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Port Douglas Holiday Homes Travel Guide
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Dear Guest
Let us give you peace of mind.
When you reserve a villa on 5 Star Villa Holidays and are unable to travel due to Covid 19 travel restrictions.*
5 Star Villa Holidays will allow you to move your reservation to a date in the future at no charge.
Enhanced cleaning
All 5 Star Villas meet our 6 step enhanced cleaning guidelines.
Surfaces sanitised All high touch surfaces sanitised e.g Remote controls, door handles etc
Linens All linens washed on a high heat setting.
Extensive clean Following our cleaning checklist, available on request.
Wear gloves and mask To prevent cross contamination.
Approved cleaning products Disinfectants with 70% alcohol or more.
Local guidelines followed Any additional or safety measures complied with.
Reserve online with confidence knowing 5 Star Villa Holidays has you covered.
All the best,
John Paul Donnelly
P.S Go on then, reserve your 5 Star Villa Holiday knowing you are covered.
*Covid-19 travel restrictions is when laws state you are unable to travel to a certain country.
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Guaranteed Best Price
No services fees added, the price advertised is the price you pay with no hidden fees. Great!
-
Free Cancellation
Cancel within 48 hours of booking to get a full refund. More details. -
Earn Villa Miles With This Booking
Happy days! You get credit to spend on your next 5 Star Villa Holiday. Expires 12 months from booking date.
-
Free Accidental Damage Insurance, Worth
Your covered! If you accidentally break something, you will be covered up to . Please note excess fees may apply.
-
Guaranteed Best Price
No services fees added, the price advertised is the price you pay with no hidden fees. Great!
-
Free Cancellation
Cancel within 48 hours of booking to get a full refund. More details.
-
Earn Villa Miles With This Booking
Happy days! You get credit to spend on your next 5 Star Villa Holiday. Expires 12 months from booking date.
-
Free Accidental Damage Insurance, Worth
Your covered! If you accidentally break something, you will be covered up to . Please note excess fees may apply.
Best Places To Stay In Port Douglas
Welcome to 5 Star VIlla Holidays, the No.1 website for renting luxury villas in Port Douglas.
Stay close to some of nature’s most incredible habitats in a luxurious coastal location. Port Douglas puts magnificent wildlife and coastline, the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef at your fingertips. Close to Cairns, there’s an enormous range of things to do and see plus stunning villa accommodation to suit every need. Here’s all you need to know about Port Douglas.
Though North Queensland is lined with glorious beaches, Port Douglas delivers something special. Situated on the edge of Daintree National Park, between the Daintree Rainforest and Cairns, luxurious Port Douglas is a tropical dream.
The perfect place from which to explore the lush green Daintree Rainforest and the glass-like blue of the Coral Sea, this sensational coastal town is popular with both travellers and Australians.
I will look forward to helping you choose the best 5 Star Villa Holiday to Airlie Beach.
Home to an endless array of brightly coloured marine life in its waters and a kaleidoscope of majestic wildlife amongst the rainforest which skirts its shores, Port Douglas makes an unrivalled base from which to explore the astounding ecosystems of the tropical north.
Beyond its sands lie Cape Tribulation, a magnificent collection of national parks and Cairns which is just an hour’s drive away. All this means Port Douglas is one of Australia’s top destinations and you could well find yourself bumping into a famous face or two whilst you’re here.
All the best,
John Paul Donnelly
P.S Picture This..Creating Magical Memories with Your Friends and Family Whilst Staying in a Luxury 5 Star Villa.
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Why choose Port Douglas?
Once a heaving gold-rush town, Port Douglas became a must-do destination in the 1980s and its pull hasn’t let up since. With tropical weather, a relaxed vibe, luxurious accommodation a-plenty and a charming village feel, the town remains a trendy resort that’s played host to many well-known names.
In town you’ll find stylish boutiques, top restaurants, chic cafes, cool bars, historic buildings and buzzing pubs.
Four Mile Beach is Port Douglas’ famous stretch of coastline. Fine white sand lined by rock pools and palm trees edged with undulating rainforest-covered mountains is a spectacular sight. Yet you can still unwind beside the warm waters of the Coral Sea in natural surroundings because the shoreline remains largely untouched.
You’ll revel in the range of watersports on offer and the monumental Coral Sea to explore. Enjoy kitesurfing and paddleboarding before taking one of the thrilling rainforest trails which journey from beach to rainforest.
Tours of the Daintree and cruises, diving and snorkelling amongst the Great Barrier Reef will be top of your itinerary whilst Cairns holds further entertainment. Back at Port Douglas there are multiple top golf courses ready for those who want to remain plus exhilarating experiences taking in the ancient cultures of the local area or its fresh food credentials.
With so much in store, first-rate Port Douglas accommodation is essential. In this sublime location you’ll find luxury holiday villas worthy of their surroundings, delivering awe-inspiring views and exceptional facilities. In fact we guarantee you won’t want to leave!
Best things to do in Port Douglas
From awesome experiences in nature you’ll never forget to fun amongst the buzzing cityscape of Cairns, there’s so much to see and do in and around Port Douglas. Here’s our top picks of the best things to do and see in Port Douglas.
Best things to do in Port Douglas:
The Great Barrier Reef
You will of course, have the staggering Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, within your sights on arrival. One of the 7 Wonders of the World, the Reef is home to:
- 1625 species of tropical fish in an array of bright colours guaranteed to take your breath away,
- 30 different types of whales and dolphins,
- 134 species of sharks and rays,
- 7 types of endangered turtles,
- 30 different kinds of marine mammals,
- 23 species of seabird,
- 900 divine tropical islands,
- 2900 reefs
- and more.
To get a full sense of this record-breaking ecosystem, take a cruise through the reef on a glass-bottomed boat and dive or snorkel amongst the biggest coral reef network in the world. You might even decide to take a swim with the minke whales which inhabit its waters.
Boat tour from Cape Tribulation to Palm Cove
Alternatively, take a boat tour from Cape Tribulation to Palm Cove and you’ll pass through mountains, rainforest, waterfalls and bays, always with the Great Barrier Reef in sight.
For divers there will be numerous expeditions to experience the Reef’s 16 legendary dive sights. Together these sublime diving experiences make the Great Barrier Reef one of the world’s best diving locations.
Drier experiences may find you heading to one of the sand cays at the centre of the Great Barrier Reef. Arriving by helicopter to a gourmet picnic, whilst you relax then snorkel in the sea, you’ll be lost in your own private island retreat.
Whitsunday Islands
When visiting the buzzing city of Cairns, be sure to take a trip out to The Whitsunday Islands to experience some of these idyllic isles for yourself. Beyond The Whitsundays, Cairns offers tons of fun for all the family, with everything from Cairns Zoo and Wildlife Dome to Cairns Botanic Gardens, galleries, museums and more to keep you busy.
The Daintree Rainforest
Second on your list is sure to be the ancient Daintree Rainforest. Dating back to the Jurassic Age, so much of the Daintree’s flora and fauna can only be found here.
You’ll encounter an unforgettable habitat where 800 different types of native trees, endless rare native plants including orchids and strangler figs plus native animals, such as tree kangaroos, possums, cassowaries, kingfishers, koalas and saltwater crocodiles, await.
Though the Daintree is part of the world’s oldest continuously surviving rainforest, the Wet Tropics of Queensland Rainforest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s a place that’s very much alive.
Amongst its 2800 different plant varieties, 663 animal species, staggering population of frogs, reptiles and marsupials and 230+ species of butterfly, you’ll find an extraordinary range of magnificent experiences designed to bring the habitat’s rich heritage to life.
Cultural Tours
Take one of the many cultural tours to experience the Daintree Rainforest through the eyes and history of the local Indigenous people, the Kuku Yalanji people, formal owners of the land. Tours include everything from boomerang throwing to digeridoo playing, bush walks, traditional storytelling, dancing and more.
Try a spa treatment rooted in ancient tradition at Daintree Eco Lodge or learn the journey of chocolate, from planation to plate, on the Daintree Estate. When evening falls, you could stay on for a candlelit meal accompanied by ancient storytelling at Flames of the Forest.
Wildlife Tours
For flora and fauna-focused tours there is just as much choice. The raucous Army Duck Tour will take you across water and dry land to see the Daintree from every angle. For something more sedate, the Koala and Wildlife Park brings rainforest animals, such as koalas, wombats, cassowaries, dingoes, saltwater and freshwater crocodiles, up close.
For all-round views take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway into the rainforest or the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway or even, a hot air balloon ride through the skies above.
Other experiences include jeep safaris, birdwatching, fishing, hiking, night tours across Cape Tribulation, cave exploration and more.
Port Douglas
For the best shopping in town head to Macrossan Street which is the hub of Port Douglas. Shops are suitably stylish with designer stores, artisan shops and one-off boutiques lining the street.
On Sundays, fresh local produce and handmade goods can be found at Port Douglas market. If farmers’ markets are your thing, there are regular Port Douglas festivals filled with artisan goods of every kind and a legendary Saturday market at nearby Mossman.
If you’re staying local, popular activities on dry land include, horseriding, cycling and golf. Port Douglas is one of Australia’s best golfing destinations so head to the stunning 18-hole golf courses at Palmer Sea Reef Golf Course, the Mirage Country Club or the Mossman Golf Club.
Bump Track
For horse-riding, a tour along Port Douglas’ rainforest-lined shoreline is not to be missed whilst experienced cyclists will enjoy the challenge of Bump Track’s steep and muddy hinterland experience.
Bally Hooley Steam Train
For something less physical, take a historic stream train ride on the Bally Hooley Steam Train or a trip out to Cape Trib Farm where over 60 exotic fruits are grown in its fields.
Hartley’s Crocodile Farm
For family-fun you certainly won’t forget the feeling as you travel through crocodile-infested waters by boat at Hartley’s Crocodile Farm or wander amongst the animals at Port Douglas Wildlife Habitat. Here, everything from feeding kangaroos to cuddling koalas and walking the plank over crocodile-infested waters, awaits.
Best restaurants
Northern Queensland’s fresh produce is legendary. With the Great Barrier Reef on its shores, Port Douglas is clearly a foodie destination. Stand-out Port Douglas eateries amongst the delicious cafes, restaurants and bakeries which line its streets include:
- Hemingway’s Brewery for local craft beer accompanied by tasty food.
- Barbados Restaurant for sumptuous cocktails and equally irresistible meals by the water.
- Barcelona for mouthwatering tapas.
- Zinc for exciting contemporary Australian dishes.
Best places to stay in Port Douglas, Australia
Whether you’re dreaming of a luxury villa by the beach with ocean views or a hilly retreat with vistas across the rainforest and out to sea, browse our stunning collection of exceptional Port Douglas villas. From villas for families and groups to romantic retreats for two, find the perfect holiday home for your stay in Northern Queensland’s tropics.
Discover more top luxury accommodation to rent in Port Douglas or call us to discuss the best holiday villas in Australia to suit you and your family
Port Douglas, Australia Holidays: Why go?
Find out more about the top local attractions in Port Douglas:
Best airport for travel to Port Douglas:
The best airport for Port Douglas is Cairns International Airport.
When is the best time to visit Port Douglas?
Though Port Douglas has visitors throughout the year, the best time to visit is from April to October. Plan to travel between June and October if you want the best conditions for wildlife experiences or September to October for top diving. For whale-watching the optimum time is August to September when humpback whales are easy to spot.
October to May is stinger season. Though stings aren’t common, jellyfish and Irukandji are present in the water and you’ll need to wear a stinger suit when diving. Meanwhile, December to February is the wet season with rain appearing daily.
Browse more top holiday homes in Port Douglas for rent or call us to discuss the best accommodation to suit you and your family.
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Meet Your Expert Travel Consultants
John Paul Donnelly
Founder & CEO
John Paul's deep love for travel inspired him to turn his passion into a business and 5 Star Villa Holidays was founded in 2011. He is one of eight children and loves spending quality time with his larger-than-life family. In his spare time he loves immersing himself in different sporting activities around the world; skiing, surfing and football. He is always seeking new adventures and his philosophy is simple; love the journey of life.
Helena Doyle
Marketing Manager
Currently travelling the world and working remotely, it's no surprise that Helena is the author of 5 Star Villa Holidays' collection of travel guides. She loves exploring new countries and experiencing new cultures. If you need some holiday tips, look no further! In her spare time she loves going to the gym, compiling her 'Living the Dream' travel blog and enjoying fine wines!
Joe Donnelly
Sales Director
Living in Ireland, Joe is a family man with 2 beautiful daughters and a mischievous dog called Bruno. He is a very skilled chef who loves hosting dinner parties for family and friends. He is passionate about sport and boating. Joe is a keen golfer and loves nothing more than playing 18 holes on the best golf courses Europe has to offer. Joe has worked in the travel industry since 2005 and prides himself and his team as trustworthy travel experts.
Suzanne Pilcher
Creative Director
Born and raised by the beach in sunny Australia, Suzanne carries a deep-seeded affinity with the ocean and loves nothing more than exploring beautiful seaside destinations around the globe. As our travelling Creative, she is currently doing her best to experience and capture all that this incredible world has to offer, while living on a steady diet of coffee and art gallery visits.
Wilter Franceschi
Developer
Wilter's desire to see and experience the world took him from his home country of Brazil all the way to Vancouver, Canada, where he now lives and works for 5 Star Villa Holidays. He is an avid lover of the great outdoors and volunteers for the Canadian boat race committee. Wilter is a man of many talents, with a persevering passion for technology, programming (of course!) and science, as well as being a talented musician who likes to unwind by playing the bass and piano in his spare time.
Our Story
In 2005, John Paul Donnelly, began his luxury villa journey. He spent three years building resorts and holiday apartments in Alanya, Turkey, along with his brother, Joe. The concept was to create the most luxurious villas on the Turkish coastline and provide clients, along with their family and friends, the opportunity to enjoy exclusive holidays together.
By 2008, after the successful development of 3 resorts, JP had well and truly fallen into the world of villa rentals. With a portfolio of 6 villas and a desire to explore new places, he decided it was time to take the villa rental business outside of Turkey. He wanted to give his clients access to beautiful holiday rentals in destinations across the globe.
The expanding villa rental company was rebranded in 2011 to 5 Star Villa Holidays, and today 5 Star Villa Holidays offers over 10,000 luxury villas around the world.
JP and his partner, Helena are currently travelling the globe, devoted to hand selecting the best villas and property management companies, and giving them their stamp of approval! 5 Star Villa Holidays' ambition goes beyond being an ordinary holiday rental company. It is a marketplace for luxurious and exclusive villas around the world.
The 5 Star Villa Holidays Difference
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