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What a joy to find an upscale property in Queensland that does not claim to be a resort. Thala Beach Reserve is exactly what you read on the packet: an eco-retreat where wild nature outpoints luxurious bedsheets every time.
While the property’s air-conditioned bungalows, crafted in timber and stone, are perfectly acceptable, the real star here is the location – 58 hectares of lush native forest overlooking Oak Beach, north of Port Douglas.
Book a guided nature tour with one of Thala’s resident rangers, swim at a private-access beach or relax at the day spa and massage studio. For a slice of paradise between the mountains and the ocean, look no further.
This nature reserve is located on 58 hectares of a wooded headland roughly halfway between Port Douglas and Cairns.
The property is totally self-contained, with its own restaurant, guided nature walks, stargazing sessions and cultural tours.
In addition to the three onsite swimming pools, guests can also walk down to Oak Beach, which is equipped with its own hammocks.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Cooya Beach, Queensland, Australia[19.4 miles]
Discover the secrets of Queensland’s coastal landscape and learn traditional aboriginal skills such as spear-throwing, mud-crabbing and fishing on an immersive tour with a Kuku Yalanji guide.
Best for ages: 4+ | £48 | 3 hours
Mossman, Queensland, Australia[21.4 miles]
Discover aboriginal customs and culture along with the secrets of one of the worlds’ oldest rainforests on a guided Dreamtime walk through the Daintree.
Best for ages: 13+ | £44 | 1 hour
Mossman, Queensland, Australia[22.4 miles]
Discover a different perspective on the Daintree Rainforest by drifting along the Mossman river on an inflatable raft, with turtles and waterdragons under the water and soaring mountains above.
Best for ages: 4+ | £65 | 3.5+ hours
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia[8.9 miles]
This evening performance features didgeridoo playing, dreamtime stories and a tropical tasting menu. The set menu features tiger prawns, kangaroo and other local produce. A vegetarian option is available.
Best for ages: 8+ | Free | 4 hours
Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia[13.1 miles]
This celebrated restaurant showcases local specialities like Moreton Bay Bugs, kingfish and mud crab, on the atmospheric wooden deck. Five- and seven-course degustation menus available.
Best for ages: 13+ | £35
Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia[13.3 miles]
This buzzy local market, held every Sunday from 8am to 1.30pm, is a great place to catch up with some colourful personalities, pick up some local artwork or sample some fresh local produce.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia[13.9 miles]
Queensland’s most northerly craft brewery, which occupies a prime location at the marina, produces a range of lighter style lagers, pilsners and wheat beers, while the restaurant serves up satisfying fare.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
Queensland, Australia
Swish, cosmopolitan and delightfully laid-back, Port Douglas is an ideal stepping off point for trips to the Daintree and the Great Barrier Reef, and to connect with authentic indigenous culture.
