than fair for the quality. Would and will go back for my next cut.
Fantastic experience: I had a hair cut and a beard trim from Barney today and its the best I have had in ages. No one listens anymore but this guy listened and did exactly what i wanted. Thank you Barney I will be back soon this is the best service and professional servicer I have had in a long time. Well done.
Fantastic experience: Booked an appointment to have my undercut redone with tracks in it, got there and was seated right on time, no waiting. I told the barber (I think his name was Dallas?) just do whatever design you want. He was friendly and professional, and did a kickass design, just off the top of his head, with some awesome fades in it. Very impressed, and I'll definitely be back. Highly recommend.
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