The definition of a 5 Star Resort and peoples expections of a 5-Star Rating are :   Luxurious, offering the highest degree of personal service. Elegant and stylish rooms equipped with quality linens, Austar , CD stereo, bath or jacuzzi tub and in-room video.   Multiple restaurants on site with extensive, gourmet menus, and room-service also available 24-7. A fitness center, valet parking and concierge service round out the experience.  

AAA Tourism defines a resort as ' Resort is situated in spacious grounds, self-sufficient in services and facilities, providing meals and a broad range of recreational activities.  A resort should have full-time activities staff and guides, a tour activities desk and a variety of dining options on site. ' 

Potential clients are attracted by the vision of ordering a cocktail from your sunlounge by the pool followed by dining in the resort restaurant.  

Port Douglas is an excellent resort-style destination however there are relatively few true resorts.  We define resorts as being properties that are fully integrated, with dining, recreation and key facilities such as golf courses on site.

The Sheraton Mirage Resort best fits the true resort definition in Port Douglas with extremely spacious grounds and gardens with an absolute beach frontage, many swimming lagoons, a variety of dining options, childrens games rooms and kids clubs in school holidays, bikes, a complete health club including a golf course and activities available. 

Lizard Island is truly secluded and 5 star.  This is a superb resort with only 40 luxurious suites and excellent snorkelling opportunities right off the beach.  The Cod Hole is a legendary Outer Barrier Reef experience with sensational diving.  Dining is one of Lizard Island's many pleasures.  There is an onsite Day Spa, Gymnasium, tennis court and freshwater swimming pool.  The islands main attraction is it's beauty and location on the best the Great Barrier Reef has to offer.  Unbeatable snorkelling!

Thala Beach Lodge is an upmarket resort in a unique location with the highest accreditation of eco certification.   The World Class Restaurant offers fine food with a friendly five star service.  Paths meander through the extensive 145 acres with abundant wildlife.  Thala is a nature oriented experience with activities with a focus on birds, native flora and fauna, star gazing, yoga and kayaking.

Peppers Beach Club does have a restaurant and is set within a more compact property but does have an excellent swimming pool.  The property is self rated and does not offer the services of a normal 5 star resort.   

Shantara is 5 star rated Boutique apartments with 2 lagoon style pools and a Day Spa.  This beautiful and immaculate property does have a tour desk but does not have on-site restaurants.