Port Douglas is a popular coastal town in Queensland's north and has long been a favourite holiday destination thanks to its wonderful warm weather, relaxed tropical atmosphere and stunning natural beauty. Just a short drive north of Cairns, there are a fantastic range of things to do in Port Douglas including exploring the amazing Daintree Rainforest and the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef. Read on to discover the top 10 things to do in beautiful Port Douglas
Great Barrier Reef: Located off the east coast of Port Douglas, this is a must see wonder of the world home to 1,500 species of marine life and more than 400 species of coral. There are a wide range of tours available including boating, snorkelling or scuba diving where you might spot sea turtles, manta rays or dolphins and will definitely meet the resident tropical fish.
Daintree National Park: Holding the title as the Australia's largest tropical rainforest, the Daintree National Park has more species of flora and fauna than anywhere else of earth. There are a great range of tours available departing from Port Douglas. For an authentic cultural experience you can choose to be guided by native aboriginal people who teach you survival skills, trek you through mangrove mud and even allow you to catch your own dinner.
Four Mile Beach: One of north Queensland's most famous beaches, the shady palm trees, soft wide sand, brilliant blue waters and interesting mangroves create a postcard perfect landscape. Families in particular will enjoy the beach thanks to calm conditions except during winter when stronger trade winds make it popular with kite surfers.
Flagstaff Hill: Surrounded by water on three sides, the best views of Port Douglas are found at the Flagstaff Hill Lookout where breathtaking panoramas of the region await you. Accessible by car, the gentle incline also offers an enjoyable stroll.
Port Douglas Marina: Located on Dickson Inlet in Port Douglas's west, the marina is the launch point for reef tours and also boasts a lifestyle destination home to plenty of waterside dining options and a shopping arcade.
Downtown Port Douglas: A hub of Port Douglas Macrossan St is the main street and is home to a range of renowned art galleries, shops and casual dining venues. The nearby Sunday markets are also a must-do attraction of Port Douglas.
Estuary Cruises: A fantastic way to gain an insight into Port Douglas' fascinating mangrove system, these classic riverboats take you through dense swamps where you'll spot water birds such as egrets and herons as well as the resident saltwater crocodiles.
Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park: Immerse yourself in the traditional aboriginal culture of the native Tjapukai people through music, dance and storytelling. The oldest living culture in the world is brought to life with performances and interactive activities including boomerang throwing, didgeridoo playing, face painting and more.
Bally Hooley Steam Railway: Over 100 years old, this historic railway line up the Mowbray Valley uses 55 year old coal-fired steam locomotives to take visitors from The Reef Marina station in Port Douglas to St Crispins Station, taking in mangroves and the St Crispins tidal lake resident crocodiles as well as a couple of resorts, the Sheraton Country Club and the Mirage Golf Course.
Flames of the Forest: A unique dinner date giving you the opportunity to dine in the rainforest. Bookings are essential.
Special Events:
Port Douglas Carnivale in May