Things to see and do in Port Douglas 🦎

From reef snorkelling to turtle spotting, local markets to lazy beach walks — skip the tourist traps and experience Port Douglas like a seasoned local. Our tips are clean, green, and reef-friendly — just how the tropics should be.

🏖 Four Mile Beach

Port Douglas’s most iconic stretch of sand
Turquoise waters, golden sand, and room to move — Four Mile Beach is a beauty by any standard. Whether you’re here for a morning stroll, an ocean dip, or to lie back under a palm tree with a book, this beach delivers. It runs along the entire eastern side of town and is just a short wander from Lazy Lizard. Sunrise walks highly recommended. Shoes optional.

🛍 Port Douglas Village Centre

Shops, cafés, galleries, and reef boats — all within reach
Only 1.2 km from Lazy Lizard, the Village Centre is the heartbeat of Port Douglas. Sip your coffee as the world drifts by, spoil yourself with a massage, or browse boutique shops and art galleries for something uniquely tropical.
Don't miss:

• Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina – Watch the reef tour boats return while you enjoy lunch, drinks, or dinner overlooking Dickson's Inlet.
• Macrossan Street – For fashion, food, and the odd frozen mango daiquiri.

All wrapped in a laid-back, sun-kissed atmosphere that couldn’t care less what shoes you’re wearing.

🛍 Markets, Cafés & Lazy Local Favourites

Port Douglas Sunday Markets (Cotters Market)
Held every Sunday from 8am to 1pm at Anzac Park, these vibrant seaside markets showcase the creativity and flavour of the tropics. Think:

• Handmade jewellery
• Tropical fruit straight from the farm
• Unique art, textiles, and timber crafts
• Live music and the smell of local coffee wafting through the palms

🎩 Local Tip: Arrive early, bring cash, wear a hat, and come hungry.

What makes it a Cotter’s Market?
Everything sold is made or grown by the stallholder — no mass production, no factory stuff. Just good, honest, local craftsmanship. First-time stallholders must prove it, too — with photos of how and where their creations come to life.

🎸 Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina

Boats, bars, and barefoot luxury
Looking for a chilled afternoon or romantic night out? The Marina is your spot. With a boardwalk overlooking the inlet and the lush Mossman Ranges beyond, it’s the perfect place to:

• Grab a drink
• Enjoy live music
• Book a reef cruise
• Shop for nautical souvenirs
• Watch the yachts drift in like they own the joint

💦 Port Douglas Splash Park

Water play heaven for kids (and a break for the parents)
Right by the sea at Jalunbu Park, the Splash Park is a colourful, safe, and free attraction for families. It’s ideal for cooling off and letting the little ones run wild.

💧 Features:

• Tipping buckets
• Spray tunnels & gentle jets
• Soft, non-slip surfaces
• Shaded seating & pram-friendly paths

🕘 Opening Hours: 9am–6pm daily (weather permitting)
📍 Location: Near the Port Douglas Surf Club, by the Esplanade
💰 Cost: Free (yep, free!)

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who it suits:

• Families with kids aged 2–12
• Toddlers (gentle water features)
• Parents looking to relax in the shade

🎒 Top Tip: Visit early or late to avoid the heat. Bring towels, hats, and sunscreen. Pair it with a beach stroll or market visit for the ultimate family day out.

🤙 Need Help Planning the Fun?

You book the stay — we’ll help you fill the rest. From reef tours to rainforest walks, we’ve got the inside scoop on the best ways to enjoy Port Douglas like a local (minus the crowds).
👉 Just ask us at reception — we’re happy to help.