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Thala Beach Nature Reserve

5078 Captain Cook Hwy, Oak Beach, Port Douglas, Queensland 4877 Australia
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Traveller (1599)
Pool & Beach (311)
Room & Suite (293)
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About

#1 of 1 resort in Oak Beach
Location
Cleanliness
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Value
Travellers' Choice
Thala Beach Nature Reserve is a family owned 58 hectare nature and wildlife reserve 15 minutes south of Port Douglas. Get there from Cairns via a spectacular 45 minute drive along Captain Cook Highway. Elevated on stilts, 83 eco designed timber bungalows are discretely concealed within the forest canopy, blending in with the natural environment and feature ocean, mountain or forest views. Panoramic views are enjoyed from open-sided Osprey's Restaurant across the forest canopy and beyond to the Coral Sea. Guests and visitors dine amongst birds in the surrounding treetops, whilst enjoying modern Australian cuisine with friendly and attentive service. Granite boulders, waterfalls and overhanging trees create natural swimming pools blending discretely within the environment. Paths wind through rainforests and woodlands, connecting with secluded coves and beaches, passing through habitats for endemic birds, wildlife and flora. Guests enjoy complimentary guided nature tours by onsite rangers including tree planting, stargazing at an outdoor observatory, beach discovery, wildlife walks and bird-watching tours. A completely organic 650 tree coconut plantation is home to a unique coconut odyssey tour highlighting the extraordinary qualities of the 'tree of life'.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free internet
Pool
Bar / lounge
Beach
Diving
Books, DVDs, music for children
Airport transportation
Parking
Wifi
Pool / beach towels
Outdoor pool
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Breakfast buffet
Complimentary tea
Snack bar
Special diet menus
Game room
Hiking
Horseback riding
Snorkelling
Fishing
Board games / puzzles
Shuttle bus service
Taxi service
Banquet room
Spa
Couples massage
Facial treatments
Full body massage
Massage
Baggage storage
Concierge
Gift shop
Newspaper
Outdoor furniture
Shops
24-hour front desk
Dry cleaning
Laundry service
Ironing service
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Room features
Allergy-free room
Private beach
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Safe
Seating area
VIP room facilities
Flatscreen TV
Iron
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Room types
Ocean view
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
5.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Ocean View
Languages Spoken
English
1,838Review37Q+A100Room tips
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Bruce B wrote a review Mar 16
Simpsonville, South Carolina664 contributions173 helpful votes
We spent several nights as part of a private tour of Australia. The staff was very helpful in coordinating our tours and planning meals. We stayed a good walk from the main lodge in a very nice cabin. The staff would bring you in and out but we walked most of the time. The Reserve has quite a few rare wildlife - birds and mammals. The food was excellent as was the service. We were warned about the bugs in the area so we were prepared with the recommended repellent.
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Date of stay: February 2024
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Location
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Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Ute L wrote a review Mar 9
Cairns, Australia169 contributions68 helpful votes
The restaurant itself is perched on stilts, discreetly concealed within the forest canopy. As we stepped onto the veranda, we were greeted by panoramic views that stretched across the treetops and out to the sparkling Coral Sea. It’s a vista that words struggle to capture—a symphony of green merging seamlessly with azure. Our lunch consisted of hearty burgers, and oh, were they a treat! The flavours danced on our taste buds—the perfect blend of juicy goodness and savoury satisfaction. The kitchen’s commitment to quality shone through, and we savoured every bite. The staff at Osprey’s were warm, attentive, and accommodating. They effortlessly catered to our dietary preferences, ensuring our meal was not only delicious but also aligned with our needs. From the moment we arrived, their friendly demeanour made us feel like cherished guests. While we dined, birds flitted around us, their melodies harmonizing with the rustle of leaves. It’s rare to enjoy a meal in such close communion with nature. We felt like honoured visitors in this avian orchestra.
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Date of stay: March 2024
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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drrad666 wrote a review Jan 2024
23 contributions20 helpful votes
Can’t say enough about how lovely this place was to stay. The staff was excellent and clearly dedicated to service for their guests. We stayed in one of their canopy bungalows which was just lovely with many amenties, a comfortable bed and nicely appointed with a balcony overlooking the forest. The resort is pretty hilly, but the staff is happy to take you where you need to go in their electric golf carts. We enjoyed the very cool, multi-tiered rock pool as well as a walk down to the beautiful beach. Due to road flooding, we were “forced” to stay an extra night until the main road reopened…hardly a hardship! The staff were so accommodating it made the change in our itinerary easy to bear. We also ate at the Osprey restaurant for breakfast and a few times for dinner…stunning views and good food, too. It’s a little off the beaten path about 20 min south of Port Douglas, but highly recommended.
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Date of stay: January 2024
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Astrid Kooistra-Vink, Guest Services / Front Office at Thala Beach Nature Reserve
Responded Jan 23, 2024
Thank you for putting a smile on our faces, it makes us so happy to read this! It was lovely having you and we hope you had a good time in Cairns as well. Maybe we can welcome you here again in the future!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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amb1989 wrote a review Jan 2024
Orpington, United Kingdom36 contributions2 helpful votes
We requested early check in and room upgrade which they kindly agreed as they weren’t at capacity due to recent cyclone and flooding events. Reception service was friendly. Upgraded room had a fantastic view of the ocean and trees. Room was large but a little dated and lacking in basic maintenance (e.g. blocked shower head, leaking shower unit and signal issues with television). The site is large but mostly walkable unless it’s nighttime and pouring down with rain for which I’d recommend using their golf buggy service (a few of the lights supposed to keep the pathways lit were broken)! The buggy drivers were also very friendly. They have their own private beach however there had been substantial damage from the cyclone which they hadn’t managed to clear before they arrived. Spa treatments were available during our stay and we both had a massage which was excellent and a real highlight. Our main criticism was the on site restaurant, Osprey. Lunch menu was incredibly limited and was just the entrees from their dinner menu. Luckily we were only staying for two nights, any longer and this would be very tedious! Dinner menu wasn’t much better and food quality was not up to standards expected for the prices charged. Service was very relaxed (if anything, too relaxed!) and waiting staff were dressed like they were about to take us on safari (cheap red polo shirts and work boots!). Again, not what we were expecting given prices charged. The breakfast offering was probably the worst I’ve ever experienced and laughable. Hot food selection was limited to scrambled egg, bacon and sausage and that was it. Cold food selection was basic at best. You’d get a better breakfast at any of the budget hotels in the UK (eg Premier Inn). If staying here we’d recommend you do away with Osprey and drive into Port Douglas and make the most of the fantastic restaurants on offer there. Overall a bit of a disappointing stay as we had high hopes / expectations given the positive reviews we had read when booking.
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Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Avoid Osprey restaurant Make sure have hire car - their taxi service into Port Douglas isn’t cheap!
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Astrid Kooistra-Vink, Guest Services / Front Office at Thala Beach Nature Reserve
Responded Jan 23, 2024
Thank you for leaving us a review. We're disappointed to hear you found your stay underwhelming. We have definitely had our challenges lately however this shouldn't comprise your experience with us. We take your feedback seriously and appreciate your honesty. We hope you enjoyed the rest of your trip in Australia.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Heike k wrote a review Jan 2024
1 contribution
The most beautiful place on earth. The 4 tier cascading pool feels like a natural water source. The resort compliments the spectacular natural environment, it feels so much like living in nature/ in paradise,whilst simultaneously being spoilt by all the comforts and services of a plush resort with good food and good service . The staff are lovely. The views are heavenly, the location second to none. Thank you Thala for this unique experience. Best place I’ve ever stayed at and I doubt I would ever find anything better👍♥️
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Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Astrid Kooistra-Vink, Guest Services / Front Office at Thala Beach Nature Reserve
Responded Jan 23, 2024
That is so lovely to hear! Thank you for your glowing review and we hope to welcome you back in the future!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Everett P wrote a review Dec 2023
4 contributions
The amenities were dated, the restaurant was subpar and for the money and the owners kicked out the live in staff after the cyclone. For a business like this to treat their staff so poorly is shameful. Honestly embarrassing.
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Date of stay: November 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Seton Prettejohn, Owner at Thala Beach Nature Reserve
Responded Jan 4, 2024
It’s very sad to read your expectations weren’t met or brought to our attention during your stay. Your main grievance strangely seems to be related to events when you were not a guest with us. Our staff and guests were temporarily evacuated as we were forced to close for a short period due to the property’s access roads being dangerously damaged following cyclone Jasper in late December. The safety of our guests and staff are our most important consideration that we take very seriously. Sadly temporarily closing and evacuating the property was the only option in the circumstance we were left in. The decision to prioritise the safety of our guests and staff above business profits is a stance we have and will continue to stand by and do not consider worthy of your ‘scummy owners’ insult. The owners are a local family who have been harmoniously operating Thala for over 25 years. Other reviews will attest to the contentedness of our staff. It is extremely unfortunate you are compelled to peddle an unfounded, malicious and poisonous point of view without understanding the sensitivity of the situation, the dangers we were all put in and the required safety decisions that were made to evacuate and protect our guests and staff as a result of the traumatising 1 in 100 year weather event the area and residents have recently experienced and are recovering from.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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akamau: Happy Wanderer wrote a review Dec 2023
Cairns Region, Australia3 contributions
Service with a view at Thala Lodge is amazing. I had a great relaxing moment with a tasty mocktail on one hand and mesmerising view on the other. At Thala Lodge, the combination of exceptional service and breathtaking views creates an unforgettable experience for guests. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, this stunning lodge offers it all. Unwinding with friends in this tranquil oasis, sipping on a delicious mocktail while gazing out at the awe-inspiring scenery. The attentive staff at Thala Lodge go above and beyond to ensure your every need is met, allowing you to fully indulge in the serenity of the surroundings. Thala Lodge is the perfect destination. Unforgettable moments await, where service and views converge to create an experience that will stay with you long after you leave.
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Date of stay: November 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with friends
Room Tip: It is a steep uphill climb so make sure to arrange for golf-like cabbie to drop you off.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Astrid Kooistra-Vink, Guest Services / Front Office at Thala Beach Nature Reserve
Responded Dec 30, 2023
We're delighted to hear you enjoy Thala to the fullest. Thank you so much for your kind words and looking forward to see you again.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Renate wrote a review Nov 2023
Galicia, Spain4 contributions1 helpful vote
Very nice beach hotel with spacious rooms, excellent food, very good spa treatments and direct access to beach with clear ocean, good for swimming. We liked pools and beautiful suroundings. Especial thanks to the hotel manager Waruna who took a very good care about us, was very friendly, attentive and helpful. Would love to rerurn to this Beach Paradise.
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Date of stay: November 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
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Response from Astrid Kooistra-Vink, Guest Services / Front Office at Thala Beach Nature Reserve
Responded Nov 17, 2023
Thank you so much for your kind words Renate!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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JT14 wrote a review Nov 2023
London, United Kingdom5354 contributions451 helpful votes
Bit expensive, but rooms are extremely clean and comfortable. Restaurant food was good (but again a bit expensive). The main draw here is to be in such a natural coastal setting. The beach is absolutely stunning - like a castaway cliche. Free star watching on a Saturday evening was a pleasure also. Staff extremely friendly and kind.
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Date of stay: October 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Astrid Kooistra-Vink, Guest Services / Front Office at Thala Beach Nature Reserve
Responded Nov 17, 2023
Thank you so much for leaving us a review. Rose definitely knows her stars, glad to hear you enjoyed stargazing with her. As we are on a 145 acres of private headland we're lucky to have such a beautiful setting on offer :)
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Philip_and_Anne wrote a review Oct 2023
13 contributions3 helpful votes
Thala Beach Nature Reserve is a beautiful forest and beach location with a secluded feel but still not too far from Port Douglas. They have excellent helpful and friendly staff. The one restaurant is Osprey with breakfast lunch and dinner. Breakfasts are particularly delicious. Colorful lorikeets and cockatoos entertained us from the trees by the restaurant. The resort offers fun and interesting nature walks and other activities. We really enjoyed our bird and butterfly walk with Dave, their knowledgeable nature guide. There is beautiful art of local scenery, history, and wildlife from notable local artists. Sometimes agile wallabies can be seen from the car park area. The 2 pools are beautiful and refreshing. Bookings to Great Barrier Reef and Rain Forests included pickups from the resort, so a car was not necessary. There are shuttles to Port Douglas if needed. The bed was very comfortable.
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Date of stay: September 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Astrid Kooistra-Vink, Guest Services / Front Office at Thala Beach Nature Reserve
Responded Nov 17, 2023
It makes us so happy to read you got to fully enjoy and explore what we offer here at Thala Beach. We're lucky to have Dave and the birds never disappoint, they love the view from Ospreys too ;) We look forward to welcome you back!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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There are more places to choose from in the Oak Beach area.
PRICE RANGE
C$330 - C$416 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
thala beach hotel port douglas, thala beach resort, thala beach lodge
FORMERLY KNOWN AS
Thala Beach Lodge
LOCATION
AustraliaQueenslandPort DouglasOak Beach
NUMBER OF ROOMS
83
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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Thala Beach Nature Reserve - UPDATED 2024 Prices, Reviews & Photos (Oak Beach, Australia) - Resort - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Thala Beach Nature Reserve
Which popular attractions are close to Thala Beach Nature Reserve?
Nearby attractions include Flames of the Forest (6.9 km) and The Bump Track (7.3 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Thala Beach Nature Reserve?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include a pool, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge.
What food & drink options are available at Thala Beach Nature Reserve?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and breakfast during their stay.
Is parking available at Thala Beach Nature Reserve?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Thala Beach Nature Reserve?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Thala Beach Nature Reserve have airport transportation?
Yes, Thala Beach Nature Reserve offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Are any cleaning services offered at Thala Beach Nature Reserve?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.
Does Thala Beach Nature Reserve have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the ocean view available here.
Is Thala Beach Nature Reserve accessible?
Yes, it offers wheelchair access and facilities for disabled guests. For specific enquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.