Port Douglas began as a quiet mining community and has retained that intimate, small-town feel. However, during peak tourist season, the population of this petite town explodes.
Port Douglas is one of Australia's premier holiday destinations and lies just under 70 kilometres from Cairns. This serene yet picturesque location boasts five-star accommodation and dining with easy access to some of Australia's most popular activities and sights.
Visitors to Port Douglas enjoy extraordinary beaches, world-class snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, outdoor adventure activities and so much more in this town that embraces each and every traveller.
Getting in and around Port Douglas
Cairns Airport
There is no airport in Port Douglas, therefore air travellers to this petite destination often fly into Cairns International Airport. From there, it is only a one-hour drive along the coast to Port Douglas. Cairns International Airport is a major airport with services to many cities throughout the country as well as international flights. You can get to Port Douglas via the very scenic Captain Cook Highway by bus or car.
Port Douglas Transport
Port Douglas is quite small and easily navigated on a bicycle. Bicycles for hire are easily found in Port Douglas and are a very relaxing and charming way to get around town. You can also rent a car if biking doesn't suit you or you want to explore outside the city. There are also shuttle services you can organise for a reasonable price.
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Port Douglas accommodation
Port Douglas is known for its high-class luxury hotels and resorts, of which the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort is one of the most popular. Port Douglas is an ideal destination for those looking to splurge on a luxurious and relaxing holiday, however, travellers on a budget are not going to be priced out of Port Douglas. If you want to experience all the charms of Port Douglas without breaking the bank, there are still plenty of budget friendly and mid-range hotels to choose from.
Luxury
The Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Port Douglas is one of Port Douglas' finest accommodations. Featuring sophisticated décor, expansive lagoons and swim-out rooms, this resort is an extravagance well worth the price.
The Pullman Sea Temple Resort and Spa sets the standard for luxury and style in Port Douglas.The Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas is one of Port Douglas's finest accommodations.
The Sea Temple Resort and Spa sets the standard for luxury and style in Port Douglas.
Mid-range
The Freestyle Resort Port Douglas is situated near beautiful beaches and offers quality one and two-bedroom apartments.
The Shantara Resort and Spa offers luxurious apartments and beautiful surroundings. Mantra Tree Tops The trees are the theme at this unique and cosy establishment in Port Douglas.
The Shantara Resort and Spa offers luxurious apartments and beautiful surroundings.
Budget
The Lazy Lizard Motor Inn is comfortable and affordable and ideal for travellers on a budget.
The Port Douglas Motel is a boutique motel featuring retro décor and is great value for money with friendly service. The Best Western Lazy Lizard Motor Inn is comfortable and affordable and ideal for travellers on a budget.
The Freestyle Resort Port Douglas is situated near beautiful beaches and offers quality and comfortable accommodation at an affordable price.
Backpackers
Dougies Backpackers Resort has a relaxed atmosphere, is budget friendly and ideal for travellers on the go. Dougies Backpackers Resort is basic but budget friendly and ideal for travellers on the go.
Parrotfish Backpackers has everything you need, from laundry facilities, to a swimming pool and a full restaurant and bar.
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Things to do in Port Douglas
As a historically significant town in Australia, there are many museums and historical buildings to explore. For the more thrill-seeking travellers, Port Douglas is an ideal place to visit - from wildlife sanctuaries, to windsurfing, to snorkelling and diving, Port Douglas has an inventory of adventurous things to do.
The Courthouse Museum in Port Douglas is what you might expect: an old historic courthouse building that has been restored into a working museum. It's now one of Port Douglas' main attractions. Walk through the museum and educate yourself on the history of the region.
Port Douglas Wildlife Habitat. With a range of habitats to explore, including Woodland, Nocturnal, Rainforest and Savannah, this wildlife sanctuary is sure to impress. You can swim with crocodiles and have breakfast with the birds.
Four Mile Beach. This world-famous beach is home to extraordinary natural beauty and water sports as well as top-shelf shopping and dining.
Daintree National Park is one of the main attractions in Port Douglas and is a tribute to the natural untouched beauty of Australia. The park contains The Daintree Rainforest, the oldest existing rainforest in the world.
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Day trips in and around Port Douglas
The Great Barrier Reef. You can't go to Port Douglas and not experience the Great Barrier Reef. Numerous tour lines depart from Port Douglas and feature sailing, snorkelling and diving.
Hot Air Ballooning. A hot air balloon tour is a must do when visiting Port Douglas. It's surprisingly affordable, and who wouldn't want to view this beautiful town from the air?
Kuranda Scenic Railway. Take a day and enjoy the beauty of Daintree Rainforest and the surrounding area while you relax on the Kuranda Scenic Railway. This day tour of the area has opportunities to shop, dine and enjoy animal exhibits.
Shannonvale Tropical Fruit Winery. Wine lovers will adore this Port Douglas institution. This family-owned winery offers tastings and intimate tours of the winery with the owners themselves. Almost all the wines at this unique winery are made using fruit other than grapes.
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