Port Douglas - Information For Visitors

With pristine wilderness, total tranquillity, superb golf courses and a wealth of activities including the magnificent underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef, this is a magnetic destination for travellers of all ages and all walks of life.

Port Douglas sits on an isthmus beside the sparkling waters of Dickson Inlet and the rolling waves of the Coral Sea. Overlooking 'Port', as everyone calls it, is Flagstaff Hill, which is the best place to capture the striking views of the town and its superb Four Mile Beach.

Port Douglas is just an hour's drive from Cairns and is the gateway to the area. A winning combination of a cosmopolitan township and a friendly village, it has world class resorts and shopping, award winning restaurants and superb galleries and craft stores. Before being discovered by infamous real estate developer Christopher Skase in 1986, Port Douglas was a quiet seaside town frequented by fishermen and locals from Cairns.

Today, it's an international mecca attracting heads of state, film stars and a host of holidaymakers from within Australia and around the globe.

What To Pack

Casual light clothing is suitable year round. From mid June to mid September, a light sweater and long pants may be needed in the evenings. Port Douglas is very relaxed; smart casual wear is accepted in all restaurants and bars. Beach towels are available for hire from reception.

The Great Barrier Reef

One of the reasons for Port Douglas popularity is its proximity and access to the Great Barrier Reef. From the Marina, all kinds of reef trips leave daily. Reef operators travel daily to the Low Isles, Agincourt Reef and other renowned sites like the Cod Hole near Lizard Island.

Since marine tourism was first pioneered in the 1970's, Port Douglas has been established as the closest destination to visit the amazing Great Barrier Reef. The choice of how to experience the amazing Great Barrier Reef is extensive.

Closer To Home

Like its spectacular surroundings, Port Douglas has much to offer. Stroll among the village shops, galleries and historic buildings or browse in the seaside Sunday markets.

Play a round of golf at the Mirage Country Golf Club, or at Sea Temple, on the fringes of the town, or explore the Mossman Golf Course north of Port Douglas within 20 minutes.

Take the Bally Hooley train from the marina and learn about the indigenous fauna or take a turn around the inlet in a paddle steamer. Admire the classic Queenslander architecture of the town's pubs as you enjoy a quiet ale.

There is a huge range of restaurants for breakfast, lunch and dinner in Port Douglas. Here is a list of John and Sue’s favourites:

• SALSA Bar & Grill: 26 Wharf St Port Douglas. Ph: 07 4099 4922
• ZINC Port Douglas: 53-61 Macrossan St Port Douglas. Ph: 07 4099 6260
• FINZ Port Douglas: Portico Shopping Centre, Macrossan St Port Douglas. Ph: 07 4099 1195
• The Living Room Restaurant & Lounge Bar: 22 Wharf St Port Douglas. Ph: 07 4099 6350
• 2 Fish Seafood Restaurant: 18 Wharf St Port Douglas. Ph: 07 4099 6350
• Hi-Tide Restaurant: 9-13 The Esplanade Port Douglas. Ph: 07 4099 9100

Held in May each year, for 10 days this extremely popular event showcases and celebrates the best of Port Douglas and Tropical North Queensland. This popular event is 10 days of song, dance, art, sport and wine that brings crowds of more than 60,000 to the region.

Quicksilver’s Food Wine and a Taste of Port for the culinary enthusiast, includes, not surprisingly, fantastic food, fine wines and musical performances.

Keep an eye out for an even bigger and better Carnivale in 2012 , the festival runs from Friday May 18th 2012 and is a great celebration of the start of the Tropical Season in Tropical North Queensland. We have some great accommodation, tour and transfer packages available - Book your accommodation early, you won't be disappointed, there is so much to do and see.