Four Mile Beach is simply beautiful! This long, sweeping, sandy stretch of coastline attracts international and national visitors throughout the year who come to relax on the golden sands and enjoy the tropical climate. What is the best thing about Four Mile Beach? You can wander the golden sands, relax under a palm tree, climb the lookout or just bathe in the warm waters of the Coral Sea, all for free! There is lots of beachside parking, as well as complimentary BBQ facilities.
An interesting addition to Port Douglas’ free attractions is the award-winning Port Douglas Historical Walk. This 4km walk back in time takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete and takes in all the historical sites and buildings of this coastal township. It begins at the Port Douglas Court House Museum, takes in the old lighthouse, St Mary’s by the Sea chapel, the Central and Court House Hotels and Sugar Wharf. There are 17 sponsored interpretive signs around Port Douglas, explaining the historic significance of each of the sites with photos and text. You can enjoy this tour under your own steam, or book a guided tour through the Douglas Shire Historical Society.
Marina Mirage is an icon of Port Douglas. Built during the 1980s tourism boom, this multi-use facility is home to marina berths, shops, restaurants, cafes and bars. It is also the place where most of Port Douglas’ Great Barrier Reef day tours depart from. Its relaxed, tropical architecture includes sweeping, covered boardwalks along its exterior, scattered with outdoor dining opportunities. The interior is a cool haven from the tropical heat and offers retail therapy, a chance to book reef tours, purchase a unique souvenir or just a cool ice-cream treat. There is ample parking at Marina Mirage and it is a great place to watch the boats and enjoy lunch or dinner, overlooking the water.
The ‘best’ free attraction in Port Douglas is definitely the stunning, natural paradise of Mossman Gorge. Located a short 15-minute drive from Port Douglas, Mossman Gorge National Park has rainforest walking tracks that take you to crystal clear streams, rushing over giant, granite bolders. The waters here are always cold, providing a refreshing place to cool off in the summer months. There are two circuit walks you can choose from, the shortest is just 400m and takes you to the Mossman River. The longer one is a 2.7 look track that takes you deeper into the rainforest and includes the Rex Creek Suspension Bridge. Note: Caravans and large campervans are not encouraged to use the narrow, winding road to get into the park, but it is suitable for all other vehicles. Care should be taken: drive slowly and watch for other motorists.
The Port Douglas’ markets, held in Anzac Park on a Sunday, are possibly the best markets in Tropical North Queensland. They boast an eclectic combination of stalls ranging from craft to jewellery, leather goods to photography, food and refreshments, plants and massage, natural treatments and unique souvenir items, all locally made and produced. Stroll the stall, wander the waterfront, relax under the trees and soak up the ambience of this relaxed, tropical market day. The Port Douglas Markets are held on Sundays from 8am to 1pm. There is plenty of parking, but these markets are very popular, so you may have to park and walk.
