Day trips from Port Douglas, Australia – explore the Great Barrier Reef

Port Douglas makes a great base from which to visit the Great Barrier Reef. Reputedly, the world’s largest coral reef, it is one of the seven wonders of the natural world.  It is said to be the only living thing on Earth that can be seen from space. The coral cay of the Low Isles is one of the most popular places to visit.

About the Low Isles
The Low Isles is made up of four-acre coral cay engulfed by approximately 55 acres of reef. What is great about the Low Isles is that the reefs are close to the island. For those who like snorkelling, this is Utopia.

The Low Isle 

 

The Low Isles is actually two small islands. The largest one is Woody Island, a mangrove that is inhabited only by birds. The Low Isle is a coral cay with a beautiful white sandy beach shaded by coconut palms. There is also an active lighthouse here which was opened in 1878.

Woody Island

The tour
Board the catamaran and enjoy a cup of coffee with pastries and get to know your fellow travellers. This is a good trip to choose as there is only a small group of people.

Gliding through the crystal-clear aquamarine waters passing forests on the way is simply idyllic.

Visiting the Low Isles

Once you get to the Low Isles there is a choice of snorkelling (equipment is provided) or, if like me, this is not your bag, you can take a glass bottom boat trip where you can see some amazing coral, turtles and fish swimming about. Bird watchers will also be in their element here. One of the crew will take you on a walk round the island. This place is really magical and you really do not want to leave. 

The Great Barrier Reef

Back on the catamaran

After a delicious buffet lunch on board the catamaran, there is time for those who want to fit in a little more snorkelling. Or you can simply relax and swap stories with travellers from all over the world while taking in the scenery.

More of the Great Barrier Reef

Enjoy afternoon tea, as you once again take to the Coral Sea.

This is an amazing day out. The memories you will treasure forever.

By Daralyn Danns

Getting there

There are many tours going out but one of the best is the full day Low Isles operated by Sailaway. For more information visit sailawayportdouglas.com

Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia

Port Douglas at sunset

 







Why you should go.
 

What makes it special

A beautiful hour or so drive from Cairns along a road fringed by the coast on one side and forest on the other is Port Douglas. It is where the Daintree Rainforest meets the Coral Sea making it the only place on the planet where two World Heritage sites collide.

Port, as the locals call it, is a lovely upscale tourist destination that attracts Australians as well as globe trotters. Life here floats along at a sleepy pace. Many shops and restaurants close early. But, Port has all the trappings of the 21^st century -– minus high-rise buildings – you need for a great holiday. This is an idyllic base from which to explore the Great Barrier Reef as well as the rainforest.

Port Douglas, the town

Port Douglas, the town
The tree-lined Macrossan Street is the town’s main artery. It is awash with boutiques, shopping malls, bars, cafés and top-notch restaurants. You cannot really go wrong whichever you choose, especially if you like fish. It is a foodies’ paradise.

A tropical heaven

Beaches
Golden sands adorned with coconut palms and sparkling crystal-clear turquoise waters lapping at the edge, the Four Mile Beach is a tropical heaven. Take a walk to the northern end to discover rock pools. Like most beaches in Australia, it is patrolled so you can swim safety. Occasionally, water crocodiles can be spotted here so watch out. 

By Daralyn Danns

Getting there
I flew with Qantas from Alice Springs to Port Douglas. For best rates visit qantas.com

Stay
You will find plenty of accommodation here ranging from budget to luxury. I stayed at the boutique Port Douglas Peninsula Boutique Hotel. Overlooking the Four Mile Beach it is the only hotel in town to have beach and ocean views. Hi Tide Cafe-Bar-Restaurant is an idyllic setting for dining. Another plus of the hotel is that it is only a couple of minutes’ stroll to the main street. Catering only for adults, it has bags of charm. The owners, Gavin & Kylie along with their team are warm and welcoming. It is easy to forget you are in a hotel. For more information and best rates peninsulahotel.com.au