Thinking of travelling to Port Douglas and want to know the top experiences and things to see during your trip? In this guide, I share the very best things to do in Port Douglas.
Port Douglas is one of the most popular places to visit in North Queensland, and for good reason! Don’t let the town’s laidback tropical vibes fool you. Port Douglas provides bucket list items for adventure seekers. It also offers pure relaxation to visitors who want time to pass a little slower.
We have visited Port Douglas twice and during these trips, we experienced different natural landscapes from the reef to the rainforest.
Not sure where to begin when creating your itinerary? Grab a highlighter as I’m narrowing down the top things I think everyone should experience on a trip to Port Douglas. If you have more time I have also included some great day trips at the end of the article. Continue reading for the full list!
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read the disclaimer for more information.
Featured Image: Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas © Tourism and Events Queensland
Table of Contents
Best Things to Do in Port Douglas
Great Barrier Reef
Snorkel, swim, dive, or keep your feet dry and enjoy your time above the water. Whatever you fancy a trip to the Great Barrier Reef is a bucket-list item for many people. The Great Barrier Reef is a natural underwater wonderland and undoubtedly one of the sights in Far North Queensland that draws people from far and wide.
Extending over 2,300 kilometres along the Queensland coast the biggest living structure on the planet contains a variety of marine life and coral. Port Douglas offers easy access to the reef with the town being one of the closest mainland ports. There are many ways to experience the reef with some operators accessing some of the most pristine sites.
Many companies operate daily to the Outer Reef and Low Isles. The trips can be full or half day adventures and offer something for all age groups. Explore the many coral gardens and witness familiar and possibly new marine life in the cities under the water.
Lowe Isles
Low Isles is a Coral Cay island meaning a low-elevation island on the surface of a coral reef. Situated 13 kilometres from Port Douglas the beautiful island is surrounded by a reef filled with a plethora of hard and soft corals. The marine life living in the area includes many different fish and there are often resident green turtles. The Lowe Isles is a perfect option if you are short on time but still want to see the reef and all its wonders.
A tour of the sandy island is often part of the experience with some operators. The guides will take you on a heritage island walk where you can explore the natural surroundings and learn about the history of the island.
One of the historical landmarks is the lighthouse which was built in 1878 and was occupied by lighthouse keepers until 1993 when it became automated. Bird lovers will enjoy watching out for several bird species living on the island.
Mossman Gorge
Mossman Gorge is one of our favourite places in tropical Queensland. We trade our thongs for walking shoes to discover a green oasis in the Daintree National Park.
Approximately 22 minutes from Port Douglas, drive to the town of Mossman and towards the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre. Park your vehicle at the centre and take the short shuttle bus ride to Mossman Gorge. The shuttle departs every 15 minutes from the cultural centre and the ticket allows for unlimited visits to Mossman Gorge on the day of purchase.
Spend some of your time browsing the Mossman Cultural Centre. It is here you can learn about the traditional owners of the land – the KuKu Yalanji people. Get something to eat at the Mayi Café, and pick up an Indigenous souvenir.
Once at Mossman Gorge, the entrance to the Daintree National Park leads out onto two sections of elevated boardwalk. A short walk curves its way through the rainforest canopy to a lookout point that offers a view of the Mossman River.
Continuing from the lookout follow the signpost to Rex Creek Bridge which is suspended above the creek. We highly recommend crossing the bridge and venturing deeper into the rainforest along the 2.4 kilometre Rainforest Circuit Track. This track is well-maintained and relatively easy to walk, however, there are steps and you do need to watch for rocks and tree roots. The circuit is one of the best ways to experience the Daintree Rainforest up close. There are many rainforest animals, and some we have seen on our walks are the well-camouflaged Boyd’s Forest Dragon, the beautiful Ulysses Butterfly, Bush Turkeys and a variety of birdlife.
If you want to witness the river up close, there is a popular sandy bank off the boardwalk track. This viewpoint of the Mossman River is an idyllic location. Large smooth boulders are dotted along the bank and in the river. Their grey colour is a striking contrast to the emerald water. A waterfall can be seen at one end and dense tropical rainforest line the river on both sides. The breathtaking surroundings make this waterhole a very popular place. I’d recommend getting there early to beat some of the big tour groups, but there is still no guarantee you would have this place to yourselves.
Safety Information: The Mossman River is unsupervised and the river can be dangerous due to strong currents and cold water which is why swimming is not advised. Swimming in the river has caused injuries and even death.
Practical Information: For the preservation of the Daintree Rainforest no vehicles are to proceed beyond the cultural centre. There is also no footpath to access the gorge by pedestrian access. The shuttle bus is the only way to visit Mossman Gorge.
Ticket Prices: Operating from 8.00 am to 5.00 pm, daily excluding Christmas Day. The last bus from Mossman Gorge is 5.30 pm.
- Adult – $14.00
- Children 5 – 15 years – $7.00 (Infants 0-4 years are free)
- Family Pass (2 adults and 2 kids) – $35.00
*Ticket prices are subject to change
River Drift Snorkelling
If you are searching for a unique experience in Far North Queensland, then River Drift Snorkelling may be for you! A tour that includes floating along the Mossmand River with the Daintree Rainforest as your backdrop. Oh, the serenity. We loved this tour with Back Country Bliss Adventures and I will share a snippet of what you can expect below.
On the day of your tour catch the complimentary hotel transfer from Palm Cove (only for the morning tour), Port Douglas or Mossman. Upon arrival at the river, you are provided with wetsuits, boots, a snorkel mask and a river float which looks like a small blow-up air mattress.
The guides take you on a track through the beautiful Daintree Rainforest until you reach the Mossman River. One of the cleanest rivers in the Southern Hemisphere the water is crystal-clear and very cold – hence the wetsuit. As you float along the river keep an eye out for the inhabitants that live in and around the river (don’t worry they are all friendly!). You will likely see a variety of fish and birds and if you are lucky, you may even spot a platypus.
The pace you will float down the river depends on the water level, however, we found it had a mixture of both fast (over some rapids) and slow areas. Witness the beauty of the rainforest and marvel at your surroundings which are estimated to be in the making for over 135 million years.
Practical Information: It is worth noting that each person is responsible for carrying their river sled (approximately 3kgs), so if you have young children (which we did at the time) you may be carrying more than one. There are no changing rooms at the river, so it is advised to wear your swimwear underneath your clothes.
Trip Planning: Click here to buy your tickets for this unique adventure
Daintree River Cruise
If you have explored the Daintree Rainforest on foot, another fabulous way to experience this ancient and complex ecosystem is on the water. In the heart of the Daintree Rainforest flows the magnificent Daintree River.
The biodiverse Daintree River is home to several animal species including fish, frogs, birdlife, butterflies, and of course the Saltwater Crocodile. The best way to see a crocodile in its natural habitat is to take a cruise down the river with a local tour company.
We chose to cruise down the Daintree River with Solar Whisper Tours. With thousands of positive reviews, it came highly regarded by fellow travellers and locals. The boat is the only zero-emission boat on the river. The small size allows it to meander down the narrow river outlets and glide up close to the mangroves in search of crocodiles.
We opted for the 1-hour tour. During this time the experienced guide shared their knowledge of the area while we searched for the ancient predators who live in the waters. Depending on when you are visiting the area we were told the best time to spot the large crocodiles is during the cooler months and at low tide as they bask in the sun on the river banks.
We visited during the Summer and were content with seeing a couple of small babies and a medium-sized crocodile lurking under the mangroves. The tour also allowed us to see the natural beauty of the river.
Important Note: It is illegal to feed the crocodiles on the Daintree River so even though Solar Whisper has a high success rate of seeing something it is not guaranteed. Many variable factors play a role if a crocodile is spotted.
Trip Planning: Click here to purchase your tickets for a nature cruise on the Daintree River.
Port Douglas Attractions
Find below some of the popular wildlife and animal attractions in Port Douglas
Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures
For a guaranteed crocodile sighting then pay a visit to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. Situated on the Captain Cook Highway 30 minutes south of Port Douglas. Admission tickets include access to all the wildlife displays, wildlife presentations, and a boat ride on Hartley’s Lagoon. Operating since 2002 Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures was the first place in Australia to breed crocodiles in captivity while working on crocodile conservation. Hartley’s has continued to develop over the years and is regarded as a leading tourist attraction in the Cairns region.
Practical Information: Open every day (except Christmas Day) from 8.30 am – 5.00 pm
Wildlife Habitat
For another experience to see native wildlife up close visit the Port Douglas Wildlife Habitat. You will pass the Wildlife Habitat when you drive into Port Douglas.
It is here where you can explore six recreated wildlife habitats. These habitats offer the experience of walking amongst the natural settings and include a large diversity of animals including birds, mammals and reptiles. Opening its doors in 1989 The Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas has undergone many changes and developments over its time.
Their Swim with the Salties experience is one of their new additions while their iconic Breakfast with the Birds experience has been running for over two decades.
Practical Information: Open every day (except Christmas Day) from 8.00 am – 4.00 pm. *Personal experiences (Swim with the Salties and Breakfast with the Birds) are not included in the entry fees.
Hook-A-Barra
On the road to Mossman, you will come across a Daintree saltwater barramundi farm. Hook-A-Barra is a fishing experience on land. They offer five (one hour) allotted times over the day when you can cast a line. If you are choosing to visit for some fun and to improve your fishing skills they have a catch-and-release option. Or you can purchase your catch to take home for dinner that night. All your gear is provided and included in the tour price.
The ponds are filled with water from the Daintree River to mirror the barramundi’s natural habitat, however, there are other species in the ponds, including some Mangrove Jacks.
Things to Do in Port Douglas For Free
Port Douglas Markets
If you are visiting Port Douglas on a Sunday then pay a visit to the Port Douglas Markets. Located in Rex Smeal Park at the end of Macrossan Street these popular markets are a great place to spend a Sunday.
Wandering the rows foodies will rejoice with plenty of fresh produce, delicious bakery items, freshly cut coconuts, smoothies and more. Once you have sampled the food, browse the other stalls for fashion, jewellery, art and souvenirs.
Practical Information: Open from early morning to the afternoon
St Mary’s By the Sea Chapel
While at Rex Smeal Park visit the iconic St Mary’s by the Sea. Surrounded by towering palm trees, and tropical shrubs the little white church is a picturesque sight. St Mary’s by the Sea has an interesting history and was not always located in the prime position it is today. Now one of the oldest buildings in Port Douglas the church is still used today for weddings, memorial services, funerals and christenings.
Flagstaff Hill Trail
Walk around the Port Douglas peninsula along Flagstaff Hill Walking Trails. The 1.5 kilometre track links Four Mile Beach and Rex Smeal Park. As you walk around the spectacular headland there are many opportunities to marvel at the views.
Four Mile Beach Lookout is one of those photogenic spots. The viewing platform extends from the cliffs and hangs over the Coral Sea giving you sweeping views over the Coral Sea and Four Mile Beach. The other viewpoints have outlooks towards Double Island, Low Isles, and Snapper Island.
Practical Information: The gravel track is well-maintained, however, there are steep (hilly) sections. Being gravel the trail can be uneven. If you are walking on a hot day, ensure you have water on hand.
Four Mile Beach
Four Mile Beach (which is true to its name) is the perfect place to escape the heat. This is why you will often see many people enjoying the swimming enclosure at the northern end. Go between relaxing on the sand to floating in the Coral Sea. The curved beach fringed with giant palm trees makes for a lovely stroll or hire a bike and ride the length of the beach. With rainforest-clad mountains to the south and idyllic blue water lapping the shore, it is worth a visit.
Important Information: Tropical North Queensland is well-known for its marine stingers and crocodiles. Only swim in the protected swimming enclosures that are patrolled by a lifeguard. Please take note of the beach signs and never swim when beaches are closed.
Sunset at Rex Smeal Park
Grab a picnic rug and make your way to Rex Smeal Park. Dotted with tall palms and frangipani trees. One of the best places in Port Douglas to enjoy the balmy tropical nights. Throw down your rug, and watch the boats pass by as the sun descends.
Trinity Bay Lookout Over Port Douglas
The Trinity Bay Lookout is located at the top of Island Point Road. There is parking at the top of the road so you can drive to the viewing area if you are short on time and don’t want to strap on your walking shoes. If you want to see the coastline from other viewpoints then you can also reach Trinity Bay Lookout by taking a short detour off the Flagstaff Hill Trail.
No matter how you reach the lookout once you are there you will be rewarded with a bird’s eye view of Four Mile Beach and the mountain ranges to the south. Based on social media it would be one of the most photographed locations in Port Douglas.
Day Trips from Port Douglas
Below are some of the day trips you can take for an adventure outside of Port Douglas.
Cape Tribulation
Visit one of the few places on Earth where two World Heritage-listed sites collide: the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. If you want to experience a road trip from Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation I would recommend allowing a full day for this adventure.
Even though the driving distance is only around 84 kilometres from Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation the road once you cross the Daintree River is narrow and windy. There are many speed humps along the road and of course, you will want to stop off at all the sights.
If you have a hire car then head for the Daintree River where you will need to board the Daintree Ferry which takes you to the northern side. If you prefer to sit back and let someone else lead the way there are many popular tours you can book. In approximately 15 minutes you will have crossed to the northern side of the river to start your journey up to Cape Tribulation. Along the way, you can stop at the boardwalk tracks, lookout points, Daintree Ice Cream Company and beaches.
In full disclosure, we didn’t make it to Cape Tribulation due to one of our children feeling carsick. Instead, we travelled as far as Dubuji Boardwalk stopping in at Thorton Beach. Thornton Beach is a quieter location than Cape Tribulation and it still enabled us to tick the box and experience the wonder of the Daintree Rainforest meeting the Great Barrier Reef. Dubuji Boardwalk is a lovely circuit that gives you an appreciation of the flora in the area. Always remember to look up!
Pro Tip: Start early and include the Daintree River Cruise (mentioned above) in your day trip to Cape Tribulation.
Kuranda
If your flight arrives early into Cairns or if you have a spare day that you want to fill a trip to Kuranda is a great option.
We have taken a day trip to Kuranda from Palm Cove and another time on our way from Cairns to Port Douglas. If you travel via car you wind your way around the mountain alongside the World Heritage Rainforest. The drive is approximately 40 minutes from Cairns. If it’s your first visit to Kuranda then I highly recommend the journey on the Kuranda Scenic Railway and/or the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
There are many roads in Tropical North Queensland where the journey is just as impressive as the destination. The journey to Kuranda via the Railway and or Skyrail is one of those memorable experiences.
Some of the things to do in Kuranda include rainforest walks, shopping in the local stores, a riverboat cruise and visiting some of the wildlife. The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is the largest aviary in Australia and somewhere we recommend if you are visiting Kuranda.
Trip Planning: Click here for tickets to Kuranda
Port Douglas Accommodation
There are many choices for accommodation in Port Douglas. I have listed three popular options below, or you can find great deals for Port Douglas here.
By The Sea Port Douglas | If you wish to stay centrally the 4* apartments are in the centre of Port Douglas. Close to Four Mile Beach and walking distance from the cafes and restaurants along Macrossan Street.
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas | The 5* hotel features 2 hectares of saltwater lagoon pools and an 18-hole golf course. It is also the only beachfront property in Port Douglas.
Coconut Grove | A 5* resort located only 140 metres from Four Mile Beach and located on the main street of Port Douglas. Contemporary apartment-style accommodation offering up to five bedrooms.
Best Places to Eat in Port Douglas
When it comes to dining out in Port Douglas there are many different cuisines and options to suit all tastes and budgets. Below are some of the family-friendly options.
Chilly’s
In a laid-back outdoor setting enjoy an Italian-style pizza made using fresh ingredients. Chilly’s also offers a unique show for its customers – cane toad racing. No bookings are needed for the show ($5 per head), however, bookings for dinner are essential.
Tin Shed
One of our favourite places to eat in Port Douglas is the Tin Shed. Located on Dickson’s Inlet it is hard to choose what is better – the view over the water or the amazing food. Dinner service starts at 5.30 pm, however, you will find people arrive earlier to grab a drink from the bar and score a prime table close to the water.
Court House Hotel
Located on the corner of Wharf and Macrossan Street the Court House Hotel or the Courty is the oldest pub in Port Douglas. With some alfresco seating under a wide verandah overlooking Anzac Park, it is the place to visit for some wholesome pub food.
N17
If you are craving a burger then head to the top-rated burger joint in Port Douglas – N17 Burger Co. Made from 100% Black Angus beef that is sourced from the Tablelands dine-in or grab a takeaway burger.
The Mexican
Founded in 2015 The Mexican is the place to sip on a classic Margarita and try the flavours of Mexico in Port Douglas.
How to Get to Port Douglas
In December 2023 Port Douglas was devastated by Cyclone Jasper. The main coastal road (Captain Cook Highway) which connects Cairns to Port Douglas was severely damaged. As of late January 2024, the highway has been reopened to a single lane. Please expect delays as crews continue to work on the road. An alternate route to Port Douglas (approximately a two-hour drive time) is the inland road via Mount Molloy. Please check road closures and routes before your departure.
Car Hire Discount
Do you need a car? This is a common question in this area. The answer is it depends greatly on what you plan on doing during your trip. If your days are spent relaxing poolside with maybe one or two activities during your stay, you could use transportation options to travel from Cairns and then opt for tours that provide pick-up and drop-off services.
If you plan to explore the area and in particular some of the locations I mentioned above I would suggest hiring a car. This will offer the freedom of travelling without time restraints and the convenience if you are staying in one of the resorts on the outskirts of Port Douglas.
For car hire, Inspire Family Travel recommends Bargain Car Rentals. They are an Australian-owned and operated company with 14 locations and a wide range of vehicles.
Their focus is on exceeding customer expectations, value for money, and exceptional service.
Pro Tip: Always book your car in advance as this is the best way to avoid disappointment, and it will save you time and money. Bargain Car Rentals has kindly offered you a discount code. Simply use the code FAMTRAVEL when you make a booking and this will save you 5% on their best rates.
I hope you enjoyed the above guide on what to do in Port Douglas! If you need further assistance with planning your Queensland holiday, check out our other articles as well. Below are some of our travel guides that may help.
- The Perfect Cairns Itinerary (Ultimate Guide for 5 – 7 Days in Cairns)
- Top Cairns Family Accommodation Options
- North Queensland Road Trip Itinerary
- The Most Amazing Stops on a Brisbane to Townsville Road Trip
- The Ultimate List of Things to do in Palm Cove
- Top Planning Tips for a Kuranda Day Trip
Do you have any unanswered questions? Let me know in the comments below!
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