Perfectly poised between the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, Port Douglas is a popular hub for keen adventurers. Just under an hour from Cairns International Airport, this is a wonderful coastal Queensland destination, with a plethora of excellent accommodation options. Book a suite at a luxury resort, unwind in your own private apartment, or hide away in the rainforest; our list of the best places to stay in Port Douglas highlights top spots for a memorable trip.

Some of our Port Douglas collections:

• Best Resorts in Port Douglas

The beauty of Four Mile Beach encouraged the development of Port Douglas from the 1980s onwards, but the town still has an appealingly laidback feel. Stroll along streets lined with designer boutiques, pop into trendy cafés and restaurants, or sip cold beers and super Australian wine in seaside bars. Yachts are clustered in the marina, and the beach is brilliant for long walks, sunbathing, fishing and sandcastle-building with little ones.

Take sailing trips, snorkelling and diving excursions on the Great Barrier Reef, or head into the rainforest for guided hiking and mountain biking adventures. Cape Tribulation is stunning, as is the Daintree Rainforest. Don’t miss Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas if travelling as a family, nor picking up souvenirs at the bustling Sunday Craft Markets in Anzac Park. Popular with Australians as well as international visitors, the best places to stay in Port Douglas fill up fast during the summer season. Book your trip well in advance!

The Best Places to Stay in Port Douglas

For Boutique Chic

• Port Douglas Peninsula Boutique Hotel is a couples' favourite, with beautiful coastal views and a superb location just across the road from the beach. Spaces are cool and contemporary, with an elegant mix of natural textures and soothing blue, grey and cream tones. Big sink-into tubs and private terraces complete the picture. A romantic bolthole.

For Families or Groups

• By the Sea Port Douglas has great value self-catering apartments with tiled floors and a white, cream, blue and black colour palette. Families will love the swimming pools and leafy gardens, as well as the bicycles and proximity to Four Mile Beach.
• Peppers Beach Club offers two-bedroom suites for families, set around an inviting lagoon pool. There's a gym for active travellers, easy access to a plethora of activities out on the water, and an excellent restaurant-bar for fresh, seasonal fare and cracking cocktails. Elegant and very appealing.
• Saltwater Luxury Apartments are also well-suited to families and groups of friends. Offering up to three bedrooms, the tile-floored apartments have sitting rooms, kitchens and sit-out balconies. Recently renovated bathrooms feature spa tubs or rain showers, and guests share access to a heated swimming pool. A very reasonably priced Port Douglas choice.

For an Eco-Escape

• Mai Tai Resort, a simple eco-minded hideaway inspired by traditional Balinese style, sits within five acres of rainforest on a striking hilltop. A tranquil, adult-only retreat, this intimate spot offers just six guest rooms with carved four-poster beds, handwoven rugs and gorgeous rainforest views. Cool off in the swimming pool after scenic hikes.
• Thala Beach Nature Resort has spacious stilted bungalows with dazzling vistas over the 145 acres of rainforest and golden stretch of private beach. Guided nature walks and bird or butterfly tours will delight nature enthusiasts. Expect cracking seasonal fare, a rejuvenating spa & a real sense of seclusion on a private coastal reserve with a strong conservation ethos.

For Luxury

• Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa boasts swish seaside suites, apartments and villas with private plunge pools. Contemporary interiors promise beds topped with crisp white linens, original artwork, shaded terraces and lagoon pools framed by leafy gardens. A popular wedding venue with a brilliant restaurant and spa.
• Niramaya Villas & Spa offers a collection of sensational guest suites and villas with high ceilings, rainforest views and a timeless sense of style. Within walking distance of Four Mile Beach — though many are tempted to kick back in the 30-metre swimming pool. Plus you can enjoy restorative spa treatments and linger in the gorgeous gardens. Very indulgent.
• Coconut Grove Apartments are cool, contemporary spaces with plunge pools and private terraces, some of which have hot tubs. Set on buzzy Macrossan Street, the apartments are done in white and cream tones, with blue or orange accents. Sitting rooms, well-equipped kitchens and multiple bedrooms are good for families and friends. A luxury take on an apartment holiday.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Cairns International Airport, an hour from Port Douglas by bus or taxi. You can also arrive by train from Cairns or Brisbane — a hugely scenic route. Many hotels will also be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
• Queensland is great for a road trip. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit in the summer months — between December and February — for pleasant temperatures and plenty of sunshine. This is peak season; you may find the spring and autumn shoulder season quieter, and hotels often offer reduced rates in those months.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Cairns.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Queensland.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.