Cairns & the Tropical North , Australia

Port Douglas Day Tour from Cairns

Active

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Nestled along the Coral Sea coastline, Palm Cove to Port Douglas unveils a tropical paradise where azure waters meet ancient rainforests—a quintessential North Queensland escape blending luxury, wildlife, and breathtaking vistas.
Coastal Journey Scenic Drive: Wind along the Captain Cook Highway, hailed as Australia’s most stunning coastal road. Stop at Rex Lookout—perched 150m above the ocean—for heart-stopping views of Trinity Bay’s sugar-white sands and emerald islands. Pro tip: Sunrise transforms the cliffs into gold!
Four Mile Beach
A 4-mile crescent of powdered silica sand fringed by coconut groves. Swim in stinger-safe nets (Nov-May), swing in beachfront hammocks, or stroll to tidal pools at low tide. Don’t miss: The iconic "Port Douglas" sign framed by palm shadows.
Flagstaff Hill Lighthouse
This red-and-white striped sentinel guards Port Douglas’ harbor entrance. Climb the hill for 360° panoramas—where the Daintree Rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef.

Available options

Minibus

Minibus<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Free bottle of water

Air-conditioned vehicle

Parking Fee

Private transportation

Tolls

Fuel costs

Detailed itinerary

Palm Beach, known as "Palmy", is located at the end of a long peninsula, with waves on one side and a river valley on the other. Here you can try the 800-meter short walk to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse and enjoy the panoramic view of the bay.

A beautiful observation deck where you can take photos and enjoy the sea breeze

Stop 3

Stretch your toes across 4 miles of pearl-white sand fringed by coconut palms. This pristine north Queensland beach offers safe swimming，Instagram-worthy hammock moments, and panoramic views of the Daintree rainforest.

Perched atop Flagstaff Hill, this candy-striped lighthouse delivers the most photographed vista in Tropical North Queensland. Gaze over Coral Sea's turquoise waters, Four Mile Beach, and the lush rainforest meeting the reef. Sunset visits recommended for golden-hour magic!

What's not included

Meals

Personal Insurance

Personal consumption

Available languages

Written guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Cairns & the Tropical North

Cairns & the Tropical North is a vibrant region in Queensland, Australia, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and adventurous activities. It serves as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef system, and the ancient Daintree Rainforest, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Top Attractions

Great Barrier Reef

The world's largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 km (1,430 miles). It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to thousands of marine species.

Nature Half-day to full-day tours Varies by tour and activity, typically $100-$300 AUD

Daintree Rainforest

One of the oldest rainforests in the world, with diverse wildlife, ancient trees, and scenic walking trails.

Nature Full-day trip Varies by tour and activity, typically $100-$200 AUD

Cairns Esplanade

A scenic waterfront area with a lagoon, walking paths, and picnic spots. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the tropical atmosphere.

Beach A few hours Free

Kuranda Scenic Railway

A historic railway line that offers stunning views of the Barron Gorge and surrounding rainforest. It's a popular day trip from Cairns.

Historical Half-day to full-day trip Railway ticket: $65-$130 AUD (depending on class and direction)

Fitzroy Island

A small island located about 45 minutes by ferry from Cairns. It offers beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and hiking opportunities.

Island Full-day trip Ferry ticket: $80-$120 AUD (including return), activities extra

Must-Try Local Dishes

Barramundi

A popular Australian fish, often grilled or fried, with a delicate and mild flavor.

Main dish Gluten-free, high in protein

Mangoes

Sweet and juicy tropical fruit, often enjoyed fresh or in smoothies and desserts.

Dessert/Fruit Vegan, gluten-free

Moreton Bay Bugs

A type of lobster found in the region, often served grilled or in seafood platters.

Seafood Gluten-free, high in protein

Iced VoVo

A classic Australian biscuit with a jam and coconut filling, often enjoyed with tea or coffee.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Skydiving White-water rafting Bungee jumping Zip-lining Parasailing Beach relaxation Spa and wellness treatments Yoga and meditation

Best Time to Visit

May to October (dry season)

This is the best time to visit Cairns & the Tropical North, with pleasant weather, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for outdoor activities, exploring the Great Barrier Reef, and visiting the rainforest.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, Mandarin, Japanese, Korean
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

AEST (GMT+10:00) or AEDT (GMT+11:00) during daylight saving time (October to April)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cairns & the Tropical North is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of fake tour operators and always book through reputable companies
• Use metered taxis or ride-sharing services to avoid overcharging
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Cairns Airport • 4 km (2.5 miles) from city center

By train

Cairns Central Station

By bus

Cairns Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Sunbus network is the primary public transport system in Cairns, offering frequent and affordable services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cairns City Cairns Beaches Cairns Hinterland

Day trips

Port Douglas

70 km (43 miles) north of Cairns • Full-day trip

A charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.

Mission Beach

100 km (62 miles) north of Cairns • Full-day trip

A beautiful beach town known for its long sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, and adventure activities like skydiving and white-water rafting.

Atherton Tablelands

100 km (62 miles) west of Cairns • Full-day trip

A lush and green region known for its waterfalls, lakes, and diverse wildlife. It's a great destination for nature lovers and those looking to escape the tropical heat.

Festivals

Cairns Festival • August to September Cairns Indigenous Art Fair • August Cairns Festival of Arts • Various dates throughout the year

Pro tips

Visit the Great Barrier Reef during the dry season (May to October) for the best visibility and weather conditions
Book tours and accommodations in advance during peak season (May to October) to avoid disappointment
Pack insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the tropical sun and insects
Hire a guide for rainforest walks and cultural experiences to gain a deeper understanding of the region's natural and cultural heritage
Try local specialties such as barramundi, mangoes, and Moreton Bay bugs for an authentic taste of the region