18 reasons to love Port Douglas

It’s pretty damn chilly in Australia’s southern states at the moment, and while most people think you need to go overseas to escape winter… you don’t.

Port Douglas is a year-round balmy destination that’s sure to give your summer wardrobe a good workout no matter what time of year it is. If that’s not enough of a reason to love Port Douglas, here are 18 more.

1. First impressions count: As you descend into Cairns Airport, one of the first things you’ll notice is the view. And it gets better. The 1hr drive from the airport to Port Douglas – along the twisting and winding Captain Cook Highway – is one of Australia’s most spectacular coastal drives.

2. So many resorts to choose from: Port Douglas is a resort town that caters to all types of holiday-makers and budgets. We settle on the Mantra PortSea, which is an easy 15min walk into town and has both hotel rooms and self-contained apartments, as well as tennis courts, activities, and, of course, the prerequisite of any tropical retreat – the oh-so-tempting swim-up pool bar.

3. It’s bike friendly: Port Douglas is (mostly) flat, which makes it great to explore by bike. Many hotels in the area offer free bikes for guests, but otherwise there are plenty of local providers on the main street, where you can hire by the hour, half-day, or full day.

4. You can walk the mile (or four): Port Douglas’s Four Mile Beach is world-famous for a reason. You might struggle getting out of bed once you’re in holiday mode, but it’s well worth at least one early morning to catch the sunrise over the tropical waters, followed by a nice, long walk up the beach.

5. Friendly locals: Being a tourist in your own country reminds you how friendly Aussies are, especially outside the major cities. From our tour guide, to the local shop owners, to the random people walking on the beach, Port Douglas locals certainly know how to make visitors feel welcome.

6. Spa time: One of the best ways to ease into tropical time is to have a 1hr massage at Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas. You’ll walk out on cloud nine, well and truly in holiday mode.

7. Get your zen on: Step up the relaxation levels with Yoga on the Beach, which occurs at 8am on Four Mile Beach every day.

8. The foodie scene: A special call-out must be made to Salsa Bar & Grill, just opposite the waterfront. AMAZING. But Port D has more than one place to treat your tastebuds. Check out all the ways to eat your way around your new fave holiday spot with our Foodies’ guide to Port Douglas.

9. The fabulous boutiques: The main street of Port Douglas, Macrossan St, is a hive of activity. You could easily spend a morning (or more) window shopping your way around all the cute boutiques.

10. The world’s oldest rainforest is on your doorstep: Forget the Amazon – the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest is the oldest rainforest in the world. For the best experience, book a day tour. You’ll see all the best sites, plus you’ll learn about the Daintree’s unique landscape and its fascinating European and Indigenous history.

11. The reef: Both full and half-day Great Barrier Reef tours depart from the Port Douglas Marina every day. Hot tip: Avoid a windy or overcast day if you can, as the colours of the water and marine life are much more vibrant when the sun is shining.

12. Real live crocs: Play spot the lurking crocodile and check out other cool wildlife, like snakes and birds (without getting too close, of course), on a 1hr cruise down the Daintree River.

13. The local markets: For 25 years, the Port Douglas Markets have been held every Sunday in Market Park. It’s a great place to pick up local fruit, veggies, or a Tropical North souvenir.

14. Flames of the Forest: A night at Flames of the Forest isn’t your typical dinner. In the heart of the world’s oldest rainforest, surrounded by candles, chandeliers,and flamelit torches, you’ll experience a sacred evening of Indigenous music, theatre, and storytelling while enjoying incredible gourmet Australian cuisine matched with local wines and beers. It’s a serious must-do.

15. The night scene: From cane toad racing at the IronBar, to live music at the Court House Hotel, there are plenty of local haunts to get your party vibe on after the sun goes down.

16. The café culture: After a night out on the town, a lazy brunch at Betty’s Bohemian Beach Café seriously hits the spot. The blueberry, banana, and acai bowl is as delicious as it is pretty.

17. Flagstaff Hill Lookout: Burn off a few holiday cocktails with a walk up Flagstaff Hill. Not only will you have earnt yourself another pina colada, you’ll also be rewarded with incredible views of the ocean, mountains, and Port Douglas town.

18. Last but not least: One of the best parts about holidaying in Australia is the shorter travel time. Skip the customs queues and overseas flight times, and you’re guaranteed to return home with your holiday vibe (and tan) intact.

Book your next trip to Port Douglas