Discover the Scenic Beauty of Great Barrier Reef Drive
Experience the breathtaking views along Great Barrier Reef Drive, a stunning coastal route showcasing the beauty of Queensland's natural wonders.
Great Barrier Reef Drive is a breathtaking coastal route that offers stunning views of the ocean, lush rainforest, and the iconic Great Barrier Reef. This picturesque drive is a must-do for every visitor to Port Douglas, providing access to various attractions and hidden gems along the way. The drive itself is known for its natural beauty, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Great Barrier Reef Drive
- Captain Cook Hwy, Port Douglas, Queensland, 4877, AU
- Visit website
Local tips
- Start your drive early in the morning to avoid traffic and catch the sunrise over the ocean.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views at the various lookout points along the route.
- Plan to stop at local cafes and restaurants to enjoy fresh seafood and regional specialties.
- Check the weather forecast before your trip, as conditions can change rapidly in the area.
- Take your time to explore the beaches and hidden trails that are accessible from the drive.
Getting There
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Shuttle Bus
From central Port Douglas, you can catch a local shuttle bus that operates frequently to various attractions, including the Great Barrier Reef Drive. Look for the 'Port Douglas Shuttle' signs or ask at your hotel for the nearest pickup point. The fare is typically around AUD 10-15 one way, and the trip will take approximately 20-30 minutes.
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Bicycle Rental
For a more adventurous route, consider renting a bicycle from one of the local rental shops in Port Douglas. Follow the scenic paths along the beachfront and take the Captain Cook Highway towards the Great Barrier Reef Drive. The distance is about 10 kilometers, and it may take around 30-45 minutes. Ensure you wear a helmet and stay hydrated, as there are limited amenities along the way.
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Walking
If you're feeling energetic, you can walk to Great Barrier Reef Drive from the center of Port Douglas. Head south on Macrossan Street until you reach the Captain Cook Highway. Turn right and follow the highway for about 4 kilometers, which should take around 1 hour. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the walk can be quite sunny.
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Taxi or Rideshare
You can also opt for a taxi or rideshare service like Uber to reach Great Barrier Reef Drive. Simply request a ride through your app or hail a taxi from a nearby rank. The cost will vary but expect to pay approximately AUD 15-20 for a short ride, depending on your exact pickup location. The drive will take around 10-15 minutes.
Discover more about Great Barrier Reef Drive
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Back Country Bliss Adventures
3.0 km
Discover the magic of the Daintree Rainforest with Back Country Bliss Adventures, your go-to tour operator for unforgettable eco-friendly experiences.
Adventures Port Douglas
7.1 km
Experience the natural beauty and adventure of Port Douglas with tailored tours and exciting outdoor activities for every traveler.
Sandy Cove
10.3 km
Discover the tropical paradise of Sandy Cove in Palm Cove, Queensland, where sun, sand, and adventure await for every traveler.
Palm Cove Tourist Information Centre
10.5 km
Explore Palm Cove with ease at the Tourist Information Centre, your go-to spot for local insights and travel tips in Queensland's tropical paradise.
The Reef House Adults Retreat Palm Cove
10.6 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at The Reef House Adults Retreat in Palm Cove, a perfect tropical getaway for relaxation and culinary delights.
Williams Esplanade Palm Cove
10.6 km
Explore the beauty of Williams Esplanade in Palm Cove—where tranquility meets adventure on the stunning Queensland coast.
Underground Palm Cove
10.6 km
Discover the charm of Underground Palm Cove, a cozy café offering delightful food and drinks in the heart of Queensland's stunning coastline.
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
20.9 km
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Brett's Kuranda Day Tours
22.5 km
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Wildlife Habitat
22.6 km
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Silkari Lagoons Port Douglas
23.4 km
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Visit Cairns
23.7 km
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Jalunbu Park
26.0 km
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The White House Port Douglas
26.1 km
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Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas
26.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Wangetti Beach Scenic Stop
0.4 km
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Hartley's Crocodile Adventures
4.0 km
Experience the thrill of Australian wildlife at Hartley's Crocodile Adventures, where you can see crocodiles, koalas, and more in a lush tropical setting.
Rex Lookout
5.5 km
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Hartley’s Creek Waterfall
6.2 km
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Kuranda National Park
6.8 km
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Ellis Beach
7.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ellis Beach, a serene escape in Queensland with golden sands and azure waters, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Beaches Meet & Greet
10.2 km
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Palm Cove
10.2 km
Experience the tropical charm of Palm Cove, Queensland, where stunning beaches meet lush rainforests in a perfect getaway.
Palm Cove Jetty
10.3 km
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Palm Cove Beach
10.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Palm Cove Beach, Queensland – a tropical paradise perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Palm Beach
10.7 km
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Palm Cove Beach Resort
10.8 km
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Palm Tree Tunnel
10.9 km
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South Palm Cove Estuary
11.0 km
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Palm Field
13.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Beach Almond
10.4 km
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Choc Dee Thai Restaurant
10.5 km
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La Mesa
10.5 km
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Rattle n Hum Palm Cove
10.5 km
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Il Forno Pizzeria
10.5 km
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Kushi Yakitori Bar & Japanese Restaurant
10.7 km
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Vivo Palm Cove
10.8 km
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Miguel's
10.8 km
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Nu Nu Restaurant
10.9 km
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Temple of Tastes Restaurant
11.0 km
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Osprey's Restaurant Port Douglas
13.8 km
Experience exquisite dining at Osprey's Restaurant in Port Douglas - where local flavors meet stunning ocean views.
Aluco Restaurant and Bar
22.0 km
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Kai Port Douglas
22.6 km
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The Beach Shack La Cucina + Bar
22.6 km
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San-ti Restaurant and Bar
23.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Butterfly Shop Boutique
10.4 km
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Lydia's Boutique
10.4 km
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Sweet Sayang Tropical Designs
10.4 km
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Tropical Collections
10.4 km
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Annie's at the Beach Clothing Boutique
10.5 km
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Island Boho Palm Cove
10.5 km
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Palm Cove Shopping Village
10.5 km
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SHAK Clothing
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Beach Catwalk
10.8 km
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Bransfords Fishing and Archery
11.8 km
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The Butterfly Shop
15.2 km
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The Australian Bush Store
15.2 km
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Tonketti Trading
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Just Gorgeous
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Coastwatcher Shopping Centre
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ellis Beach Bar & Grill
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O’Donnells Irish Bar and Grill
10.4 km
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Surf Club Palm Cove
10.4 km
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Cabana Bar
10.5 km
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Third on the Left Palm Cove
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Palm Cove Tavern
10.7 km
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Kingz and Queenz | Bar and Lounge
15.6 km
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Smithfield Tavern
19.7 km
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The Watering Hole Cairns
19.8 km
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Port Douglas Plantation Resort & Licensed Bar & Cafe
21.0 km
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Barrier Reef Tavern
22.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Barrier Reef Tavern, a local favorite pub in the heart of Port Douglas, Queensland.
Pool Bar
24.7 km
Experience the serenity of Port Douglas at the Pool Bar, where tropical drinks meet breathtaking scenery in an oasis of relaxation.
Daintree Bar and Lounge
24.8 km
Experience unparalleled relaxation at Daintree Bar and Lounge, where tropical elegance meets a unique liquor selection in Port Douglas.
The Fox Small Bar
25.7 km
Discover a cozy wine haven in Stratford, Queensland, where exquisite selections and a warm ambiance await every visitor.
Jimmy Rum's Mixing Lounge
26.3 km
Unwind at Jimmy Rum's Mixing Lounge in Port Douglas, where innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you.
