How to Spend 1 Day in Port Douglas

Known for its white-sand beach, superb Great Barrier Reef snorkeling, and tropical rain forest, the fishing village and resort town of Port Douglas in North Queensland makes an excellent base for exploring Australia’s Far North. If you only have one day to spend, here’s how to make the most of your time.

Morning: City Sightseeing

Kick off your day in Port Douglas with an exploration of the town itself. Hop on a Segway for a guided tour along Four Mile Beach, situated between Daintree National Park and the Great Barrier Reef, or head out on a self-guided audio tour of the town, with stops at notable points of interest such as Flagstaff Hill Lookout, St. Mary’s by the Sea, and the Old Court House. If you have time, take a stroll down Macrossan Street to do some shopping at the local boutiques or browse the Sunday market.

Afternoon: Low Isles Snorkeling

While most snorkeling excursions to the Great Barrier Reef take most of the day, you can squeeze some snorkeling into a tight schedule by spending an afternoon in the Low Isles—the only Great Barrier Reef islands within quick sailing distance of Port Douglas. Hop in the water to explore the colorful reef, or stay dry onboard the glass-bottom boat. If you’re traveling with kids, consider an afternoon learning about local habitats at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures eco-park.

Night: Dinner Show

After a day of outdoor adventure, unwind with a special dinner experience as the sun goes down. Dine by candlelight in the world’s oldest rain forest or at Tjapukai Aboriginal Park. Sample local foods, sip Australian wines and beers, and watch an Aboriginal cultural performance to learn more about the continent’s earliest inhabitants. Most dinner shows include round-trip transportation to your hotel in the Northern Beaches for a hassle-free night out.