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
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Adventures Port Douglas
7.1 km
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Sandy Cove
10.3 km
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Palm Cove Tourist Information Centre
10.5 km
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The Reef House Adults Retreat Palm Cove
10.6 km
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Williams Esplanade Palm Cove
10.6 km
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Underground Palm Cove
10.6 km
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Australian Butterfly Sanctuary
15.2 km
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Brett's Kuranda Day Tours
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Silkari Lagoons Port Douglas
23.4 km
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Visit Cairns
23.7 km
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The White House Port Douglas
26.1 km
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The Port Douglas Queenslander
26.2 km
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Silkari Reflections of Port Douglas
26.2 km
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Port Douglas Skate Park
26.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Hartley's Crocodile Adventures
4.0 km
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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
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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
A scenic fishing spot on Palm Cove, offering stunning views and a chance to catch a variety of fish.
Palm Cove Beach
10.5 km
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Palm Beach
10.7 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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Thala Beach Nature Reserve
13.8 km
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Crocodile Park
14.0 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
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Temple of Tastes Restaurant
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Osprey's Restaurant Port Douglas
13.8 km
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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
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Palm Cove Shopping Village
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SHAK Clothing
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Beach Catwalk
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Bransfords Fishing and Archery
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Kuranda Heritage Markets
15.2 km
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The Butterfly Shop
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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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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ellis Beach Bar & Grill
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O’Donnells Irish Bar and Grill
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Surf Club Palm Cove
10.4 km
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Cabana Bar
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Third on the Left Palm Cove
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Palm Cove Tavern
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Kingz and Queenz | Bar and Lounge
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Smithfield Tavern
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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
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Pool Bar
24.7 km
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Daintree Bar and Lounge
24.8 km
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The Fox Small Bar
25.7 km
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Verandah Bar
26.8 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Deansmarsh Discoteque
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Qantas Club Cairns
27.2 km
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Ultimate Party
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Fiestas Cairns
32.6 km
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Covergirls Bar & Lounge
32.6 km
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The Attic Lounge Bar
32.7 km
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Republic RnB
32.7 km
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The Basement
32.8 km
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Kezz Bar
32.8 km
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Xclusive Nightclub
32.8 km
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Kezz Night Club
32.8 km
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BAR36
32.9 km
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NightWings Rainforest Centre
46.8 km
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Foxy's Bar Fitzroy Island
50.2 km
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Solar Whisper Wildlife and Crocodile Cruises on the Daintree river
52.0 km
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