The Reef House Adults Only Retreat: An Exclusive Luxury Escape for Unwinding in Tropical Tranquillity
If you’re seeking a serene tropical Australian escape where you can completely immerse yourself and your partner in luxury, reflection, indulgence and relaxation, look no further than The Reef House Adults Retreat in Palm Cove, Queensland.
Four years ago the property moved from being a resort hotel to a full service adults retreat. What this means is a whole raft of services and food and drink are included in the daily room rate from cocktail making classes to sleep classes, beach yoga, complimentary daily drinks and more.
Since then, guests are returning in droves, with multiple guests returning again and again – one couple have been back 31 times according to the staff.
The setting is Australia at it best. The award winning beach is cusped by reams of beautiful sweeping trees, and the sunrises are absolutely world class.A huge jetty stretches into the ocean with fisherman pulling in reams of fish at either end of the day. It is ideal for walking, sitting or just soaking up the view.
The Reef House Adults Retreat was awarded best 5 star hotel in Australia and Queensland including Winner Queensland’s Best Five Star Luxury Accommodation 2022 & 2023 in the Queensland tourism awards and Winner 5 Star Luxury Accommodation 2023 in the Australian tourism awards.
This exclusive, adults-only resort offers a unique combination of sophisticated charm and personalised service, making it an ideal destination for those who wish to unwind in one of Queensland’s most idyllic locations.
Overall Rating: 9/10

Location 9.5/10
Nestled between the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest and the stunning Great Barrier Reef, The Reef House Adults Retreat enjoys an unbeatable setting.
Just 25 minutes north of Cairns, this boutique adults only reterat/resort is situated on the pristine white sands of Palm Cove Beach, offering guests panoramic views of the Coral Sea, even from the restaurant. Whether you’re strolling along the beach, exploring the surrounding nature, or simply lounging by the pool, the resort’s picturesque location provides the perfect backdrop for a tranquil escape and real disconnection from city life.



Rooms 8.5/10
The Reef House offers a variety of spacious rooms and suites, each designed with a refined yet comfortable aesthetic that complements the tropical surroundings. Colour schemes are white and cream, fresh and relaxed.
Many rooms feature large private balconies or patios with views of the ocean, pool, or lush gardens, providing an intimate retreat for relaxation. Beds are exceptionally comfortable with quality, plush but firm mattresses.
For an added touch of indulgence, some suites come equipped with private spa tubs or plunge pools. Thoughtful amenities such as plush linens, premium toiletries, double sinks and stylish decor ensure that every stay is as comfortable as it is luxurious.

Service 9/10
At The Reef House, exceptional service is a cornerstone of the guest experience. The resort prides itself on its attentive, intimate and personalised approach, ensuring that every visitor feels welcomed and well-cared-for.
A dedicated Luxury Concierge is on hand to arrange everything from private dinners to hire cars, icecreams or tailored excursions, while the pool butler service provides refreshing tropical sorbets and drinks throughout the day.
The progam of activities is outstanding and includes
Daily twilight punch and canapés served in Brigadier’s Lounge offer a delightful opportunity to connect with other guests in a relaxed setting.

Food & Beverage 8/10
Dining at The Reef House is a gourmet experience not to be missed. The Reef House Adults Retreat Restaurant serves modern Australian cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, offering a menu that caters to a range of tastes and dietary preferences.
I loved the location sitting on the deck overlooking the peaceful Palm Cove main road listening to the whisper of the summer breeze through the trees hugging the endless ribbon of sand, then the ocean. It was magical.
All in-house guests enjoy an al fresco breakfast, which is included in the daily rate. There is a main meal off the a la carte menu, unlimited barista coffee, a daily fresh juice and limitless toast included.



There is a menu for a leisurely lunch by the pool, and I had a Thai Beef Salad that was exceptional.
And I enjoyed a three course intimate dinner under the stars with excellent wines by the glass. Speaking of wine, there is a wine tasing class available which is complimentary and has to be booked in advance,
The host is fabulously informed and the experience was a lot of fun – as was an interactive cocktail making class.
Brigadier’s Bar & Lounge, renowned for its unique honour system, is perfect for enjoying a pre-dinner cocktail or a nightcap, and complimentary punch is included fro an hour or so and changes daily.

Sustainability 9/10
Committed to protecting its pristine environment, The Reef House actively promotes sustainable tourism practices.
The resort has implemented eco-friendly initiatives, including energy-efficient systems, water conservation efforts, and support for local environmental projects.
Guests are encouraged to explore the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest responsibly, with guided tours led by certified Master Reef Guides and Indigenous cultural connections that highlight the importance of preserving these unique ecosystems.

Wellness 9/10
Wellness is at the heart of the Reef House experience. The award-winning Reef House Spa offers a variety of treatments designed to rejuvenate both body and mind, using premium natural products in a tranquil setting.
I loved the included daily wellness offerings which were complimentary. They include beachfront yoga, full body stretching, different sleep classes, and aqua aerobics, or simply unwinding in the mineral pool and spa – where I made some new friends over cocktails.
The serene atmosphere and attentive service make it easy to relax during a stay.

Conclusion
The Reef House Adults Retreat is more than just a resort—it’s a destination in itself, where every detail is thoughtfully crafted to provide the ultimate in relaxation and indulgence.
My advice would be to book a 5 or 7 night retreat and not to leave – the daily rate includes so many extra activities from the various sleep classes to cocktail classes and more, it is ideal to stay there and enjoy everything on offer.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a wellness retreat, or simply a luxurious escape from the everyday, this award-winning sanctuary delivers an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.
With its idyllic location, elegant and spacious rooms, exceptional service, and commitment to sustainability, The Reef House Adults Retreat is the perfect choice for discerning travellers looking for a truly transformative escape.

What Renae says about The Reef House Adults Retreat, Sydney:
Who should Stay Here: Couples and older people or singles looking to recharge and reflect.
Who shouldn’t Stay Here: The Reef House Adults Retreat is only open to people over 18 years of age.
Location: Right on the coast with the ocean 50m away.
Best Culinary Delight: Acai for breakfast – fresh and delicious
The Highlight: The free sorbet by the pool every day around 3pm and the hotel’s own concierge – he knows everything about the local area.
The Lowlight: There are crocodiles in the area – but in truth there is no issue at all.
Insider Secret: The host of the wine tasting classes knows some of the best value for money bottles of both white and red in Australia.