Port Douglas

Travel Guide
Photo provided by Tourism Australia
Port Douglas
Port Douglas
Port Douglas
Port Douglas
This former fishing village’s easy access to the Great Barrier Reef is just one of the draws of this famous vacation paradise.

In tropical Port Douglas the unique ecosystem of the Daintree Rainforest meets the biggest barrier reef in the world. This perfect combination makes this laid-back Queensland town popular with visitors from all over the world.

A lush rainforest and a pristine beach lined with waving palm trees are just some of the town’s attractions. The Sunday craft markets, lunches on breezy pub balconies, a tropical zoo, art galleries and boutique stores are other appealing highlights.

Walk or drive to Island Point Lookout for excellent views over Four Mile Beach and beyond. Port Douglas’ environmentally minded residents have always opposed beach development this explains the lack of high-rise buildings, which adds to the area’s appeal. Stroll along the water’s edge and take a dip in the warm ocean tide. In summer, poisonous jellyfish inhabit the Coral Sea, so wear adequate protection or stick to beachcombing.

Book a cruise to explore the Great Barrier Reef. All boats depart from the Marina Mirage. One of the shortest tours available is a cruise to Low Isles, with its historic lighthouse, turtles and sting rays. Most trips take a day and allow you to scuba dive and snorkel along the outer reefs.

On the weekend, head to the Sunday markets at Anzac Park to meet the artistic locals and shop for souvenirs. Come back later for sunset views of the historic Port Douglas Sugar Wharf standing over the Coral Sea.

Port Douglas is full of accommodation options, from hostels and town houses to spa resorts. High season is between November and May, the hottest part of the year. The town is small enough to walk around and buses and taxis can drop you off at major attractions.

The freshwater creek of Mossman Gorge, on the edge of the precious Daintree Rainforest, is just a 20-minute drive away. Rental cars and tours can be booked in town.

Port Douglas is one of Australia’s best vacation destinations if you love sunshine, beaches and snorkeling in the tropics.

Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas
5 out of 5
Port Douglas Road, Port Douglas, QLD
The price is €244 per night from 3 Mar to 4 Mar
€244
includes taxes & fees
3 Mar - 4 Mar
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Port Douglas. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 12 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (924 reviews)
"Staff friendly, beautiful grounds, facilities, pool and delicious breakfast"

Reviewed on 7 Jan 2025

Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas
Silkari Lagoons Port Douglas
Silkari Lagoons Port Douglas
4.5 out of 5
2 Langley Road, Port Douglas, QLD
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is €124 per night from 14 Feb to 15 Feb
€124
includes taxes & fees
14 Feb - 15 Feb
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in Port Douglas. Enjoy free parking, 6 outdoor pools, and an airport shuttle (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,073 reviews)
"Absolutely loved staying here with our kids. We all had the best time from the pools, drinks, location and especially the hospitality from all the staff. We will be back in the new year!"

Reviewed on 30 Jan 2025

Silkari Lagoons Port Douglas
Mantra PortSea
Mantra PortSea
4 out of 5
76 Davidson Street, Port Douglas, QLD
The price is €93 per night from 4 Feb to 5 Feb
€93
includes taxes & fees
4 Feb - 5 Feb
Stay at this 4-star hotel in Port Douglas. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
7.8/10 Good! (836 reviews)
"Everything was lovely!"

Reviewed on 21 Jan 2025

Mantra PortSea
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Silkari Lagoons Port Douglas
Silkari Lagoons Port Douglas
4.5 out of 5
2 Langley Road, Port Douglas, QLD
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in Port Douglas. Enjoy free parking, 6 outdoor pools, and an airport shuttle (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,073 reviews)
"Absolutely loved staying here with our kids. We all had the best time from the pools, drinks, location and especially the hospitality from all the staff. We will be back in the new year!"

Reviewed on 30 Jan 2025

Silkari Lagoons Port Douglas
Shantara Resort Port Douglas - Adults Only Retreat
Shantara Resort Port Douglas - Adults Only Retreat
4.5 out of 5
27-31 Davidson St, Port Douglas, QLD
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in Port Douglas. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (761 reviews)
"Really enjoyed my stay at the Shantara Resort. The Property was lovely and modern. My unit was really comfortable, modern and had a lovely balcony that overlooked the pools. Excellent parking. I would definitely stay the next time i visit"

Reviewed on 23 Jan 2025

Shantara Resort Port Douglas - Adults Only Retreat
Meridian Port Douglas - Adults only
Meridian Port Douglas - Adults only
4.5 out of 5
15-17 Davidson Street, Port Douglas, QLD
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in Port Douglas. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an airport shuttle (surcharge). Popular attractions Macrossan Street ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (380 reviews)
Second to None
"Meridian Port Douglas was a delight of our holiday. The rooms are well presented. Great AC and ceiling fans, comfortable bed. Fantastic swimming pool and staff very informative, friendly and helpful."

Reviewed on 22 Jan 2025

Meridian Port Douglas - Adults only
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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