An Australian paradise
The seaside village of Port Douglas is the ideal location for watching the total solar eclipse of 14 November 2012. The village is not only located in the path of totality, it is also a charming town perfect for a tropical holiday. Located 70km from Cairns Airport, Port Douglas is almost on the tip of the Far North Queensland coast in Australia. Whether you are flying in from overseas or travelling domestically, Port Douglas is easily accessible by air, road and rail. Find out more about how to get there.
Day trip to the Great Barrier Reef
Port Douglas offers a wealth of activities. For those who want an aquatic adventure, a trip to the Great Barrier Reef is a must either sailing on state-of-the-art fast catamarans, sailing yachts, luxury motor yachts, extended live aboard trips, or reef sprinters. Discover the wondrous underwater world of the reef on a full-day Great Barrier Reef tour with Albatros Travel. Read more about the Great Barrier Reef tour.
Day trip to the Daintree Rainforest and the Wildlife Habitat
A trip to one of the oldest rainforests in the world, the Daintree Rainforest and a wildflife rescue centre, the Wildlife Habitat is a must while in Port Douglas. Albatros Travel has arranged a special half-day excursion to these destinations. Read more about the Daintree Rainforest tour.
Jungle-surfing and beach strolls
North of the Daintree River, you can try your hand at sea kayaking, 'jungle surfing' canopy tours or river fishing for barramundi, and pay a visit to a world-class discovery centre where the most delicious locally-made ice cream is served. Whether you want your heart to race from a thrilling jungle-surfing expedition in the Daintree Rainforest or whether you want to find your inner peace with daily morning yoga on the celebrated Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas has something for everyone. Here are some suggestions for a perfect day in Port Douglas.
Enjoy the history of the area by visiting the picturesque St Mary’s by the Sea chapel and the old courthouse, and have a relaxing drink in one of Port Douglas’s historical pubs.
Every evening offers a new and unique way to admire the sunset: having champagne in the park or high above Port Douglas from the lookout point over the Coral Sea and Four Mile Beach, to relaxing with a cocktail on the deck of Marina Mirage.
Restaurants and bars
Despite being a small seaside village, Port Douglas is home to a host of eateries and restaurants. Visit the Zinc Restaurant & Lounge Bar, an award-winning establishment which is a restaurant by day and lounge bar by night.
Or stop by the popular Salsa Bar & Grill which specialises in tropical modern Australian cuisine featuring local produce and where everything is made in-house. The multi-award winning establishment has hosted former US President Bill Clinton and current Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. For a special al fresco dining experience, visit the Nautilus Restaurant, an outdoor five-star restaurant set in a lush, tropical garden.
Port Douglas' restaurants provide a wide variety of dining experiences, from full breakfasts, and dainty cakes from coffee houses, buffet lunches at the Wildlife Habitat or contemporary selections from cafes, to à la carte offerings at the popular Bistro 3 and Watergate Port Douglas restaurants.
Art & Galleries
Port Douglas Art & Galleries coupled with a talented range of musicians and artists supported by the local theatre and live music scene, showcase a range of art media including photography, oil paintings, collage, watercolours and sculpture.
Port Douglas Art & Galleries boasts two theatres, including the Clink Theatre, focusing on local dramatic and musical productions performed by travelling musicians and artists, and the Karnak Theatre, which showcases a range of local, Australian and International performances throughout the year.
The Douglas Shire Historical Society’s Old Court House Museum and the Beck Aviation and Military Museum in Mareeba offer visitors historical insight into Port Douglas and the area.
We recommend: A perfect day in Port Douglas
The perfect start to the day: a peaceful yoga session on the idyllic Four Mile Beach and to the sound of rippling waves in the background. The class is situated close to the Surf Lite Saving Club. Times: from June to November at 8am every morning.
Next, go back to the hotel for a decadent breakfast buffet which is included in the price. It's such a treat, you'll be having seconds and thirds, so don't plan an early lunch!
Go for a stroll in the village. Check out the shops on Macrossan Street and indulge in coffee and cake at one of the many cafes. Or walk up Wharf Street and climb up to the lookout on top of the hill for a fantastic view of Four Mile Beach and Port Douglas. By now, you'll be wanting lunch and we know just the place. Visit the Salsa Bar & Grill and don't forget to write home to tell friends and family that you dined at an award-winning establishment that once hosted former US president Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton.
After a full lunch, it's time to soak up some sun on the beach. Rent deckchairs and even chess sets if you like, or if you want to work off those extra calories you just consumed, you can hire sea kayaks, sailboards, boogie boards or cricket sets for some great afternoon exercise.
And if you have any energy left, why not go for a leisurely bike ride before dinner. Port Douglas is quite flat and biking is a great way to explore the town. PD Bike Hire on Warner Street (daily and weekly rates). Bike back to the Sheraton Mirage and have dinner at the Country Club or at one of the resort's excellent establishments. Or unwind to some in-room dining (it's a 24-hour service) and relax in the comforts of your room or villa.