A sleepy fishing village in the 60s, Port Douglas has evolved into a sophisticated modern town and a more serene alternative to nearby Cairns for exploring the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. Hailed as a scuba-diving and snorkelling paradise, this resort destination on the Coral Sea in North Queensland offers miles of pristine palm-lined beaches, and plenty of shopping, wining and dining experiences. A short distance out of town, Daintree Rainforest, Cape Tribulation and Mossman Gorge are not to be missed.
The historical Cooktown is located at the mouth of the Endeavour River, on the Cape York Peninsula. The town is known for its enthralling natural scenery, gorgeous beaches and unique history. The lush, green peninsula is surrounded by shallow waters spread out over wide ridges of sand, exhibiting turquoise, azure and bright green colours. The long, white-sandy beaches provide idyllic days in the sun for visitors. The forests are thread through with a range of wonderful hiking trails, and in the city the picturesque park offers more opportunities for leisurely picnics. As the sight of the first interaction between Europeans and Aboriginal people, the area is rich in heritage. The extraordinary, large Aboriginal rock paintings display magnificent colours and clarity. Several museums provide further insight into Cooktown’s fascinating past.
