Thala Beach Nature Reserve

A MICE destination that has so much to offer. Located on a private peninsula near Port Douglas, family-owned five star Thala Beach Nature Reserve boasts 83 deluxe timber bungalows on 145 acres of natural forest and two kilometres of absolute private beach frontage. This distinctive resort with advanced ecotourism accreditation sits spectacularly on top of the headland providing breathtaking views of untouched coastline and is the perfect location for small conference or incentive groups looking for something special and unique.

Thala is located just 50 kilometres north from the city of Cairns and 16 kilometres south of the village of Port Douglas and is the perfect launching pad for exploring the Tropical North's natural wonders, be it the magnificent Great Barrier Reef, World Heritage rainforest or exotic wildlife.

Built out from a rocky ridge on high timber poles, the imaginative main lodge building hosts Osprey's Restaurant which provides uninterrupted views that sweep for 140 kilometres. This remarkable vista is studded by coral islands, reefs and mountains. Special emphasis is placed on developing a high standard of modern tropical cuisine whilst keeping the friendly informal service appropriate to this beach setting.

Curlews Lounge is designed to embrace all the elements of the tropics. Built from local timbers this circular lounge is open and spacious, allowing the cool sea breezes to flow. The polished timber reflects the warm sun of the tropics by day and the soft flicker of candlelight by night.

Great sensitivity has also been applied to the design of the 83 deluxe bungalows. They are built high on stilts and nestle in the forest canopy providing an unobtrusive relationship with the natural world. All bungalows have views either to the ocean or the forested mountains and cater for two guests (twin/double share). Time spent relaxing on the timber-decked verandahs is always well rewarded by sightings of birds, butterflies, possums and sugar gliders.

Herbie's Beach Shack is located right on the beachfront at Thala and provides an informal atmosphere perfect for a drink or picnic overlooking the beach and glimmering tropical sea. Herbie's is available for small private functions for up to 60 guests.

Paths meander through rainforests and woodlands and connect with private sandy beaches and coves. A number of complimentary onsite guided nature tours operated by Thala staff provide an imaginative approach to forest and coastal exploration and add a new dimension to any conference or incentive. These include tree planting, bird watching, a coconut odyssey, nature & wildlife walks, beach discovery and outdoor stargazing.

Magical events are created at Thala Beach Nature Reserve from within the 650 coconut-palm plantation, to the private stretch of beach, to the outdoor stargazing observatory located deep within the forest. It is private and exclusive. A feeling of unspoiled wilderness sets the ambience, yet it is only 15 minutes into the centre of Port Douglas. A special combination of beauty, wilderness and seclusion. The possibilities are endless.