This coastal town in Far North Queensland sits between the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. Popular for its Four Mile Beach and reef excursions.
In Port Douglas, you'll swim alongside green sea turtles at the Low Isles, watch saltwater crocodiles slide into the Daintree River, and walk under 500-year-old fan palms in Mossman Gorge. The Queensland town sits between two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. Palm trees line Four Mile Beach's golden sand, while 1880s wooden buildings on Macrossan Street house cafes and art galleries.
Getting to Port Douglas
Port Douglas lies 60 kilometers north of Cairns along a coastal road that winds between mountains and the Coral Sea. You can reach the town by shuttle bus from Cairns Airport, or rent a car to explore the region independently. The drive takes about one hour, with several lookout points along the way.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
The weather splits into two seasons: a dry period from May to September with 25°C days and 18°C nights, and a wet season from January to March with afternoon rain and 85% humidity. June brings clear waters for snorkeling, and you might spot migrating minke whales near the reef.
Great Barrier Reef
From the marina, small boats take you to snorkeling spots, while larger catamarans head to permanent platforms at Agincourt Reef. The Low Isles, 15 kilometers offshore, include a sandy cay and mangrove area where green sea turtles swim in shallow waters. You'll see parrotfish, reef sharks, and giant clams among the coral gardens.
The Daintree Rainforest
The Daintree's plant species date back 135 million years, including blue-green king ferns and primitive flowering plants. At Mossman Gorge, you can walk under towering strangler figs, swim in clear freshwater pools, and join Kuku Yalanji guides to learn about bush foods and traditional plant use. Along the Daintree River, you'll see saltwater crocodiles basking on muddy banks.
Four Mile Beach and Town Life
Four Mile Beach curves north from rocky Flagstaff Hill, with morning walkers and swimmers in the calm waters. No buildings interrupt the beach views, and even in peak season you'll share the four-kilometer stretch with only 50-100 people. On Macrossan Street, 1880s wooden buildings contain coffee shops, art galleries, and stores selling local opals and pearls.
Native Animals
At Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas, you can spot Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos in the rainforest canopy and watch cassowaries foraging on forest fruits. During river tours, crocodiles often slide from sunny banks into the water. Between May and September, humpback whales breach and splash offshore during their annual migration.
Local Events
The Port Douglas Carnivale fills streets with food stalls and parade floats each May, drawing over 10,000 visitors. Runners in the October Great Barrier Reef Marathon follow coastal trails past lookouts and beaches. Every Sunday from 8am to 2pm, local artisans gather at Anzac Park Markets to sell handmade jewelry, tropical fruits, and fresh produce.
