Cairns to Port Douglas from $8: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Cairns to Port Douglas: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$8 - OtherBest price

41.8 milesDistance

58m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cairns to Port Douglas with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Traveling From Cairns to Port Douglas

The journey from Cairns to Port Douglas offers a striking contrast, where the bustling urban vibe of Cairns meets the tranquil charm of the coastal town of Port Douglas.

Best Neighbourhoods in Port Douglas

Port Douglas boasts a variety of neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences.

Macrossan Street

• Lively atmosphere with shops and restaurants.

• Close proximity to Four Mile Beach.

St. Crispins

• Scenic views of the Coral Sea.

• Quiet retreats perfect for relaxation.

Port Douglas Village

• Rich cultural experiences with local markets.

• Charming heritage buildings and art galleries.

Best Times To Visit Port Douglas's Attractions

Timing your visit to Port Douglas's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Great Barrier Reef

Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

Daintree Rainforest

Opt for a weekday visit to enjoy peaceful hikes and wildlife sightings.

Four Mile Beach

Evenings around sunset provide stunning views and a quieter beach atmosphere.

Port Douglas Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Port Douglas enjoys a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round and distinct wet and dry seasons. The best times to visit are during the dry season, from May to October, when sunny days enhance outdoor activities and ensure a more enjoyable travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Port Douglas

For an unforgettable culinary experience, try the barramundi at the popular Waterfront Restaurant in Port Douglas, where fresh, local ingredients take center stage. This coastal eatery's relaxed atmosphere and focus on seasonal flavors provide a delightful contrast to the lively dining scene in Cairns.

Cairns - Port Douglas operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cairns and Port Douglas, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+61 7 3036 2070

Website

https://www.transnorthbus.com.au/

Bus from Cairns to Port Douglas

Average Duration

1h 8m

Estimated price

14-21

Taxi

Contact phone

+61 7 4048 8333

Website

https://www.cairnstaxis.com.au/

Taxi from Cairns City to Port Douglas

Average Duration

58m

Estimated price

110-140

Cairns to Port Douglas: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cairns and Port Douglas offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🌿 Embark on a scenic drive from Cairns 🚗 to Port Douglas, meandering through lush tropical landscapes and alongside the stunning coastline of Queensland 🌴. 🌞 Enjoy the journey as you cover the 67.6 km distance in just under an hour, soaking in the natural beauty 🌊 while on the road and stopping at lookout points along the way. 💰 With prices ranging from $8 to $13 for the car ride, this budget-friendly trip offers a perfect balance of convenience and affordability 🌺.

Average price

$8 - $13

🚌 Experience a scenic journey from Cairns to Port Douglas by bus, taking just 1 hour and 14 minutes to reach your destination. 🎫 Ticket prices for the bus between Port Douglas and Cairns range from $25 to $33, offering an affordable and convenient transportation option for your trip.

Useful tips for bus travellers

• Bring a light jacket or sweater for the bus ride, as air conditioning can make the journey from Cairns to Port Douglas a bit chilly, especially in the evening.

• Check schedules and book your ticket in advance through the operators like GetOn, Surfside Buslines, or Cairns Airport Shuttle, which usually have direct services between Cairns and Port Douglas; their websites are GetOn.com.au, Surfside.com.au, and CairnsAirportShuttle.com.au.

• When you arrive in Port Douglas, locate the main bus stop on Macrossan Street where you'll find a variety of dining options and local attractions within walking distance; be mindful that the stop can get busy, so have your accommodation details handy for easy navigation.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cairns to Port Douglas.

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The distance between Cairns and Port Douglas is approximately 59.5 km by road. By car, it takes about 1 hour to travel between the two cities. Alternatively, by bus, the travel time is around 1 hour and 14 minutes.

For cost-effectiveness and time efficiency, driving is the most recommended option for traveling from Cairns to Port Douglas. It takes around 58 minutes and costs $8-$13, making it an affordable choice. Alternatively, taking a taxi is the quickest way to reach Port Douglas from Cairns, with a similar travel time of 58 minutes, but at a higher cost of $100-$130.

The prices of a bus ticket from Port Douglas to Cairns vary between $22 and $30, depending on the bus company and the type of ticket purchased.

To get from Cairns to Port Douglas without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 67.6 km. It takes approximately 58 minutes to reach Port Douglas by car. The estimated cost for this journey ranges from $8 to $13 depending on fuel prices and vehicle efficiency.

The best way to travel from Cairns to Port Douglas without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 14 minutes and the bus fare ranges from $22 to $30.

There are numerous accommodation options available near Port Douglas. With over 359 hotels to choose from, visitors have a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices for hotels in Port Douglas start at $87, offering options for travelers with different budgets.