Port Douglas is a laid back marina town, home to a variety of fine dining experiences and superb hotels. A former fishing village, this quiet port combines peace and tranquillity with sophistication; therefore holidays to Port Douglas are a great choice for a relaxing holiday.
Getting there
You can reach Port Douglas in a short drive north, just one hour from Cairns. Fly into Cairns International Airport and transfer their by coach, private limousine or rent your own car. The coastal roads are a scenic pleasure to drive along, with gold sand beaches to be spotted and some of Tropical North Queensland’s finest resorts.
The only place where two World Heritage listed sites exist side-by-side - the Great Barrier Reef and the forests of Daintree and Cape Tribulation. If you want to get away from it all, then simply take a trip to the beautiful beach on the opposite side of the marina from which you can head out on day cruises and explore the world famous reef.
Take time to enjoy the stylish restaurants, bars, cafes, boutiques, bookshops and galleries as you stroll along Macrossan Street which is the central point of the village. At the end of Macrossan Street you will find palm-fringed Four Mile Beach, a magnificent point at which to enjoy the sunset. At the other end, Anzac Park is home to St Mary's, a picturesque sea Chapel where markets are held every Sunday.
Things to do in Port Douglas
Families will love Port Douglas holidays, with so much adventure at your fingertips. Have fun with the whole family learning how to dive, snorkel, jet-ski or water ski or go take it easy kayaking to secluded beaches.
The best way to get to the Great Barrier Reef from here is on a cruise and they depart daily from the Marina Mirage. You can also visit the Low Isles on a sailboat; or perhaps spend a few days sailing to the outer reefs on a luxury yacht. The best views have to be from the sky though and you can experience a stunning panorama on a helicopter or sea plane scenic flight.
One of the most popular spots to visit in the Daintree rainforest is Mossman Gorge, which can be reached in just 20 minutes if you drive north from Port Douglas. Tick some activities off your bucket list if you dare and go and spot crocodiles on the Daintree River or explore the beaches of Cape Tribulation by 4WD. If you're feeling particularly brave at heart, take a guided night walk through the jungle. Bring your torch so you can see all the animals, which are at their most active as night falls.
