Photo of Port Douglas

About Port Douglas

Perfectly poised between the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, Port Douglas is a popular hub for keen adventurers. Just under an hour from Cairns International Airport, this is a wonderful coastal Queensland destination, with a plethora of excellent accommodation options. Book a suite at a luxury resort, unwind in your own private apartment, or hide away in the rainforest; our list of the best places to stay in Port Douglas highlights top spots for a memorable trip.

Some of our Port Douglas collections:

The beauty of Four Mile Beach encouraged the development of Port Douglas from the 1980s onwards, but the town still has an appealingly laidback feel. Stroll along streets lined with designer boutiques, pop into trendy cafés and restaurants, or sip cold beers and super Australian wine in seaside bars. Yachts are clustered in the marina, and the beach is brilliant for long walks, sunbathing, fishing and sandcastle-building with little ones.

Take sailing trips, snorkelling and diving excursions on the Great Barrier Reef, or head into the rainforest for guided hiking and mountain biking adventures. Cape Tribulation is stunning, as is the Daintree Rainforest. Don’t miss Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas if travelling as a family, nor picking up souvenirs at the bustling Sunday Craft Markets in Anzac Park. Popular with Australians as well as international visitors, the best places to stay in Port Douglas fill up fast during the summer season. Book your trip well in advance!

The Best Places to Stay in Port Douglas

For Boutique Chic

  • Port Douglas Peninsula Boutique Hotel is a couples' favourite, with beautiful coastal views and a superb location just across the road from the beach. Spaces are cool and contemporary, with an elegant mix of natural textures and soothing blue, grey and cream tones. Big sink-into tubs and private terraces complete the picture. A romantic bolthole.

For Families or Groups

  • By the Sea Port Douglas has great value self-catering apartments with tiled floors and a white, cream, blue and black colour palette. Families will love the swimming pools and leafy gardens, as well as the bicycles and proximity to Four Mile Beach.
  • Peppers Beach Club offers two-bedroom suites for families, set around an inviting lagoon pool. There's a gym for active travellers, easy access to a plethora of activities out on the water, and an excellent restaurant-bar for fresh, seasonal fare and cracking cocktails. Elegant and very appealing.
  • Saltwater Luxury Apartments are also well-suited to families and groups of friends. Offering up to three bedrooms, the tile-floored apartments have sitting rooms, kitchens and sit-out balconies. Recently renovated bathrooms feature spa tubs or rain showers, and guests share access to a heated swimming pool. A very reasonably priced Port Douglas choice.

For an Eco-Escape

  • Mai Tai Resort, a simple eco-minded hideaway inspired by traditional Balinese style, sits within five acres of rainforest on a striking hilltop. A tranquil, adult-only retreat, this intimate spot offers just six guest rooms with carved four-poster beds, handwoven rugs and gorgeous rainforest views. Cool off in the swimming pool after scenic hikes.
  • Thala Beach Nature Resort has spacious stilted bungalows with dazzling vistas over the 145 acres of rainforest and golden stretch of private beach. Guided nature walks and bird or butterfly tours will delight nature enthusiasts. Expect cracking seasonal fare, a rejuvenating spa & a real sense of seclusion on a private coastal reserve with a strong conservation ethos.

For Luxury

  • Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa boasts swish seaside suites, apartments and villas with private plunge pools. Contemporary interiors promise beds topped with crisp white linens, original artwork, shaded terraces and lagoon pools framed by leafy gardens. A popular wedding venue with a brilliant restaurant and spa.
  • Niramaya Villas & Spa offers a collection of sensational guest suites and villas with high ceilings, rainforest views and a timeless sense of style. Within walking distance of Four Mile Beach — though many are tempted to kick back in the 30-metre swimming pool. Plus you can enjoy restorative spa treatments and linger in the gorgeous gardens. Very indulgent.
  • Coconut Grove Apartments are cool, contemporary spaces with plunge pools and private terraces, some of which have hot tubs. Set on buzzy Macrossan Street, the apartments are done in white and cream tones, with blue or orange accents. Sitting rooms, well-equipped kitchens and multiple bedrooms are good for families and friends. A luxury take on an apartment holiday.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Fly to Cairns International Airport, an hour from Port Douglas by bus or taxi. You can also arrive by train from Cairns or Brisbane — a hugely scenic route. Many hotels will also be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
  • Queensland is great for a road trip. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Visit in the summer months — between December and February — for pleasant temperatures and plenty of sunshine. This is peak season; you may find the spring and autumn shoulder season quieter, and hotels often offer reduced rates in those months.

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Best Hotels in Port Douglas

  • Mai Tai Resort Port Douglas (Australia) 6 rooms from €109

    Back to Nature  -  Spend your days hiking, bird watching & wildlife spotting in the rainforest, or diving and snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef
    Wildlife Area  -  Take guided tours of the nearby Mowbray National Park and Mount Lewis National Park to see the region's rare wildlife
    Hideaway  -  A tranquil hideaway in the rainforest close to Port Douglas, this is an ideal retreat for nature-loving romantics
    Great walks  -  Follow stunning walks and trails in the surrounding rainforest as well as by Port Douglas and the coast
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParkingNo pets

    An intimate, Balinese-style resort, perched on top of a mountain by Port Douglas and nestled in 5 acres of private lush tropical rainforest. With pool, a choice of 4 rooms or 2 rooms in the private villa. Adult-only romantic setting with lush scenery, close to both rainforest and coastal activities. See More

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  • By the Sea Port Douglas Port Douglas (Australia) 26 rooms from €95

    Cycling  -  Hop aboard the hotel bicycles to zip around town on two wheels, or follow scenic coastal paths in both directions as a family
    Local exploring  -  Set between the sea and the town, this hotel is perfectly placed for exploring in Port Douglas' eateries, shops and beaches
    Families  -  A brilliant choice for families, the hotel's large family suites and a kids' pool will delight those with little ones
    Watersports  -  Enjoy a range of watersports at the beach, from windsurfing to kayaking and paddle boarding
    Swimming PoolGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    This chic, four-star hotel offers accommodation neighbouring four miles of sandy beach in Port Douglas. The bright guestrooms are loosely nautical themed, with blue and white linens and quirky wall art. The hotel's spacious apartments are great for families, with self-catering and sit-out terraces. See More

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  • Port Douglas Peninsula Boutique Hotel Port Douglas (Australia) 34 rooms from €157

    Romantic Break  -  A chic, contemporary seaside hotel with airy guest rooms clad in white and blue tones, perfect for romantic couples
    Cycling  -  Hop aboard the hotel's bicycles to explore the charming villages and natural landscapes of Queensland's coastline
    Snorkelling  -  Swim and snorkel amongst 1,500 kinds of fish and 400 types of coral on the Great Barrier Reef
    Beach Life  -  Expect unrivalled views of beautiful Four Mile Beach and the ocean beyond
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A high-end boutique hotel in the charming fishing village of Port Douglas. With beautiful coastal views and a beachfront location, as well as glorious pool and spoiling spa. Varied outdoor activities on offer, such as Great Barrier Reef diving, guided rainforest tours and wildlife park exploration. See More

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  • Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas (Australia) 75 rooms from €177

    Families  -  Two-bedroom suites are ideal for families, who will also love the lagoon pool and easy access to sailing, snorkelling & swimming
    Sailing  -  Enjoy scenic sailing trips from the Port Douglas Yacht Club - perfect for experienced sailors or keen enthusiasts
    Snorkelling  -  Explore the magnificent wildlife of The Great Barrier Reef with family-friendly snorkelling or diving excursions
    Value chic  -  An appealingly reasonably priced hotel with contemporary suites set around a lively lagoon pool
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsNo pets

    Set in the fishing village of picturesque Port Douglas, with 4 Mile Beach a stone's throw away. A tranquil and relaxed setting, with own leafy pool, gym, in-house bar and restaurant. A good base from which to explore the two National Heritage sites of Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. See More

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  • Saltwater Luxury Apartments Port Douglas (Queensland) from €214

    Other Activities  -  Take a scenic estuary cruise through mangrove swamps, spotting heron, egrets, and saltwater crocodiles in their natural habitat
    Value chic  -  Stylish apartments with balconies, kitchens and a shared swimming pool at reasonable rates when divided amongst friends
    Groups  -  Two and three-bedroom apartments are ideal for groups of friends, who will also love the lively central location
    Local markets  -  Fill your bags with fresh produce and artisanal crafts at the open-air Sunday markets in Anzac Park
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolViewsParkingNo pets

    A selection of modern one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments in the lively centre of Port Douglas. Tile-floored apartments have sitting rooms, kitchens with dining spaces & balconies. Smart renovated bathrooms offer rain showers or spa tubs, & guests share a heated swimming pool & BBQ area. Lovely. See More

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  • Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa Port Douglas (Queensland) 105 rooms from €242

    Families  -  Multi-bedroom villas, some of which have private pools, are ideal for holidays as a family or with a group of friends
    Weddings  -  A popular wedding venue with a dedicated team, beautiful setting and superb cuisine
    Great walks  -  Follow trails to scenic waterfalls and swimming spots at the beautiful Mossman Gorge
    Restaurant  -  Gather at the ALUCO Restaurant and Bar for delicious fresh cuisine
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    An expansive seaside resort with swish suites, apartments & villas with plunge pools. Contemporary interiors feature clean lines, crisp white linens & private balconies facing gardens, lagoon pools & spa. The restaurant, bar & events spaces are ideal for celebrations. Luxury & relaxation guaranteed. See More

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  • Thala Beach Nature Reserve Port Douglas (Queensland) 83 rooms from €305

    Great walks  -  Brett and his enthusiastic team will lead you on guided nature & garden walks, spotting flora & fauna in the Littoral rainforest
    Birdwatching  -  Bird & butterfly expert David delights in guiding guests on excursions to admire the creatures fluttering through the grounds
    Back to Nature  -  Hike through the rainforest, take guided birdwatching tours, and gaze up at the stars as you reconnect with nature
    Eco break  -  A wonderful eco-escape for wildlife lovers & nature enthusiasts on a private coastal reserve
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A wonderful eco-focused retreat in 145 acres of rainforest within easy reach of Port Douglas. Spacious stilted bungalows promise private decks & gorgeous forest & ocean views. There's a relaxed bar, restaurant showcasing seasonal fare & a soothing spa. Plus expert-led bird & nature walks. Fabulous. See More

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  • Coconut Grove Apartments Port Douglas (Queensland) 33 rooms from €364

    Local exploring  -  In a lively part of town, these slick apartments are ideal for on-foot explorers eager to shop, eat, play golf & hit the beach
    Designer Shopping  -  Explore the lively boutiques Macrossan Street and the wider Port Douglas area for chic clothing and accessories
    Families  -  Families will adore the multi-bedroom apartments plus the swimming pool and proximity to Four Mile Beach
    Golf  -  Play a round of golf at the Mirage Country Club or the Palmer Sea Reef Golf Course
    Air conditioningSpaSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A collection of 33 cool, contemporary apartments with plunge pools and private terraces on lively Macrossan Street. Airy, multi-bedroom spaces are clad in white & cream tones, with blue accents. Expect well-equipped kitchens, sitting rooms & balconies — some with hot tubs. A slick & stylish stay. See More

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  • Niramaya Villas & Spa Port Douglas (Australia) 30 rooms from €753

    Families  -  Multi-bedroom villas are ideal for families or groups of friends, who will love the private plunge pools & sitting areas
    Back to Nature  -  Port Douglas is brilliantly located between two World Heritage sites; ancient rain forest and the Great Barrier Reef
    Close to nightlife  -  Stroll to the buzzing bars, restaurants and galleries of Port Douglas with ease, perfect for big days and nights out
    Snorkelling  -  Discover the wonderful wildlife of the Great Barrier Reef with marvellous snorkelling trips and diving excursions
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    Luxury hotel nestled in tropical grounds. A short stroll to Four Mile Beach, with the picturesque Part Douglas village just a little further. With own pool, gym and spa as well as in-house bar and restaurant. A sophisticated base from which to explore the region's natural wonders of reef and jungle. See More

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