Port Douglas is a
tourist's delight. This scenic town possesses stunning surroundings, a range of pleasure cruises, a wonderful assortment of eateries as well as many accommodation options. Our family of four recently returned from an
excellent holiday at Port Douglas. We enjoyed a full day snorkelling cruise, a pleasant stroll along Four Mile Beach and indulged in delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners. We stayed at the
Oaks Lagoons, a marvellous resort four kilometres from the main Port Douglas precinct.
Photo: Faye
Oaks Lagoons consists of
six individual salt water swimming pools, three of which are heated. We used the pools each day and often found that we were the only ones doing laps or playing in this area. There were families holidaying in this resort but we did not see them often. The pools are the centre of the Oaks Lagoons complex. On one side are three storeys of apartments and on the other side are two storeys. The ground floor apartments have swim out options which are private patios allowing direct access to the pool.
We stayed on the first floor at the end of the complex, adjacent to a small
tropical jungle where birds would fly in, perch on the foliage for a short while, then soar towards the blue sky. These creatures were fascinating to watch. Some would trampoline on the tops of the tree ferns, others were possessed with extraordinary decibel-charged birdcalls competing among the cacophony in the forest.
View from our apartment - Photo: Faye
Oaks Lagoons boasts a
fabulous barbecue area. And for good reason. As well as a large barbie, microwave, sandwich maker and a sink, there is a comfortable and generous-sized undercover seating area. One night we decided to sample the barbecue with grilled steak and sausages. The barbecue worked brilliantly, the food was delicious.
Photo: Faye
Our two bedroom apartment was excellent. The master bedroom had an ensuite bathroom and the shower was refreshing. There was a TV in the bedroom and a kitchenette with a microwave and kettle. A cupboard containing dining ware and cutlery were underneath the sink. Oh, did I mention the
wonderful corner spa on the patio to bask in after a long day being a tourist in North Queensland.
Photo: Faye
In the adjoining apartment, it was a "wow" moment. As we walked from the entrance, the apartment opened up into a
large inviting living room with two couches facing the large TV. The coffee table dividing this space created a homely ambience. The dining table and chairs well matched the living room decor. The substantial kitchen with the usual appliances and table ware were appealing with its clean white surfaces and fresh appearance. The laundry area, enclosed with shutters, revealed a washing machine and dryer. There was washing liquid supplied for one wash load which was enough for our eight-day stay (mums need a holiday too).
Photo: Faye
Our two adjoining apartments each had an inviting undercover patio area that overlooked the swimming pools. With 28 degrees temperature most days and a fan spinning from the patio ceiling, this was
the place to chill out over breakfast or after a day out discovering the laid back Port Douglas lifestyle. We were delighted with our accommodation, the reception staff were welcoming and helpful. When the microwave refused to operate, a replacement was brought to our apartment within thirty minutes. That was excellent service. We would definitely return to the Oaks Lagoons when next in Port Douglas.
