Great Barrier Reef and Northern Queensland

Thala Beach Nature Reserve

Name: Thala Beach Nature Reserve
Address: Great Barrier Reef and Northern Queensland

thala-beach-nature-reserve-bungalow-night

Eco-friendly bungalows in the forest canopy

Located on a private headland between Cairns and Port Douglas, Thala Beach Nature Reserve is an eco-friendly lodge sitting within 58 acres of native forest. The idea behind the lodge was to create a place that exists in harmony with its surroundings rather than trying to dominate them.

84 bungalows are dotted throughout the forest canopy, providing guests with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in some of Australia’s most beautiful natural scenery. With smart timber finishes and furnishings, bungalows are spacious and homely, and feature private balconies from where you can gaze out across the eucalyptus trees. The Coral Sea and Sandpiper bungalows look out over the sparkling waters of the ocean, so keep your eyes peeled for Bryde’s whales or a pod of Australian snub fin dolphins

Sit down for a meal at Osprey’s Restaurant and enjoy contemporary Australian cuisine alongside panoramic views towards Port Douglas and Cape Tribulation. Enjoy a pre-dinner drink at Curlews Lounge and watch as the sky changes colour, birds flitting through the treetops. You can also tuck into a delicious picnic hamper on the decking of your bungalow, or enjoy it anywhere on the grounds of the lodge.

There is no better tonic for aching muscles after your island adventures than a session at the spa. The studio provides a myriad of treatments to ensure you leave feeling rejuvenated, refreshed and calm, and there are also two freeform swimming pools with their own waterfalls.

Highlights

Explore the nature reserve

Birdwatching

Hiking

Kayaking

Visit Port Douglas

84 rooms

Restaurant

Two bars

Spa

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Places to combine Thala Beach Nature Reserve with

Great Barrier Reef and Northern Queensland

Pelorus Private Island

Located amidst the crystalline waters of the Great Barrier Reef‘s ‘Great Palm’ archipelago in Australia, Pelorus Island is a tranquil sanctuary boasting 400 hectares of unspoiled wilderness and fringing reefs, all accessible by helicopter or private yacht. With only five suites, this secluded residence offers an intimate escape and truly serene ambiance. Stays are set to the sounds of waves gently lapping white-sand beaches, each suite expertly furnished with hand-crafted designer furniture that exudes island charm.

Culinary journeys start with world-class chefs who craft delicious meals using locally sourced produce. Menus are infused with international flair and each dining experience is bespoke, fully tailored to your preferences.

The island’s focus on well-being comes to life with sunrise beach yoga sessions, refreshing swims in the solar-heated pool and soothing massages.

Great Barrier Reef and Northern Queensland

The Reef House Palm Cove

Set beside a palm-fringed beach, this boutique property offers guests the best of peaceful beach house life in a stunning tropical setting. The hotel’s colonial style with South Pacific decor reflects its history and makes the most of its plantation-style ambience.

There are 67 rooms offering a choice of ocean, tropical garden or pool views. Some boast kitchen facilities, spacious outdoor entertainment areas or balconies.

Enjoy a light meal out at the pool, or take a table beneath the Melaleuca trees and palms at Reef House Restaurant and enjoy the ocean views as you dine on dishes created using the finest fresh produce from around North Queensland. At twilight enjoy a glass of tropical punch and selection of canapés at Brigadier’s Bar and Lounge. The elegant space is given a colonial feel with a collection of original artefacts displayed on the walls.

When not out lazing on the sun-drenched beach, you can make use of the exclusive day spa which boasts five treatment rooms, two swimming pools, Jacuzzi, and outdoor heated spa.

Great Barrier Reef and Northern Queensland

Riley

Opened in November 2018, the Riley is an elegant city hotel ideally located on the waterfront in the heart of Cairns.

There are 311 rooms and suites with views of either the city skyline or the Coral Sea. Some of the suites feature private balconies, the perfect place to enjoy the views with a morning coffee or glass of wine at the end of the day.

Eating is a real treat at Riley. Savour the flavours of the Mediterranean at Rocco, or head east and enjoy modern Asian cuisine at Paper Crane. The fresh healthy menu at Greenfields is perfect for those looking to keep it light – think salads, grain bowls and cold pressed juices.

There is an outdoor swimming pool and a spa for when guests want to simply relax and unwind.

Great Barrier Reef and Northern Queensland

Coral Expeditions II

The Coral Expeditions II is the ideal ship for discovering the Great Barrier Reef. Australian flagged, registered and staffed, the ship was purpose-built for cruising the region, small enough to allow snorkelling directly from the ship, yet equipped with the facilities of a much larger vessel.

The 22 rooms provide accommodation for up to 44 guests, traditionally maritime in style with private ensuites, air conditioning and large picture windows, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the spectacular scenery.

The ship’s spacious lounge is a great place to relax and enjoy a drink from the cocktail bar. The large Sun Deck is another popular place to relax and take in the sights, with deck chairs and teak furnishings. You will also enjoy the opportunity to dine al fresco under the magnificent stars over the Great Barrier Reef or in the convivial Dining Room.

Coral Expeditions II operates an open bridge policy, allowing you to spend time with the Captain and crew. Follow our progression on the ship’s charts and chat with the Captain, or simply sit back, relax and enjoy the view.