Port Douglas borders the Great Barrier Reef and offers a view of the Coral Sea. This sweet seaside community boasts palm tree–lined streets and the appropriately named Four Mile Beach. Port Douglas is a hub for those wanting to explore Australia’s natural wonders. Things to do in Port Douglas include cruises to snorkel on the reef, trips to the Daintree Rainforest (the oldest rainforest in the world), and the chance to spot crocodiles in their natural habitat.
The state of Queensland offers stunning spring weather: September and October brings warm, comfortable temperatures that are perfect for things to do like splashing in the sea and wandering through the Daintree Rainforest. This time of year typically has lower humidity and less rain, so you can take full advantage of every day you spend in Port Douglas. It’s also before the summer school holidays, so fewer locals will be traveling.
Port Douglas is a walkable, compact town, but a car can be useful if you’re looking to explore some of the remote hikes or beaches in the region. If you do plan to rent a car, just remember that in Australia you drive on the left side of the street. You’ll also find public buses that operate between many of the main tourist attractions, such as Mossman Gorge and Skyrail Cableway.
For a beloved local tradition, take a morning stroll through the Port Douglas Sunday Market. The market has been running for more than 25 years out of Market Park, which overlooks the sea. All products sold at the market must be locally grown or made, keeping the market feeling truly unique. Pick up tasty treats or souvenirs to take home, and spend a lazy morning people-watching.
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Popular activities in Port Douglas include swimming at the beach, taking boat trips out to the reef for snorkeling or diving, and exploring the rainforest at Mossman Gorge.
...MoreThe best way to spend one day in Port Douglas is to split your day between time relaxing at Four Mile Beach, boutique shopping on Macrossan Street, walking through the rainforest at Mossman Gorge, and unwinding with a drink and some seafood at a restaurant in the town’s center.
...MoreJune is the best month to visit Port Douglas. It not only offers warm, dry weather during Australia’s winter, but it also sits outside of jellyfish season, making it a safer and more pleasant time to go swimming.
...MoreThe tourist center of the Daintree Rainforest is around 37 miles (59 kilometers) from Port Douglas by car. However, Mossman Gorge, which is also part of the Daintree Rainforest, is 14 miles (22 kilometers) away.
...MorePort Douglas offers quicker access to beaches and the Great Barrier Reef compared to Cairns. You’ll also have a shorter trip to the Daintree Rainforest if you stay in Port Douglas. Cairns is a bigger city with better shopping and nightlife and plenty of nature tours leave from the city.
...MoreYes, you can swim at Four Mile Beach in Port Douglas. The beach is patrolled, generally has calm waters, and special swimming enclosures are provided for jellyfish season.
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