Rainforests & Reefs

Silky Oaks

Tranquility in the Rainforest Set among the World Heritage-listed wilderness of the Daintree Rainforest and along the banks of the gently flowing Mossman River, Silky Oaks Lodge offers guests a stylish tropical rainforest escape. Private tree houses invite luxurious retreat complete with contemporary furnishings framed by local timbers and generous balcony with hammock ready to sway in the afternoon breeze. Dining in the open-air Treehouse Restaurant welcomes the sights and sounds of the rainforest, creating an extraordinary backdrop for enjoying fine cuisine in a contemporary Australian style. Situated among Tropical North Queensland’s world-renowned natural attractions including the Great Barrier Reef, activities span guided walks, swimming in the river, driving safaris and helicopter tours for those seeking the ultimate exploration of the region. Inspired by ancient wisdoms that celebrated the Mossman River as a renewing and life-giving force, the award-winning Healing Waters Spa offers a relaxing retreat among the tranquil sounds of the forest.

Thala Beach

World Heritage Rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef Nestled in 58 hectares (143 acres) of native forest on a secluded beach, family-owned Thala Beach Nature Reserve is a deluxe ecotourism resort located 15 minutes south of Port Douglas. Sitting spectacularly atop a headland with breathtaking vistas, Thala Beach provides a relaxed island-style vacation on the mainland. The lodge is well placed for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. Elevated on stilts, 83 eco-designed timber bungalows are discreetly 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 Ospreys Restaurant across the forest canopy and beyond to the Coral Sea. Guests dine amongst birds in the surrounding treetops, whilst enjoying modern Australian cuisine with friendly and attentive service. Guests also enjoy complimentary guided onsite nature tours led by passionate and informative rangers including a unique coconut odyssey, beach combing, stargazing at an outdoor observatory, wildlife walks, and bird watching tours.

Lizard Island

Consistently ranked as one of the best luxury resorts in the world, Lizard Island draws a privileged few Fly from Cairns to Lizard Island. Your surrounds are 24 powdery white-sand beaches and a glimmering turquoise sea teeming with marine life. Step off the beach onto the Great Barrier Reef, one of the wonders of the world. Internationally renowned for its scuba diving, including the famous Cod Hole, and some of the best game fishing in the world, the tropical north’s reef awaits adventurers. Seeking a slower pace? Enjoy yourself equally with a gourmet picnic for two on one of the island’s many secluded beaches or an indulgent treatment in the Essential Day Spa. With world-class dining included, refined accommodation and impeccable service, Lizard Island is a luxurious getaway rivaled by few places on earth. As the resort has only 40 rooms and suites, privacy and intimacy are assured. Lizard Island is the island of choice for those in the know. A member of Luxury Lodges of Australia.

Intercontinental Hayman Island Resort

Experience a new era of immersive luxury in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef as Hayman Island by InterContinental opens its doors to the world’s most discerning travelers. Nestled at the northernmost point of Australia’s Whitsunday archipelago, Hayman Island is the nearest Whitsunday Island to the outer reef with direct access to wonders of the Great Barrier Reef’s abundant marine life and breathtaking natural underwater beauty. Commanding magnificent views south across the Coral Sea, Hayman Island by InterContinental is perfectly positioned on a two-kilometer crescent-shaped stretch of stunning white sand beach on a pristine 400-hectare private island. From the moment guests’ feet hit the sand, they will be immersed in a world of unique island experiences, where exploring the world-famous Heart Reef by air, turquoise swirls of Whitehaven Beach by boat or remote rainforest mountains by foot is just the beginning. Guests’ enter into a world of destination-inspired activity during their stay on Hayman Island with on island activities including access to state-of-the-art gym facilities, a dedicated sport and recreational center with activities including squash and tennis courts, an all-new golf simulator and two iconic swimming pools, Hayman Pool and Infinity Pool. Meanwhile off island, advanced underwater scooters, private charters, diving tours and guided snorkeling tours showcase the kaleidoscopic beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. Set to redefine luxury island living, the resort offers 166 beautifully-appointed rooms, suites and villas spread across three distinct resort wing and artfully intertwined with spectacular pools, panoramic seascapes and tropical gardens. The newly built Three Bedroom Hayman Beach House is the prestigious highlight of the island’s luxury accommodation selection, with the private residence nestled on Hayman’s beachfront boasting contemporary open-living, spectacular views across the Coral Sea and a private pool and master en suite in each guest room. While staying at the resort, explore a diverse gastronomic scene designed to capture the essence of connectivity and the heart of Queensland’s local flavor with a collection of five distinct dining experiences on Hayman Island: Pacific, Aqua, Amici Trattoria, Bam Bam and Bar Fifty. Seeking something deeper, Hayman’s all-new spa will immerse guests in one-of-a-kind treatments, wellness philosophies and luxurious Sodashi products with 13 treatment rooms. While little InterContinental travelers will discover their own island paradise with a world-class Planet Trekkers kid’s club offering a range of experiences including insightful information about the reef, coral planting adventures, sand flat tours, junior meditation sessions and more.

Kimberley Quest

A multi-award-winning luxury Kimberley cruise company operating extended wilderness expeditions along the stunning Kimberley coast, cruising between Broome and Wyndham The Kimberley Quest II is a 25-metre (82-foot) vessel that has been designed with relaxation in mind, and for exploring the Kimberley coastline in style. Its custom design allows us to visit areas many other Kimberley cruises simply cannot reach. Whilst on board, guests can enjoy indoor dining and alfresco areas, a refreshing dip in the spa and gourmet cuisine prepared by the on-board chef. Cruising with a maximum of 18 guests, personalized service and attention to detail means guests can enjoy the amazing surrounds in complete comfort and luxury. Kimberley Quest operate Kimberley tours ranging from 4, 8, 10, 14 and 21 day itineraries, all with daily cruise adventures featuring a myriad of activities. Leaving the mothership in custom-built tenders including a fast-boat, guests set out exploring the untouched river systems, viewing ancient Aboriginal rock art and fishing the tidal creeks as well as discovering the in-depth history of the area, viewing the rugged cliffs, caves, waterfalls and gorges, spotting wildlife, taking refreshing dips in secluded waterholes and much more! Also available is the opportunity to charter the vessel exclusively, which means the itinerary and daily excursions can be tailored to suit your group’s preferences whether it be wildlife, walking, fishing, Aboriginal art, or a combination of all of these. The possibilities are endless when you have the most extraordinary location at your fingertips! The Kimberley is prolific with islands, inlets, extensive waterfalls, pristine beaches and unforgettable scenery that will take your breath away. The team at Kimberley Quest will convey their passion for this ancient land, forging the sights and sounds of the Kimberley into your memory forever.