Cairns and Port Douglas Highlights Itinerary

Welcome to Cairns! Close to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, Cairns is a haven of scuba diving, snorkelling, reef cruises, all types of fishing, rainforest walks, native bird and wildlife watching.

Sun-seekers and locals alike flock to Cairns Esplanade's swimming lagoon on the city’s foreshore. There are picnic areas, birdwatching viewpoints, free barbecues and fitness equipment along the boardwalk, perfect for unwinding after your flight.

Accommodation: Cairns - 4 Nights

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. 

Your adventure begins with a swift catamaran ride to Green Island, a 6,000-year-old coral cay in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Spend two hours exploring this tropical paradise—snorkel off lifeguard-patrolled beaches, stroll through lush rainforest trails, or relax on pristine coral sand beaches. Then, head to the Outer Reef, where a spacious activity platform awaits. Snorkel, cruise in a semi-submarine, visit the underwater observatory, or unwind on the sundeck—memories to last a lifetime.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Discover the laid-back charm of Cairns, where tropical landscapes and coastal views invite you to slow down and explore. 

Start your day with a breezy walk along the Esplanade, where ocean views and shady paths set a relaxed tone. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, nearby rainforest tracks reveal peaceful creeks and hidden waterfalls. Prefer to take it easy? Find a quiet spot in one of the city’s green spaces or unwind by the water. Whether you're chasing nature or simply enjoying the atmosphere, Cairns makes it easy to enjoy a free day outdoors.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Indulge in a flavour-filled journey through the Atherton Tablelands, exploring rich volcanic landscapes and tasting the region’s finest local produce. 

The tour begins with tea or coffee by the serene Lake Barrine, followed by a visit to Winter & Mann for intimate, home-style tastings. At the Australian Platypus Park, enjoy a gourmet lunch of smoked meats paired with local beverages. Tastings continue at Gallo Dairyland, Mt. Uncle Distillery, and The Humpy, featuring cheeses, chocolates, spirits, and tropical treats. The day ends with handcrafted ice cream at Emerald Creek Ice Creamery before a scenic return drive, full of memorable flavours.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Collect your rental vehicle and journey to pretty Port Douglas, tropical playground of the rich and famous.

Port Douglas is a foodie haven with cafés, bars and restaurants galore. A year-round resort destination, you can dine al fresco and swim in the warm ocean waters no matter when you visit. With five nights here you have ample time to discover the region's many delights.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 70 km | 42 miles   Total Driving Time: 1 hour 15 mins

Accommodation: Port Douglas - 4 Nights

Enjoy a full day experience of the Great Barrier Reef with a snorkelling and sailing tour to Low Isles. 

Relax on the white sandy beach of the island, snorkel over the magnificent coral gardens in the blue lagoon on a guided snorkel tour with a marine biologist and swim with turtles in their natural habitat.

Enjoy a trip on the glass bottom boat with reef interpretation by our skipper, and explore the nature and history of Low Isles on an Island Heritage Walk with our expert guides. Enjoy delicious morning and afternoon teas and a buffet lunch and the thrill of pure sailing on Sailaway VI, a luxury Lagoon 560 sailing catamaran. Sailaway is perfect for the discerning traveller looking for a unique, special reef and island experience with a small group of likeminded people. Ideal for couples and families.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Afternoon Tea

Spend today enjoying Port Douglas at your leisure.

Four Mile Beach runs along the edge of Port Douglas, stretching as far as the eye can see. Take a dip in the warm Coral Sea, explore the rock pools or follow the walking trail up Flagstaff Hill to be rewarded with mountain views.

In town, funky boutiques offer major international labels, handcrafted local jewellery and everything in between. Head to the Reef Marina for Port Douglas’ top eateries: don't miss Hemingway’s Brewery where you can sample locally brewed beer made with water from nearby Mossman 

Included Meals: Breakfast

Ideal for nature lovers and water enthusiasts, this River Drift tour begins with an interpretive river walk along a shallow or dry riverbed, guiding guests upstream through lush rainforest. 

The journey then shifts to a new section of the river, where participants receive river sleds for the next stage of exploration. From here, they can drift peacefully beneath a dense green canopy before experiencing the thrill of faster-moving currents. Blending tranquillity, adventure, and immersion in the natural environment, this experience offers a unique way to connect with the river’s changing moods and landscapes.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Say farewell to the forest and return to Cairns to drop off your rental car and board your onward flight. We know you will enjoy your Port Douglas and Cairns Self Drive vacation, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional Australian experience. We hope you will return soon to discover even more highlights of this incredible continent.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 70 km | 42 miles   Total Driving Time: 1 hour 15 mins