Queensland, Australia
Dry Season (May to October): This period also is "winter" in Australia. Expect pleasant daytime temperatures. They range from 20-28°C (68-82°F). Nights are cooler, usually between 17-23°C (63-73°F). The air feels comfortable. Rainfall is low. Most days are sunny. This condition makes for clear skies and outdoor activities. Humidity is lower. The air feels crisp and fresh. This creates pleasant conditions for exploring.
Wet Season (November to April): This period is also "summer." Days are hot. Temperatures range from 25-32°C (77-90°F). Nights are warmer, around 24-27°C (75-81°F). The air feels heavy. Rainfall is high. You expect heavy tropical downpours. Thunderstorms are common. January to March are the wettest months. Rain often falls in the late afternoon or overnight, leaving morning activities open. Humidity is high, often above 80%. This makes the air feel thick and sticky. This season has a higher presence of marine stingers (jellyfish). These are typically found from November to May. Stinger suits are necessary for ocean activities during these months.
Port Douglas is in a region prone to tropical cyclones. The official cyclone season runs from November to April. Direct hits are rare. However, tropical lows and cyclones bring heavy rainfall. They also bring strong winds. Such events cause flooding. They disrupt travel plans. Always monitor local weather reports from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM). Follow official advice during warnings.
Extreme temperatures are uncommon. The tropical climate keeps consistently warm to hot conditions.
May to October
Ideal weather, sunny, less humid, excellent reef visibility, lower stinger risk, all tours operate fully.
Higher prices, more crowded, book well in advance.
April, November
Fewer stingers (April), good weather, fewer crowds, lower prices.
Residual rain (April), stinger season starts (November), increasing humidity.
December to March
Lowest prices, fewer tourists, lush rainforest, spectacular waterfalls.
High humidity and rainfall, increased cyclone risk, stinger suits required, some tours on reduced schedules.
May to October (dry season) sees the best visibility. Water temperatures feel comfortable. Stinger suits are generally recommended year-round. They are necessary in the wet season.
The rainforest is great year-round. The wet season makes vegetation lush. Waterfalls flow strongly. However, trails become muddy. The dry season brings comfortable hiking conditions. May to October is ideal for comfortable beach going. Humidity is lower. No stingers are directly on the main beaches, but stinger nets are often in place for safety.
May to October (best visibility).
Year-round (lush in wet, easy hiking in dry).
May to October (lower humidity).
Year-round (often easier in drier conditions).
All non-Australian citizens need a visa to enter Australia. The type of visa you need is based on your nationality and purpose of travel.
This visa is for eligible passport holders from the European Union and certain other European countries. It comes free of charge. It typically brings multiple entries for 12 months. You stay for up to 3 months per visit. Apply online through the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
This visa applies to eligible passport holders from certain countries. The USA, Canada, Japan, and Singapore. A small service charge applies. It brings multiple entries for 12 months. You stay for up to 3 months per visit. Apply using the Australian ETA app on your mobile device.
No general entry fees exist beyond the visa application charge, if applicable. Upon arrival in Australia, you pass through immigration. Many eligible e-passport holders use SmartGates for a faster process. After immigration, you proceed to customs. You declare all goods. Australia has strict biosecurity laws. This condition shields its unique environment. Be honest on your arrival card about any food, plant material, or animal products.
Prices vary greatly based on your travel style. Here is a breakdown of currency, costs, and saving strategies.
The official currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD, $). ATMs are common in Port Douglas. You withdraw cash easily. Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are widely accepted. Currency exchange services exist at banks and some larger hotels. However, their rates are not favorable.
Using travel money cards or debit cards linked to multi-currency accounts often gives better exchange rates. This avoids foreign transaction fees.
Estimated Daily Costs: AUD 80-150 (~USD 50-100). This covers hostel dorm or basic motel, self-catering/takeaway meals, local bus, and free walks.
Accommodation: AUD 30-60
Meals: AUD 25-50
Estimated Daily Costs: AUD 150-350 (~USD 100-230). This covers mid-range hotel/apartment, mix of casual/nicer dining, shuttles/occasional taxi, and a major tour.
Accommodation: AUD 80-200
Transportation: AUD 20-50
Estimated Daily Costs: AUD 350+ (~USD 230+). This covers 5-star resorts/villas, fine dining, private transfers/car rental, and private charters/exclusive tours.
Accommodation: AUD 200-800+
Activities: AUD 100-300+
| Category | Item | Price Range (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Hostel Dorm / Luxury Resort | 30-800+ |
| Meals | Coffee / Fine Dining | 4-150+ |
| Transportation | Local Bus / Car Rental | 3-150 |
Port Douglas is a safe destination. However, being aware of local health and safety considerations helps you have a worry-free trip.
Ensure all routine vaccinations are current (MMR, DTP, Varicella).
Use High-SPF sunscreen, wear Wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective clothing. Stay hydrated.
Use Insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin, especially at dawn/dusk.
Emergency Services: Call 000 for Police, Fire, or Ambulance (Australia-wide).
Port Douglas has a local medical center and pharmacies. For serious emergencies or specialist care, patients usually go to Cairns Hospital. Cairns Hospital is a major regional hospital, about an hour away.
Tap water in Port Douglas is safe to drink. Food hygiene standards are high in local restaurants and cafes. Eating street food from reputable vendors is safe.
Local Port Douglas Medical Centre: +61 7 4099 5011 | Cairns Hospital: +61 7 4220 6265
Port Douglas is a very safe town with low crime rates.
Bag snatching or opportunistic theft can occur. Use standard precautions. Secure belongings. Do not leave valuables unattended.
No specific neighborhoods in Port Douglas are known for higher crime rates.
Port Douglas is in a region prone to tropical cyclones and other natural hazards.
Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended.
Cover medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, lost luggage, personal liability. Ensure it covers adventure activities like diving. World Nomads, SafetyWing, Insubuy are options.
Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 000 (Australia-wide). Non-Emergency Police: 131 444.
Contact your country's embassy or consulate for lost passports, emergencies, or legal issues. Most are in Canberra, Sydney, or Melbourne.
