Travel Tips For Getting the Most Out of Your Port Douglas Vacation
Best time to travel
Port Douglas has a tropical monsoon climate, with average temperatures ranging from 17 degrees C (63 F) to 25 degrees C (77 F) in July, and 24 degrees C (75 F) to 30 degrees C (86 F) in January. February is usually the wettest month, and swimming can be dangerous from November to May due to marine stingers like box jellyfish. The peak tourist season is between May and September. Port Douglas Carnivale happens over 10 days at the end of May and Porttoberfest beer festival takes place in October.
Not to miss
With the Great Barrier Reef at its doorstep, Port Douglas is the perfect base for expeditions to the world’s largest coral reef system. Several local operators offer trips to the outer reef, and cater to both snorkelers and scuba divers. Mossman Gorge provides a gateway to Daintree National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers freshwater swimming holes surrounded by tropical rainforest. The golden sands and crystal clear waters of Four Mile Beach and Cape Tribulation perfectly illustrate why Port Douglas is called a tropical paradise.
Getting around
The closest airport to Port Douglas is Cairns Airport (CNS), which is a 1-hour drive, or you can take a shuttle from the airport to city centre. Port Douglas is a small town and everything is reachable on foot. You can rent a car if you want to explore nearby attractions like Cape Tribulation, Daintree National Park, and the Atherton Tablelands, which are less than a 2-hour drive.
Cuisine
Ocean-fresh seafood and local produce from the fertile Atherton Tablelands have turned Port Douglas into a major foodie destination. There is a host of restaurants that offer sweeping views of the Coral Sea. You’ll also find plenty of laid-back cafés that serve deli-style meals like sandwiches, salads, and burgers, as well as specialty coffees.
Customs and etiquette
Port Douglas is a relaxed and easygoing town, so social etiquette amounts to standard good manners. Kids are welcome almost everywhere and the vibe is generally laid-back. Tipping for services is not mandatory in Australia except in restaurants where it’s customary to add a 10 to 15 percent gratuity. Casual dress is fine in most places, although some upscale restaurants may have a dress code, so you should call in advance. Australia has extremely strict tobacco laws, and smoking is banned in restaurants, bars, and pubs, as well as most public places.
Fast facts
- Population: 4000
- Spoken languages: English
- Electrical: 230 volts, 50 Hz, plug type I
- Phone calling code: +61 7
- Emergency number: 000; 112 on cell phone
Port Douglas Guides
Port Douglas Travel Guide - Your destination overview of Port Douglas, Australia
Port Douglas Sightseeing Guide - Visit notable attractions and landmarks
Port Douglas Shopping Guide - Find where and what to shop and buy
Port Douglas Food and Dining Guide - Restaurants, where to eat, and more
Port Douglas Travel Tips - Helpful hints and advice on local destination information
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