Need a tropical escape with reef, rainforest, and relaxed luxury? Head to Port Douglas! Located in Far North Queensland, Port Douglas is the gateway to both the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Whether you’re snorkeling among vibrant coral, strolling palm-fringed beaches, or exploring lush jungle trails, Port Douglas offers a stunning blend of adventure and tropical relaxation.
Port Douglas Highlights:
- For Families: Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef – Take a family-friendly boat tour to see colorful coral gardens, tropical fish, and sea turtles in one of the world’s natural wonders.
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Explore the Daintree Rainforest – Join a guided tour or self-drive through the ancient rainforest with its rich biodiversity and canopy walks.
- For Kids: Build sandcastles on Four Mile Beach – A beautiful, wide stretch of golden sand perfect for family beach days and sunset strolls.
- For an Adventure: Go on a crocodile-spotting river cruise – Explore the mangroves and rivers near the Daintree and Mossman Gorge to see saltwater crocodiles in the wild.
- For Shoppers: Browse Macrossan Street – Stroll the main street lined with boutiques, art galleries, local crafts, and stylish beachwear shops.
When I like to visit Port Douglas
The best time to visit Port Douglas is during the dry season (May–October), when temperatures are pleasant, humidity is lower, and the risk of marine stingers is minimal. This period offers ideal conditions for reef trips, rainforest hikes, and outdoor dining. The wet season (November–April) brings tropical rains and lush green scenery, but some tours may be weather-dependent.
My tips for getting to Port Douglas
- By Air: Fly into Cairns Airport (CNS), the nearest international airport, and drive approximately 1 hour north along the scenic Captain Cook Highway to Port Douglas.
- By Car: The drive from Cairns offers stunning coastal views; consider stopping at viewpoints along the way.
- By Shuttle: Airport shuttles and private transfers are available from Cairns directly to Port Douglas hotels.
Where I like to stay in Port Douglas
- Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort – A luxurious beachfront resort with lagoon pools, golf, and direct access to Four Mile Beach.
- Peppers Beach Club – Elegant accommodations near Macrossan Street with tropical gardens and lagoon pools.
- Silky Oaks Lodge – A stunning rainforest retreat near the Daintree River, offering treehouse-style accommodations and spa treatments.
Best Things to Do in Port Douglas
1. Mossman Gorge
"Walk through lush rainforests, admire crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty."
Mossman Gorge is part of Daintree Rainforest, which is a World Heritage Listed site. This beautiful wilderness area is named for the gorge created by Mossman River, and it’s a popular place for visitors looking to get a breath of fresh air and spend some time outdoors. Visitors can hike into Mossman Gorge from the Mossman Gorge Centre, but it is a long walk, so there’s also a shuttle which, for a small fee, will take visitors regularly (every 15 minutes or so) to the trailhead for the walking trails at the Gorge. At the Gorge, visitors can hike, take a guided tour, swim, and learn about Australia’s Indigenous cultures and their connection with the area.
2. The Great Barrier Reef
"Snorkel vibrant coral reefs, explore marine life in an unforgettable adventure."
Port Douglas is full of fun and entertaining attractions, but undoubtedly its biggest draw is its proximity to The Great Barrier Reef. The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral system in the world, with nearly three thousand individual reefs that extend and cover over 134,000 square miles. The reef is teeming with underwater life, with over 1500 species of fish that call it home. There are a lot of ways to see the reef, whether it’s in the water, via snorkeling or diving, or from a glass-bottomed boat or semi-submersible vessel. Each offers its own benefits and is bound to be an unforgettable experience.
If you are a photographer, don't miss:
3. Four Mile Beach
If you think like me:
"Walk along golden sands, enjoy swimming and relaxing ocean views."
With an expansive stretch of soft, golden sand where the coast meets the turquoise waters of the Coral Sea, Four Mile Beach is a huge draw for visitors to the Port Douglas region. The beach itself is a tropical paradise and is popular for sunbathing, kite surfing, enjoying a walk or a jog along the sand, swimming and playing in the water, and picnicking. For early birds, it’s also the perfect place to watch the sunrise over the watery horizon, and the light cast by the sunset is also beautiful. Four Mile Beach has tidal rock pools that are great for children to play in, and a scenic walk around the grassy bluffs at the edge of the beach.
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
4. Wildlife Habitat
"See native animals, explore immersive exhibits perfect for family visits."
Australia is home to some pretty distinctive wildlife, and at the Wildlife Habitat in Port Douglas, visitors will have the chance to get up close and personal, and interact with some of the animals who call the region home. Meet and greets, and photo opportunities are available for animals like koala bears, pythons, and kangaroos at this interactive zoo and wildlife education center. Visitors can see crocodiles from Predator Plank, feed colorful birds, and see the Lumholtz’s Tree Kangaroo at Wildlife Habitat, which is one of only two zoos in the world to feature this creature.
Port Douglas Rd, Port Douglas QLD 4877, Australia, Phone: +61-7-40-99-32-35
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
5. Shopping in Port Douglas
My top 5:
"Browse boutique shops, discover unique souvenirs and local crafts."
Whether it’s souvenirs you’re after, or something in particular, there’s no shortage of shopping opportunities in Port Douglas . Just a short walk from Four Mile Beach is Macrossan Street, which is a major shopping district in Port Douglas with plenty of boutiques selling everything from t-shirt souvenirs to high fashion to handmade crafts. Macrossan Street is also home to the Port Village Shopping Center, which has some major-brand retailers. Nearby Marina Mirage has waterfront shopping opportunities that range from unique furniture to glittering gems, and on Sundays, the Port Douglas Market is held in Anzac Park.
6. St. Mary’s by the Sea
I recommend:
"Admire charming architecture, enjoy peaceful views in a historic chapel."
Built in 1913, St. Mary’s by the Sea is a non-denominational church that is listed as a heritage site. As the name suggests, St. Mary’s is located on a scenic bit of land right along the coast, and it’s big glass window by the altar overlooks the sea for a beautiful view. St. Mary’s is a popular venue for weddings of up to 100 guests, and is perfect for small ceremonies whether they are casual or more formal. Wheelchair access to St. Mary’s by the Sea is available, but must be requested ahead of time in order for staff to set it up, and the chapel is air conditioned, so wedding party and guests won’t sweat through the ceremony.
8 Dixie St, Port Douglas QLD 4877, Australia, Phone: +61-4-18-45-68-80
7. Kuranda
"Explore a vibrant village, discover markets, wildlife, and rainforest attractions."
The stunning mountain town of Kuranda is located south of Port Douglas, and is accessible by about an hour’s drive, or by scenic railway from Cairns. Kuranda is surrounded by lush green rainforest on all sides, much of which is accessible for walking and exploring. Visitors will find colorful parrots nestled in the branches of the fig trees, flocks of butterflies around the tropical flowers, and koalas munching on eucalyptus. Kuranda attractions include the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, and the Kuranda Koala Gardens, where guests can meet and cuddle with these iconic Australian creatures.
8. Port Douglas Market
Among my top 10:
"Shop for handmade goods, enjoy fresh produce and local treats."
Every Sunday from 8am to 2pm, near Aznec Park in Port Douglas, the Port Douglas Market opens for business on the Wharf. This seaside market is a Port Douglas classic, and it’s a great opportunity to find some unique goods and gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Local artisans and vendors sell handmade jewelry and crafts, antiques, vintage clothing, books, fresh-brewed coffee, handmade baked goods, locally grown produce, and so much more. The shopping experience itself is worth going for, as the market is held beneath the shade of tall, swaying palm trees, and well in reach of the refreshing breeze from the ocean.
LOT 81 Wharf St, Port Douglas QLD 4877, Australia
Where to Eat in Port Douglas
- Salsa Bar & Grill – Popular for modern Australian cuisine with tropical flavors and a lively atmosphere.
- Hemingway’s Brewery – Waterfront craft brewery offering casual bites and locally brewed beers.
- Watergate Restaurant & Lounge Bar – Fine dining in a lush tropical courtyard, specializing in local seafood and contemporary dishes.
If you are interested in local events:
- Port Douglas Carnivale (May) – A multi-day festival celebrating food, music, and local culture with parades, markets, and live entertainment.
- Great Barrier Reef Marathon Festival (October) – Run scenic coastal routes while supporting reef conservation.
- Sunday Markets (weekly) – Browse artisan goods, fresh produce, and tropical crafts at Anzac Park every Sunday morning.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Port Douglas:
- Mossman Gorge (20 min) – Explore rainforest trails and cool off in freshwater streams and rock pools.
- Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation (45–60 min) – Experience one of the world’s oldest rainforests and where the reef meets the rainforest.
- Low Isles (30 min by boat) – Take a day trip to this small coral cay for snorkeling and turtle spotting.
- Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail (1 hour to Cairns) – Ride through rainforest mountains and visit the artisan village of Kuranda.
- Palm Cove (40–45 min) – Relax at a chic beach village known for its palm-lined esplanade and boutique shops.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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Where is Port Douglas located?
- Located on the northeast coast of Australia, Port Douglas is a place that is well-known for a couple of reasons.
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Why is Port Douglas a popular travel destination?
- First and foremost, it’s a major destination for people looking to explore the Great Barrier Reef, which is the largest coral system in the entire world and is located just offshore.
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What natural attractions can visitors enjoy in Port Douglas?
- Port Douglas is home to Four Mile Beach, which is gorgeous and popular with kite surfers, and Daintree Rainforest, which hosts diverse wildlife and plenty of hiking and exploration opportunities.
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What is the climate like in Port Douglas?
- Port Douglas has a beautiful tropical climate and is a wonderful destination year-round, though visitors should be aware of the monsoon season from November to April, which is hot and humid.
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