Port Douglas Area Guide
With a permanent population of 3000 people, which can double in peak season, this beautiful township sprang up on the banks of the Mossman River around 1880. Today it has become world famous as one of the best tropical destinations to visit, and Australian Traveller Magazine ranks it the 3rd best town in the country. Located in the Top End of Australia, Port Douglas is were the rainforest meets the beach, and is a perfect place to relax and indulge the senses, not to mention trips to the Great Barrier Reef.
For a relaxing and indulgent way to see Port Douglas, take to the sea. Sailaway Sunset Sailing offers daily champagne cruises at, yes, sunset. Departing at 5pm, enjoy your complimentary glass of champagne and canapes on a luxury yacht, recently arrived from France, as you sail around the coast of Port Douglas and admire the township, sea views, and mountains in the distance. The sail lasts an hour and a half, for those wanting a more private experience, or just want to sail for longer, you can hire the boat and its crew for private sails to the reef or around the coast.
For an intimate day trip to the Low Isles on the Great Barrier Reef, you can't go past Malaita Low Island Cruises. Operating on a classic luxury yacht, group sizes are limited to a maximum of twenty-two people, so everyone can experience first-class personal service from the crew. All food is provided, morning tea, Lunch and afternoon tea, and with a private mooring at the Low Isles, you'll enjoy fine food in peace and tranquility. You're more than welcome to stay on board and enjoy the sensation of being on the water, but do take Malaita's crew up on the offer of a guided snorkeling tour. All equipment is provided and instructors are on hand for those new to snorkeling. Fishing has been banned on the Low Isles for decades, so the sea turtles and fish are very friendly and inquisitive - you might even meet Nemo.
On dry land there is plenty to do in Port Douglas, for those with a love of wildlife - or at least Koalas, go to the The Wildlife Habitat. A short bus trip from Port Douglas town centre, this beautiful wildlife sanctuary allows you to get up close with some of Australia's iconic creatures. Have breakfast (or lunch) with the birds, human guests get to chose from a selection of freshly cooked meals or a cold buffet, while the parrots, cockatoos and other native birds feast on fruit platters. They are very friendly and beautiful, their keepers join in the fun too, talking you through interacting with the birds and teaching you about their importance to the tropical ecosystem.
After breakfast, meet an altogether cuddling friend, Koalas are kept in a special sanctuary in the Habitat, and for a small donation you can meet one up close for a bit of a cuddle. Before you leave, spend a few minutes hand feeding the kangaroos, these rather large critters have been calling the Habitat home for generations and are very accustomed to their human guests.
Back in town, spend the evening in the Rainforest with some fine food and storytelling at Flames of the Forest. At a candlelit supper, with an excellent tasting menu with fine wines, hear the oral history of the local indigenous people, explore stories with music and dance, this is a magical evening that will take you into another universe.
For something a little more casual, head to The Court House Hotel for the best steaks in town. Sit on the verandah and watch the sunset, or just people watch as this sleepy sub-tropical town prepares for an evenings entertainment. With live music every night of the week, The Court House Hotel is the heart and soul of Port Douglas, for locals and tourists alike.