Top 10 Activities in Port Douglas

Port Douglas in North Queensland is renowned for its stunning beach, vibrant tropical atmosphere, and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. Despite recent wild weather, the town has bounced back and is ready to welcome visitors.

With the coastal route temporarily closed, take the less travelled inland drive via Mount Molloy and discover the breathtaking landscapes. A new ferry service from Cairns to Port Douglas could also add an aquatic touch to your sun-kissed escape. I’m a frequent visitor to the region, and these are my favourite things to do around Port Douglas.

A floating breakfast is the perfect indulgence.

Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling or Diving: You can’t get this close to the Great Barrier Reef and not get out there! Check it out yourself with a diving or snorkelling day trip.
Explore Mossman Gorge: The Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre, located within the Daintree National Park, has an impressive Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk, which includes a smoking ceremony and a bush stroll to the crystal-clear waterholes.
Indulge with a Floating Breakfast: At Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas, you can order a Floating Breakfast in the lagoon pool when staying at the resort. Imagine eating freshly baked pastries, vibrant tropical fruits and even lobster while relaxing in the pool. It’s so much fun.
Shop Port Douglas Sunday Markets: This vast market, held every Sunday at Rex Smeal Park, is one of my favourite markets. I never come away with empty hands. They have everything from fashion to food.
Enjoy Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas: Walk through the various native habitats to see and interact with many local birds and animals. You can ‘swim’ with the crocodiles or enjoy talking to my favourite bird, Max, the black cockatoo.
Swim with Turtles at Low Isles: If you are short on time, a Calypso Reef Cruises half-day boat trip to the nearby Low Isles will give you excellent snorkelling and a swim where the resident turtles are not shy. Walk around the island and discover the history, including a gravesite!
Hook a Barramundi: Just north of Port Douglas is Hook-A-Barra at the Daintree Saltwater Barramundi Farm. Here, you can catch a fish, take a gourmet farm tour and feed barramundi in a tank (very exciting)!
Eat Local Chocolate: At The Australian Chocolate Farm at Shannonvale, 15 minutes north of Port Douglas, they grow cocoa and turn it into chocolate. Take a guided farm tour and then sample their chocolate. It’s good, award-winning good.
Walk Four Mile Beach: A daily early morning stroll on pristine Four Mile Beach with its beautiful Coral Sea views is a must-do in Port.
Dine Out!: Port Douglas has so many great restaurants. My favourites include Harrisons by Spencer Patrick, Jungle Fowl, Wrasse and Roe and Salsa Bar & Grill. I always stop at Mocka’s Pies for a crocodile laksa pie.