Discovering the Beauty of St Mary’s by the Sea Chapel, Port Douglas

 

St Mary’s by the Sea is a charming heritage-listed chapel in the heart of Port Douglas.  The chapel is right by the sea, with stunning views of the Coral Sea and the surrounding palm-fringed beach.

St Mary’s by the Sea History

This quaint chapel was built in 1880 as a non-denominational church.  This church is a popular wedding venue for couples looking for a picturesque and romantic setting. The chapel’s historic charm, lush tropical gardens, and tranquil seaside location make it ideal for exchanging vows and celebrating with loved ones.

Apart from weddings, St Mary’s by the Sea also holds regular church services and other cultural events throughout the year. Visitors are welcome to attend these events and admire the chapel’s beautiful architecture, which features a wooden structure with a steeply pitched roof, intricate stained-glass windows, and a striking bell tower.

Just a short walk from Port Douglas’s main street, Macrossan Street, you’ll find plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants. The chapel is also easily accessible by public transport or car, with ample parking nearby.

Whether looking for a peaceful place to attend a church service or a romantic venue for your wedding, St Mary’s by the Sea is a must-visit destination in Port Douglas. Its idyllic seaside location, historic charm, and warm hospitality make it a truly special place to visit.

St Marys by the Sea Weddings

For those interested in the chapel’s history, there is a small museum inside the building that displays a range of artifacts and memorabilia from the church’s early years. You can learn about the chapel’s early days as a non-denominational church and its more recent history as a popular wedding venue.

St Mary’s by the Sea also offers various services and facilities for couples planning their wedding. The chapel can accommodate up to 90 guests, and a beautiful outdoor garden area is perfect for post-ceremony photos. The chapel also has a dressing room for the bride and groom and ample parking for guests.

Aside from weddings, St Mary’s by the Sea is a popular venue for church services and cultural events. The acoustics inside the chapel are of exceptional quality, making it a favourite among musicians and performers.

Add St Mary’s by the Sea to your itinerary if you’re visiting Port Douglas. It’s a beautiful and tranquil spot, steeped in history and surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

Architecture

This is a beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture. With its steeply pitched roof, pointed arches, and intricate stained-glass windows. The design reflects the influence of the ecclesiastical architecture of the mid-19th century.

St Mary’s by the Sea  Unique architectural features:

St Mary’s by the Sea Chapel, Port Douglas, is a stunning example of early 20th-century church architecture. Its design is simple yet elegant, with a charming blend of colonial and Mediterranean influences.

The chapel’s most distinctive feature is its bell tower, which stands tall and proud above the entrance. The tower is topped with a cross and a weather vane, and it houses a beautiful bell ringing over the town for over a century.

Significance of St Mary’s by the Sea Chapel, Port Douglas

St Mary’s by the Sea Chapel holds immense significance in the community as a place of worship and cultural landmark. The chapel’s rich history, stunning architecture, and picturesque location make it a popular tourist destination.  The chapel attracts visitors from all over the world.

For those interested in exploring the surrounding area, there are plenty of other attractions and activities to enjoy in Port Douglas. From snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef to hiking through the Daintree Rainforest, there is something for everyone in this stunning part of Australia.

In conclusion,  this is a beautiful and historic chapel in Port Douglas’s heart. Whether attending a church service, getting married, or simply admiring the views, this charming chapel by the sea is a must-visit destination in Far North Queensland.