Written by Brooke Wilson
Ah summer! Just a simple word that brings forth thoughts of warm, balmy nights, fresh breezes, and sitting by a pool with a cold drink in hand, surrounded by family and friends.
What better way to enjoy this idyllic time than with a getaway to tropical North Queensland’s Port Douglas?
North of Cairns’ busy hub and nestled between stunning beaches and the lush Daintree Rainforest, Port Douglas dubs itself ‘the gateway to Mother Nature’s playground’ and it’s easy to see why.
The town’s proximity to the Great Barrier Reef makes it the perfect base for exploring the huge variety of sea life that call the reef home.
You can enjoy a trip out into the heart of the reef on board the local Quicksilver catamaran, where passengers can choose to take full advantage of the snorkeling, scuba diving, and even ocean walking on offer, getting up close and personal with the aquatic ‘locals’.
If you prefer to keep your hair dry, you can instead appreciate the beauty of the reef from their underwater observatory.
It would be remiss to be in Port Douglas and not head to Kuranda. The world-famous cableway glides up over the rainforest to the historic village, where you can spend the day wandering the Butterfly Sanctuary, Koala Gardens, or even just kicking back in one of their many tea houses and cafes.
Afterwards, head back down the mountain on board the Scenic Railway, experiencing the breathtaking rainforest up close and personal.
Perhaps one of the most appealing drawcards of Port Douglas is that through its laidback lifestyle that oozes charm and relaxation, it makes it the perfect destination for those wanting to unwind and do as little as possible.
Start the day with a late breakfast at the plethora of cafes and restaurants.
Afterwards, wander the main street poking around the boutique stores, and on Sundays, head down to the local markets.
Later, nab a spot on 4-Mile Beach to laze the rest of the day away, paddling in the crystal-clear waters and basking in the tropical paradise. Doesn’t that just sound divine?