Romantic Getaway at Thala Beach Nature Reserve

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Travellers looking for a unique escape are finding a romantic getaway near Port Douglas. Deluxe eco retreat Thala Beach Nature Reserve is located 15 minutes south of Port Douglas and 45 minutes north of Cairns via the spectacular Captain Cook Highway – one of Australia’s most scenic drives. Concealed within the treetops on a headland jutting into the Coral Sea, Thala is ideally positioned for a romantic getaway, offering seclusion in a stunning natural environment.

The resort offers a range of features, including a unique restaurant offering modern Australian cuisine and views of treetops that meet the expansive Coral Sea.

Birds such as rainbow lorikeets, sunbirds and honeydew eaters regularly fly amongst the treetops surrounding the restaurant and guests can enjoy unsurpassed views on sunset with a delectable cocktail in hand.

The resort’s accommodation consists of four different types of private bungalows, including the Sandpiper Suite, which offers the ultimate in privacy and romance with views over the secluded beach frontage and eucalypt forest.

The Sandpiper Suite contains a spacious living and lounge room, along with a private balcony and large verandah that blends elegantly with the lush environment.

Guests can enjoy one of several gourmet picnic baskets that contain a number of local delicacies and dine on their private balcony or picnic on the beach.

Facilities at the resort include two freeform pools, with the main pool located at Thala’s open plan main building. The pools feature waterfalls, spas and grottos, along with ample seclusion for some evening romance. Views over the forest and out to the Coral Sea are on offer at the pool’s edge.

The second pool is the ‘Rock Pool’, a smaller and more intimate swimming hole with a waterfall feature that blends harmoniously with the natural surroundings, perfect for a honeymoon or anniversary under the stars.

Two kilometres of private sandy beaches at Thala provide the perfect opportunity for a sunset stroll, and will make one feel as if they’re in a paradise all of their own. If you’re up for a bit of informal beach front lounging, Herbie’s Beach Shack provides the means, offering drinks and picnic tables in a laid back setting.

Free activities at the resort include guided bird watching hosted by local bird and butterfly expert Dave Anderson, inttoducing guests to some of the numerous rare species located amongst Thala’s natural native forest. There’s also a nature and wildlife walk led by flora expert Brett Kelly, who delights in sharing his knowledge of the plant species scattered across 145 acres of the resort’s grounds.

For something a little more nutty, coconut enthusiast Carl Johansen takes visitors on the ‘Coconut Odyssey’, a talk held amongst Thala’s coconut plantation. Here Carl attests to the life giving properties of the coconut and its means of providing food, drink, clothing, shelter and health benefits.

The starry-eyed can take delight in the night sky, which is free of light pollution, and observe the countless stars from the lodge’s on site outdoor observatory. The dreamy or astrologically inclined can be given an introduction to the southern constellations, making a memorable night. The sound of the waves from the nearby beach combined with the noises of the forest at night will make a lasting impression as you scan the heavens.

Thala Beach Lodge is located between world heritage rainforests and The Great Barrier Reef, making it the ideal base for exploring the natural attractions of the area or visiting the towns of Port Douglas and Cairns.

Thala Beach Lodge is located north of Cairns and 15 mins south of Port Douglas. Easy airport transfers from Cairns Domestic and International airports make getting to the resort a breeze.