Port Douglas is a short one hour drive north of Cairns along one of the most scenic coastal roads in Australia. Home to some of Tropical North Queensland’s most exclusive resorts, golden beaches, award winning restaurants and the world famous “Toad racing” at the local pub there’s plenty of reasons why Port Douglas is one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations.
Life in Port Douglas is a blend of sophistication and relaxed village life, from the moment you arrive you’ll feel that relaxed, tropical oasis vibe that the township is famous for. Macrossan Street is the central hub of this beautiful village, take a stroll and enjoy the variety of world-class restaurants, bars, cafes, boutiques, bookshops and galleries.
The magnificent palm-fringed Four Mile Beach is located at the southern end of Macrossan Street; meanwhile Anzac Park is located at the Inlet end of Macrossan Street where the picturesque St Mary’s by the Sea Chapel is situated, and the weekly Sunday markets are held.
Dining
Explore award-winning restaurants and chic cafes along the Macrossan, Wharf and Grant Street. Here you will find a variety of cuisine types within easy walking distance of your Port Douglas accommodation.
Our top picks are – The Nautilus Restaurant, which is probably the most famous of all Port Douglas restaurants. Offering the ultimate outdoor dining experience, entry is along a secluded pathway from Macrossan Street, which opens into a beautiful lush tropical garden setting with palms overhead. Nautilus is sure to exceed all expectations with five star food and service.
Salsa Bar & Grill is situated in a traditional weatherboard Queenslander with louvered windows that gives you that unique North Queensland holiday environment. The menu features an abundance of flavour and spectacular eye catching dishes, sourcing as much local produce as possible. Salsa is extremely popular with locals and visitors, so it is highly recommended to book in advance.
On The Inlet Seafood Restaurant is situated overlooking Dickson Inlet with sweeping views across the Coral Sea to Cape Tribulation and the Daintree. It’s a great place to enjoy lunch or dinner with an open plan alfresco dining area where you can relax and enjoy a glass of wine or cocktail from the decking. For the true connoisseur of fresh seafood, a live mud crab or crayfish / lobster from the live seafood tank is a must! Also On The Inlet has a resident fish called ‘George the Groper’ who visits regularly in the afternoon at approximately 5pm. George weighs about 250kg and is one of the largest fish that inhabits our waters, his favourite delicacy is a tuna frame and he delights the crowd as he performs his dinner routine most evenings!
Getting to Port Douglas
Most people will arrive at the Domestic or International terminal at Cairns airport. You can choose to transfer to Port Douglas by coach, private limousine or rent a car.
Coach Transfer
Coach transfer is the most economical way to travel which is a a door to door service. Your driver will meet & greet in the arrivals terminal, and transfer you directly to your resort. The trip from Cairns Airport to Port Douglas normally takes around 60 minutes. We recommend Sunpalm Transports, with transfers to your accommodation costing $35 each way for an adult and $17 for a child under 11.
Car Hire
There are a number of car rental options to choose from with the ease and convenience of collecting and returning at the Cairns airport. Self-driving gives you the opportunity to explore the region and all its hidden secrets at your own pace. Give us a call on 1300 788 553 and we can help book you a hire car for your holiday.
Things to do in Port Douglas
Port Douglas is the perfect place to getaway, unwind and relax. Take advantage of the boutique shopping, pamper yourself at one of the day spas, enjoy sunset on Four Mile Beach and casually explore the Sunday markets. Port Douglas can also be a family holiday filled with adventure, reef to rainforest activities and resort fun.
Reef trips depart daily from the Marina Mirage, with sites visited considered to be amongst the best and most pristine along the Great Barrier Reef. Visit the Low Isles on a stunning sailboat or cruise to the outer reef on a luxury yacht. Dive, snorkel, swim, paddle the choice is yours.
Port Douglas is also in a great location for easily accessing the Daintree National Park area. Mossman Gorge is one of the most visited spots in the Wet Tropics, located just a 20 minute drive north of Port Douglas. Croc Spotting at the Daintree River is a popular activity and the beautiful Cape Tribulation area is not to be missed. The Cape Tribulation ferry crossing is an experience in itself!
Weather in Port Douglas
Port Douglas has a tropical climate with hot summers and warm winters. Between the months of November to May our temperatures are warm to hot with high humidity.
The rainfall peaks in the months of Feb, March and April, with the wettest month of the year typically being February. Although it’s wet, it brings relief from the humidity and the rainforests are just spectacular with waterfalls in full flow.
The winter months are what we call “high season”. Generally they’re dry and clear and a popular time for visitors from down South who need a break from the cold.
Does this sound like your type of holiday? If so give us a call on 1300 788 553 for some of the amazing accommodation options available in this stunning part of the world.