Located in the Shire of Douglas in Queensland, Port Douglas is a colourful coastal town that was once a fishing village. With a population of just over 3,000, it might appear to be a small, sleepy town. But there are tons of things to do and amazing sights to see, and should definitely be on your bucket list. Port Douglas was listed as #3 in Australian Traveller magazine’s 100 Best Towns in Australia, and here are the reasons why:
- It’s the only place in the world that hosts two World Heritage sights.
Port Douglas sits between two World Heritage sites, the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. This unique feature makes for many attractions.
There are daily trips that will take you to Low Isles where you can experience the protected coral reefs by scuba diving and snorkelling in crystal clear waters.
Spend a whole day at the oldest living rainforest in the world, the Daintree Rainforest, which is a 90-minute drive from the town. There is a wide variety of tours to pick: from riding across the river to spot crocodiles, taking a nature walk in the nighttime to spot some nocturnal creatures, ziplining through the jungle, and more.
- Discover indigenous culture and history while experiencing one-of-a-kind adventures.
There are local guides who will walk you through the Aboriginal culture at the Daintree Rainforest. At Mossman Gorge, they will share with you folklore, traditional sacred rituals, and what the rainforest means to its owners, the Kuku Yalanji.
Port Douglas itself has its own artefacts from history. It was originally developed around the mining industry as gold was discovered at the Hodgkinson River in 1877. This 144-year old town has a few heritage sites, such as the FDA Carstens Memorial at Macrossan Street, Port Douglas Wharf at Dixie Street, and St. Mary’s by the Sea and Port Douglas Court House Museum at Wharf Street.
- You can get the much-needed rest and relaxation you’ve been looking for.
Port Douglas offers five-star amenities for anyone looking to spoil themselves during their holiday. Book yourself a luxurious stay along Four Mile Beach and have a wonderful view of the sea. The Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas Resort even has over a hundred acres of tropical gardens as well as a golf course.
You can also treat yourself to a day at the spa within the rainforest. Experience the healing powers of nature and rejuvenate your senses with various treatments suited for your needs.
- It’s a place for everyone.
If you’re traveling with your children, there are wildlife parks to enjoy and family-friendy restaurants to dine in. If you’re backpacking alone, hostels are available where you can meet both friendly tourists and locals. If you’re on your honeymoon, the romantic getaways to the rainforest and a relaxing day at the spa will give you and your partner an amazing memory to last a lifetime.
There’s no shortage of things to do at Port Douglas. As you ride the Cairns airport shuttle and enter this quaint town, you’ll immediately know that this will be one of the best holidays you will ever take in your life.
