Port Douglas is home to several stunning beaches, with Four Mile Beach being the most iconic. This golden stretch of sand curves gently along the Port Douglas beachfront, offering crystal-clear waters and palm-fringed shores perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and leisurely walks. While Four Mile Beach is the most popular, other nearby beaches like Palm Cove and Ellis Beach provide equally beautiful, yet more secluded experiences.

For those seeking pristine sands and a quieter atmosphere, Palm Cove beach is meticulously maintained by the local community, offering a postcard-perfect setting. Visitors can enjoy activities such as kayaking, fishing from the jetty, or simply relaxing under the shade of centuries-old paperbark Melaleuca trees. It's important to note that some beaches in the area may have restrictions on swimming due to the presence of crocodiles and jellyfish, especially during certain seasons.

The Daintree Rainforest, located about two hours from Cairns, is a World Heritage-listed site and one of the oldest rainforests in the world. This unique ecosystem is home to an incredible diversity of flora and fauna, including over 430 bird species, tree-kangaroos, possums, and the elusive cassowary. Visitors can explore the rainforest through guided walking tours, which offer insights into the forest's rich biodiversity and ancient history.

One of the most popular areas within the Daintree is Mossman Gorge, which provides easy access to the rainforest and offers well-signposted trails. The Marrdja Boardwalk near Cape Tribulation is another highlight, taking visitors on a journey through 350 million years of history with interpretative signs explaining the rainforest's significance.

For a unique experience, visitors can also enjoy night tours to spot nocturnal animals or take river cruises to observe local marine life, including crocodiles.

The Great Barrier Reef, accessible from Port Douglas, offers an unparalleled underwater experience. Visitors can embark on snorkeling or diving excursions to explore the vibrant coral gardens and encounter a diverse array of marine life. The Low Isles, a popular destination for reef tours, boast more than 150 species of coral and provide opportunities to see green sea turtles up close.

The reef's proximity to the Daintree Rainforest creates a unique "where the rainforest meets the reef" experience. This allows visitors to appreciate the majestic sight of the Heritage-listed rainforest meeting the golden shoreline from the water.

For those interested in sustainable tourism, many tour operators in the area focus on conservation efforts and educating visitors about the reef's delicate ecosystem and the importance of its preservation.