Port Douglas is a leisurely hour drive from Cairns, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t dedicate at least a few days to town.

Port Douglas is a paradise in Tropical Queensland. Whether you’re after relaxation and calm or adrenaline and adventure, this seaside town has something for you.

If you’re planning to make a day trip to Port Douglas from Cairns, here are some suggestions to help fill your day!

Four Mile Beach

As you walk with the golden sand beneath your feet, the beach end nowhere in sight, it’s easy to lose track of time on Four Mile Beach. The popular beach is the perfect place to watch the sunrise and set over the gentle blue sea.

Walk towards the northern end of the beach to find a brilliant collection of rock pools. Search in the pools for small crabs and marine life. On a warm day, the dry large rocks make a perfect place to lie down a towel and soak in some sun rays.

Wednesday Afternoon Go Sailing 

What better reason to visit Port Douglas mid-week than the chance to sail over the reef as the sun sets! The local Port Douglas Yacht Club allows visitors to join a sunset sail run by volunteers. Head to the club in the late afternoon, where Skippers handpick their crews for the sail. You’ll spend two hours out on the water and return to the club post-sunset for drinks. A perfect way to have both a unique (and free!) experience and meet some of locals that make Port Douglas so welcoming.

Shopping in Port Douglas

Port Douglas has great shopping for those looking to take home some goodies with them! The Marina Mirage is the perfect complex to start your day shopping. With plenty of local boutiques, you will find the perfect outfit, piece of jewellery or souvenir to remember your trip by.

If you’re heading to Port Douglas over the weekend, be sure to go to the Sunday Market. Established 20 years ago, it is a ‘Cotters Market’ meaning everything sold is made by the stallholder or their family. It’s the perfect place to meet locals and purchase unique handmade goods.

Fine Dine

Port Douglas is home to a fantastic array of restaurants. The seafood lover should make their way to 2Fish, an award-winning boat restaurant. From humble beginnings as the local takeout spot, 2Fish is now a fine dining experience. You’ll be treated to freshly caught local seafood with deliciously paired drinks. Enjoy your delectable meal while sailing across the bay.

For a unique experience, stay for dinner at Flames of the Forest, Australia’s only rainforest dining experience! You’ll be treated to a multiple course dinner made from local produce and be entertained by local artists. Whether you choose the Aboriginal Cultural Experience dinner or Rainforest Dining Experience, this is one meal you will never forget.

For the adrenaline junky

Head into the Daintree Rainforest and go jungle surfing. You’ll fly through the rainforests canopy up to 16 meters above the ground! Flying on a zip line you’ll race through the sky at over 40km an hour. For a truly memorable view of the rainforest, jungle surfing is a must!

Though easily accessible from Cairns, and close enough to do a single day trip to, Port Douglas has so much to offer you could easily stay for days!

Related article: Why you should visit Cairns?

Explore the Port Douglas from Cairns

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