292 Mossman-Mt Molloy Rd, Cassowary, Port Douglas, Australia | (888) 635-3814
Intimate, upmarket ambience with a maximum of 12 adult guests
Stunning views of the hinterland with the ocean in the distance
Charming, spacious air-conditioned rooms with Balinese furnishings
Self-catering villa available
Hearty tropical breakfast included with room rates
Pet-friendly
Free Wi-Fi throughout
Unsuitable for those averse to dogs
Not all rooms have views
No on-site restaurant
No housekeeping or breakfast in Executive Villa
Children not allowed (pro for some)
The impressive Mai Tai Resort combines the personalized service of a boutique B&B with the comfort and atmosphere of an upscale resort, and is priced accordingly. The property's stunning views over the Port Douglas hinterlands are a major draw, but the four immaculate rooms are also enticing, with luxurious furnishings and plenty of modern amenities. There's also a two-bedroom self-catering villa that provides a private and luxurious alternative to the serviced rooms. Well-behaved pets are welcome, but children are not, so plan accordingly.
Scene
Sophisticated seclusion with a Balinese twist
There's nowhere else in the Port Douglas area that's quite like the Mai Tai Resort. While it's got the feel of an informal B&B, the resort's adult-only guest policy and small size create an intimate, grown-up vibe. The lush tropical vegetation surrounding the resort on all sides is unmistakably Australian, but the well-curated decor in the lobby and on the stunning front terrace is imported from Bali. The property is guarded by four lovable Bernese Mountain Dogs, who welcome guests enthusiastically on arrival along with Andre and Anthony, the jovial couple who run the resort. Those with kids looking for a luxurious alternative in Port Douglas may want to consider the similarly priced Coconut Grove Apartments.
Location
Mountaintop location in the outskirts of Port Douglas, a 15-minute drive into town
Situated atop a mountain in the Port Douglas hinterland and surrounded by five acres of private forest, the Mai Tai Resort feels a long way from civilization. In fact, it's only about 15 minutes by car to downtown Port Douglas, or 10 minutes to the small inland town of Mossman. The property is set back from a main road with no other amenities within walking distance, so a car is essential. But for those who wish to take an evening walk, there are trails to explore on the property itself. The Cairns Airport is about an hour's drive away.
Rooms
Beautifully presented rooms with several luxurious touches
The tiny Mai Tai Resort consists of two Superior Rooms, two Deluxe Rooms, and one two-bedroom Executive Villa. Each is furnished to the highest standard, with hand-carved Balinese king beds with top-quality mattresses and bedding, subtle patterned rugs, white-painted wooden furniture, and charming Buddha statues throughout. The bathrooms are decked out in simple black tile with white porcelain sinks and heavy wooden countertops.All rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs and DVD players, minibars, and tea/coffee-making facilities, air-conditioning, and ceiling fans. The free Wi-Fi is reliable and strong. The rooms also have private outdoor sitting areas, some with sweeping views. The two Deluxe Rooms also have outdoor Balinese-style showers. The two-bedroom Executive Villa is a spacious suite with a full kitchen, indoor and outdoor entertaining areas (with stunning views), plus a private saltwater plunge pool. However, unlike the rooms, the Villa does not receive daily housekeeping service and breakfast isn't included.
Features
Saltwater pool, barbecue, laundry, and free tropical breakfast for guests in Superior and Deluxe Rooms
The Mai Tai functions as a bed and breakfast rather than a full-service hotel, so there is no on-site restaurant, gym, concierge, or business center. There is, however, a beautifully maintained saltwater pool surrounded by cabanas and colorful Balinese flags. Other communal amenities include a barbecue and an observation deck. Laundry service is also available.Andre and Anthony are able to arrange tours of the Port Douglas region, provide suggestions for local dining, and book appointments with an on-call masseur. A generous tropical breakfast is served each morning on the main terrace for those in Superior and Deluxe Rooms.