Port Douglas is a luxury vacation destination with lush coastal highlights and world-famous natural jewels. This is the type of beach where the rich and famous come to frolic, and the average traveler needs to save up a bit to enjoy. Port Douglas villa rentals give you a chance to soak up all the luxury the area has to offer, spending your vacation like a tanned local with salt in your hair, sand between your toes, and long lazy days ahead of you.

Two World Heritage Sites border Port Douglas, offering a seemingly endless array of outdoor activities. Snorkel or dive into the sparkling waters of the Great Barrier Reef, located less than an hour off the coast. About 40 minutes north, you'll find Daintree National Park, a vast tropical wilderness ideal for hiking, picnicking, and sightseeing. Port Douglas itself features the beloved Four Mile Beach. Underdeveloped by local standards, the beach is free of high-rise resorts and tourist kitsch, surrounded instead by picturesque palm trees. If you want to get a different view of the area, you can take a scenic helicopter flight or hot air balloon ride in Port Douglas. Looking for a panoramic view from the ground? Head to Flagstaff Hill for unparalleled vistas sweeping the beach.

Port Douglas enjoys a warm climate year-round. The most noticeable distinction between the seasons is the change in rainfall. Winters are relatively dry with only an inch of rainfall in August. Average temperatures hover in the mid- to upper-70s, offering a warm alternative to other destinations. The Australian winter between June and August is the most popular time to visit Port Douglas. In the summer, between December and February, you face the threat of thunderstorms and cyclones. Average highs are in the mid-80s, creating a humid climate.

The best shopping in Port Douglas is found around Macrossan Street. Here you'll find boutiques, high-end fashion stores, souvenirs shops, and one-of-a-kind arts and crafts. If you're in town at the right time, don't miss the Port Douglas Sunday Market on Wharf Street. You'll find locally produced items, fresh produce, and frequent events.

Port Douglas dining is diverse and plentiful. Though you can easily whip up your own food in a well-equipped Port Douglas villa rental, you won't want to dine in with so many options at your doorstep. Flames of the Forest is more than just a restaurant, it's an immersive rainforest experience. Diners enjoy Australian wines and a carefully curated menu while dining in a candlelit forest. For something on the casual side, hit The Beach Shack, where you'll enjoy pizza, beer, tapas, and a great local vibe. 2 Fish Restaurant is a popular spot for local seafood. Despite the name, 2 Fish serves up yellowfin tuna, coral trout, Tasmanian salmon, and more.