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Last updated: 01 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Mark Chipperfield

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.

 

Surrounding area

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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Key facilities

Airport transfers*
Beach: < 5mins walk
Creche
Fitness centre
Fitness classes
Golf course
Hot tub
Parking: On-site (free)
Pool (adults only)
Pool (indoor)
Pool (outdoor)
Pool (kids)
Spa
Tennis courts
WiFi: Free
Yoga

Food & drink

All inclusive
Kids menu
Restaurant on-site
Self catering
*
Additional charge

Room types

Apartments
Bedrooms
Cabins
Suites
Tents
Villas
Yurts

Room facilities

Air conditioning
Flat screen TV
Jacuzzi (private)
Pool (private)
Tea & coffee making facilities
WiFi

Bedding options

2+ bedrooms
3+ beds
Connecting rooms
Rollaway/sofa bed

Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tours

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

Drift Snorkelling on the Mossman River

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

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Overview >

Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first

Tented venue lit up at the Flames of the Forest
Experience

Flames of the Forest dinner

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

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Overview >
Restaurant
Experience

Nautilus Restaurant

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

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Overview >
people wandering around an outdoor market with white roofed stalls, under trees
Experience

Port Douglas Markets

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

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Overview >
external facade of the building on the marina
Experience

Hemingway’s Brewery

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

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Overview >

Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay

Port Douglas

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.

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