Things to do in Port Douglas, Tropical North Queensland

If it’s a friendly coastal getaway you’re searching for, Port Douglas takes the cake. A favourite for many families, this relaxed seaside village offers plenty to see and do. Between the pristine beaches, World Heritage-Listed sites and iconic wildlife, there’s something for all members of the tribe.

It doesn’t matter if it’s your first time or you’re coming back for more, this list will guarantee your next Tropical North Queensland holiday is a hit.

From the Great Barrier Reef to the Daintree, here's what is hot in Port Douglas.

North Queensland trip with no Great Barrier Reef tour? No deal. The region's big draw card is a big must, more wonderful than photos can justify. From Port Douglas, take an outer Great Barrier Reef tour aboard a high-speed catamaran, visiting an underwater observatory and the lively Agincourt Reef from a spacious pontoon. Having the pontoon is an awesome way to enjoy the reef for everything it has to offer. Plus, you'll be joined by professional marine biologists, this 6-hour tour goes beneath the surface in every sense.

Another way to explore the Great Barrier Reef is on a luxurious catamaran. Gather the fam and head to the Agincourt Reef for a big day out, to hit 3 reef snorkel sites. A memorable adventure, this day includes a guided snorkel tour, an interpretive reef talk and free time to snorkel. The boat also has a large back deck with a submerged platform, which means easy access to the water for kids. Throw in the provided lunch spread and all the gear, and you have got an awesome day out on the reef.

Looking to get up close with some of the most iconic Australian animals in one place? Put the Wildlife Habitat on your itinerary. Spread across four open immersive environments, there is a long list of animals, flora and shows waiting to be found. You’ll also get a guided tour included in your ticket, so there’s plenty to learn. Just make sure you fit time in for handfeeding kangaroos and cuddling koalas – the adults will love it just as much as the kids.

Wanting to visit the Great Barrier Reef but stretched for time? No problem, this half-day cruise to the Low Isles leaves in the early afternoon and is only a short scenic 30-minute journey from Port Douglas. You'll still get two hours of free time to explore the calm waters of the reef lagoon, searching for tropical fish and coral. There’s also a glass bottom boat which is perfect for those who aren’t too comfy in the water!

Choose one of our epic Daintree Rainforest tours and spend a day checking out the world’s oldest rainforest. If you’re up for a jam-packed adventure, you’ve got to do this whole day tour with a walking tour, zipline adventure and croc cruise. Are the little ones more interested in the animals? Pick this wildlife tour and get free entry to the Wildlife Habitat. For those keen to see the rainforest and Mossman Gorge, this tour covers both in a day, as well as the iconic Cape Tribulation beach. Perfect for those who are short on time and want to see as much as possible in a day.

No one regrets a sailing trip to the Low Isles. Found just off the coast of Port Douglas, the Low Isles refers to a four-acre protected coral cay positioned in a reef system that is 50 acres big. With both a full-day tour and an afternoon tour available, it's always possible to find time for a Low Isles adventure. Both trips come complete with snorkelling, beach time and marine life viewed from a glalowiss bottom boat (one's completely electric, no less!). Keep your eyes peeled for colourful fish and sea turtles.

For a unique Great Barrier Reef experience, this snorkel and dive cruise will tick all the boxes. A hit for families, the tour caters to both snorkelers and divers (even if it is your first time). Stopping at three spectacular coral reef sites, you can explore with your loved ones or join the guided tour led by a marine biologist. With wetsuits and gear provided, the included morning tea, afternoon tea and buffet lunch and complimentary return transfers, everything is thought of.

See Mossman Gorge in a whole new light on this immersive tour. Following an Indigenous elder, your fam will get a whole new perspective as you venture through the rainforest onto sacred Indigenous land during this insightful experience. Enjoy front-row seats to a traditional smoking ceremony, stories, legends and a taste of delicious bush tea and damper. Only offered in small groups, you don’t want to miss out so get in quick!

A memorable adventure that’ll leave the whole fam knackered, but totally exhilarated? Say no more! Channel your inner Tarzan with this dedicated zipline tour. Great fun for the young and old, you’ll fly across the treetops of Cape Tribulation with two hours dedicated to exploring the world heritage landmark. Finishing with some friendly competition, the kids will adore wrapping up the experience with a race on the dual zipline.