It almost feels as if one can have everything they need and more at the quaint coastal town of Port Douglas, just north off of Queensland. It’s the dream getaway for those who are looking for an adventure, want a family vacation, are interested in exploring nature, or want to rejuvenate their spirit.
The town, listed #3 in Australian Traveller magazine’s 100 Best Towns in Australia, is quite unique because it is situated between two World Heritage sites, the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. With natural wonders surrounding Port Douglas, it is rich in culture, history, and vibrance.
Four Mile Beach
A few minutes away from Port Douglas is Four Mile Beach, which boasts of clear waters, soft sand, and a line of beautiful greenery. Take a dip in the shallow waters, soak in some sun, or have a nice fruit shake at a nearby restaurant. Kitesurfing is also available for those wanting a bit more thrill in the water.
Daintree Rainforest
Daintree Rainforest is the world’s oldest living rainforests and is home to the Aboriginal Kuku Yalanji people. Exploring the rainforest is like entering a whole other world—in fact, it served as inspiration for James Cameron’s Avatar. There are many ways to see the rainforest, including taking a river cruise, hiking along nature trails, and zip-lining through the jungle.
Low Isles
The largest coral reef system in the world, the Great Barrier Reef, is accessible from Port Douglas. There are many reefs to enjoy around this area; one of them can be found at Low Isles, which is 12 kilometres away from the town. Here, you can swim and snorkel, spot 150 different types of hard corals, and spot some turtles away.
Spas for Rejuvenation
Much of the thrill-seeking adventures are a ride away from the town proper, so it’s no surprise that Port Douglas is the main tourist centre as many travellers book their stay here. A number of spas can be located here, perhaps for those wanting to relax after a sporty adventure through the jungles of Daintree Rainforest.
5-star Accommodations
Luxurious resorts and inns lining the beachfront are also available in Port Douglas, where you can spoil yourself with the much needed rest and relaxation. The recently renovated Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas resort even has an 18-hole golf course for you to unwind.
Going around town
Port Douglas may be small, but there is always something to do. A relaxing atmosphere is present both during off-peak and peak season due to the laid back nature of the beach town. There are a number of restaurants and cafes to try, as well as boutique stores and galleries to visit. But perhaps most important of all are the genuine smiles you’ll meet as you walk through town—which only makes for a more enjoyable place you wouldn’t want to leave.
If you are looking for that perfect trip to take you to paradise, Port Douglas is located in Cairns, which many airlines fly to. From the airport, it’s only an hour long drive via www.cairnsairportshuttle.netto get to the town. Who knew that paradise was just around the corner?
