PORT DOUGLAS & THE DAINTREE
The Port Douglas & The Daintree region is a globally unique paradise where the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef meets the planet’s oldest living rainforest. This is where two natural wonders collide.
This is a destination of breathtaking natural contrasts. It blends the sophisticated, seaside charm of Port Douglas with the raw, prehistoric majesty of the ancient Daintree Rainforest.
Most Popular Attractions
Port Douglas Coastal & Town Core:
Four Mile Beach: The iconic, long, sweeping stretch of golden sand, perfect for sunrise walks and relaxed sunbathing.
Flagstaff Hill Lookout: Offers stunning, panoramic views over Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas town, and the Coral Sea.
St Mary’s by the Sea: A historic, non-denominational wooden church with a glass altar window overlooking the water.
Macrossan Street: The main street of Port Douglas, known for its boutique shopping, cafés, and high-end dining.
Port Douglas Marina: The departure point for Great Barrier Reef and Low Isles tours, with waterfront restaurants.
Sunday Markets: A popular weekly market held on the waterfront, featuring local crafts, produce, and art.
Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas: An immersive zoo where you can interact with local Australian fauna, including cassowaries, koalas, and crocodiles.
The Great Barrier Reef & Offshore:
Agincourt Reef: One of the most pristine outer-reef locations, known for its incredible coral clarity and diversity.
Low Isles: A stunning coral cay island near Port Douglas, perfect for beginner snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours, and lighthouse visits.
Opal Reef: A popular snorkeling and diving spot with impressive bommies and a high chance of spotting reef sharks and turtles.
Snorkelling/Diving Tours: Daily tours departing from the Marina to explore the world’s largest coral reef system.
Daintree Rainforest & Mossman Gorge:
Mossman Gorge: A spectacular, easily accessible section of the Daintree featuring clear waters cascading over granite boulders. Visitors often take the Indigenous-guided Dreamtime walk.
Daintree River Cruise: A guided boat tour focusing on spotting local wildlife, particularly saltwater crocodiles, birds, and snakes, in their natural habitat.
Cape Tribulation: The famous headland where the Daintree Rainforest literally meets the beach and the reef.
Daintree Discovery Centre: An excellent interpretive centre with an aerial walkway and tower for a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest canopy.
Alexandra Lookout (Walu Wugirriga): A superb viewpoint north of the Daintree River crossing, offering views of the river mouth, Snapper Island, and the ocean.
Jindalba Boardwalk: A lush, accessible rainforest walk that allows for up-close viewing of ancient plants and trees.
Daintree Ice Cream Company: A unique stop offering ice cream made from exotic fruits grown on their surrounding farm.
Cow Bay: A quiet beach area within the Daintree, known for its beautiful scenery and proximity to rainforest tracks.
Bloomfield Track (Partial): An adventurous 4WD track connecting Cape Tribulation further north, offering remote access (check seasonal closures).
Marrdja Botanical Walk: A loop boardwalk showcasing the transition from mangrove ecosystems to rainforest.
Activities & Experiences
Snorkel or Scuba Dive the Great Barrier Reef: Take a full-day cruise from Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina to the Outer Reef (like Agincourt Reef) for world-class snorkeling and diving among vibrant coral gardens.
Explore Mossman Gorge with an Indigenous Guide: Take a Dreamtime Walk with the local Kuku Yalanji people to learn about their culture, plant uses, and sacred sites within the ancient rainforest.
Cruise the Daintree River for Crocodile Spotting: Join a river cruise to spot Estuarine Crocodiles in their natural habitat and observe a diverse range of birds and unique mangrove ecosystems.
Visit Cape Tribulation (Where the Reef Meets the Rainforest): Drive or take a guided tour north of the Daintree River to this UNESCO-listed spot where the Daintree Rainforest literally descends to the coral-fringed beach.
Trek the Elevated Boardwalks and Canopy Tower: Spend time at the Daintree Discovery Centre to experience the rainforest from the ground level to the canopy via aerial walkways and a 75-foot tower.
Enjoy Sunset Sailing: Take a luxurious catamaran or Chinese Junk boat sunset cruise from Port Douglas Marina, often including canapés and drinks, to watch the sky light up over the Coral Sea.
Swim in a Freshwater Swimming Hole: Cool off safely in the crystal-clear, croc-free waters of Mossman Gorge (via the shuttle bus) or other local favorites like Mason’s Store swimming hole.
Indulge in Retail Therapy and Markets: Browse the high-end boutiques and art galleries along Macrossan Street in Port Douglas, and don’t miss the colorful Port Douglas Sunday Markets at Anzac Park.
Hike to Flagstaff Hill Lookout: Take the short, scenic trail from the town center to the Flagstaff Hill Lookout for stunning panoramic views over Four Mile Beach and the Coral Sea.
Go River Drifting or Tubing: Experience the rainforest from a different perspective by floating down a freshwater river on a tube or a low-key snorkel adventure (river drifting).
Take a Scenic Helicopter Flight: See the dual World Heritage areas—the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest—from above on a breathtaking scenic flight.
Local Tips & Transport
The Great Barrier Reef Drive: The journey from Cairns Airport (CNS) to Port Douglas is a spectacular, approximately 60-75 minute drive along the Captain Cook Highway. It is highly recommended to pre-book a coach or private transfer from Cairns Airport, as there is no regular public bus service.
Getting Around Port Douglas:
Walking & Cycling: The main village of Port Douglas is flat and very walkable. Macrossan Street, the Marina, and Four Mile Beach are all within easy walking distance. Bike and e-scooter hire are also popular ways to get around.
Local Shuttle Buses: Port Douglas relies heavily on local, private shuttle services (like SR Coaches or Exemplar) that run frequently from early morning until late at night, connecting accommodations, the town center, and the Marina. These are the primary non-car transport option.
Daintree & Mossman Gorge: To properly explore Mossman Gorge, the Daintree Rainforest, and Cape Tribulation, a rental car is highly recommended. This allows you to explore at your own pace and access the remote attractions.
Daintree Ferry: Accessing the main Daintree Rainforest (north of the river) requires a short cable ferry crossing. This ferry is paid per vehicle ($AU 45 round trip, approximately $30 USD), and is the only vehicle access point. Check operating times and potential wait times, especially during peak season.
Reef and Rainforest Safety: This is the only place in the world where two UNESCO World Heritage sites meet. Respect the environment and be aware of potential hazards:
Be Croc Wise: Saltwater Crocodiles inhabit the rivers and estuarine areas of the Daintree. Never swim in river systems or beaches outside of designated swimming areas.
Marine Stingers: During the “Wet Season” (November to May), marine stingers (Box Jellyfish and Irukandji) are present in the ocean. Always swim in the netted enclosures on beaches like Four Mile Beach, or wear stinger suits (provided by reef tour operators).
Sun Safety: The tropical sun is intense. “Slip, Slop, Slap”—Slip on a shirt, Slop on reef-safe sunscreen (essential for the Reef), and Slap on a hat.
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Dry Season (May–October): This is peak season. Expect sunny days, lower humidity, and daytime temperatures around 77ºF (25ºC). The ocean is usually calmest for reef trips.
Wet Season (November–April): Characterized by high humidity, spectacular rainfall (often in the late afternoon/night), and higher temperatures. The rainforest is lush, and the reef visibility can be excellent due to less wind, but be prepared for occasional heavy downpours.
Dining and Local Produce:
The Esplanade: Head to the northern end of Macrossan Street (The Esplanade) for fantastic waterfront dining views.
Local Delicacies: Try fresh local seafood, tropical fruits like the local mangoes, and even visit the Daintree Ice Cream Company for unique rainforest fruit-flavored ice cream.
Indigenous Culture: Seek out tours operated by the traditional owners, the Kuku Yalanji people, such as those at Mossman Gorge. This provides an invaluable, authentic cultural connection to the land.
Hidden Gems:
St Mary’s by the Sea Chapel: A beautiful, non-denominational wooden church with a stunning view of the ocean through its glass altar window. Perfect for photos.
Rex Smeal Park: Located at the northern tip of Port Douglas, this is the best spot to gather for sunset views, often with local food trucks and a laid-back atmosphere.
Low Isles: A stunning, protected coral cay accessible by boat from Port Douglas, offering an idyllic, tranquil reef experience close to the mainland.
Top Restaurants
The Tin Shed (Port Douglas Combined Club) [$15-$30] – A classic, simple waterfront dining spot popular with locals, offering very simple, well-priced pub food, fresh prawns, and stunning views from the deck.
Kai Beachfront Bar & Grill [$20-$35] – One of the few restaurants on the south side of Four Mile Beach, serving up tasty, unpretentious, well-priced dishes with a relaxed vibe.
The Court House Hotel (The Courty) [$15-$30] – Port Douglas’s oldest pub, offering a modern bistro menu with pub classics, seafood, burgers, and fish tacos in a heritage Queenslander setting.
Hemingway’s Brewery FNQ [$20-$35] – A popular gastro brewpub situated on the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina, offering pub fare, local craft beers, and views of the water.
The Surfy Port Douglas (Port Douglas Surf Club) [$15-$30] – A great casual bistro where you can stroll up from the sands of Four Mile Beach for a cold beer and a hearty meal.
Grant Street Kitchen [$10-$20] – An artisan bakery-café known for its all-day breakfast, buttery croissants, and flaky, house-made pies that incorporate local ingredients.
Origin Espresso [$5-$15] – A humble coffee shop on Warner Street that roasts its own beans locally, offering excellent coffee, cold-drip, and fresh-squeezed cane sugar juice.
Mocka’s Pies & Bakehouse [$5-$15] – The place for a classic Aussie meat pie, including unique local flavors like crocodile and kangaroo, a true regional staple.
Seashells Seafoods [$15-$30] – A local spot for fresh seafood, including good old-fashioned fish and chips and other casual bites.
Choo Choos at the Marina [$15-$30] – A casual dining spot at the Crystalbrook Marina, offering breakfast and lunch on the deck or in historic Bally Hooley train dining cars.
Hi Tide by the Beach [$15-$30] – A great little restaurant on the Esplanade, overlooking Four Mile Beach, famous for its delicious cooked breakfasts and all-day dining.
Cafe Fresq [$15-$25] – A popular café in the heart of Port Douglas, known for serving breakfast and lunch using fresh local produce.
N17 Burger Co. & Sports Bar [$15-$25] – The go-to spot for a hearty, gourmet burger in Port Douglas, complemented by a sports bar atmosphere.
Toast Sandwich Bar [$10-$20] – A good option for a light brunch or lunch, specializing in delicious sandwiches and excellent coffee.
Pita Paradise [$10-$20] – Recommended for simple, affordable Mediterranean options like pita bread sandwiches and salads.
Jade Inn [$15-$30] – A local favorite Chinese restaurant, known for its selection of homemade dim sum.
The Mexican – Port Douglas [$20-$35] – A casual yet upbeat eatery serving good quality Mexican food, including excellent tacos, ceviche, and margaritas, known for good value.
Rattle ‘n Hum [$15-$30] – A family-friendly spot featuring a large stone pizza oven, good quality burgers, steaks, and fresh seafood off the grill.
Pasta e Vino [$20-$40] – A small, authentic Italian pasta bar known for simple, authentic, and delicious fresh pasta dishes that are well-priced for the quality.
La Cucina + Bar [$25-$45] – Offers authentic Italian cuisine, including fresh seafood, handmade pasta, chargrilled steaks, and an excellent Italian pizza and spuntini (snacks) bar.
Salsa Bar and Grill [$30-$50] – A highly-awarded, long-standing favorite known for its vibrant atmosphere and a creative, eclectic menu of modern Australian and international fusion, especially the daily reef fish specials.
Melaleuca Port Douglas [$30-$50] – An elegant modern Australian restaurant on Wharf Street with a fabulous alfresco setting and stunning ocean views, known for heroing local ingredients.
Watergate Restaurant & Lounge Bar [$30-$50] – An often-overlooked Macrossan Street restaurant delivering a great dining experience across all courses, offering international cuisine in a sophisticated setting.
Zinc Port Douglas [$30-$50] – A sophisticated tropical dining experience offering modern Australian cuisine with a European flair, popular for both special occasions and casual catch-ups.
Seabean Tapas Bar Restaurant [$25-$45] – A “little Barcelona meets tropical Port Douglas,” specializing in Spanish tapas, paella, pintxos, and sangria in a modern, airy space.
Wrasse & Roe [$30-$50] – A new seafood-focused restaurant known for excellent, high-quality seafood dishes like scallops and fresh reef fish.
Jungle Fowl [$30-$50] – A highly-rated Southeast Asian restaurant in Port Douglas, known for superb Asian food and a popular Chef’s Table experience on certain days.
Barbados Port Douglas [$25-$45] – A sophisticated bar and restaurant located on the Marina, offering a beach club vibe, cocktails, and a modern menu.
Maman [$30-$50] – A breezy, Middle Eastern-inspired eatery from a Gold Coast sensation, offering craft cocktails, dips, and sensational plates like beef tagine and filo pie.
Nautilus Restaurant [$70-$120] – An iconic Port Douglas experience; one of Australia’s longest-running restaurants, offering elegant, open-air dining amidst a lush outdoor oasis with a tropical-inspired degustation menu.
Harrison’s Restaurant [$80-$130] – Port Douglas’s most nationally awarded restaurant, with a Michelin star-trained chef/owner, offering an elegant, French-inspired fine dining experience in a quaint colonial house setting.
The Treehouse Restaurant (Silky Oaks Lodge) [$90-$150] – An exceptional fine dining experience overlooking the Mossman River, with an open-sided pavilion architecture, serving a contemporary Australian menu that celebrates the region’s produce.
Julaymba Restaurant (Daintree Eco Lodge) [$70-$110] – A stunning dining experience on an outdoor timber deck overlooking a peaceful lily pad pond, serving contemporary Australian cuisine with a focus on local Daintree flavors.
Epicurean Port Douglas [$40-$70] – A restaurant specializing in grazing boards, charcuterie, cheese, and fine wine, offering a mini cellar door experience and French Bistro-style long lunches.
Masons Cafe Cape Tribulation [$15-$30] – A simple café offering lunch options with a focus on local produce, located near a beautiful natural swimming hole.
On The Turps Restaurant (Heritage Lodge) [$25-$45] – Set on the edge of Cooper Creek, enveloped by the Daintree Rainforest, offering “the best barra in town” and other local dishes in a romantic, candlelit setting.
Turtle Rock Café [$15-$30] – Located in the heart of Cape Tribulation, offering freshly cooked, wholesome meals, great coffee, and tropical outdoor dining in a casual, friendly atmosphere.
Thornton’s Restaurant and Bar [$20-$40] – Idyllically positioned on Thornton Beach, this spot offers spectacular beachfront views of the ocean and Struck Island, serving a range of casual meals.
Daintree Ice Cream Company [$10-$15] – A unique spot to try tropical fruit ice cream made onsite using organically grown fruit from their farm—a popular stop on the Cape Tribulation Road.
Floravilla Ice Creamery [$10-$15] – Another biodynamic and organic ice cream experience in the Daintree, set in a serene tropical garden.
Daintree Tea House Restaurant [$20-$40] – The longest-established restaurant in the Daintree area, offering a premier lunch destination with a reputation for satisfying travelers.
Daintree Village Restaurant & Coffee Shop [$15-$30] – A simple, local spot in Daintree Village for a casual meal or coffee break.
Croc Eye Cafe [$15-$25] – An aptly named cafe in the Daintree Village, often visited by people going crocodile spotting, offering simple meals.
Dragonfly Gallery Cafe [$15-$30] – A quirky, funky spot in the middle of the rainforest at Cape Tribulation, set in a large treehouse style with interesting menu choices.
Hook-A-Barra Kitchen [$20-$40] – Located at the Daintree Saltwater Barramundi Farm, this dedicated kitchen focuses on Barramundi, offering a true “paddock-to-plate” experience.
Big Barramundi BBQ Garden [$20-$35] – Located in Daintree Village, this is a quintessential experience for travelers looking to sample local Barramundi in a garden setting.
Bilngkumu Restaurant (Daintree Eco Lodge) [$40-$70] – Specializes in the tastes of Australian “bush tucker,” offering a fresh and unique culinary experience at the premier Daintree Eco Lodge.
Daintree Siesta Restaurant [$15-$30] – A licensed restaurant located in Diwan, in the center of the Daintree Coast, ideal for a relaxed, delicious meal.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Barbados Port Douglas: A stylish cocktail lounge located on the boardwalk at the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina. With a Caribbean focus, it offers plush daybeds, spectacular sunset views over the Coral Sea and Daintree National Park, and an extensive selection of rums and signature tropical cocktails.
Jimmy Rum’s Mixing Lounge: A cool, quirky, and slightly hidden prohibition-style bar on Port Douglas’s main strip, Macrossan Street. The décor features vibrant art deco tiles and custom leather, offering a den of fine liquor and creative, handcrafted cocktails served with gourmet ice.
Zinc Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge: An open-air, sophisticated space on Macrossan Street, just a short stroll from Four Mile Beach. This award-winning venue offers an extensive cocktail menu, from classics to unique creations like the Strawberry & Balsamic Martini, in an elegant, contemporary setting.
Watergate Lounge Bar: Surrounded by tropical plants and flaming tiki torches, this lounge bar offers a heavenly ambiance beneath a canvas canopy. Located off Macrossan Street, it’s a romantic spot for enjoying innovative cocktails like the Geisha Girl or a rosemary-infused Negroni.
Daintree Bar: Found within the luxurious Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort on the Avenue of Palms, this bar is an ideal place to taste Australian spirits, featuring popular tasting flights and sensational tropical cocktails. They also host rum masterclasses.
Estillo & Pool Bar (at QT Resort): Part of the QT Resort’s oasis setting, this poolside bar allows you to swim up or sit by the hand-crafted stone bar. Located slightly out of the main town centre, it serves exquisite drinks like the Lychee and Watermelon Mojito and Mango Daiquiris.
Salsa Bar & Grill: While primarily a beloved restaurant in the heart of Port Douglas overlooking the Dickson Inlet, their bar is famous for pouring the “Salsa Margarita,” a local legend, alongside a menu of vibrant, tropical drinks in their open-air Queenslander setting.
Lure Restaurant and Bar: Situated on the boardwalk at the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina, this spot is perfect for enjoying happy hour drinks and tapas with a view over the yachts and the water.
The Little Larder: A cozy and intimate café by day that transforms into a spot for creative cocktails and craft beers in the evening. This hidden gem on Macrossan Street offers a relaxed atmosphere for a casual night out.
The Court House Hotel (Front Bar): A historic pub since 1878, located prominently on the corner of Wharf and Macrossan Streets. While a pub, its iconic front bar is a lively fixture where you can enjoy classic drinks in a charming colonial setting, often with live music.
Hemingway’s Brewery Port Douglas: This expansive microbrewery, bar, and restaurant overlooks the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina. While specializing in craft beer, their full bar also offers a wide range of spirits and an excellent wine list, perfect for a waterfront sundowner.
On the Inlet: A favourite seafood restaurant located where the Coral Sea meets the Dickson Inlet. Its bar offers a relaxed vibe with a view of boats and the Cape Tribulation mountains, making it a spectacular spot for a sunset cocktail or a classic beer.
Cosmos Port Douglas: A modern, air-conditioned bar on Grant Street that combines craft cocktails with a social, competitive twist, featuring an impressive computerised dart system. It offers a great menu of drinks and share-friendly bites.
N17 Burger Co. & Sports Bar: A popular spot on Macrossan Street known as a sports bar, but offering a full range of drinks alongside a focus on burgers, making it a great place for a beer or a simple mixed drink while catching a game.
Rattle & Hum Bar & Grill: Located on Macrossan Street, this spacious bar offers multiple drinking areas including a front pavement area and a landscaped, tiered back deck. It has a lively atmosphere, great pub food, and a full bar for cocktails and other drinks.
Lichi Restaurant and Cocktail Bar: Known for its Asian-inspired cuisine and sleek design, this venue offers a bar area where patrons can enjoy specialty cocktails that complement the tropical setting.
Palmer Sea Clubhouse Port Douglas: Situated out of the busy main street, overlooking a beautiful golf course, this is a refined spot for a few wines or drinks in a tranquil, sophisticated setting.
Ironbar Port Douglas: Often considered the closest to a traditional late-night venue in town. Located on Macrossan Street, this iconic, rustic pub has three floors dedicated to evening enjoyment, an air-conditioned gaming lounge, and features nightly DJs for a lively atmosphere.
Paddy’s Irish Pub: A classic Irish pub on Macrossan Street. It’s a reliable spot for a lively atmosphere, friendly service, and a good time, often hosting live music which can turn into a good party late at night.
The Central Hotel: An iconic pub in the heart of Port Douglas on Macrossan Street. This classic Aussie pub features a traditional bar, a modern outdoor terrace, and a beer garden. It is a lively spot where you can often catch live sports on the big screen and enjoy a bustling atmosphere well into the evening.
Port Douglas Yacht Club (The Yachty): While a club, its bar is a hub for “revelry” on Wednesday afternoons after the weekly sailing regatta (WAGS) and on weekends. Located on the picturesque Dickson Inlet, it offers a spirited atmosphere with beautiful sunset views.
The Tin Shed (Douglas Community and Sports Club): Located on Ashford Ave, this venue on the waterfront (also known as the Douglas Community Club) is a great spot for sundowners and bistro meals. It features the upstairs Bacardi Bar, which can offer a livelier atmosphere on weekends or during special events.
Rattle & Hum Bar & Grill: (Mentioned above) With its spacious, multi-area layout and later hours, it serves as one of the main late-night hangouts in the central area, offering a convivial environment where groups tend to gather.
Ironbar Port Douglas: (Mentioned above) As one of the few places with nightly DJs and multiple floors, it holds a prime position as the area’s top spot for late-night music and dancing.
The Court House Hotel: (Mentioned above) Beyond being a historic pub, its central location and tradition of occasionally hosting live music ensures a lively, busy crowd and a spirited atmosphere, especially on weekends and public holidays, making it a key social venue.
The Central Hotel: (Mentioned above) Its location and offering of both an indoor and outdoor space with big-screen sports and a traditional pub atmosphere ensures it remains one of the busiest late-night social venues in the heart of town.
Salsa Bar & Grill: (Mentioned above) While a restaurant, the “vibe” is one of the key selling points, and the bar section is often busy and energetic, making it an excellent pre-clubbing or high-energy late-night dinner/drinks option.
Flames of the Forest: (Daintree area) Located deep in the rainforest near Port Douglas, this isn’t a club but a unique, award-winning rainforest dining experience. It offers a magical, immersive night out with a full bar, perfect for a high-end, alternative “nightlife” activity in the Daintree.
Hemingway’s Brewery Port Douglas: On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, this venue sometimes features live music, creating a lively atmosphere by the marina, perfect for a relaxed yet social evening.