A laid-back charming little community, Port Douglas or “Port” as it is affectionately known, nestles beside a long stretch of golden beach and looks dreamily out at the quiet Coral Sea. It’s the hub for anything you’ve ever wanted to do above or below the water with the Great Barrier Reef just a short trip off shore. Surrounded by the Daintree rainforest, this is the ultimate escape. Enjoy dinner in a treetop restaurant, sip cool beer on the verandah of a relaxed pub, wander markets beside the sea and just lap up blissful days of an untroubled and carefree lifestyle.

For a little bit of action before you leave, visit Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures set in the foothills of the MacAlister Range. Go croc-spotting on their lagoon, witness crocodiles doing deathrolls and head shakes and learn how to avoid a crocodile attack. Gain an insight into the operation of the crocodile farm and take a break in the restaurant overlooking Hartley’s lagoon, surrounded by these ancient reptiles.

Getting there:

Port Douglas is 1765km north of Brisbane, 66km north of Cairns, and easily accessed by road. Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, Captain Cook Highway, Palm Cove. Palm Cove is located just 26km north of Cairns.

By train:

Catch the Sunlander or Tilt Train to Cairns. Port Douglas is located a 1 hour and 15 minute drive from Cairns. Take your car on holiday with you when travelling onboard The Sunlander using Mototrail. To book your rail adventure call Traveltrain Holidays on 1800 627 655.

Further information:

Crocodile Adventures

Open daily from 8.30am-5pm