Overview

Port Douglas is a small, laid back town situated along the stunning coastline of Queensland. This tropical paradise will definitely exceed all your expectations and you may never run out of things to do! Port Douglas is popular with tourists for a reason – it is a convenient access point to two UNESCO World Heritage-listed natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef & the Daintree Rainforest.

To the east, the Great Barrier Reef beckons with its mesmerising underwater world, offering the best cruising, snorkelling and diving adventures. For the ultimate Great Barrier Reef experience, join one of the many incredible Port Douglas cruises. These Port Douglas boat tours are your gateway exploring the vibrant underwater kingdom of colourful corals and exotic marine life, that call this iconic reef home.

To the west, the world’s oldest rainforest, the Daintree, showcases its primaeval beauty. Visit Cape Tribulation to experience the best of both worlds! This is where the ancient Daintree Rainforest meets the fantastic Great Barrier Reef!

Port Douglas is blessed with great beaches. The renowned Four Miles Beach is lined with lush palm trees, and as its name suggests, stretches approximately four miles along the bay. If you are a fan of sunbathing and watching incredible sunrises and sunsets, this golden sand beach is a must-visit! 

But that’s not all! The town’s compact centre boasts quaint cafes and lovely bars, a hotspot for foodies! And for some retail therapy, visit the Macrossan Street and the Sunday Markets the town hosts. So, add this fantastic getaway to your bucket list today! Check out popular Port Douglas cruises listed below for a combination of adventure, sightseeing and waterfront dining!

Port Douglas Cruise Experiences

Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruises

1 Cruise

From $370

Sailing Cruises

5 Cruises

From $85

Sunset Cruises

Golden-hour views across the harbour

4 Cruises

From $79

Private Charter

1 Cruise

Know Before You Go

Transport

Public transport here mainly consists of a local shuttle bus service run by Excellence Coaches. There is no public bus or train network. Other options include hiring bikes and scooters to get around. Taxi services and ride-sharing services like Uber are available for travel within Port Douglas or to nearby Cairns.
Public transport here mainly consists of a local shuttle bus service run by Excellence Coaches. There is no public bus or train network. Other options include hiring bikes and scooters to get around. Taxi services and ride-sharing services like Uber are available for travel within Port Douglas or to nearby Cairns.
Port Douglas offers a vibrant dining scene that celebrates tropical flavours and fresh local produce. From award-winning waterfront restaurants and stylish cocktail bars to casual cafés and beachside eateries, there’s something to satisfy every palate and dining mood.
Accommodation in Port Douglas caters to all tastes and budgets. Whether you prefer luxury beachfront resorts, boutique hotels, or relaxed camping and caravan parks, there’s a wide range of options to suit every traveller’s style and preference.
Port Douglas Carnivale (May)
An annual festival that celebrates North Queensland’s tropical culture, food, music and art. This marks the official start of the tourism high season. There are a wide variety of events like the popular “Longest Lunch” and “A Family Beach Day”. 

Port Douglas Race Week (May)
A five-day annual sailing regatta, hosted by the Port Douglas Yacht Club in May, that features a series of technical buoy races and passage races around the scenic waters of the Coral Sea near Low Isles and Snapper Island. The event includes sailing, food, and fun, and culminates with the Clipper Cup.

Taste Port Douglas (August)
Taste Port Douglas is Australia’s premier tropical food and drink festival where over four vibrant days, renowned chefs and local producers come together for exceptional dining experiences, masterclasses, and events that showcase the culinary spirit and natural beauty of Far North Queensland.
TERM 1 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2026
Queensland: 3 April to 19 April

TERM 2 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2026
Queensland: 27 June to 12 July

TERM 3 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2026
Queensland: 19 September to 5 October

TERM 4 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2026
Queensland: 12 December to 26 January
Australia-wide holidays 2026:
1 Jan (Thu) – New Year’s Day
26 Jan (Mon) – Australia Day
3 Apr (Fri) – Good Friday
6 Apr (Mon) – Easter Monday
25 Apr (Sat) – Anzac Day
25 Dec (Fri) – Christmas Day
26 Dec (Sat) – Boxing Day
28 Dec (Mon) – Boxing Day Holiday

QLD observed holidays:
4 Apr (Sat) – Day following Good Friday
5 Apr (Sun) – Easter Sunday
6 Apr (Mon) – Easter Monday
4 May (Mon) – Labour Day
12 Aug (Wed) – Ekka Wednesday *
5 Oct (Mon) – King's Birthday
24 Dec (Thu) – Christmas Eve *
25 Dec (Fri) – Christmas Day
26 Dec (Sat) – Boxing Day
28 Dec (Mon) – Boxing Day Holiday
The dry season during the months of May to October offers the best weather to explore Port Douglas and take part in outdoor activities like snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef and exploring the Daintree Rainforest.

Port Douglas Tourist Information

Macrossan Street is the main shopping hub in Port Douglas for fashion, gifts and homewares. Visit the famous Sunday Markets at Anzac Park for handmade crafts, tropical produce, and unique souvenirs.