Thala Beach Nature Reserve

This private sanctuary has been accredited with the highest level of Advanced Eco Certification and is a home to an abundance of flora and fauna with over 190 different species of bird and 116 varieties of butterfly sighted within the grounds and beaches here.

The resort is surrounded by water on three sides and comprises 83 individual private timber bungalows in four room types. Each bungalow is a tranquil retreat and includes Jungle Walk Bungalows located deep in the base of the forest and Eucalypt and Coral Sea Bungalows built high up in the forest canopy on timber stilts. The bungalows feature polished wooden floors and private balconies offering forest views or overlooking the Coral Sea, where you may spot Bryde’s whales or a pod of dolphins break the surface of the water.

There are two stunning freeform swimming pools set under the shade of native eucalypt trees; the main pool features waterfalls, spas and grottos and sun loungers are dotted around the pool edge where you can laze and listen to the sounds of the forest. The resort has private access to two-kilometres of sandy beaches and sheltered coves (swimming not recommended November to May due to the presence of marine stingers/jellyfish). There is a network of marked walking trails through the native forest, which is home to wallabies, reptiles and, overhead in the forest canopy, an abundance of birdlife and butterflies.

During your time at Thala Beach Nature Reserve, you will enjoy a variety of complimentary activities, such as guided nature walks to learn more about the flora and fauna in the reserve, and talks with elders from the local aboriginal community to hear about their ancient cultural traditions. Take a tour through a coconut grove and explore the night sky at the outdoor observatory and pick out the beautiful Southern Hemisphere constellations. There is a whole host of other activities available for an additional fee, including sea kayaking, private tours to Daintree Rainforest and cruises to the Outer Barrier Reef.

Dine amongst the treetops at Osprey’s Restaurant and take in the views of the forest canopy and Coral Sea, or take the resort shuttle to Port Douglas where there is a comprehensive range of bistros and restaurants to choose from, not to mention a great array of boutique shops selling local arts and crafts, jewellery and designer fashion labels.