Port Douglas

Located in Far North Queensland, Australia, about 70km north of Cairns.
The town was named after former Premier of Queensland, John Douglas.
Port Douglas is the closest mainland town to the Great Barrier Reef.
The town has a tropical climate with hot summers and mild winters.

How To Get To Port Douglas

Getting to Port Douglas is relatively easy, with the closest airport being Cairns International Airport. The airport is located approximately 67 kilometers south of Port Douglas, and there are several ways to get to the town from there. One of the most popular options is to hire a car and drive up the coast road (Captain Cook Highway). The journey takes around an hour and offers breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding rainforest.

Alternatively, there are several transfer services available from Cairns Airport to Port Douglas. These services include shared shuttle buses, private transfers and taxis. Many of these services can be booked online in advance and some offer door-to-door service to your accommodation in Port Douglas.

Once you have arrived, one of the best ways to get around is by walking. Many of the town's main attractions, including the beach, marina and shops are within easy walking distance of each other. Walking is also a great way to take in the town's beautiful scenery and tropical atmosphere.

For those who prefer not to walk, there are several shuttle services available in Port Douglas. These services operate on an on-demand basis and offer a convenient and affordable way to get around the town.

Another popular option for getting around Port Douglas is by electric scooter. Scooter rental services are available in the town, and they offer a fun and adventurous way to explore the surrounding area.

Sugar Wharf

Located in the heart of Port Douglas, the Sugar Wharf is a historic jetty that offers great opportunities for capturing the town's unique charm and character. It is a popular location for sunset photography, with stunning views of the mountains and the sea.

Rex Smeal Park

Located along the waterfront in Port Douglas, Rex Smeal Park offers great opportunities for capturing the town's beautiful scenery, including the mountains, sea and boats traveling in and out of the marina. It is also the most popular spot for catching the sunset in Port Douglas!

Port Douglas Marina

The marina is a bustling hub of activity with many boats and yachts moored there. It offers a great opportunity for photographers to capture the vibrant atmosphere and colourful boats against the backdrop of the sea.

Four Mile Beach

This picturesque beach is a must-visit for any photographer. With its white sand, turquoise waters and palm trees, it offers many great opportunities for landscape and portrait photography.

Wildlife Habitat

This wildlife sanctuary is home to a wide range of Australian animals, including kangaroos, wallabies and various species of birds. It is a great location for wildlife and nature photography.

St Mary's By The Sea

This famous little chapel is full of character and history. This stunning piece of local architecture offers the perfect place for some unique photo opportunities.

How To Photograph Port Douglas

Port Douglas is a picturesque town with plenty of opportunities for photography. Whether you're a professional or a beginner, there are several ways to capture stunning images of this beautiful coastal town. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your photography in Port Douglas:

Take advantage of the stunning scenery - Port Douglas is surrounded by lush rainforests, crystal-clear waters, and stunning beaches. Look for unique perspectives to capture these landscapes, and experiment with different angles and compositions.
Capture the local wildlife - Port Douglas is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the worlds largest bats and various species of birds and insects. Keep your camera ready to capture these creatures as you explore the town and its surroundings.
Time your shots - The best times to capture Port Douglas are early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer and more flattering. Take advantage of the "golden hours" to capture stunning images of the town and its surroundings.
Experiment with filters and lenses - Port Douglas offers plenty of opportunities to experiment with filters and lenses, whether you're shooting landscapes or portraits. Play around with different settings and techniques to create unique and eye-catching images.

Overall, the key to capturing great photos in Port Douglas is to be creative and open-minded. With its stunning scenery and unique wildlife, this town offers endless opportunities for photographers to capture beautiful and memorable images.