Port Douglas- Tropical Days, Warm Nights, Underwater Exploration

Port Douglas, once a little fishing village, has now become the center of life. It is a great place to enjoy wonderful restaurants, cafes and bars.

Macrossan Street is where all the village shops, restaurants and bars are and it is a lovely wide street typical of many Australian country towns. Many 19th century building still line the street, the Court House Hotel is one example and thankfully, the town planners must have been determined to keep this towns endearing character as they have modernized it but all the new buildings have architecture that blend in with the old including the notable absence of high rise buildings.

After the cyclone, in 1911, the port population went down to only 500. It began to raise again, many years later due to the construction of the Sheraton Mirage Resort , built in 1980s. The Sheraton brought in the tourists and begin of an increase in restaurants and accommodation.

At the end of Macrossan Street you can enjoy a beautiful beach, with a stinger net in the sea, enabling a safe water enjoyment. The other end of the street is home to a marina, where the Sheraton located. The beach there offers activities which include, parasailing, helicopter rides, and Dive School. At the marina you can enjoy a day of golf or yachting.

The Sunday Market held in Market Park provides the chance to purchase locally hand made arts and crafts. All the goods that are sold, are required to be made by the store owners and their immediate families.

There is such a choice of accommodation, luxury or budget that you will always be guaranteed a bed for the night although in May you may need to book in advance as Port Douglas Carnivale is on for ten days and is one of the most popular events in Tropical North Queensland.

The Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas had a beautiful beachfront view, and is considered to be a five star luxury hotel. Amenities include a golf course, salt water swimming lagoons, and three restaurants. Their country club includes a gym, tennis courts, a lap pool and a kids club.

With the numerous cairns accommodation available, it is hard to decide on one suitable for your needs. Visit www.tropicalnorthqueensland.com.au where you can get a list of all available cairns hotels, along with the costs and amenities for each.