Hotels in Port Douglas

Where Rainforest Meets Reef: Discover the Enchantment of Port Douglas

Discover the enchanting allure of Port Douglas, Queensland—a tropical paradise where the Great Barrier Reef meets lush rainforests. Stroll along the golden beaches, dive into vibrant coral reefs, and explore the ancient Daintree Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy the vibrant marina, indulge in gourmet dining, or bask in the sun at Four Mile Beach. This charming coastal town offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal getaway for couples, families, and nature enthusiasts alike. Experience the magic of Port Douglas and create unforgettable memories in this stunning Australian gem. For the best hotel rates in Port Douglas and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Port Douglas

Some of the best places to stay in Port Douglas are Palm Cove, Trinity Beach and Kewarra Beach. Palm Cove, Trinity Beach, and Kewarra Beach are fantastic destinations for travelers seeking stunning beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. Palm Cove is ideal for first-time visitors due to its vibrant dining and luxury resorts. Trinity Beach offers a more relaxed vibe with family-friendly accommodations, while Kewarra Beach is perfect for those wanting tranquility. Each area features a range of hotel options, from upscale resorts to cozy lodgings, ensuring a comfortable stay for every type of traveler. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Port Douglas:

1. Palm CoveOpens in a new window: Palm Cove is a stunning coastal destination perfect for beach lovers and families. With its idyllic palm-lined beaches and close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, it offers a blend of relaxation and adventure. The area is renowned for outdoor activities, making it ideal for couples and families alike. In Palm Cove, you can find hotels like Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort and SpaOpens in a new window, which features direct beach access and offers adventure sports such as parasailing and hiking. Another option is Sanctuary Palm CoveOpens in a new window, a luxurious choice that caters to business travelers with great facilities while also providing access to various water sports. Lastly, The Reef House Adults Retreat -Enjoy 28 Complimentary InclusionsOpens in a new window also offers beach access and is well-suited for business needs, making it a versatile option for all types of travelers.
2. Trinity BeachOpens in a new window: Trinity Beach is a charming spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families, boasting beautiful sandy shores and a laid-back atmosphere. Its close proximity to Cairns Esplanade enhances its appeal, offering a variety of family-friendly activities. Hotels like Blue Lagoon ResortOpens in a new window provide a luxurious experience with adventure activities like kayaking and waterskiing, perfect for active families. Alternatively, Amaroo at TrinityOpens in a new window is a solid choice for those seeking beach access along with business amenities, making it suitable for both leisure and work travelers.
3. Kewarra BeachOpens in a new window: Kewarra Beach is a serene getaway perfect for families, offering lush surroundings and a family-friendly vibe. With its beautiful beach, this area is great for relaxation and outdoor activities. Hotel options include Paradise Palms ResortOpens in a new window, which features amenities like mini-golf and a kid-friendly pool, ensuring a fun stay for families. For a more rustic experience, Cedar Park Rainforest ResortOpens in a new window offers a lodge setting with access to natural hot springs and family-oriented services, providing a unique and luxurious retreat.

Things to do in Port Douglas for first time

Port Douglas is a tropical paradise where lush rainforests meet stunning coral reefs, offering a perfect getaway for nature lovers. Spend three days diving and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, hiking through vibrant jungles, and relaxing on pristine beaches, all while soaking in the breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Port Douglas:

• Day 1: Your adventure begins in the breathtaking Daintree Rainforest, where you can explore the lush greenery and diverse wildlife. After immersing yourself in the natural beauty, head to Newell Beach for a relaxing stroll along the sandy shores. This tranquil beach is perfect for unwinding and soaking up the sun. Conclude your day with a visit to the Janbal Gallery, where you can appreciate and purchase authentic Indigenous art, providing a meaningful connection to the local culture.
• Day 2: Start your day at the serene Oak Beach, where the crystal-clear waters invite you for a refreshing dip or a peaceful walk. Next, make your way to Birdworld Kuranda, an exciting aviary filled with colorful birds from around the world; don’t forget your camera as you capture the vibrant sights! Wrap up your day at Macalister Range National Park, where the stunning views and various hiking trails offer the perfect opportunity to connect with nature.
• Day 3: Return to the enchanting Daintree Rainforest, taking a different trail to discover hidden gems and unique flora and fauna. After your rainforest exploration, visit the expansive Daintree National Park to experience its dramatic landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Finish your day at Cow Bay, a picturesque beach that offers an idyllic setting for relaxation and sunset views, making it a perfect end to your unforgettable trip.

5 tips to find a great Port Douglas hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Port Douglas is during February, March, and November, when hotel prices are significantly lower. International travelers should aim to book their flights at least 8 months in advance to secure the best deals. For a budget-friendly trip, a stay of at least 3-4 days is recommended to fully enjoy the area's main attractions, including beautiful beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lush rainforests. This way, you can experience great value for money while exploring all that Port Douglas has to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Port Douglas, there are plenty of opportunities to snag great rates on hotels. To explore these offers on Hotels.com, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, where you could find discounted rates as your travel date approaches. You might also want to enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, helping you stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, ensuring you don't miss any chances to save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could increase your chances of saving on hotel expenses in Port Douglas.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Port Douglas is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations farther from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like a car, taxi, or bus to explore the area while potentially saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Port Douglas. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Port Douglas

Here are a few popular dishes in Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia:

• Barramundi: This iconic Australian fish is known for its delicate, flaky texture and mild flavor, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike. Often grilled or pan-seared, barramundi is typically served with fresh herbs and a zesty citrus sauce, reflecting the coastal influences of Port Douglas. Enjoy it at waterfront restaurants where you can soak in stunning views while savoring this local delicacy.
• Pavlova: A classic dessert that showcases Australia’s love for fresh produce, pavlova is a meringue-based treat topped with whipped cream and an array of tropical fruits like passionfruit and kiwi. This light and airy dessert is perfect for warm evenings and is often shared among friends and family, celebrating both flavor and togetherness.
• Lamington: These delightful sponge cakes, coated in chocolate and rolled in desiccated coconut, offer a sweet taste of Australian heritage. Often enjoyed with tea, lamingtons are a popular snack and are perfect for a casual bite while exploring the vibrant restaurant strip of Port Douglas.

Best time to go to Port Douglas

Port Douglas experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 69.3°F (20.7°C), while January and February are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 80.1°F (26.7°C). January is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Port Douglas, July to September are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, February, March, and November are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.