Port Douglas

Port Douglas is a true resort beside the sea. In spite of its popularity and sophistication, the village retails its close-knit community character, and is a popular getaway destination for incognito superstars and even US Presidents.

The reason for its popularity is for its old fashioned charm, wide tree-shaded streets, and superb holiday attractions. The intrinsic character of this seaside village has been wonderfully preserved with nothing taller than a palm tree; development is low-rise, low-key and relaxing.

Holiday activities and sightseeing options include The Links golf course and the Bally Hooley, an old cane train which provides a fun alternative to walking between the marina and the village centre. There's the unique Rainforest Habitat where you can experience life in a tropical forest at birds eye level, observing native wildlife from treetop walkways. As the name suggests it is also a Port and has many trips which depart daily to the reef.

At nearby Mossman Gorge you'll discover rainforest walking tracks and refreshing swimming holes. There are nearby sugar, fruit, tea and coffee plantations, where you can sample some rare and delicious delights, a rainforest theatre, walking tracks and mangrove boardwalks. This pristine region is a wilderness dream of lush tropical rainforests, deserted white beaches, sleepy rivers and breathtaking natural beauty preserved by World Heritage listing for future generations.

Also a short drive is the Daintree Village, once the heart of the timber industry, nestles in a bend of the Daintree River where cruise boats glide between the jungle homes of birds, animals and reptiles including large crocodiles and pythons. A naturalist's paradise, this region is recognised for its superb wildlife, and eco-tourism operators provide itineraries offering fascinating insights into the creatures that inhabit this remote and beautiful river-system.

From the river's ferry crossing the coastal road continues north over tidal rivers and creeks and through small settlements to the renowned wilderness areas of Cape Tribulation and Bloomfield Falls.