ESSENTIALS BUCKET LIST

Port Douglas and Daintree is one of Australia's most sought-after destinations thanks to its incredible natural wonders, world-class diving and snorkelling, luxurious resorts and its place as the home of the Kuku Yalanji people, the oldest living culture on Earth. There is no better time than now to tick off those must do bucket list items and venture north.

1. SEE WHERE THE RAINFOREST MEETS THE REEF

How does an ancient rainforest touched by calm tropical beaches and crystal-clear waters sound for your next adventure? Disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with nature when you explore the breathtaking Cape Tribulation – home to one of the few places on Earth where two World Heritage-Listed sites touch side by side: the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef

2. EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH THE TROPICS

Our advice? Arrive hungry. Foodies are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining options in Port Douglas and Daintree, all dedicated to showcasing local tropical produce and championing the mantra of low food miles. You won't have to walk far to find mouth-wateringly good restaurants, bars, cafes, roadside stalls and market produce.

3. DISCOVER WHY IT IS CALLED GREAT

The Great Barrier Reef is undeniably one of world's most aweinspiring natural wonders. With stunning coral reefs, vibrant marine life and endless adventures to choose from, the reef should be on any nature lover's must do list. Snorkel, sail, dive or swim the best spots with departures leaving daily from Port Douglas and Cape Tribulation. Prefer some island time? Check out islands Snapper and Low, or coral cays Mackay and Undine

4. VISIT THE LAND OF THE WORLD'S OLDEST LIVING CULTURE

Learn about the rich cultural heritage of this land through the storytelling of the Kuku Yalanji people. Start at the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre and see how these ancient rainforest people live in complete harmony with their environment. Immersive experiences include art classes, Dreamtime storytelling, hunting for and eating bush tucker and visiting culturally important sites

5. HIT THE ROAD ON THE GREAT BARRIER REEF DRIVE

Pop on your sunnies, pull the top down and put the music up - this world-class scenic road is a ribbon that weaves between the rainforest and the Coral Sea for nearly 150km from Cairns to Cape Tribulation. Green and blue separated by a line of black and white offers the most the glorious welcome to the tropics, and the kind of views you will want to keep on your screensaver.