Welcome to Port Douglas and the Daintree, the traditional country of the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people, custodians of this region. We pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging, acknowledge these First Australians, and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and relationship with this land
It might be the warmth of the sun gently touching your skin, or that familiar sweet scent of the tropical air. Your shoulders loosen a little, your breathing slows down, and shoes are but a distant memory as you feel the sand between your toes. The allure of Queensland's Port Douglas and the Daintree region is simply intoxicating
Rainforests, reefs, ancient culture, tantalising tropical foods and outback adventures – welcome to paradise
As the world's first destination to achieve Ecotourism Australia's Eco Destination Certification, Port Douglas and the Daintree are here to make sustainable travel easy
We've been at the green game for a long time here - the bulldozers were literally stopped in their tracks in 1984 when protestors chained themselves to trees during the Daintree Blockade. While the road between Cape Tribulation and Bloomfield ultimately went ahead, the efforts of the protestors were what led to the region becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. In 2019, the region was awarded Australia's first Eco Australia ECO Destination certification.
Port Douglas Daintree has since been consistently recognised as one of the Top 100 Most Sustainable Destinations in the world by the Global Green Group since 2018. With two incredible natural assets and 80% of the region being protected under World Heritage listing, the centre of everything we do is about being sustainable across the environment, economy and culture while sharing inspirational experiences
Discover Paradise is a special publication of Tourism Port Douglas Daintree with support from Tourism Tropical North Queensland and Cairns Airport. Images courtesy of Tourism Port Douglas Daintree and their members, Tourism & Events Queensland and Tourism Tropical North Queensland
Port Douglas is a place that will charm you with its quintessentially Queensland energy, and a place that takes relaxation very seriously. The jewel in the crown between the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, Port Douglas is a lively seaside village that breathes the essence of barefoot sophistication. Averaging 26 degrees year-round, Port Douglas and the Daintree is the ideal mix of laid-back sophistication and dramatic natural beauty
Whether you're adrenaline-hunting adventurers, amorous honeymooners, on a family getaway, or a cheeky weekender, Port Douglas ticks all the boxes.
Whilst swanning poolside is pretty good, there's nothing like an adventure to get your spirits soaring. Hikes, trails, and waterfalls by the dozen, river drifting, island SUP-ing, mountain biking or greeting the sunrise atop a giant rock? We've got that. Explore ancient rainforests, conquer those hiking goals and be rewarded with epic ocean views while you deep dive the coral gardens of the Great Barrier Reef – the options for you to get adventurous are endless
Welcome to your holiday. In a town where flashy and fun are found in equal amounts, Port Douglas has something for everyone. From luxe-living villas to budget backpacking options, private homes and resorts that deserve their own postcode, you'll have no trouble finding a suitable place to rest your weary, adventuring head Wherever you stay, we'll bet you'll want to stay that little bit longer
With more deliciousness and local provenance in Port Douglas than you can shake a sugar cane stick at, food lovers will rejoice with all the choices. Locals and visitors are blessed with its share of more award-winning eateries than most other places. Our stellar line up of restaurants, bars and cafes offering local tropical produce and killer cocktails makes Port Douglas internationally renowned Whether you are seeking a seat at a place popular with locals or finding the perfect spot for sundowners, the choices are everywhere. Across the Douglas Shire, you will love the line-up of gorgeous venues.
Cue the whale music, rainforest sounds, and pan flutes –relaxing and Port Douglas are basically the same thing. While leisurely walks on the beach or in the rainforest are excellent bliss-out activities, there's a lot to be said about deep tissue massages, vichy showers, hot stone therapies, seaweed wraps and coconut coffee scrubs. If you do prefer something a little more at-one-with-MotherNature, a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Mossman Gorge is something your soul will thank you for
With its cerulean waters, golden shores and hardly a hint of civilisation in sight from the sand, the beaches of Port Douglas and Cape Tribulation are among Australia's most beautiful and pristine. From the popular Four Mile Beach to the more secluded spots Oak, Newell, Myall, Pretty, Cow Bay and Cape Tribulation, as well as the island delights of Low Isles and Mackay Cay, it's not a holiday without the sun and salty air kissing your skin whilst strolling along coconut palm-fringed coastlines. Fire up the Instagram!
Celebrating everything from food, sports, adventure, arts and culture, plan your trip around an event to truly experience what the Port Douglas and Daintree region has to offer.
PORT DOUGLAS CARNIVALE
24-26 May 2024
Watch Port Douglas transform from a relaxed beachside beauty to a stage set for Carnivale. Be sure to check out the highly acclaimed Wonderland Spiegeltent, Tropic Rock Concert, Family Beach Day and foodie events such as The Longest Lunch, FNQ Gin Fest and Seafood Extravaganza
TASTE PORT DOUGLAS
8-11 August 2024
Be inspired by exceptional cooking and unforgettable dining experiences, learn from some of the industry's most talented experts and discover the region's finest foods and beverages.
PORT DOUGLAS GRAN FONDO
6-8 September 2024
This three-day festival features 136km, 100km, 60km and 48km courses along the Great Barrier Reef Drive as well as a criterium, MTB race, sprint, family ride, expo and live music.
PORT SHORTS FILM FESTIVAL
October 2024
Screening outdoors at idyllic Rex Smeal Park, enjoy the short films of Australia's most accomplished film exponents, who share their knowledge with emerging filmmakers.
PORT DOUGLAS MARLIN CHALLENGE
20-23 November 2024
Aptly named, the Marlin Coast is one of the world's best marlin fishing spots, luring anglers from near and far to Port Douglas, all with the anticipation of being the one to catch the 1 000lbs fish.
SURVIVOR GOLF SERIES FINALE
8 December 2024
The Survivor Golf Series is a 2-person Ambrose golf tournament held across Australia. Each year the lucky winning team from the qualifying events, score their place in the grand final at Palmer Sea Reef in Port Douglas
How does an ancient rainforest fringed by 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. Flanked by reef, enveloped by rainforest, Cape Trib is home to one of the few places on Earth where two World Heritage-Listed areas gently nuzzle each other side by side: the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef
Our advice? Arrive hungry – you're going to want to shoehorn all of the holiday feasting in during your stay. And everyone knows holiday calories don't count. Full of mouth-wateringly good restaurants, bars, cafes, roadside stands and market produce, the Port Douglas and Daintree region is literally a stock pot full of delicious adventure.
Mother Nature in all her shimmering, bedazzled glory – the Great Barrier Reef. And the only living thing on the planet that can be seen from outer space! Snorkel, sail, dive or swim the best spots on the Great Barrier Reef with more than 15 tours leaving daily from Port Douglas and Cape Tribulation. Prefer some island time? Check out islands Snapper and Low, or coral cays Mackay and Undine.
Visiting the Mossman Gorge is like getting a giant hug from Mother Nature Discover the wonder and magic of this culturally significant and spellbinding spot that sets the scene for the beginning of the Daintree Rainforest. A lush, tropical location to swim, walk and explore, this beautiful beast is looking good for around 140 million years in the making
Pop on your sunnies, pull the top down and put the music up - this worldclass scenic road is a ribbon that weaves between the rainforest and the Coral Sea for nearly 150 kilometres from Cairns to Cape Tribulation. Green and blue separated by a line of black and white - a glorious welcome to the tropics, and the kind of view you'll want to keep on your screensaver
Your “jungle” adventure starts at the Daintree River Ferry Crossing, which connects the northern Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation with the southern coast. The crossing only takes 10 minutes, and as you approach the bank dense with mangroves with glimpses of the thick rainforest beyond, it feels like you're entering another world!
A scenic coastal drive takes you right through to Cape Tribulation and beyond. Along this amazing road stop for the chance to experience the rainforest from the floor to the upper reaches of the canopy with intriguing interpretive information. When in Cape Tribulation you can glide on a zip line while you absorb the beauty of the rainforest from above or get out to snorkel onto the nearby Great Barrier Reef
Dense tropical rainforest, golden sandy beaches and the Great Barrier Reef on its doorstep– welcome to the Daintree, a land of striking diversity. At 135 million years old, this magical place is where two UNESCO World Heritage -Listed areas meet: the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.
EXPLORE
Hike through the tropical greenery, from short walks to more adventurous mountainous treks that offer waterfalls and pristine mountain streams. Stroll one of the many boardwalks that guide you through different ecosystems including mangroves, the hidden lungs of the earth.
RESTORE
Being in a remote location, doesn't mean sacrificing comfort or luxury. Retreat to your boutique accommodation after a day exploring, or if you prefer the great outdoors, there are national park or beachfront camping options. Don't miss out on additional offerings such as private walks, bird watching tours, spa treatments and swimming holes.
RIVER WILD
The Daintree River is home to a cornucopia of tropical life and is best discovered by boat. Apex predator, the saltwater crocodile, can be found sunning on sandbars or stealthily swimming through the water and check the trees for stunning azure kingfishers. A cruise on the Daintree River will offer a new perspective on this ancient ecosystem and is a haven for birdwatchers.
From snorkelling the shallows of Low Isles to diving the outer Great Barrier Reef, the options for exploring this living wonder of the world are endless. Find the right option for you, no matter what your experience, with this helpful guide.
Want to see the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, but prefer to just float along the surface? The rich coral gardens and diversity of marine life found here ensure there is plenty to be seen with just a snorkel and fins.
From Port Douglas, companies with expert guides offer fullday experiences to the Outer Reef. Seeking a half-day on the reef with a visit to Low Isles, you also have many choices.
Diving the Great Barrier Reef you enter a magical world. If you are new to diving or someone who cannot get enough of the sheer beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, there is a tour company for you. Spoilt for nearby dive choices, places include Agincourt, Opal and St Crispin's reefs, and for the more experienced divers, head to The Nursery, Barracuda Bommie or Point Break.
A day on a pontoon is a great way to see the reef both in and out of the water. You can see under the sea in the semi-submersible and underwater observatory from the comfort of a dry seat. There are also a number of snorkelling options for swimmers of all abilities, perfect for groups and extended families
Take to the sky soaring in a helicopter over the reef to admire both its beauty and its vastness. You will see the blue hues from above and gain a new appreciation for the enormity of the world's largest reef system
Both can be done without compromising on the experience. From Cape Tribulation you will be in the water in just over 30 minutes for a half-day adventure spotting turtles and 'Nemos' while highly experienced companies operating from Port Douglas offer exclusive, individual reef experiences. Alternatively, charter a private yacht to indulge in the experience of a lifetime and at your own pace
and cultures
thrive in these remote and regional communities through immersive experiences that include art classes, Dreamtime storytelling, hunting for and eating bush tucker, and visiting culturally important sites
Join traditional guides as they lead Ngadiku (Nar-di-gul) – the stories and legends from a long time ago in the traditional language. Starting at the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre, guests are welcomed by a traditional smoking ceremony to cleanse and ward off bad spirits, followed then by a gentle walk through the ancient rainforest of the World Heritage listed Daintree and finishing with traditional medicinal and nutritional plant use, and damper and bush tea.
This is a cultural immersion journey like no other. Taking you from coast to rainforest, the Kuku Yalanji people (traditional owners of the Port Douglas Daintree region) welcome you to their lands. Learn traditional hunting and gathering skills as you're shown first hand how to search for a bush tucker of mud crabs, fish and mussels before tasting and sharing the day's bounty
Explore Indigenous art galleries, taking your time to not only enjoy the wonderment of paintings with their storytelling of country and ancient culture, but you can also invest to support local artists Visiting a gallery, offers the chance for visitors to further understand and connect with the culture of Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people, and also with that of other First Nations people from across Northern Queensland
Port Douglas and the Daintree is nature’s playground, the ultimate spot for a family getaway. A week is perfect to explore all sides while taking it at an easy pace. So, pack the sunscreen and a sense of adventure and rack up those gold stars for the best family holiday ever.
Kick off with a wander down to Four Mile Beach to explore the shallow rock pools or take a dip in the warm waters, just be sure to swim between the flags Macrossan Street is the main shopping strip to scope out places to eat, and grab a scoop from an ice creamery enroute to Rex Smeal Park with its enormous fig tree and palm-fringed outlook over the Coral Sea.
Kids are often up with the birds, so why not breakfast with them? Experience wildlife in a place where you can also enjoy pastries and tropical fruits while meeting locals like lorikeets, parrots and curlews. 'Walk the Plank' over crocodile-filled waters, hand feed kangaroos and wallabies, spot a cassowary up close, and cuddle a koala. Settle into the holiday vibe with an afternoon by the pool, basking in the tropical surrounds
No matter your age or swimming ability, there's a familyfriendly Great Barrier Reef experience for everyone. An experience from a pontoon or vessel on the Great Barrier Reef for families offers a range of cool activities including snorkelling, fish feeding and semi-submersibles or glass bottom boats providing excellent opportunities for spotting tropical fish. If your kids are really young, Low Isles is the perfect intro to the reef with a calm beach to play on.
It's a short trip from Port Douglas you can watch a crocodile feeding show, and wander the boardwalks amongst a vast array of Australian wildlife. End the day on a cruise along the Dickson Inlet where you'll spot crocodiles lurking or sunning themselves on the banks
Mossman Gorge is an area of huge spiritual and cultural value to the Kuku Yalanji people. Join a Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk from Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre where guides share their fascinating, ancient knowledge of this area. You can also be guided on a river exploring tour on the Mossman River where you immerse yourself in crystal clear waters surrounded by the life of the rainforest
Head north and cross the mighty Daintree River where you'll be captivated by the immense rainforest and unspoiled beaches. Visit the Daintree Discovery Centre for access to every level of the rainforest; from the forest floor to the uppermost reaches of the canopy. Cool off at Mason's Creek, stopping at a local cafe for a famous jackfruit burger. Wander the boardwalks dotted along the drive to Cape Tribulation.
Make the most of your last day with a visit to the bustling Port Douglas Sunday Market. It's the perfect spot to pick up a final souvenir (and plenty of tasty, sweet treats!). Take in the last of the Port Douglas vibe with a walk up the Flagstaff Hill Walkway, taking in the final views of Four Mile Beach, the Coral Sea, and Cape, planning your next trip back to paradise.
The rainforests and underwater gardens of Port Douglas and the Daintree are the most diverse ecosystems on the planet, home to more unique species of flora and fauna than anywhere else on earth. The most famous locals, the cassowary and the saltwater crocodile, have been loitering around these parts since the dinosaurs roamed.
Those two aside, this region is teeming with extraordinary wildlife unique only to this area. Many of these creatures are either notoriously shy so you'd better have your camera at the ready! Snap tree kangaroos hanging from branches, fish darting in and out of coral, or glorious electric-blue Ulysses butterflies fluttering by. Want to get a little closer? Head to many of the region's wildlife parks or wildlife tour guides to get as up close and personal as you can.
Along with rainforests, cane fields and a world-famous reef, the region is also dubbed the 'Northern food bowl of Australia'. A treasure chest of wild, weird and wonderful flavours, the tropics has an endless bounty of delicious delights designed to whet the appetite and leave you hungry for more. Here's your taste of the tropics
Whether it grows on trees, under the soil, or comes from the sea, you can get it at the farmers markets in Port Douglas and surrounds. The Sunday Port Douglas Markets is a traditional Cotter's market where stalls are all run by the people who make the goods. The Saturday morning Mossman Farmers Markets under the raintrees have an excellent selection of local produce and homemade treats
Whatever you do when you visit Port Douglas, arrive hungry. Food lovers will rejoice with all the choices, the hardest being where to sate your appetite. For a fishing town, Port Douglas does seafood extremely well with a menu of Chef's Hat Award Winning restaurants.
Celebrities travel from around the world to enjoy the great food scene that Port Douglas offers its locals every day with local produce and tropical tastes
If you love to eat and wander and talk and travel, these trips are made for you! Be guided around the region, sampling the tastiest treats the tropics makes. If you prefer to discover deliciousness at your own speed, head to the Daintree Food Trail website and download their map, guiding you through gelato to microgreens, barramundi to breadfruit, chocolate and chorizo Wander and learn, cook, and feast. For a liquid flight, the Brewers and Distillers Trail showcases locally crafted tipples inspired by our unique region.
Port Douglas is apparently the most northern suburb of Melbourne, so it seems fitting that good coffee is basically a religion. With too many places to mention on a page, there are great options which will sort your caffeine hit right out, and while at it double down with an awesome breakky menu so good you'll be there until dinner. Furthermore, we have bakeries with treats including pies that will satiate your hunger with their famous crocodile laksa pie, and other bakeries that will sort that sweet tooth out with brownies the size of your head.
Embrace the sultry air as you step off the plane at Cairns Airport, your private car is awaiting departure. You will be treated to stunning coastal views of lush green mountain ranges and the sparkling, azure blue of the Coral Sea as you weave up the Great Barrier Reef Drive. Check into your luxe villa, spacious resort, or rainforest banyan. Enjoy the quintessential taste of the tropics at one of our many restaurants, celebrating local produce, tropical tastes and skilful chefs. Choosing from an award-winning line of celebrityfilled restaurants is a great way to start your northern culinary adventure
Enjoy the quiet of daybreak with a private yoga class before a tropical breakfast overlooking the sweeping vistas. Set off for the Great Barrier Reef from the Crystalbrook Marina on your luxury yacht and arrive at the so-pretty-it-can't -be-real Mackay Cay, ready to explore the vibrant underwater world teeming with colourful fish and expansive coral gardens
Make the most of your gourmet kitchen with a private chef showcasing local seafood, Tableland beef and locally grown vegetables. Magic Mouthfuls offer an exceptional in house dining experience
A chopper ride to the top of a Jurassic Park-esque waterfall in the Daintree Rainforest is a truly magical experience. Take the afternoon to truly relax in a rainforest spa in the Daintree, where indigenous botanicals harness the rainforest essence
Then for your last night to plan your return visit choose from a range of exquisite, dining experiences offering rainforest canopies, water views or a stunning line up of people watching venues along Macrossan Street
Embrace the day starting with a stunning sunrise along Four Mile Beach before indulging in a gourmet breakfast by the pool Tranquil time poolside is your final indulgence before heading home
There are some places only your feet can take you. Whether you're an expert bushwalker looking for a hamstring-hammering hilltop or a leisurely Sunday stroller, the scenery of the Port Douglas and Daintree walking and hiking trails will tick every box The terrain in this region ranges from tropical lowland boardwalks, dense rainforest hikes, cloud-catching mountain treks, or visually breathtaking coastal walks
That breathtaking view! This 1.3km walking trail wraps itself around the pinnacle point of Port Douglas and provides a link between Four Mile Beach and Rex Smeal Park. Complete with a viewing platform that hovers over the Coral Sea, this walk guarantees magnificent views out towards Low Isles, Snapper Island and the Daintree Rainforest.
Want to feel virtuous after your walk? The historic Bump Track loop is for you. This 12km return track was a crucial link between Port Douglas and the hinterland for settlers and miners during the goldrush. This walk requires a solid level of fitness, as it's a 370m steep incline.
The Mossman Gorge Circuit takes in the natural beauty of the rainforest. The first part of the walk is on an easy elevated boardwalk that follows the river. The 'Rainforest Circuit' is a well-signed track that will get you up close and personal in this spectacular rainforest world.
Elevated boardwalks thread their way through ancient rainforest allowing you to really experience this unspoiled wilderness all while protecting the fragile rainforest environment. There are strategically placed viewing platforms situated around the boardwalks to sit and enjoy the ambience of the rainforest at your leisure
Heading north from Port Douglas, if you look up, you'll see Devil's Thumb (Manjal Jimali), with Mt Sorrow further north again in Cape Tribulation. Both these hikes are for the experienced only – the paths are tough, the rock scrambling and vine pulling will test the best, and although each hike itself is 'only' 10km return, they'll feel like a billion at the end
With its pristine coastline and majestic hills, on a bike you'll see more than you would on foot travelling at an ideal pace to soak in the views of the tropics
Pick up speed as you hurtle through rainforests down the Bump Track on a mountain bike. This track is recognised as a serious MTB trail for experienced riders, but there are also guided tours available for those who want to give it a go
Heading out of town along Port Douglas Road with smooth tarmac and a wide bike path, the ride is a pleasure. Turn off the highway into the Shannonvale area, riding over rolling hills and through creek crossings, cane fields, fruit farms, and green vistas
From Port Douglas, ride through the township of Mossman and under the glorious raintrees. Follow coastal roads for the next 30KM, meandering past roadside fruit stalls and small suburbs Rocky Point, Miallo and Wonga Beach until you join the Daintree River and cruise through to the Daintree Village for scones and jam before the return journey
Fishing has always had a certain romantic allure —casting your cares on the open waters, sipping a cold one, all while playing hooky from the 9-5 grind. If you're an avid angler, you'd already know that Port Douglas is one of the best spots in Far North Queensland to throw a line in. From a catch and release fishing experience for beginners to estuary and creek fishing with barramundi, and reef and game fishing on sections of the Great Barrier Reef, there's plenty of opportunity to catch the biggest dinner you've ever seen.
Head north to Wonga Beach to catch the famous Barramundi! This sustainable fishing experience in tropical saltwater from the pristine Daintree River is waiting for you to try your luck. This is an exciting way to practice your angling, have fun flicking lures and ultimately bring home a delicious dinner. A great experience for the whole family
Get set for an epic day with shared reef fishing charters. Common catches of the reef fishing fleet include mammoth Gold Spot Cods, Chinaman fish, Red Emperors just to name a few – Coral Trout is another beautiful (and delicious) fish you're likely to come across!
The fishing can be just as fierce on inshore reefs and up the estuaries, with the best part being that fish are up close without having to travel to the Outer Reef, giving you more fishing time. Perch, mackerel, coral trout, sweetlip can be found on the inshore reefs, with barra and mangrove jacks in the estuary. Throw the crab pots in for a little extra excitement to your catch.
The best part about inshore reef and estuary fishing is the fish are right there, you don't need to travel to the Outer Reef as you can catch plenty on a half day charter. You only need to go out the front of Port Douglas to get onto perch, mackerel, coral trout, sweetlip, there's more than 40 different species patrolling a small area. Head up the creeks for some big barra lurking around the snags or mangrove jacks in the estuary and throw in some crab pots, the possibilities are endless.
More than 80 per cent of 1000-pound-plus marlin are caught here in the waters off Far North Queensland. It's the Formula 1 of fishing, with the ultimate in big game vessels, the best fishing gear and operators who know where to find the big boys. Marlin tend to be most active in the afternoon, in the mornings you're better off rigging up light tackle to chase wahoo, dolphin fish, tuna and mackerel for some exciting sports fishing
As everyone knows, the honeymoon is the best part of a wedding celebration. The aisle has been walked, the rings exchanged, the dancefloor boogied upon, and everyone grateful your second cousin on your Mum's side wasn't the MC. Port Douglas and surrounds are an absolute goldmine for a romantic honeymoon destination – from secluded islands, to private infinity pools, outdoor adventures, waterfalls and day spas, Port Douglas and Daintree is the perfect spot for that post-wedding recovery.
Grab your significant other for a cheeky couples' rainforest spa date to get those love chemicals a-brewing. Take in those sights, smells and sounds of nature, and relaaaax
… in a helicopter that is. Take in the birds-eye view of where the rainforest meets the reef from high in the sky before landing on a private sand cay for a swim and lunch. Spoiled? Absolutely. And thank you
Take a spiritual, life-enriching walk along the banks of the Mossman Gorge with a local Kuku Yalanji guide learning about local rainforest flora and fauna. Jump into the crystal-clear waters for a swim that will cleanse the soul. A leisurely, long lunch at a restaurant in the rainforest will dial up the romance
Hold hands and make googly eyes as you chase the sunrise on any number of pristine beaches while the tropical sky is painted with the hope and glory of a new day in the north.
Grab a blanket and an ice bucket and settle in to watch the golden hour as the sun sets her final rays of the day over the majestic Daintree Rainforest background at Rex Smeal Park. Cue the swoon.
Holidays offer us a chance to slow down, take pause and reconnect with ourselves, nature and those closest to us. If you are looking for experiences that will stay with you, long after the glow of your sun kissed holiday tan has faded, Port Douglas and Daintree has so much to give.
Travellers are spoilt for choice when it comes to ecofriendly travel operators who put sustainability at the front and centre of everything they do. Look for experiences that give back through monitoring, research, conservation, education and preservation of the natural environment. Think citizen science, turtle encounters on the Great Barrier Reef, carbon offset, cultural tours and rainforest experiences to enrich your soul
Immerse yourself in the oldest tropical rainforest on Earth, where hugging trees is encouraged. North of the Daintree River, self-guided walks will offer jawdropping views that make your spirit soar
Discover secret swimming holes as you climb to the top of Mowbray Falls along the Bump Track, navigate the stunning rainforest circuit track at Mossman Gorge, or walk amongst the lush fig tree canopy along the Flagstaff Hill Walking Trail
Start your day with yoga on Four Mile Beach or Rex Smeal Park, where classes will quieten your mind and leave you energised, refreshed and ready for a day of exploring. Stargaze at a nature reserve, where the location is free from light pollution, affording the best views of the Southern night sky. If relaxing by the fire is more your thing, watch the moon rise over the ocean as evening sets in with a beach bonfire in Cape Tribulation before turning into the sounds of the rainforest and water lapping the beach just metres away
Port Douglas is a central launch pad for day tripping the diversity of the tropics. Within a short drive, you can find yourself immersed in the oldest living rainforest on Earth, admiring the endless greenery, waterfalls and rivers, or beginning that off-the-beaten-track 4WD adventure. Here are five of the finest self-drive day trips from Port Douglas
The route from Port Douglas south is one of the most revered coastal drives in the world. Every turn will leave you taking in the incredible views, calm beaches and rainforest mountains reaching right down to the shoreline. There's plenty of places to stop on the Great Barrier Reef Drive and take it all in. Take a breather at Rex Lookout for sweeping sea views and the occasional hang glider and spend time at Oak Beach for an Instagram perfect shot. Make a stop at Pebbly Beach at Yule Point and visit famous crocodile and wildlife experiences at Wangetti
Just north of Port Douglas is Mossman, the sugar cane capital of the region replete with country stores, and historic pubs along the wide tree lined main street. Just west of town is Mossman Gorge – a serene mix of azure water tumbling between huge rocks, carving its way through dense rainforest. There is a visitor information centre run by the Kuku Yalanji people who share stories of the land and people through Dreamtime walks. You can also explore this special spot independently on a series of paths, including an elevated route with interpretive signage.
Originally a timber town, Daintree Village is now a quiet tourism, agriculture and tropical fruit farming centre. It's a departure point for wilderness river tours plus the village itself is highly regarded for bird watching and a delicious crocodile burger. Stop for a Devonshire tea and soak up the serenity
Cape Tribulation or Kulki (in Kuku Yalanji language) is a place of fringing reefs, rare and beautiful animals including the Southern Cassowary and ancient plant life. Enveloped by rainforest, after crossing the Daintree River on the cable ferry, breakouts include a tea plantation, Alexandra Range Lookout, boardwalks, ice creameries, tropical fruit farms, cafes, and side trips to the various beaches that run along the coastline as you head north.
Ticking off the Bloomfield Track is on the bucket list for most fourwheel drivers. This short, sharp journey has steep inclines and creek crossings. The starting point of this 30km track is Cape Tribulation, before ending at Wujal Wujal. Those with extra time, can complete the 100km journey on to Cooktown. Swimming holes, beautiful lookouts and beaches line the route, also known as the Coast Road. For the more experienced, check out the CREB Track, a rough and ready alternative to the Bloomfield starting in Daintree Village
Just because it's beachside, it doesn't mean shopping gets left behind. With everything from chic resort wear, on-trend Australian and European labels, exquisite, handcrafted jewellery, kitsch homewares or a forever-reminder Aboriginal artwork, Port Douglas is a shopping utopia. Weekend markets in Port Douglas and Mossman add to the experience with unique and handcrafted goodies found only in this northern corner of paradise. Your credit card can thank us later (or not…).
