Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
What is Thala Beach Nature Reserve?
Thala is a deluxe eco resort situated on 145 acres of land featuring a picturesque headland with spectacular views of the Coral Sea. Located 15 minutes drive from Port Douglas, there are 75 bungalows nestled around the headland’s rainforest, making this the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.
What’s included in the nightly rate?
The room rate includes accommodation in a studio style bungalow or suite and access to 145 acres including walking tracks, private beach access, 2 swimming pools and complimentary on-site activities such as nature walks, stargazing and coconut tours.
What is the difference between the bungalow categories? (accommodates 2 people)
There are three types of bungalows catering to different budgets; Jungle Walk, Eucalypt and Coral Sea Bungalows, all nestled in the forest.
Jungle Walk Bungalows are our lead in room type featuring deep green forest views positioned at the foot of the headland.
Eucalypt Bungalows are situated higher up the headland, providing views through the canopy.
Coral Sea Bungalows are in prime position on top of the headland featuring spectacular views of the Coral Sea and coastline.
Each bungalow is a spacious 45 square metres including the balcony. The bathrooms consist of a separate bath and walk-in shower. The location of the bungalow determines whether access into the room is from the balcony or from the rear of the room.
Accessible Eucalypt & Coral Sea bungalows are available upon request with minimum steps to enter, however not suitable for wheelchairs.
What is the difference between the Birdwing and Sandpiper Suites?
Sandpiper Suite (accommodates 2 people) is located only metres away from the beach and features its own private lookout accessible via a short walking track. An extra large balcony plus a separate living space, provides a home away from home.
Birdwing Suite (accommodates 2 people) is located closer to the main lodge and boasts 180 degree views of the coastline and mountains. A wrap around balcony, outdoor and indoor living spaces creating a very relaxing place to be.
Can we have two bungalows next to each other?
Please let us know if you prefer to have bungalows next to each other and we will do our best to accommodate your request and advise which bungalows to book.
Do you have accommodation that sleeps more than 2 people?
Kingfisher Suite (accommodates 4 people) is a two bedroom, one bathroom suite perfect for families or couples travelling together. The suite features a wrap around balcony with an outdoor living space to take in the forest views
Rollaway bed All our bungalows + Kingfisher suite can be fitted with one rollaway bed, which is suitable for children up to 12 years old, for an extra charge of $50 per night.
Cots can be placed in any bungalow or suite at no additional cost (for children up to 2 years old)
Family Bungalows are studio style bungalows. They are fitted with a king bed and bunk beds, suitable for 2 adults and 2 children up to 12 years old. (No rollaway bed can be added in this room)
For larger families or groups, please contact us to determine the right arrangement for you.
Can we arrange 2 single beds?
Our bungalows and suites are fitted with a king bed, and can be arranged as a twin configuration if requested prior to arrival.
*Please note our family bungalows can not be changed to twin bedding
What amenities are in the room? Are they self contained?
Our bungalows are not self contained. They have the following amenities:
Jungle Walk & Eucalypt Bungalows:
- Private balcony
- DVD player
- Shower & bathtub
- Air-conditioning
- Free to air television
- Hairdryer
- Ceiling fan
- Luggage rack
- Iron/ironing board
- Minibar fridge
- Kettle for tea & coffee
- Safe
Coral Sea Bungalows (additional to Jungle Walk & Eucalypt):
- Bathrobe & slippers
Sandpiper Suite:
- Large private balcony
- DVD player
- Shower & bathtub
- Air-conditioning
- Free to air television
- Bathrobe & slippers
- Ceiling fan
- Luggage rack
- Hairdryer
- Minibar fridge
- Kettle for tea & plunger coffee
- Iron/ironing board
- Safe
Birdwing Suite:
- Large private balcony
- Free to air television
- Shower & bathtub
- Air-conditioning
- Luggage rack
- Bathrobe & slippers
- Ceiling fan
- Hairdryer
- Kettle for tea & plunger coffee
- Minibar
- Iron/ironing board
- Microwave
- DVD player
- Safe
- Full sized fridge with freezer compartment
Kingfisher Suite:
- Private balcony
- Free to air television
- Shower & bathtub
- Air-conditioning
- Luggage rack
- Bathrobe & slippers
- Ceiling fan
- Hairdryer
- Kettle for tea & plunger coffee
- Minibar
- Iron/ironing board
- Microwave
- DVD player
- Safe
- Full sized fridge with freezer compartment
If I book directly, do I have to pay in full upon booking?
We require a one night deposit per room to secure your booking.
What is your cancellation policy?
Your deposit is fully refundable if you cancel with more than 7 days notice. If you have booked through a third party (such as an agent), you will need to contact them regarding their cancellation policy.
Do you offer discounts for locals?
Yes, we offer a special discount on our bungalows year round. Please note suites are excluded from this offer. Please contact reservations on [email protected] for more information or to book. Local identification is required. *subject to change without notice.
During Your Stay
What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in is from 2pm
Check-out is at 10am
Reception is open 24/7.
If you are planning to arrive before 2pm and/or depart after 10am, please let us know and we can store your luggage and you are welcome to use resort facilities.
I am arriving late and/or departing early, will there be someone to assist me?
Our reception is open 24/7 and our buggy assistance is available all day.
Please note our latest restaurant seating is at 8pm, if you are arriving later we can offer platters to be delivered to your room. *Need to be ordered on the day at 5pm the latest.
Can I arrange an early arrival and/or a late check-out? Will there be a fee?
To guarantee for your room to be ready for a check-in earlier than 2pm you would have to book the room for the night before as well.
If available, late check-outs may be arranged for an additional fee. Please inquire at reception for details.
Is the resort child friendly?
Yes, we do welcome guests of all ages.
Do you have a car park?
Yes, we have free car parking for resort and restaurant guests.
Please note there are no parking facilities next to our bungalows. We have 24/7 buggy assistance available.
Do you have WiFi?
We have complimentary WiFi at our Main Lodge. There is a reliable connection in the main lodge, however due to the layout of the property and our location, we cannot guarantee a connection in the bungalows.
Is smoking/vaping allowed on the property?
Smoking/vaping is not permitted indoors in any of our bungalows, suites or main lodge/restaurant. There is a designated smoking area outside our main lodge.
Can I see wildlife on the property?
Absolutely! You can expect to see an abundance of wildlife around the property. You could potentially see wallabies, lace monitor lizards, and many other animals. We have sighted over 200 species of birds since we opened!
What tours do you offer on-site? Do we need to book them in advance?
Our complimentary on-site activities include:
Stargazing *weather dependant
Nature Walk
Bird, Butterfly & Nature Walk
Coconut Odyssey Tour
We aim to offer one tour per day. As our activity schedule changes weekly, you can sign up on arrival.
Can I get a massage treatment on-site?
Yes, we have our own Rejuvenate Massage Studio. Bookings for treatments can be made with reception. Pre-book to avoid missing out.
Do you have walking tracks?
We have multiple walking tracks for you to explore during your stay. See reception when you arrive for a detailed map.
Do you provide beach towels?
Yes, we provide beach towels free of charge for you to use at the pool or beach and/or take with you on day-trips.
Can you swim in the ocean?
Stinger season is from November to May, so between these summer months swimming is only recommended in stinger nets at patrolled beaches. The closest one would be at Four Mile Beach in Port Douglas. During winter you can swim at the beach at your own risk.
For more information please see the following guidelines: https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/plants-animals/animals/living-with/crocodiles/becrocwise
Do you have a swimming pool?
Yes, we have 2 beautiful swimming pools on our property.
Are the swimming pools heated?
Our pools are not heated, as they are designed to blend with the natural environment. The pools are kept cool and refreshing, perfect for a dip after a day of exploring the tropical surroundings. The natural rock formations and shaded areas help maintain a comfortable temperature, even on warmer days.
Do you have a shop?
In our Thala Boutique, we have a selection of holiday essentials, souvenirs and personal care products for our guests’ convenience.
Do you have a laundry service at the property?
No. There is a laundromat in Port Douglas which is a 15 minute drive away. Please email us for further information.
Is there a gym?
No, we do not have a gym on-site. However there are several walking tracks and the gorgeous Oak Beach. As our location is hilly, walking/running around the property is a great workout.
Will I have phone reception?
Yes, there is phone reception on the reserve, however there are some weaker spots due to our rainforest setting.
Do I need to pre-book other restaurants and tours prior to arrival?
If you plan on exploring areas such as the Daintree Rainforest or Great Barrier Reef, we do recommend booking in advance to avoid missing out. If you email our reservations team, we can send through some recommendations and book them for you.
If you wish to dine in Port Douglas, we would highly suggest pre-booking restaurants (and transport if you will not have a hire car during your stay) . Osprey’s Restaurant always has space for our resort guests however in order for you to dine at your preferred time we do recommend to pre-book.
Dining
Osprey’s Restaurant Hours
Our on-site restaurant offers an a la carte menu, overlooking the Coral Sea.
We are open daily:
Breakfast: 6:30am-10:00am
Lunch: 12:00pm-2:00pm
Snack menu*: 2:30pm-5:00pm
Dinner: 5:30pm-8:00pm
*in Curlew’s Lounge
I am staying at the resort, do I need to make a booking for Osprey’s Restaurant?
We always have space for in-house guests however we do ask for bookings for lunch and dinner.
I am not staying at the resort, can I visit your restaurant?
Of course! Bookings are essential for non-resort guests for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Does Osprey’s Restaurant cater for children?
Yes, we have a separate menu for children up to 12 years old.
I am an outside guest coming to Osprey’s Restaurant, can I use the swimming pool and explore the reserve?
Resort facilities and on-site tours are for resort-guests only.
Does Osprey’s Restaurant have a dress code?
Smart casual.
Do you cater for dietary requirements/allergies?
As we are situated in a moderately remote location, it’s essential to advise any allergies and/or special dietary requirements at the time of reservation. We will always do our best to cater to your needs.
Do you offer room service?
Due to the layout of the property we do not offer room service, however we offer picnic hampers that can be delivered anywhere on the property. These are for resort guests only and the menu can be viewed under the restaurant tab on our website.
Location & Transport
How far are you from Cairns Airport?
≈ 75 minutes drive, 54 km
How far are you from Port Douglas?
≈ 15 minute drive, 16 km
Should I hire a car for my stay?
We recommend hiring a car as we are in a moderately remote location, but it is not essential as there are other options available (please see below).
How do I get to Port Douglas?
There are a couple of options to get in and out of Port Douglas. If you have a scheduled tour we do recommend booking a private transfer.
Local Shuttle:
The local bus to Port Douglas is $16 per person each way and runs on the following schedule.
Thala – Port Douglas Port Douglas – Thala
9:30 12:00
12:30 15:00
15:30 18:00
18:30 21:00
This service needs to be booked 2 hours prior as this is a third party service.
*Prices and times are subject to change.
Private transfers
Transfers can be arranged by contacting reception. There are limited vehicles available in the Port Douglas area, therefore pre-booking is highly recommended.
Uber/Taxi:
Please be mindful Ubers and taxi’s can be sparse and we ask you to not rely on these services.
How do I get to Thala from the airport?
Transfers can be arranged by contacting reception at least 72 hours prior to travel. We can book the below options for you:
A shared shuttle bus service which is $60 p.p. one way.
Private transfer, which is $225 one way for up to 3 people (a surcharge applies for additional passengers).
*Prices are subject to change.
Accessibility
How do I get around the resort?
There are clear walkways around the property, however we have a golf buggy service available 24 hours a day to take guests from their bungalow to wherever they would like to go on property. As we are located on a hill, walkways between bungalows can be steep in some areas and involve steps.
How do I get to the restaurant if I have trouble with stairs?
The main lodge has two sets of stairs, we do not have a lift.
Our golf buggies can take you to the back entrance of the restaurant which has ramp access and no stairs. Please speak to reception to organise this upon arrival at the main lodge.
*Please note that to access the restroom from the restaurant there are 2 steps.
Do you have accessible rooms?
All of our Jungle Walk Bungalows and suites have a set of stairs, some with handrails, to the entrance of the bungalow. We have some Eucalypt & Coral Sea bungalows with ramp access, however please email us once booked to request one of these. We have golf buggies to drive you around the property 24 hours a day.
*Please note our bungalows are not wheelchair friendly.
If you have any concerns about getting around our property, please contact us.
Does my room have a walk-in shower?
All our bungalows and suites have a separate bathtub and walk-in shower.
Other
Do you host weddings?
Unfortunately we no longer offer weddings at Thala Beach.
Can I take photos in the Coconut Field/Plantation?
Our Coconut Plantation has become very popular for photography and drones. There is a helicopter pad on site so permission to fly drones is required. For wedding or commercial photography, a fee is charged to use our private property. We do ask that you contact [email protected] to inquire or book.
Anything we have missed?
Please contact reservations if you have any further questions via [email protected] or call +61 (0) 7 4098 5700 from 7am-11pm AEST 7 days a week.