posted on June 4, 2024
With its lush tropical scenery and mesmerising coastline, the Cairns to Port Douglas drive is sure to be an unforgettable journey. Covering a distance of just 67 kilometres on the most direct route, it’s hard to believe such a short distance can offer up so many hidden gems and must-see locations.
Whether you’re looking to explore the world-famous Daintree Rainforest or the Great Barrier Reef, you’ll find some of Australia’s most iconic sights and attractions on this drive.
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- Cairns to Port Douglas drive: overview and top tips
- Your road trip map from Cairns to Port Douglas
- Top tips for driving from Cairns to Port Douglas
- The best driving itinerary for the Cairns to Port Douglas drive
- Top places to stop between Cairns and Port Douglas
- How to plan the perfect family road trip from Cairns to Port Douglas
- Frequently asked questions about the Cairns to Port Douglas road trip
Plan your drive: An overview of the Cairns to Port Douglas drive
With the stunning natural beauty of Tropical North Queensland’s lush rainforests, waterfalls, and swimming holes with crystal clear waters, the drive from Cairns to Port Douglas is sure to be an epic journey.
It may be short, but there’s no shortage of things to do and detours to make along this drive, from views of cane fields to crocodiles lounging on the banks of the Mowbray River and the Coral Sea.
- Top stops: Kuranda, Mount Hypipamee National Park, Fitzroy Island National Park, Tolga Bat Hospital, The Crystal Caves, The Daintree Rainforest, Thala Beach Nature Reserve, Trinity Bay Lookout, Barron Falls, Cattana Wetlands, Palm Cove, Double Island Turtle Kayak Tour, The Gatz Balancing Rocks, and Oak Beach.
- Best time to drive from Cairns to Port Douglas: With distinct wet and dry seasons, Tropical North Queensland is known for months of heavy rainfall and humidity. The dry season, running from May to October, offers pleasant weather and favourable driving conditions. It also coincides with two of the biggest events for the year, which are the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair in July, and Port Douglas Carnivale in May.
Tip from the author: As well as delivering more rainfall, the wet season (November to April) is also known for more wildlife sightings, with cassowaries and wallabies being common in the area. While it might make for a great photo opportunity out in the national parks, it can be a challenging driving hazard. If driving during these months, be sure to leave plenty of time to reach your destination to avoid driving after dark. Dusk and dawn are when animals are most active, and you can expect to find some on or near the roads.
Cairns to Port Douglas drive time
The most direct route from Cairns to Port Douglas will take roughly 1 hour and 8 minutes of driving, following the National Route 1 and Captain Cook Highway/State Route 44 before joining Port Douglas Road in Port Douglas.
Cairns to Port Douglas driving distance
Along the fastest route, the drive from Cairns to Port Douglas covers a distance of 67 kilometres (via the National Route 1 and Captain Cook Highway/State Route 44).
Road trip from Cairns to Port Douglas map
What to know before you go: Tips for the drive from Cairns to Port Douglas
Driving conditions and staying safe on the roads
On the Cairns to Port Douglas drive, you can expect to drive on smooth roads that are well-maintained for the most part. While the distance for this drive is fairly short, we suggest planning ahead so you avoid any unnecessary stress and potential delays out there on the road, leaving you more time to get out and explore the incredible surroundings.
- Avoid driving at peak times: The months of May to October coincide with the dry season, which happens to be peak tourist season, so you can expect the roads to be considerably busier. You can expect more traffic along the Captain Cook Highway, particularly during weekends and public holidays.
- Book a car: If you’re not using your own vehicle, consider booking a hire car that suits your preferences and travel needs. Turo gives you the freedom to select a vehicle tailored to your journey so you can experience the best of Tropical North Queensland. If you’re doing this road trip in reverse, you can also book a car from Turo in Port Douglas instead.
- Start early: Begin your journey with the sun by setting off early in the day. Not only does this offer the chance to witness breathtaking sunrise views, but it also helps you beat the rush hour traffic, allowing for a smoother, stress-free drive.
Tip from the author: Remember that Cairns and Port Douglas are located in the Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) zone and don’t observe daylight savings time like much of the rest of Australia. So, for the full year, these two destinations will be in the AEST zone.
Petrol stations and EV chargers along the way
Petrol stations and EV chargers are conveniently located throughout the drive from Cairns to Port Douglas. You’ll find numerous opportunities to refuel with petrol stations located throughout Queensland, including the Tropical Far North which you’ll be exploring on this northeastern coastal drive. Consider fuelling options at Cairns North as you head towards Port Douglas, as well as Clifton Beach and Port Douglas.
For those driving an electric vehicle, rest assured that fast charging stations are located across the Queensland region thanks to Chargefox and Tesla Supercharger. You can find charging stations at the Pullman Reef Hotel Casino in Cairns City for those driving a Tesla, as well as the Central Shopping Centre in Cairns City, Smithfield Shopping Centre on the Captain Cook Highway, and Niramaya Villas and Spa in Port Douglas for various EV models.
What kind of vehicle is best for this epic drive?
Given that this drive traverses the Captain Cook Highway and well-maintained roads for the most part, any car can tackle the Cairns to Port Douglas drive with ease. Ultimately, the best vehicle for this epic drive is the one you feel most comfortable with. For those needing more space for family or extra cargo, you may want to consider a spacious SUV rather than a small, compact car.
Want to road-test your dream car or treat yourself to a unique set of wheels? Hire a car in Cairns from a local Turo host.
Discover the perfect driving itinerary: Cairns to Port Douglas
The drive from Cairns to Port Douglas is short at just over an hour in duration, following the most direct route, but with so many attractions and things to do, there are countless detours to make along the way. Offering the perfect mix of idyllic beachside locations and stunning national parks for outdoor adventurers, this itinerary ensures you’ll be ticking off the big sights of Tropical North Queensland.
The Northeastern Coastal Explorer: Cairns to Port Douglas driving itinerary
- Total distance: 207 kilometres
- Total driving time: 3 hours and 52 minutes of driving time
- Itinerary:
- Stop 1: Cairns to Kuranda (29 kilometres, 41 minutes)
- Stop 2: Kuranda to Barron Falls (3 kilometres, 6 minutes)
- Stop 3: Barron Falls to Palm Cove (30 kilometres, 40 minutes)
- Stop 4: Palm Cove to Rex Lookout (18 kilometres, 20 minutes)
- Stop 5: Rex Lookout to Ellis Beach (14 kilometres, 15 minutes)
- Stop 6: Ellis Beach to Port Douglas (38 kilometres, 42 minutes)
- Stop 7: Port Douglas to Mossman Gorge (22 kilometres, 22 minutes)
- Stop 8: Mossman Gorge to Daintree Rainforest National Park (52km, 1 hour 15 minutes – including a ferry ride)
Before leaving Cairns, be sure to visit the Cairns Esplanade, where you’ll find countless boutique stalls and cafes that champion fresh, local ingredients and artisans. After you’ve taken in the scenery, it’s time to hit the road as you make your way to the rainforest town of Kuranda. Here, you’ll have your choice of attractions to visit, with family-friendly options like the Kuranda Koala Gardens, Birdworld, and the Rainforestation Nature Park.
With plenty of market stalls throughout the village that boast handmade crafts, it’s also known for its hidden gems by way of cafes and restaurants. Soak up the relaxed atmosphere of the town and enjoy its tranquil setting before heading off towards Barron Falls. With just a short detour, you’ll find yourself taking in the views of the falls that plummet from the Atherton Tablelands onto the plains. You can also stroll along one of several walking trails that wind through the Kuranda National Park or take the Kuranda Scenic Railway for breathtaking views.
From Barron Falls, you’ll head to Palm Cove and watch as the diverse landscapes give way to coastal scenes. Here, there are plenty of beaches to discover, including Trinity Beach and Palm Cove. You’ll find plenty of delicious food stalls and restaurants along the Williams Esplanade, where you can sit and enjoy a feed while looking out at the calm waters and palm trees. Palm Cove is also home to a kayak tour that takes you to Double Island, where you can spot sea turtles. If you have the time, it’s certainly worth doing!
As you drive to Rex Lookout, you’ll continue to be treated to sweeping views of the coastline while driving along the Captain Cook Highway. At Rex Lookout, gaze out at the incredibly diverse landscapes that make Queensland so special, with the beach being met by tropical rainforest. From there, you can cool off at Ellis Beach before taking in the cane fields that line the roads to Port Douglas.
You may have reached your destination, but there’s still plenty to explore from Port Douglas. Mossman Gorge is undoubtedly worth a visit, and with it being located in the Daintree Rainforest, you’ll be able to visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site and marvel at the abundance of flora and fauna.
Top places to stop between Cairns and Port Douglas
Top national parks on the Cairns to Port Douglas drive
Just as Tropical North Queensland is known for its beaches, it’s equally celebrated for its national parks. With their rich biodiversity, abundant wildlife, rugged terrain and sprawling rainforests that include breathtaking waterfalls, to frequent a national park is to find yourself utterly immersed in nature.
- Daintree National Park: The UNESCO World Heritage-listed park is renowned for its rich diversity of flora and fauna. As one of the oldest tropical rainforests in the world, you’ll spot ancient trees and rare plants, as well as some of Australia’s most iconic wildlife like the cassowary. There are plenty of ways to explore the beauty of the Daintree National Park, from a river cruise, a swim in Mossman Gorge, or walking trails with a tour of the area.
- Barron Gorge National Park: With its mountain ranges and lush rainforest scenery, Barron Gorge National Park demands a visit. You’ll be able to take on several walking trails that lead to scenic lookouts, while bird watchers will be able to spot a number of native species.
- Cape Tribulation: Located within the Daintree National Park, Cape Tribulation offers visitors incredible views of the coastline and surrounding rainforest. Take a hike to explore the lush rainforest or relax on its stunning beaches, where you can take part in water-based activities like snorkeling and wildlife cruises.
- Great Barrier Reef Marine Park: With Cairns being the gateway for the Great Barrier Reef drive, you’d be foolish to let a visit to this stunning location go past. Known for its long stretch of breathtaking coral reef, you can explore its beauty with a boat tour, diving, or snorkeling as you take in the colourful varieties of fish and other marine life.
- Mossman Gorge: Located within the Daintree National Park, Mossman Gorge is known for its crystal-clear swimming holes and rich Indigenous culture. Guided walks are offered where you’ll learn more about the local Kuku Yalanji people, as well as the varied landscape of the area.
Top stop: Experience a taste of Spain with a tropical twist at the Seabean Tapas Bar once you arrive in Port Douglas. Indulge in a variety of tapas, from paella to pintxos, paired with sangria or a chilled Estrella. For a truly unique dining experience, you can even bring in your own catch from the Coral Sea for their chefs to craft into a culinary masterpiece—making it a perfect summer dining spot that captures Port Douglas’s unique coastal vibe.
Top beaches on the Cairns to Port Douglas drive
If you’re looking to take a dip amongst the waves or catch a sunset with a picnic along the shore, be sure to visit these beaches when making the journey from Cairns to Port Douglas.
- Ellis Beach: Sandwiched between rainforest-covered mountains and the breathtaking Coral Sea, Ellis Beach is a testament to the natural beauty Queensland is renowned for. With its family-friendly atmosphere and gentle waves, Ellis Beach is the perfect place for the family to stop and enjoy a picnic, relax in the shade, or cool off in the water.
- Palm Cove: This stunning beach is dotted with palm trees and will have you feeling as if you’ve stumbled upon your own little slice of paradise. With clear turquoise waters and its relaxed surf, it’s the ideal spot for a cool dip in the ocean, as well as other activities like paddleboarding and kayaking.
- Clifton Beach: Known for its long sandy shoreline, Clifton Beach is a must-visit for those seeking a hidden gem. Palm trees line the beach and offer much-needed shade, while the shallow waters are ideal for those wanting to take a dip or go snorkeling. With its tranquil atmosphere, you’ll instantly feel relaxed.
- Four Mile Beach: After arriving in Port Douglas, you’ll want to tick off a visit to Four Mile Beach. Famous for its white sand and panoramic views of the Coral Sea, this beach offers incredible photo opportunities for those looking to capture an unforgettable sunrise or sunset.
- Wonga Beach: Known for its long sandy shores and calm waters, Wonga Beach will grant you incredible views of the Daintree Rainforest. Located further north of Port Douglas, it’s something of a hidden gem and you can expect fewer people at this beach, making for a relaxing getaway.
Top food spots on the Cairns to Port Douglas drive
For those wanting a taste of Queensland, be sure to check out these top spots that will have your inner foodie celebrating!
- Blackbird Espresso: Need a coffee before hitting the road? Be sure to stop at Blackbird Espresso in Cairns for delicious coffee thanks to their devotion to specialty beans. You can also pick up a sweet treat before starting your journey.
- Caffiend: A favourite amongst Cairns locals, this breakfast spot specialises in brunch. An all-day menu offers plenty of options, from chili eggs and miso scramble to kid-friendly options. And with the cafe being open from 7am to 3pm, you can be sure to get your caffeine fix, too.
- L’Unico: This beachside restaurant in Cairns uses only the freshest ingredients for its Italian dishes. With the verandah offering stunning views of the surrounding area and palm tree-dotted coastline, you’ll feel yourself in heaven.
- Grant Street Kitchen: After making your way to Port Douglas, check out this bakery which specialises in pastries and pies, all of which are made in-house, daily.
- Epicurean: Fusing a cafe with a shop is ingenious, and that’s exactly what you get at this hidden gem. Here, you can buy top quality French cheeses and small goods that will elevate your picnic to new heights.
How to plan the perfect family road trip from Cairns to Port Douglas
Looking for a road trip the whole family can enjoy over the school holidays? With some careful planning and helpful tips, you can turn this drive into the ultimate kid-friendly drive that’s guaranteed to be a memorable adventure for all involved.
- Book accommodation in advance: Regardless of family size, it’s best to plan your accommodation ahead of time. Given the likelihood of accommodation booking out during peak season and rates increasing, getting your booking in earlier will likely save you money and grant you more options.
- Plan pit stops at parks or playgrounds: Though this drive isn’t particularly lengthy, it’s important to take plenty of pit stops to avoid fatigue. To ensure the kids are happy, plan your breaks around parks or playgrounds where they’ll be able to play and release some energy after time spent in the car.
- Pack plenty of snacks and water: While there are plenty of opportunities to stop at service stations for snacks or fuel along the drive, ensuring you have nutritious snacks like sandwiches and fruit on hand for the little ones will take the stress out of your journey.
Top kid-friendly places to stop
- Cairns Aquarium: Before leaving Cairns, be sure to check out the aquarium where kids can explore the Great Barrier Reef, learn more about the incredible ecosystems that make Tropical North Queensland so unique, and see a variety of marine creatures up close.
- Muddy’s Playground: With climbing structures, picnic spots, water play areas, and much-needed shade, Muddy’s Playground on the Cairns Esplanade is the perfect pit-stop for families. While you rest your legs or take a break from driving, the kids will have a world of fun playing on the equipment.
- Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures: This wildlife park allows kids to see crocodiles, koalas, kangaroos and other native species. A boat cruise will take you out on the lagoon where you can spot the crocs in their natural habitat!
- Birdworld Kuranda: Birdworld is an incredible place where kids get the chance to interact with exotic bird species from all over the world. You don’t have to be a birdwatcher to get enjoyment out of this visit, with walking tours going through aviaries filled with parrots, cockatoos, and countless other species.
- Australian Butterfly Sanctuary: When in Kuranda, be sure to visit the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary which is the largest butterfly aviary in Australia. Kids will get the chance to learn more about the life cycle and habitat of butterflies while seeing thousands of them in a tropical setting.
- Port Douglas Wildlife Habitat: Here, kids can have the opportunity to see Australia’s most iconic species up close and personal, such as kangaroos, koalas and crocodiles. They also offer tours to help educate kids on their habitat and conservation efforts. You can even feed the wallabies, with interactive wildlife presentations providing entertainment for the whole family.
Cairns road trip: keep the drive going
Looking for more adventures you can have in Cairns and the wider Queensland area? Hang onto your car keys and consider one of these epic road trip itineraries from Cairns.
- Brisbane to Cairns road trip
- Cairns to Brisbane road trip
- Cairns to Mission Beach
- The ultimate East Coast Australia road trip
Frequently asked questions about the Cairns to Port Douglas drive
Can I get a flight from Cairns to Port Douglas?
No, given the short distance between Cairns and Port Douglas, no commercial flights run between the two destinations. The primary mode of transport is by road, whether that’s with your car or a hire car. Shuttle services also run between the two destinations, however, these are subject to change depending on the bus company, route, and scheduling.
Is it worth driving from Cairns to Port Douglas?
Absolutely! Tropical North Queensland is known for its incredible scenery, with natural beauty around every corner thanks to rainforest-clad mountains, sweeping coastlines, and panoramic views of the Coral Sea. Not surprisingly, the drive is a memorable one that’s certainly worthwhile. As well as that, you can experience the many attractions and places to explore at your own pace, allowing you to choose your stops based on your travel preferences.
What is the best time of year to travel from Cairns to Port Douglas?
The dry season from May to October is the best time to drive from Cairns to Port Douglas. You can expect pleasant temperatures, less humidity and rainfall, and a more seamless driving experience as a result. That said, it’s also peak tourist season during these months, so be sure to leave adequate time to reach each destination and leave early to avoid traffic on the roads.
Want to take on the Cairns to Port Douglas drive in style? With Turo, you can find the perfect vehicle for your journey. If you’re starting your drive to Port Douglas from Cairns (or vice versa), let Turo connect you with the perfect car for your trip.
Why not keep the road trip going? Hit the road with our complete guide to the Cairns to Brisbane road trip.
Jess Campbell
Jess is Sydney-based and loves the outdoors. While she likes to think she has what it takes to compete on ‘ALONE’, her survival skills need some work. Born in Singapore and raised in South Africa, she’s hiked across Ireland, surfed in Hawaii, spent six months in Kenya and covered much of Africa. Having spent a year in the north of Spain, she’s resolved to come back to tackle the Camino de Santiago. Until then, you can find her providing the best snacks and playlists on Aussie road trips.
