Palm Cove Or Port Douglas?
If you’re heading up to the beautiful tropical north QLD, you’ll find both Port Douglas and Cairns on your list. And, as two of Queensland's most iconic destinations and most popular gateways to the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, it is a hard choice! Both Port Douglas and Palm Cove are less than an hour’s drive from Cairns airport, and they both offer beachfront views, award-winning restaurants and Tropical North charm.
While it may seem like a simple question for some, the tropical town you choose to visit will depend on the type of travel you are looking for. Are you looking to put your feet up or dive into the ocean? Are making memories for your family the main focus of your trip? Or are you looking for a party? Whichever way your travel style leads you, we’ve broken it down between these charming coastal QLD towns!
Port Douglas
Port Douglas is an upmarket seaside town situated between Cairns and the Daintree, the World’s oldest living rainforest. Boasting a plethora of bars, restaurants and boutique shops, this is an all-ages-friendly destination with beautiful beachfront views of golden sands stretching as far as the eye can see. The four-mile-long beach allows for privacy and quiet reading time under the palms. The beach starts at the base of Flagstaff Hill and ends at the mouth of the mighty Mowbray River.
Pros of Port Douglas
- Close to Mossman Gorge, the Daintree rainforest and Cape Tribulation
- Large stretch of beach, meaning you will have plenty of privacy
- Rarely any backpackers
- Great for families
- Beautiful coastal drive
Cons of Port Douglas
- Hiring a car is recommended, as the hills are steep and shops and restaurants are spread out.
- Port Douglas is upmarket and can be quite expensive.
- Further away from Cairns
Palm Cove
Palm Cove is a beach-side paradise located 30 minutes North of Cairns. A glamorous beach village of luxury hotels and fine dining, Palm Cove is the place for your next island-luxe, relaxing holiday. With many choices of yoga classes and Spa treatments, you can be pampered in style. If you're thinking of bringing your fur friend, Palm Cove offers a wide range of pet-friendly accommodations, as well as a few dog-friendly activities. You will never run out of activities to do on your holiday in Palm Cove; a local favourite is to go kayaking to Double Island, where you can catch sight of blue spotted lagoon rays, mangrove rays, shovelnose sharks fish, crabs and even a turtle or two.
Pros of Palm Cove
- Compact dining and shopping strip which means everything is within a walkable distance.
- A car is not necessary if you aren’t looking to leave Palm Cove.
- Ideal for a relaxing getaway
- Great for couples
- 20-minute drive from Cairns
Cons of Palm Cove
- Too small for some, most preferable for a shorter stay.
- No big supermarkets, so supplies will need to be picked up from Cairns. Although there is a Liquorland so you can pick up a few beers before a day out.
Beaches
- Palm Cove has easy access to the beach and a selection of beachfront accommodations.
- The Port Douglas four-mile-long beach is its main attraction and is very easy to find.
Stinger season for Port Douglas and Palm Cove stretches from November to May, the stinger nets will be in the water as soon as the season begins. The most comfortable times for swimming on the beaches are just before the stinger nets are out and just after they are taken away, this is because the water is still warm and there are fewer signs of stingers and crocs. Always keep an eye out for the stinger and crocodile warning signs.
Food
- Port Douglas has a larger selection of restaurant options however prices are generally at a premium.
- Palm Cove has an intimate selection of cafes, bars and restaurants all within a walkable distance.
Nightlife
- Palm Cove does not have any nightclubs for a late-night party, however, there are a few bars with live music that are open till midnight.
- Port Douglas is more catered to late-night entertainment including; The Clink for cabaret musical performances, stand-up comedy, Paddy’s Irish Pub for live music, Flames of the forest for an unforgettable dining experience in the rainforest and Jimmy’s Rum a speakeasy-style cocktail bar.
So, which town is really the best?
Both coastal towns share similar qualities; access to beaches, restaurants, watersports and the Great Barrier Reef.
However, Palm Cove is ideal for couples on a weekend getaway, in need of relaxation but with the option of adventure.
Whereas we recommend Port Douglas for families or large groups with a car who are intending to stay for longer than three days.
Or, if you still can’t decide, why not experience both? There’s plenty to do in these beachy hubs for all ages! Either way, you are sure to have an unforgettable holiday in the tropics.
