10 Must-Visit Attractions in Port Douglas, Australia

Thanks to jet boats, you can get to a patch of pristine reef within 15 minutes. For those who prefer to take their time, a variety of cruises and sail boats can take you to any number of coral hotspots, including Opal Reef, Agincourt Reef, the Low Isles and Ribbon Reef.

With just a 20-minute drive you can be in Mossman Gorge, one of the main attractions of the Daintree Rainforest. There’s also an option to drive two hours to Cape Tribulation headland, the perfect point from which to start your exploration of the oldest rainforest in the world.

This two-acre habitat is an immersive experience, allowing guests to walk among hundreds of species of native and local Australian animals. Over the four ‘habitats’ – Woodland, Wetlands, Rainforest and Savannah – you’ll see a full range of fauna, including koalas, kangaroos, crocodiles and the glorious cassowary bird.

Get to know the indigenous heritage of Australia at Kuyu Kuyu (or Cooya) beach, with a Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tour. Brothers, Linc and Brandon, will teach you how to hunt and fish like their people have for thousands of years.

If you want a day to relax by the sea, you’ll have plenty of space to do so along the expansive shoreline of Four Mile Beach. However, be mindful to only swim in areas clearly marked and monitored by Australian lifeguards. Australian marine life is known to sting!

The meat pie is an Australian delicacy all travellers should try, but at Mocka’s pies you can go the extra mile. As well as your traditional beef, chicken and vegetable pies, Mocka also offers crocodile and kangaroo options (yes, eating kangaroo is common in Australia).

The historic St Mary’s chapel will take you back over 100 years. Built in 1911, the white wooden church looks almost out of place among the palm trees. If you go around 5pm in winter or 6pm in summer, you can walk around to Rex Smeal Park and watch the sun set over the ocean.

Another unique dining experience is with the Daintree Ice Cream Co. With their very own tropical fruit orchard, Daintree ice cream is made with fascinating local ingredients. Would you care for a scoop of jackfruit or wattle seed?

Try Australia’s only rainforest dining experience and participate in the culture of the Kuku Yalanji people. Savour a one-of-a-kind meal showcasing some delicious Australian ingredients with matching wines. The romantic location makes it a must for couples.

There are countless ways to take in the scenery of the Daintree, however, none are quite as adrenaline pumping as the zip line. The Jungle Surfing Canopy Tour is a fun and unique way to see the forest from above, between seven and 16 metres above ground.