Top Things to Do and See in Port Douglas

Day trip to Cape Tribulation

It takes 40 minutes to drive from Port Douglas to the car ferry that will take you across the Daintree River. Once you arrive, you'll be able to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Daintree Rainforest. It's between 110 to 180 million years old and is 50 million years older than the Amazon in South America! Travellers buying Port Douglas holiday packages can go hiking, jungle surfing, snorkelling and explore other destinations nearby, such as Cape Kimberley Beach.

Great Barrier Reef

You can't buy a Port Douglas holiday package and not explore Australia's iconic Great Barrier Reef! It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the waters are home to some of the most diverse ecosystems on earth. There are plenty of ways for travellers with Port Douglas accommodation and flight packages to explore this attraction. You can take a scenic micro flight over the reef, go on a glass-bottom boat tour, or get your scuba diving license and explore the numerous dive sites!

Explore Mossman Gorge

Mossman Gorge is part of Daintree National Park and is one of the best things to do in Port Douglas. Before you tackle the hiking trails and cool off in the swimming holes, stop by the Mossman Gorge Centre. Here you'll learn about the Kuku Yalanji people who have called the area their traditional home for 50,000 years. Travellers buying Port Douglas accommodation and flight packages can sign up for Ngadiku Dreamtime Walks and learn about the cultural significance of the landscape.

Tips for First-Time Travellers to Port Douglas

Getting around Port Douglas

Port Douglas is a small resort town, making it easy to get to most places on foot. There are also regular public buses that will take you to and from some of the top attractions. Other options for travellers booking Port Douglas packages include calling a taxi or using a bicycle to get around.

Getting to Port Douglas

When you book your Port Douglas accommodation and flight packages, you'll likely fly into Cairns Airport (CNS). It's the closest airport to Port Douglas and is a one-hour drive away along the scenic Great Barrier Reef Drive.

To get to your hotel and accommodation in Port Douglas, you can book an airport transfer and hire a car. Webjet lets you add a car rental to your Port Douglas holiday packages at checkout.

Alternatively, you can choose from what's available when your flights arrive in Cairns. However, if you're buying Port Douglas packages over the high season, it's a good idea to book your vehicle ahead of your arrival.

Best time to travel to Port Douglas

Port Douglas has two distinct seasons: wet and dry. The hottest and rainiest time to travel to the town is between November and April.

While the weather won't be the best, you may have an easier time finding deals on Port Douglas holiday packages. You can also plan your trip around the Port Douglas Carnival. It takes place every year towards the end of May and is one of the town's top events.

If you want sunshine and decreased chance of rain ruining your trip, book your Port Douglas packages for the drier period of June to October. It is high season, so prices for hotel and accommodation in Port Douglas may be higher.

On the plus side, you'll have excellent visibility for scuba diving and snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef.

Cafes and Restaurants in Port Douglas

Port Douglas is a food haven. There are plenty of trendy cafes, bars and restaurants to explore while you're in town.

Sassi La Cucina + Bar

Sassi Cucina e Bar is a local favourite. The menu boasts a range of Italian cuisine-inspired plates, such as squid ink arancini, mussels in white wine and chilli mud crab. For dessert, indulge with basil gelati with figs, dark chocolate pudding, or an affogato. A smaller selection of dishes is available for lunch, and there is also a good wine list and cocktail offering.

Salsa Bar and Grill

Prefer having a view to go with your meal? Make a reservation at the Salsa Bar and Grill. It's located on the waterfront, and is one of the best spots in Port Douglas to people-watch while you dine. Foodies booking Port Douglas packages won't be short of choice, as there are menus covering lunch, dinner, dessert, canapes and a set selection. There is also a kids’ menu. For dinner, choose between options including twice-baked three cheese souffle, tuna sashimi or gremolata lamb loin, or opt for open fish dumplings, salt and pepper calamari, or korean barbecue pork if you stop by for lunch.

Origin Espresso

Start your morning off right with a coffee from Origin Espresso. It's one of the top coffee spots in town. The cafe roasts its own beans, and you can buy local sugar cane juice on tap! Travellers booking Port Douglas packages need to keep in mind that Origin Espresso only serve coffee; there are no food items available.

Café Fresq

If you're the type of person that loves breakfast fare for lunch and dinner, stop by Café Fresq for any meal while you’re in Port Douglas. The cafe offers a fantastic all-day breakfast menu, and there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Travellers buying Port Douglas holiday packages who crave extra nourishment can choose between a superfood acai bowl or coconut chia pudding, while savoury tastes includes smashed avocado, chorizo baked eggs, corn and zucchini fritters, or even a crispy pork belly baguette.