Located 70 kilometres north of Cairns in the tropical north of Queensland, Port Douglas has the feel of a small fishing town. It’s best known for its proximity to two spectacular World Heritage Sites: the Great Barrier Reef and the biodiverse rainforests of Daintree National Park.

Things to do

You can’t go to Port Douglas without visiting the phenomenal Great Barrier Reef, with its countless species of corals and fish, as well as turtles, dolphins and sharks. Snorkelling and scuba diving trips are available from Port Douglas, but if you want to stay closer to town, you can go sailing, kite-surfing or unwind on one of the pristine beaches.

The other big attraction in Port Douglas is the ancient Daintree Rainforest. Take a river cruise to spot crocodiles or zipline through the jungle canopy. For a more relaxing experience, visit one of the high-quality spas for a massage, aromatherapy session or indulgent beauty treatments.

Port Douglas itself has plenty to keep you entertained. Macrossan Street is filled with boutique shops and dining opportunities, while the Sunday morning market at Anzac Park is worth a browse for local produce and crafts. There is a small museum in the old courthouse and charming architecture found throughout the city, such as the wooden church of St. Mary’s by the Sea.

Getting around

Most travellers fly into Cairns airport.From here it’s a little over an hour’s drive along the Captain Cook Highway into Port Douglas. It’s possible to hire a car at the airport and there are regular bus services between the two towns. Port Douglas is compact and easy to walk or cycle around, and there are also several bus routes around town.