Port Douglas, Australia
There’s something truly special about Port Douglas — that perfect blend of tropical relaxation and adventure that makes you want to stay “just one more day.” During our short stay here, we soaked up every moment, from lazy beach mornings to exploring the natural wonders right on our doorstep.
Located just an hour north of Cairns along one of Australia’s most scenic coastal drives, Port Douglas feels worlds away from the bustle. The palm-fringed streets, boutique shops, and welcoming café culture make it easy to slip into holiday mode.
Our days started with gentle strolls along Four Mile Beach, where soft golden sands stretch as far as the eye can see. The water is warm and calm, perfect for a morning dip or paddleboard session. In town, we wandered through Macrossan Street, stopping at local boutiques, ice cream shops, and relaxed restaurants serving fresh seafood and tropical cocktails.
Of course, no trip to Port Douglas is complete without exploring the nearby natural treasures. We joined a Great Barrier Reef tour — an unforgettable day swimming and snorkelling among vibrant coral gardens and colourful marine life. Then, we ventured into the Daintree Rainforest, the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, where lush greenery, winding boardwalks, and the sounds of nature surrounded us.
Evenings were all about sunsets — whether watching from the Sugar Wharf or dining al fresco at one of the waterfront restaurants. The atmosphere here is laid-back yet luxurious, perfect for families, couples, or anyone in need of a little tropical bliss.
Port Douglas really is the gateway to two UNESCO World Heritage sites — the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest — but it’s also a destination that stands beautifully on its own. With its natural beauty, friendly charm, and relaxed vibe, it’s easy to see why visitors return again and again.
If you’re planning a North Queensland getaway, make sure Port Douglas is on your list. You’ll fall in love with its coastal magic — just as we did.
2025-01
25 things to do in Port Douglas:
Explore the Great Barrier Reef on a snorkeling or diving tour
Visit the Daintree Rainforest for guided walks and wildlife spotting
Relax at Four Mile Beach
Take a wildlife cruise on the Daintree River
Discover Mossman Gorge and its walking trails
Go on a reef fishing charter
Enjoy a sunset at Flagstaff Hill Lookout
Visit the Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas
Take a helicopter ride over the reef
Explore Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary
Experience a Kuranda Scenic Railway tour
Go kayaking or paddleboarding on the Coral Sea
Take a crocodile-spotting river tour
Enjoy local markets at Sunday’s Port Douglas Market
Take a four-wheel-drive adventure in Cape Tribulation
Dine at waterfront restaurants in Macrossan Street
Go birdwatching in the Daintree Rainforest
Take a guided night walk to spot nocturnal wildlife
Visit Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures
Relax at Ngarru Gallery for Indigenous art
Explore Tropical Fruit Farm tours
Go scenic hot air ballooning over the Atherton Tablelands
Take a glass-bottom boat tour of the reef
Attend a local cooking class for tropical cuisine
Go swimming at remote rainforest swimming holes