Tropical North Queensland venues for a wedding in paradise

If your dream wedding includes golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and palm trees swaying in the breeze, forget the passport—Tropical North Queensland has you covered! With picture-perfect islands, charming coastal towns, and Insta-worthy beaches, this slice of paradise is closer than you think.

Craving that endless summer vibe for your big day? Slip on your Havaianas, grab a cocktail, and say “I do” at one of these stunning Cairns and Port Douglas wedding venues. Whether you’re after a barefoot beach/island ceremony or a luxe resort celebration, these spots bring the tropical magic—no long-haul flight required!

#1. Fitzroy Island Resort

Just 45 minutes by FastCat from Cairns, Fitzroy Island Resort is a Queensland gem you seriously need to discover for yourselves. Set within the sheltered waters of the Great Barrier Reef, the venue is blessed with lush rainforest and beach surrounds – perfect for beautiful ceremonies and post-wedding photo sessions! And with plenty of accommodation available, Fitzroy Island can make for an unforgettable escape for both you and your guests. Four words – instant destination wedding vibes.

#2. Castaways Resort & Spa Mission Beach

The tiny coastal locality of Mission Beach (just under two hours south of Cairns) has plenty to be enchanted by. Powder-soft sands, bright blue waters, ancient rainforest and a calm pace of life – it’s all here. Calling this amazing destination home, Castaways Resort & Spa Mission Beach brings it all together to create a dreamy setting for exchanging vows. Overlooking the Coral Sea, the venue’s palm-dotted gardens are a winner for ceremonies, while its restaurant is ideal for refreshing cocktails, fresh cuisine and dancing the night away. Sounds utterly lovely to us!

#3. Thala Beach Nature Reserve

For a real ‘escaped from the rest of the world’ feeling, celebrate your special day with loved ones at Thala Beach Nature Reserve. Located 45 minutes from Cairns and 15 minutes from Port Douglas, this 145-acre eco hideaway is nestled within the pristine rainforest and is where you’ll find some of Queensland’s most spectacular sunsets (their night skies aren’t too bad, either). With an array of fabulous ceremony settings (including a scenic rainforest lounge, a shabby-chic beach shack pavilion, palm-filled gardens and a secluded beach), Thala Beach also offers incredible food-focused receptions and accommodation for all your guests. That’s the buddymoon sorted!

#4. QT Port Douglas

Port Douglas is making it big at the moment for amazing Queensland wedding locations and it’s not hard to see why. With a breezy atmosphere, proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and postcard-ready beaches, this wonderful destination seems made for weddings. Easily one of the most stylish spots in town, QT Port Douglas is synonymous with high-end accommodation and outstanding celebrations. Tie the knot on one of the nearby beaches or in the venue’s manicured gardens before feasting on expertly prepared fare and delicious cocktails. Of course, there’s also onsite accommodation that’ll impress you and your guests – cheers to that!

#5. Shantara Resort Port Douglas

Another brilliant Port Douglas venue, Shantara Resort Port Douglas is great for intimate weddings or elopements. With emerald gardens and an elegant pool, the venue is also just moments from the beloved Four Mile Beach and the magical Daintree Rainforest – ideal for post-wedding photos! Providing a sumptuous place to stay for your guest list (both small and large), Shantara makes the transition from wedding to honeymoon (or buddy moon) totally stress-free.

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