G’day fellow globe trotter! I hear you’re heading down under to the quaint town of Port Douglas? Well, you lucky thing, you’re in for an absolute pearler.
Located in the tropical north Queensland, Port Douglas is a nature lover and adventure junky’s heaven. Travellers flock to Port Douglas like moths to a flame to explore the vibrant underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef. Not only that but Port Douglas is a gateway to the Daintree Rainforest – which is the oldest continually surviving tropical rainforest in the world!
Now, if i haven’t already sold you… there is more. Port Douglas is home to the famous four mile beach, lined with palm trees and golden sand – which is a reason to visit this town in itself.
One of my favourite thing about Port Douglas is that although it’s a popular tourist spot, it still retains it’s laid-back, village-like vibe. It is known for its INCREDIBLE luxury resorts. However, you can still visit Port Douglas on a budget, you just need to know where to look… That’s my cue!
I’m here to guide you through where to stay in Port Douglas, no matter your travel style or budget. If you’re after the Ritz, I’ll give you the Ritz (or, the closest I can…) or, if you’re after the cheapest bed in town, I’ll give you the best bang for buck in town.
Let’s dive into the best places to stay in Port Douglas, Australia.
Photo: Alexandria Zboyovski
- Where Is the Best Place to Stay in Port Douglas
- Port Douglas Neighbourhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Port Douglas
- Port Douglas’ Three Best Neighbourhoods to Stay In
- FAQs About Where to Stay in Port Douglas
- What To Pack For Port Douglas
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Port Douglas
- Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Port Douglas
Port Douglas is an EPIC addition to your backpacking Australia route. The beaches are long (four kilometres to be exact), the forests are lush and the locals are ridiculously kind.
In this article, I’m going to take you through where to stay in Port Douglas – the best areas, accommodations and things to do in Port Douglas. However, if you’re short on time… here are my top picks for the best hotel, hostel and Airbnb in Port Douglas.
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort | Best Luxury Hotel in Port Douglas
Located right on the beach, the Sheraton Gran Mirage Resort is the BEST of the best in Port Douglas. Creme da la Creme, some may say. The resort is surrounded by lush tropical gardens and offers incredible saltwater lagoon pools. If you’re after a tranquil escape by the sea, this place is dreamy.
And if you fancy yourself a bit of a golfer, the resort also boasts an 18-hole golf course. Yep, this place has it all. And the cherry on top, they serve a bangin’ buffet breakfast.
Dougies Backpackers | Best Hostel in Port Douglas
Australia’s budget accommodation is favoured by backpackers across the world, and Port Douglas is no different. Dougies Backpackers Resort provides great social facilities and superb guest ratings. It’s super close to town, so you can save money on public transport while you’re there.
Rob’s Beach Shack – Beachfront Bliss | Best Airbnb in Port Douglas
Ever dreamed of waking up in your own luxury beach shack to the sound of rolling waves? Yep, me too. This beachfront property on the famous Four Mile Beach is here to make your dreams come true.
The “shack” is no shabby shack, it’s pure luxury. With two bedrooms, a full kitchen AND Netflix, I think you will be more than comfortable staying at this incredible spot in Port Douglas.
Town Centre
The Port Douglas Peninsula is where the centre of the town is, and it’s also where you will find most excursions departing from. This is the most bustling part of Port Douglas, though it still manages to maintain a laid-back ambiance.
Daintree
Daintree National Park is home to the oldest rainforest in the world! For adventure travellers, it is well worth taking the 40 minute trip from Port Douglas to embed yourself in the ultimate hiking destination.
Four Mile Beach
The area surrounding Four Mile Beach Park is another popular neighborhood in Port Douglas. At the southern end of the famous beach it is a much more peaceful neighbourhood than the Town Centre in the north.
Port Douglas’ Three Best Neighbourhoods to Stay In
A popular coastal resort town, Port Douglas offers regular excursions to both Daintree National Park and the Great Barrier Reef. It’s quite a small town, but I’d recommend bringing a car to make the most of the area.
If you’re visiting Port Douglas for the first time, the Town Centre is the best place to stay. Located on the Port Douglas Peninsula, you’ll find the biggest excursion providers here, as well as fantastic places to eat.
Daintree National Park is the best place to stay for adventure lovers. The park is well connected to Port Douglas but offers unique accommodations in the rainforest. It’s one of the best national parks in Australia and offers an abundance of hiking opportunities.
As the name suggests, Four Mile Beach stretches right down the coast. Its southern end is a bit quieter than other areas, making it an ideal location for families staying in Port Douglas. There are loads of hotels on offer here, so you’re bound to find one to suit your needs!
Still unsure? Read on for more detailed guides on where to stay in Port Douglas, as well as the top accommodations and activities in each.
1. Town Centre – Where to Stay in Port Douglas for Your First Time
The Port Douglas Peninsula is where you’ll find the town centre, as well as the most excursions. This is the most bustling part of Port Douglas, though it still manages to maintain a laid-back ambience. For first-time visitors, the Town Centre is a great spot to gather your bearings and really get to know the area.
The Town Center is also well-connected to other areas close to Port Douglas so you can really embrace the best Aussie Adventures. You’ll find regular trips to Daintree National Forest, the Great Barrier Reef, and even the smaller towns and villages nearby. If you won’t have access to your own transportation, this is the best place to stay.
Port Douglas Peninsula Boutique Hotel | Best Hotel in Town Centre
This hotel is located right on the waterfront giving you unparalleled views of the Queensland Coast and Four Mile Beach. It’s an adult-only hotel, making this my top pick for couples visiting Port Douglas.
Hang around the outdoor pool or enjoy the FREE bikes on offer and explore the town on two wheels. Nestled into a quiet area across the beach, this place is a tranquil paradise. However, if you’re up for joining the action, you’re just a five-minute walk from some of the best restaurants around.
Dougies Backpackers | Best Hostel in the Town Centre
About five minutes south of the town centre, this Port Douglas hostel sits in a calmer neighbourhood and is the perfect place to CHILL after a day of exploring.
They host regular social events throughout the week, giving you plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers. They offer a free BBQ area, plus bike and fishing pole hire. It’s easily the best hostel around, in my humble opinion!
NOMAD – Luxe apartment on Macrossan Street | Best Airbnb in the Town Centre
The vibe of this one-bedroom apartment, NOMAD, is what initially caught my attention – it’s a perfect blend of boho-chic design and luxury. Not only is the apartment itself incredible but you also get access to all the shared facilities on-site. Relax in one of the two salt-water heated pools, or the jacuzzi or enjoy a BBQ under the cabana.
Located on Port’s Main Street – Macrossan Street, you’ll be steps away from all the action. Whether that’s the best restaurants in town, the Port Douglas markets or the beach. It’s also ideal if you want to stay near the Great Barrier Reef.
Things to See and Do in the Town Centre:
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Quicksilver Cruises offers regular snorkelling cruises out to the Great Barrier Reef – an area of immense natural beauty offering some of the coolest adventures in Australia.
- Head down to Port Douglas Markets. They’re open every day, and you can peruse locally sourced ingredients and vintage chic.
- Take a walk up to Trinity Bay Lookout. From here, you can admire Four Mile Beach and ocean views.
- If you fancy trying your hand at sailing, pay a visit to Port Douglas Yacht Club who offer boat hire and private lessons.
- There are some great cafés located along Macrossan Street – I love the Little Larder in particular which offers typical Australian grub.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI2. Daintree – Where to Stay near Port Douglas for Adventure
Home to the oldest rainforest in the world, Daintree National Park is the perfect place to stay if you’re seeking something more off the beaten path. For adventure travellers, it’s well worth taking the 40-minute trip up from Port Douglas to reach this ultimate hiking destination.
The village of Daintree is the main hub for the area and one of the only places surrounded by civilisation. That being said, you can also find some great Port Douglas accommodation options deeper into the forest. If you do decide to stay here, note you’ll most likely need a car.
Daintree Ecolodge | Best Hotel in Daintree
Unfortunately, rainforest travel isn’t always sustainable. However, this four-star hotel works with local conservationists to ensure the hotel positively impacts the local area. It’s also super stylish, and guests have quick access to some epic hikes.
Nestled into the trees, it’s the perfect place to unwind, relax and connect with nature.
Daintree Manor B&B | Best Budget-Friendly Hotel in Daintree
This unique little bed and breakfast in Port Douglas is pretty damn INCREDIBLE. The views, the hosts and the breakfasts are all 10/10. And if you don’t want to just take my word for it, check the reviews. They speak for themselves. Plus, they have cute dogs around.
Located in the perfect place to make the most of the Daintree Rainforest, you’ll want to make sure you remember to pack a good pair of hiking boots.
Daintree Magic | Best Airbnb in Daintree
For an epic rainforest experience, you can’t beat this AWESOME self-contained home. The house is located high in the treetops of the tropical Daintree Rainforest, allowing you to really connect with nature. The views from the Airbnb are incredible, looking over the Coral Sea and the Great Barrier Reef.
The home is fully self-sustaining and is run purely on solar power and rainwater – ideal for those wanting to get off the grid. However, you’re still close to Cow Bay Beach, swimming holes, cafes, restaurants and more.
Things to See and Do in Daintree:
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Daintree Discovery Centre is the place to go to learn about local wildlife. Grab some maps and try to spot the cassowaries!
- There are endless hiking opportunities in Daintree. Please consult local guides before heading out on one, but I love Mount Sorrow Lookout in particular.
- There are some great dining options in Daintree. Daintree Ice Cream Company offers a great $5 sampler bowl, where you can try out all of their flavours at once! Might as well…
- Head to Mason’s Swimming Hole and enjoy the swings, clear water and no crocs, you’ll spend hours here!
- Visit the Daintree Tea plantation and sample some of the best brews in town.
3. Four Mile Beach – Best Neighborhood in Port Douglas for Families to Stay In
The area surrounding Four Mile Beach Park is another popular neighbourhood in Port Douglas. The southern end of the famous beach is a much more peaceful neighbourhood than the Town Centre in the north. Nevertheless, it’s full of hotels making it a great choice for families heading to Port Douglas.
Paradise Links Resort Port Douglas | The Best Resort in Four Mile Beach
This GORGEOUS resort provides for a luxury stay by the sea. Home to two lagoon-style swimming pools, a tennis court and it’s opposite the Palmer Sea Reef Gold Course – so you can swing to your heart’s content. Just 500m from Four Mile Beach, you’re in an unrivalled beachside location overlooking out to the Coral Sea.
Not only are the surrounding areas of the resort beautiful but they have the rooms match. Light, cosy and exactly what you want to come home to after a day of exploring.
Port Douglas Backpackers | The Best Hostel near Four Mile Beach
Port Douglas Backpackers has one of the best locations, it’s a five-minute walk to everything you could need – including Four Mile Beach. The hostel has loads of spaces to chill and meet new travel buddies, including the swimming pool, the open-air TV room and the alfresco dining area. If you’re up for a bit of Trivia, join Paddy’s Pub on Sundays!
Rob’s Beach Shack – Beachfront Bliss | Best Airbnb in Four Mile Beach
Ever dreamed of waking up in your own luxury beach shack to the sound of rolling waves? Yep, me too. This beachfront property on the famous Four Mile Beach is here to make your dreams come true.
The “shack” is no shabby ol’ shack, it’s pure luxury. With two bedrooms, a full kitchen AND Netflix, I think you will be more than comfortable staying in this incredible crib.
Things to See and Do in Four Mile Beach:
- Four Mile Beach is an attraction in its own right – stretching along the coast of Port Douglas, hikers will love the stunning scenery the entire length of the beach.
- There’s a large play-park area for kids, as well as some leafy hideaways where you can shelter from the sun.
- Palmer SeaReef is the golf course attached to our hotel pick for this region, and it is open for the public to use throughout the year.
- Kick back and relax at the Beach Shack – a restaurant and bar that offers laid-back vibes, affordable Australian fare and a prime coastal location.
- For a unique evening on the sea, join a Sunset Cruise on a Chinese Shaolin Junk Ship.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Port Douglas
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Port Douglas and where to stay.
What To Pack For Port Douglas
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Where is the best place to stay in Port Douglas for families?
Four Mile Beach is the best place to stay for families. It’s got a more relaxed vibe than the town centre but still has plenty of activities to do and Port Douglas hotels to choose from.
What is the best luxury Port Douglas accommodation?
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort is the creme da la creme when it comes to luxury in Port Douglas. Steps from the sea, surrounded by lush gardens and with not just one but two lagoon swimming pools. And if you fancy yourself a bit of a golfer, head to the 18-hole course up the road. Livin’ the dream.
Where is the best place to stay in Port Douglas for backpackers?
Without a doubt, you’ll want to head to Dougies Backpackers. They are the best for the budget and the best for making mates. Hang out by the swimming pool, and enjoy a few beers before heading off the explore the nightlife in the evening.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Port Douglas
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Port Douglas.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Port Douglas
Port Douglas is one of the coolest places to stay in Australia. Though the climate is great year-round, this is an especially fantastic destination for those planning a trip during the Australian winter as it’s their dry season.
I hope you found my article helpful and that you have a better idea about where is best for you in Port Douglas. The best place for you completely depends on what you want to get out of your travels. Daintree is a must for adventurous travellers, whilst Four Mile Beach is a laid-back alternative for families.
If you’re still unsure where to stay, I’d recommend staying at my top hotel in Port Douglas: Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort. It’s close to the beach and world-class service, no one regrets booking here.
If you’re on a tighter budget (I feel ya), I’d highly recommend Dougies Backpackers. The owners are super cool and their shared spaces make it easy to meet like-minded travellers.
Wherever you end up staying, I hope you have the best time in Port Douglas <3
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Australia.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Port Douglas.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Australia instead.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Moving on down the coast? Check out our East Coast Australia backpacking guide.
- Our in-depth Oceania backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
Photo: @Lauramcblonde
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
