Port Douglas & Surrounds
If Australia is on your list we’ve got you covered. We’d like to introduce you to a little gem called Port Douglas. Drive north from Cairns along the gorgeous coastal road for about an hour, and you’ll find yourself in one of the most unique and gorgeous places. Port Douglas is the only place on Earth where two World Heritage listed sites not only exist, but meet one another- the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Here you have the best of both worlds, two ecosystems offering the most gorgeous nature, relaxing atmospheres, and amazing scenery. To top it off, Port Douglas itself has a laid back atmosphere, making it easy to relax and enjoy everything around you.
The history of Port Douglas is an interesting one. Founded in 1877 after a nearby gold discovery, Port Douglas’ population grew quickly but began to dwindle once the Scenic Railway was built in 1891. In the early 1900’s a cyclone leveled the area, creating a large amount of devastation and rebuilding to be done. It wasn’t until the 1980’s when the Sheraton Mirage and the Reef Marina were built,that a whole different level of attention was brought to this little seaport town. Now there are loads of attractions and things to do, but with less tourists than you’d find in Cairns. You can explore the Daintree Rainforest on guided tours, go zip lining through the canopy, or scuba diving and snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef just off the coast in the Coral Sea; you can also explore Mossmon Gorge just north of Port Douglas, as well as Cape Tribulation.
While you’re there, make sure to spend some time at the Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas. This award-winning wildlife habitat is Australia’s leading environmental wildlife experience, and provides you with the chance to observe a monumental range of flora and fauan, up close and personal. As an immersion exhibit, it allows guests and animals to mingle in a natural setting. You’ll be amazed as you walk along elevated boardwalks and see gorgeous birds flying freely above. Don’t forget to keep your eyes open for the elusive Cassowary! This large, flightless bird is native to the rainforests of tropical North Queensland and is an endangered species, thought to be one of the closest living relatives to the dinosaurs! If you’d like to learn a little more about these unique birds, watch the video below.
Are you ready to venture to Port Douglas? Give us a call today at 312-951-8517, or check out some of our other amazing handcrafted itineraries here. What are you waiting for?