The one-step synthetic strategy for the preparation of the hitherto unknown calix[3]carbazole from readily available starting materials is described. Calix[3]carbazole is obtained in 20% yield, and it could selectively bind the N(C2H5)4(+) cation (tetraethylammonium, TEA) via cation-π interactions. The experimental and modeling results indicate that calix[3]carbazole possesses a larger π-cavity as well as a better chromophoric property than the traditional phenol-based macrocycles, and thus is capable of binding to and optically responding to the relatively large guest TEA.