"Cannot wait until we return." Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas Tip by Openseas

We were firstly apprehensive about staying here due to all the bad reviews on T/A but we love the Sheraton Mirage on the Gold Coast, so we decided to give it a go. We are also gold members of Starwood, so getting an upgrade and the little extra’s as a member was important to us.

Our room 5116 was on the ground floor overlooking one of the swimming pools, so basically, we could walk out our door and hop into the pool. Due to being Starwood members we had an privilege members room, which was very spacious with a king size bed, TV, couch, tea and coffee facilities and a welcoming bottle of champs.

The bathroom was very spacious with a spa and overhead shower with an enormous vanity suite. Bathrobes and fluffy towels were also supplied. Yes, the rooms do need an update and refurbishment but to me they were fine, and I have stayed at many 5 star establishments around the world.

What is the most important thing here is the awesome swimming pools and the outdoor facilities which are on offer. There are 14 swimming pools in this resort, some are freshwater and the others are salt water. My hubby had fun making sure he swam in every one, and if you had kids on board, this hotel would be absolutely fantastic for them.

The hotel is situated on the waterfront on 130 hectare of land, which also incorporates an 18 hole golf course. We only had a snack at the pool and breakfast in the hotel and dined in Port for the evenings, only because we wanted to be in with the action. It’s approx a 5 minute drive by car, there is a shuttle bus which operates from the hotel if you have no private transport.

Unique Qualities: Overall, we loved our stay here and we only wished it was winter, as we could have had both worlds the ocean to swim in and the pools. We are definitely coming back and if you can get over the resort not having the 5 star trimmings in your room, then this hotel is perfect for a stay in Port Douglas.

We checked out all the other hotels, and quite frankly, we thought the Mirage to be the best in town. I have given this resort a 5 star for its fantastic position on the ocean and its truly enormous and fabulous swimming pools. The staff were also incredibly friendly, efficient and helpful, a credit to this establishment.

P.S. Its one hour drive from the Airport.

Address: Davidson Street, Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas, QL
Comparison: more expensive than average
Price: US$120-180
Theme: Hotel