The 13 best things to do in Port Douglas

What is it? The world’s oldest rainforest has been home to the Kuku Yalanji people for an estimated 5,000 years. Join an Indigenous-led tour to see sacred sites and learn about the region’s prehistoric flora and fauna. 

Why go? A holiday in Port Douglas is incomplete without a day trip to this ancient paradise, referred to by the traditional custodians as ‘Madja’ (elder). You can experience it all on an Indigenous-led Walkabout Cultural Adventure, where you’ll gain insight into how the Kuku Yalanji people see and use the natural environment, learn about native foods and medicines, sample seasonal bush tucker, and even have a go at boomerang and spear throwing.

What is it? The world’s largest coral reef, comprising more than 2,900 reefs and 900 islands. 

Why go? This one is a no-brainer. Whether you’re a novice snorkeller, hardcore scuba diver or want to see the Great Barrier Reef without getting your hair wet, Cairns’ many tour operators have you covered. Take a boat trip to Green Island for island-based reef exploration, where you can experience the technicolour marvels of more than 600 coral species and 1,500 types of fish (not to mention rays, sharks, dolphins and whales). You can also experience the magic by taking a glass-bottom boat tour.

What is it? Your chance to go river drifting in a 135 million-year-old rainforest within Daintree National Park.

Why go? With more than 56,000 hectares full of crystal-clear rock pools and scenic riverside tracks, it’s hard to know where to start your Mossman Gorge adventure. Swap your shoes for dive boots on a river-drifting adventure with Back Country Bliss. You’ll traverse the river’s course on foot, before transitioning onto sleds where you’ll glide and ride down the river at varying speeds (depending on the current’s pace).

What is it? Four kilometres (yes, not miles) of golden sands and swaying palm trees make for Port Douglas’ most popular beach.

Why go? It’s actually a challenge to visit Port Douglas without spending time at Four Mile Beach. You can relax under the shade of the swaying palm trees, take to the sands by bicycle, watch the sunrise from Flagstaff Hill Lookout, go for an afternoon kite surf, and of course, take plenty of dips in the calming waters.

What is it? A chance to see a huge, deadly saltwater crocodile at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, just a 30-minute drive south of Port Douglas.

Why go? North Queensland bats above its weight when it comes to croc-spotting opportunities. These dudes are serious apex predators and should be avoided in the wild (observe the safety signs around waters that crocs inhabit), but can be spotted safely with Hartley’s. While you’re there, wander the 2,500 metres of boardwalks, get up close to cassowaries and koalas, watch snake shows and go on a croc-spotting boat cruise.

What is it? Port Douglas’ most popular walking trail and lookout point for panoramic views of Four Mile Beach, the Daintree Rainforest and the Coral Sea. 

Why go? If you’re looking for a postcard-worthy picture, look no further than Flagstaff Hill. It’s an easy 1.5-kilometre walk from the north end of Four Mile Beach to Trinity Bay Lookout, where you’ll take in stunning views of Four Mile Beach, the Daintree Rainforest and the Coral Sea. The trail winds back through bushland to the coconut-fringed shores of Rex Smeal Park, where you can rest your legs under the shade of fig trees.

What is it? A beachfront rainforest retreat, located just metres from a secluded beach in the Daintree Rainforest. Cape Trib’s beachfront bungalows come with private ensuites, expansive balconies and air conditioning.

Why go? Finish up an enriching day in the Daintree at Cape Trib Beach House. Here the focus is on spending time with other humans and nature, rather than your social media feeds. With cabins set back from the secluded beach amongst monstrous fan palm leaves, you have little choice but to soak it all in. Have a beer at the onsite Tides Bar and Restaurant, meet some characters and try to spot fireflies in the darkness.

What is it? Australia’s one and only rainforest dining experience, held every Thursday night from May to November.

Why go? Journey into the heart of the Daintree for a truly magical night at Flames of the Forest’s Cultural Experience. The sparkly setting is enough to give you goosebumps, featuring a kaleidoscope of twinkling fairy lights, crystal chandeliers, and thousands of dancing candles and flames. Throughout the evening, you’ll discover the magic of local Indigenous culture through Dreamtime storytelling, didgeridoo playing and soulful songs. To top it off, you’ll be treated to a tropical-inspired menu, inspired by the land and sea, paired perfectly with quality Australian beverages.

What is it? Port Douglas’ biggest open-air market, held every Sunday from 8.30am to 1pm in Anzac Park. Designated a ‘cotter’s market’, you can be sure everything here is locally made. 

Why go? Sip on a fresh coconut or a steaming chai as you wander around the stalls at this wholesome weekly market. Stallholders from all over Far North Queensland gather under the shady palm trees, selling everything from tropical fruit and homemade peanut brittle to freshly picked flowers, printed beach towels, and Aboriginal artworks. The market backs onto the shimmering Coral Seas, adding an extra special touch to your shopping experience.

What is it? A charming, waterfront craft brew pub, located on the beautiful Crystalbrook Super Yacht Marina. 

Why go? After a thrilling day of rainforest hikes or beach surfing, unwind with a pint at this casual, 600-seat brewpub. Find a new favourite frothy from Hemingway’s ‘core range’, including the ‘7th Heaven’ tropical ale or the ‘Wharf St’ IPA with hints of grapefruit and citrus. Pair your drink perfectly with their pizzas, burgers, tacos and salads by checking out the coloured stickers on the menu indicating the best match for your brew.

What is it? Every May, Port Douglas comes alive with Carnivale, the region’s largest cultural festival. Annual highlights include a dazzling street parade, a fun-filled family beach day, the famous longest lunch and captivating Spiegeltent cabaret shows.

Why go? Carnivale brings together all of Tropical North Queensland’s best food, wine, music and arts in one single jam-packed weekend. It’s the best time to visit for some fun in the sun, attracting tens of thousands of visitors from all around Australia. You can sample local produce at the longest lunch, watch the fireworks at the famous street parade, catch a hilarious comedy act and groove under the stars to the beats of Aussie rock legends.

What is it? A chance to swim under some of Queensland’s most dramatic and secluded waterfalls, including Spring Creek Falls and Mowbray Falls.

Why go? Whoever said “don’t go chasing waterfalls” has clearly never been to Far North Queensland. Hidden within the region’s ancient rainforests and national parks are some of Australia’s greatest waterfalls, which you can actually swim in too. Spring Creek Falls (or Black Rock Waterfalls) is a popular swimming hole, accessible via a relatively rocky three-kilometre trail in Mowbray National Park. For more huffin’ and puffin’, hike four kilometres to Big Mowbray Falls, where you can cool off in the shallow swimming hole – which you’ll often have all to yourself.

What is it? The region’s hottest food and drink festival, hosted annually in August. 

Why go? Four days of feasting by the beach with some of Australia’s leading celebrity chefs? Sounds like our type of holiday. Every year, Taste Port Douglas stretches its foodie festivities from Port Douglas to Cairns, featuring masterclasses, long seaside luncheons, cocktail soirees and tropical parties, all backdropped by the reefs and the rainforests of tropical Far North Queensland. The hottest ticket in town is always for ‘A Night of Fire’, which takes place under the flickering candlelights at Flames of the Forest, Australia’s only rainforest dining experience.