Port Douglas, North Queensland, Australia
More Than Just a Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef
Sep 3, 2009
The seaside village of Port Douglas, Australia is more than just a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. With an ancient tropical rainforest on one side and the Coral Sea bordering the other, the choices available for a memorable vacation experience are many and varied. The quaint town itself offers a main street lined with shops for all prices and tastes with dining choices that can satisfy with fresh local seafood or a double scoop of frozen gelato. Stop by the bar at Nautilus to enjoy an evening cocktail. The bar seating is situated on a many tiered wood terrace, open air, under the night stars. This exotically inspired atmosphere will start your night off right. The town also offers luxury or moderately priced accommodations which are available with only a five-minute walk from the downtown to the beautiful, sandy, Four Mile Beach.
Fly into Cairns International Airport and you will find yourself in tropical North Queensland. The weather is warm year round with the peak tourist season being May-September. By car, bus or taxi the scenic coastal drive will take about 45 minutes from the airport to the town of Port Douglas. Once you get settled in to your accommodations take a stroll down the main street. Souvenir shops and art galleries, clothing boutiques and surf wear, line the picturesque lane. Not to be missed are the indigenous arts and crafts shops. This distinctive art style is unique in itself and can be found decorating paintings, boomerangs and didgeridoos.
Tropical Four Mile Beach at the End of Main Street
At one end of town you will find Four Mile Beach. This gently curving sandy beach looking out at the Coral Sea is lined with lush swaying palm trees and tropical foliage. If swimming is your activity of choice be aware that there is a jellyfish, also called marine stinger, season and any swimming at this time should be done within the provided stinger nets. Any time of day is perfect for a leisurely walk, invigorating jog or just a relaxing bike ride along this hard packed sand beach. Sunrise over the Coral Sea, gazing out from Four Mile Beach, is spectacular so be sure to set your alarm clock and pack your camera. This is a guaranteed photo opportunity.
From the Great Barrier Reef to the Daintree Rainforest
The Port Douglas Marina is the place to reserve your Great Barrier Reef tours and excursions. These daily trips leave from the marina to the Outer Reef or the Low Isles for snorkeling or scuba diving. Depending on your preferences, you can find full or half day trips, small or large groups with most providing lunch. Some even include a glass bottom boat ride. Whatever type of trip you’ve signed up for be prepared to see turtles, sharks, amazingly colorful coral and plenty of fish.
Turning from the sea, inland, the landscape is one of a kind. Book a tour to the oldest living rainforest on earth, Daintree Rainforest. See the Daintree River with its mangrove habitats or visit Mossman Gorge on the Mossman River. There is no other place on Earth quite the like the surrounding area of Port Douglas, QLD Australia.
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