In short, there really is no shortage of things to do – we could go on and on about it, but here are a few of the highlights.
Things to do in Port Douglas
Visit the Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system and can be explored by snorkelling or scuba diving. You’ll have the opportunity to experience a variety of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles and even whales!
A visit to Port Douglas wouldn’t be complete without visiting this natural wonderland.
Go on a Rainforest Tour
The Daintree Rainforest is the largest continuous area of tropical rainforest in Australia. It’s also home to some of the most diverse wildlife in the world, including over 1,500 species of birds and some 400 species of plants. To get a closer look at these impressive numbers and see what makes this place so special, take a guided tour through the forest with one of Port Douglas’ many local operators. You’ll learn about its lush vegetation, diverse wildlife and breathtaking views on your way through this natural wonderland!
Take a Cruise
- Cruise along the coast of Port Douglas and explore the nearby islands, reefs and beaches.
- Take a day trip to Magnetic Island, located just off Port Douglas’ doorstep.
Explore the Town
If you’re looking for things to do in Port Douglas, Queensland, there is no better way to get acquainted with the town than by exploring it on foot. The town itself is small enough that walking around will take no more than an hour or two, but there are plenty of shops and restaurants along the way that make it worth your while.
If you’re looking for a place to start, head over to The Esplanade where you’ll find many shops selling souvenirs and gifts as well as restaurants serving up local favourites like fresh seafood and tropical fruit smoothies (a must-try!). From here, continue down towards Four Mile Beach where there are even more places for shopping or dining–or just relaxing on one of their colourful beach chairs!
Visit the Wildlife Park
- Visit the Wildlife Habitat and get up close and personal with some of Australia’s native animals.
- Learn about Australia’s unique wildlife by watching a show at the Crocodile Adventures Amphitheatre, where you can see crocodiles jump out of the water and feed them from your seat!
- See koalas in their natural habitat at Koala Gardens, where you can also learn about other Australian animals such as kangaroos and dingoes (wild dogs).
Relax at the Beach
- Take in the stunning views
- Relax on the sand
- Enjoy a swim or snorkel
Take a Hike
If you’re looking for a way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise at the same time, then hiking is an excellent choice. There are many trails in Port Douglas that will show you some of the most beautiful landscapes Australia has to offer. One such trail is called “The Valley of Lagoons,” which takes hikers through rainforests and along waterfalls before ending at a beachfront location where they can swim or snorkel. This hike will take about two hours and is rated as a moderate difficulty by TripAdvisor reviewers:
Go Fishing
If you’re looking for a way to relax and unwind, fishing is the perfect activity. You can head out on a boat or take advantage of one of the many private piers in Port Douglas. There are plenty of fish to catch off the coast, including barramundi, mackerel and trevally.
Enjoy the Nightlife
When it comes to nightlife, Port Douglas has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a quiet drink with friends or want to dance the night away, there are plenty of options available.
There are many bars and clubs in Port Douglas that cater to all tastes. You can enjoy live music at places like The Backyard Bar and Grill or get your groove on at Club Tropicana. If you’re looking for something more intimate, try out one of the many restaurants that offer live jazz performances throughout dinner service!
Take a Day Trip
If you have the time, it’s worth taking a day trip to nearby towns such as Cairns, Mossman and Cape Tribulation. You’ll be able to experience some unique experiences that are not available in Port Douglas itself.
If you’re flying into Cairns Airport, getting to Port Douglas is a breeze. Here are a few options for transportation:
Getting Around
Shuttle Bus
One of the most convenient ways to get from Cairns Airport to Port Douglas is by taking a shuttle bus. These shuttle buses run regularly and can take you directly to your accommodation in Port Douglas. The journey takes about an hour and prices vary depending on the company and your destination.
Car Rental
If you prefer to have your own vehicle to explore the region, renting a car is a great option. Several car rental companies operate at Cairns Airport, including Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Thrifty. The drive to Port Douglas from Cairns Airport takes around an hour and is relatively straightforward, with the main highway being well-signposted.
Private Transfer
If you’re looking for a more comfortable and personalized option, you can book a private transfer from Cairns Airport to Port Douglas. Several companies offer this service. These companies provide a range of vehicles from luxury sedans to minibuses and can accommodate individuals or groups of any size.
