Explorer Essentials

While Port Douglas is renowned as an idyllic location to soak up the reef and rainforest, it's also a great launch pad for day tripping the diversity of the tropics. Within a short drive you can find yourself in the middle of the most ancient rainforest on earth, stumbling upon freshwater swimming holes, or initiating that 4WD capability off the beaten track. Itching to explore? Here are five of the best self-drive day trips from Port Douglas (and what to look out for along the way). Fasten your seat belts and enjoy the ride!

1. COASTAL CRAWL

Thala Beach Nature Reserve Coconut Plantation

Image credit: @tropicalnorthqueensland

There are plenty of small townships along the Great Barrier Reef Drive from Cairns to Port Douglas well worth stopping into. Wangetti is the home of Hartley's Crocodile Adventures, and also Wangetti Beach for a beach stroll. Get your Instagram ready for Oak Beach, home of Thala Beach Nature Reserve – the most photographed coconut plantation in the country! Cooya Beach, Newell Beach and Wonga Beach round out the hamlets of coastal communities that are small in size but large in charm and character. Pack your fishing rods.

2. MOSSMAN

Rainforest relaxation in Mossman

@silkyoakslodge

Mossman is a picture-perfect little township nestled at the foot of the mountains among green fields of sugar cane with country stores and historic pubs to explore. Only 10 minutes from Port Douglas, this friendly town is also home to the Mossman Gorge where crystal-clear waters tumble over ancient granite boulders, and the Kuku Yalanji people happily share their stories and legends through Dreamtime walks and tours.

3. DAINTREE VILLAGE

The Daintree Village is a quirky little town, originally a settlement created in the 1870s as a base for timber-cutters who came to log the red cedar which once flourished in the area. These days, the Village is an unspoilt oasis in the midst of breathtaking scenery and is a great place to spot a croc, stop for a cracking burger and feel the tranquillity.

4. CAPE TRIBULATION

Once across the mighty Daintree River, the wide open spaces all but disappear, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by an ancient rainforest canopy. From the north shore of the Daintree ferry crossing, the road kicks on for another 35km past the Alexandra Lookout to Cape Tribulation. Cape Trib is a worthy spot to stop, the picturesque location where the rainforest kisses the reef.

5. BLOOMFIELD AND BEYOND

Rugged Rainforest exploring along the Bloomfield Track

Image credit: Tourism & Events Queensland

The Bloomfield Track is one of the most scenic short 4WD drives in Queensland and a must-do for experienced and aspiring 4WD travellers. The coastal drive to Wujal Wujal on the Bloomfield River and beyond is filled with spectacular views, creek crossings, and secluded beaches. Or for the more experienced, take on the CREB Track - one of the country’s most challenging four-wheeldrive adventures, traversing spectacular World Heritage-listed rainforest and on to Cooktown.