Port Douglas is blessed with not one but two World Heritage natural wonders on its doorstep. The Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef may be the draw cards, but this seaside town is a hive of cool eateries, resort shopping and must-do activities.
Port Douglas manages to blend coastal village, country town and luxe tourist spot all at once. And that means visitors from all walks of life (and budgets) descend on this natural wonderland all year round.
BEST TIME TO GO TO PORT DOUGLAS
Port Douglas has warm weather, temperate seas and plenty of sunshine. The dry season, from March to October is sunny with low humidity. The wet season, from November to March, is hotter and more humid with tropical downpours in the afternoons. Box jellyfish frequent Port Douglas from November to March, but there are swimming enclosures at the more popular beach spots to keep them at a safe distance.
THINGS TO DO IN PORT DOUGLAS
Daintree Rainforest
Just an hour up the coast is World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest. Covering 12,000 square kilometres there is a whole lot of exploring to do. The Daintree Discovery Centre is worth the visit with a canopy walk, rainforest boardwalks and guided tours. Continue on north up to Cape Tribulation.
Take a walk through the rainforest, explore the jungle, learn about its rich history or find a secluded waterfall. For the adrenalin junkies, try Jungle Surfing, a 357metre zip line of pure heart beating adventure.
Great Barrier Reef
Pristine water, tropical fish and colourful coral. The best way to enjoy the reef is to get out on it. Dive in with a snorkel, go scuba diving or get a bird’s eye view of the reef with a helicopter flight.
Remember that the reef is sensitive and it’s important to respect the preservation rules. Take one of the many day tours leaving from Port Douglas or Cape Tribulation
.
Mossman Gorge
A visit to Mossman Gorge, 20 kilometres north of Port Douglas, should not be missed. Rainforest, waterfalls, heritage, culture and tradition all in one experience. Take a look into the Kuku Yalangi people’s past with a guided Dreamtime Walk. And to be totally invigorated, take a dip in the oh so fresh water. Now that’s what I call alive
!
BEST FOOD AND DRINK IN PORT DOUGLAS
Best food in Port Douglas
Thanks to the food bowl of nearby Atherton Tablelands, Port Douglas dishes up some incredible local produce. Think organic pork, berries, macadamias, dairy and coffee. Couple this with some exceptional chefs being drawn to the area and you foodies are in for a treat. Renowned local chef Spencer Patrick brings us, wee mortals, some superb fine dining at Harrison’s as well as his relaxed Italian Bucci. Both are popular so you will need to book. Try long-time local Salsa Bar and Grill for “fresh as a baby’s bum” seafood and great waterfront views. Sassi Cuccina e Bar is favoured for its seafood with an Italian twist
Little Larder draws the crowds for good reason. But don’t be put off, they will have you sitting down enjoying your truffled mushrooms before you know it. Great for breakfast, brunch or lunch.
Finding the best coffee in Port Douglas is challenging. There is variety, there are opinions but there are enough options that you might find yourself on a mini coffee crawl without even realizing it.
Die-hard espresso lovers should try Origin Espresso for their locally roasted brew and full flavour coffee. Sparrow Coffee is a popular haunt for a grab and go caffeine fix, that will have you humming for the rest of the day.
Coffee Works hits the jackpot for lovers of both coffee and chocolate. Also try Betty’s Bohemian Beach Café, just off the main strip. It’s relaxed, leafy and the coffee is smooooooth.
SHOPPING IN PORT DOUGLAS
Shopping in Port Douglas is more than just surfy brands, souvenir shops and chain stores. You’ll also find a vibrant mix of funky boutiques, art galleries, jewelry stores, homewares and themed shops. Wander Macrossan Street, just be careful not to get sidetracked by the bars, pubs and cafes.
Take a stroll through the Port Douglas or Mossman markets to find a treasure trove of local specialties, indigenous art and handmade crafts. Chat with the locals, try some exotic tropical fruits and rehydrate with a fresh coconut.
WHERE TO STAY IN PORT DOUGLAS
Accommodation in Port Douglas ranges from beachfront houses and villas to cozy cottages or apartments. This is the place to spoil yourself. Port Douglas does luxe and it does it well. Treat yourself to a luxury holiday house at Search and Stay.
TRAVELLING WITH KIDS
This hip, laid back, resort town has families covered. Family-friendly accommodation, Four Mile Beach, great waterside parks as well as reef and rainforest visits to keep everyone happy. You can even go croc spotting. Take a river cruise into Mangrove Country to see crocs in their natural habitat. Just don’t lean too far out of the boat for a better look. Check out Visit Port Douglas Daintree family friendly tips and remember to book accommodation and must do activities in advance during school holidays.
HISTORY OF PORT DOUGLAS
The Port Douglas area is home to the Kuku-yinanji Aboriginal people. The township was established in 1877 after the discovery of gold in the surrounding area and a nearby port was needed. It was once a wild frontier town filled with wandering seamen and gold prospectors. Port Douglas was almost wiped out by a cyclone in 1911. The town was only partially rebuilt and remained a sleepy, coastal village until major tourism arrived in the 1980’s.
SEARCH AND STAY SECRET TIP
Every Wednesday afternoon the super friendly folk at Port Douglas Yacht Club invite visitors to join them sailing. The best thing? It won’t cost you a brass razoo. Not a thing. It’s absolutely free. You get to mix with the locals and then reward yourself at the waterfront club afterwards. Check out the Port Douglas Yacht Club for more details. Cheers!
It's time to book the perfect Port Douglas holiday accommodation at Search and Stay.
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