The natural beauty and unique atmosphere of Tropical North Queensland makes this region the perfect location for a destination wedding, with a diverse choice of wedding venues from secluded beaches and tropical rainforests to luxury resorts and spas.
With the chance to celebrate your special day in paradise followed by a relaxing honeymoon it’s no surprise that Tropical North Queensland is Australia’s wedding capital. Here we will share with you what we believe are the best wedding locations in Cairns and Port Douglas.
Little Cove, Port Douglas
Little Cove has become the tropical gem for Port Douglas weddings. It is a beautiful, shady, secluded area covered in lush green lawn, framed by tropical palm trees and overlooking the beach, located in the heart of Port Douglas.
This stunning space can hold up to 150 guests and can be decked out with seats or pews and a carpet rolled out to create a chapel atmosphere. The ideal location means you don’t have to go too far for amazing photo opportunities or to your reception venue. It is attached to the welcoming space of Rex Smeal Park and is in walking distance to local bars, restaurants and accommodation.
Little Cove can be booked for weddings for a small fee through the Douglas Shire Council for a maximum of 2 hours. As it is a popular site for weddings, it’s important to remember that another wedding may be booked straight after you, so all props that are bought in for your wedding need to be removed within the 2 hour time frame.
Fitzroy Island
Fitzroy Island is located just off Cairns and is the ultimate wedding destination for couples looking for a tropical island experience. Planning a wedding can be stressful which is why the staff at Fitzroy Island work closely with you from beginning to end to make your day perfect, relaxed and memorable.
As part of your wedding package you will receive complimentary transfers to and from the Island, a complimentary night’s stay in an Ocean Suite and a bottle of sparkling wine on arrival to help you unwind into the Island lifestyle.
Fitzroy Island has a resident celebrant and a variety of stunning ceremony venues to choose from:
- Garden Ceremony – manicured grass lawn bordered by lush gardens and palm trees
- Welcome Bay Beach Ceremony – a heavenly stretch of white coral beach fringed by the tranquil blue waters of Welcome Bay
- Nudey Beach Ceremony – a secluded, peaceful beach that can be reached by a beautiful rainforest walk or by a private glass bottom boat.
Following your ceremony you can choose from three reception venues, all of which provide a breathtaking view of Welcome Bay and the Coral Sea. The qualified kitchen staff are happy to cater to all your needs, offering various styles of menus using only the freshest ingredients from local suppliers.
Whether you’re looking for an intimate ceremony for two or a larger celebration with family and friends, Fitzroy Island Resort will look after every detail of your wedding, ensuring your special day is everything you dreamed of.
Sugar Wharf, Port Douglas
Sugar Wharf is an iconic structure located on the waterfront of Port Douglas’ Dickson Inlet, overlooking the Coral Sea. It was built in 1905 to load sugar for export and was heritage listed in 1992 as a place of cultural heritage.
With its whitewashed walls and stunning views of the inlet, the Sugar Wharf is one of the most popular venues for weddings in Port Douglas. This big white shed stands out by the water, with the natural backdrop of blue sky and swaying palm trees.
It has an outdoor decking area which is the perfect location for both your ceremony and reception or you can have the reception set up inside the timber lined building as a wet weather precaution.
A number of outstanding local businesses are able to assist with organising a wedding at the Sugar Wharf, catering for different wedding sizes and budgets.
The Billabong, Kuranda
For those couples looking for something a little different, The Billabong in Kuranda is tucked away on 165 acres of private property making it perfect for wedding parties of any size. Nestled amongst pristine rainforest with an outlook over eucalypt woodlands and the tranquil waters of the billabong, this is a unique and unforgettable wedding venue.
You have the choice to celebrate your ceremony in the beautiful Paperbark Parklands as the sun sets over the billabong or amongst the tropical Billabong Gardens with the resident kangaroos looking on. The Billabong Saloon adds an outback feel and is a beautiful reception venue and can be used as a backup for your ceremony in case of wet weather.
Entertainment and catering options are endless and can be tailored to suit your tastes and requirements from spit roasts and BBQ buffets, to elegant canape style dining and formal plated dinners.
The Billabong in Kuranda is the perfect getaway from everyday life and to have the opportunity to celebrate your wedding in such a unique and special place will make your day one to remember.
