Easter is just around the corner, and if you’re lucky enough to be spending it in the tropical paradise of Port Douglas and the Daintree, then you’re in for a treat. This region is already a playground for adventure, but add a few chocolate-fuelled kids into the mix, and things start to get really fun.
If you’re wondering how to keep the little ones entertained (and avoid a sugar-induced meltdown), here’s your ultimate Easter guide to fun, family-friendly activities in and around Port Douglas.
What’s Easter without an egg hunt? But forget about chilly backyards—here, you can level up your egg-hunting game with an Easter treasure hunt on the beach! Four Mile Beach is the perfect spot to hide some eggs and let the kids loose. Just be mindful of the tide (no one wants to see their chocolate floating away to sea).
For a more official egg hunt, keep an eye out for events at your resort or small businesses in town. Many will put on their own Easter events, especially the bigger resorts such as the Sheraton Grand Mirage and Pullman Port Douglas, with some even hiding prizes fit for adults (yes, we’re talking free coffee because the Easter Bunny knows you probably need it this weekend).
Easter means cute fluffy bunnies, right? Well, Port Douglas doesn’t have bunnies, but what we lack in small hopping animals we make up for in some of the most unique Aussie wildlife you can find, which we think is way cooler.
Head to Wildlife Habitat and hand-feed kangaroos, cuddle a koala, or meet some very curious cassowaries (from a safe distance, of course).
If your little adventurers want something more hands-on, book a crocodile spotting tour on the Daintree River with Solar Whisper or Bruce Belchers. It’s basically a real-life Jurassic Park experience, minus the whole dinosaurs-escaping part. Easter is a great time for croc-spotting as the waters begin to cool down making the crocs more likely to soak up the sun on the river banks.
Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is also a great option for seeing a croc or two and with their brand-new Croc Centre now open, you can not only see these incredible animals but also learn a thing or two about them.
Give your kids an Easter adventure they’ll never forget and hop aboard a boat to the Great Barrier Reef. For those with younger kids, spending the day at Low Isles gives you access to the marine life without having to spend too long on a boat. Reef Sprinter will get you there in no time or, if you want to make the most of it, take a leisurely cruise on Sailaway.
If you’re looking for big, beautiful corals head to the pontoon on the Outer Reef with Quicksilver Cruises which gives you access to the reef while also being able to put your feet on solid ground.
Escape the hustle and bustle and head to the serenity of the rainforest. Mossman Gorge is your closest access point being only 20 minutes from Port Douglas or, if you want to get lost deep on the canopies, cross the Daintree River on the ferry and head towards Cape Tribulation. Be sure to stop at Daintree Fan Palm Farm and the Daintree Discovery Centre on your way through and treat yourself to the best tasting ice cream in Queensland at Daintree Ice Cream Co on your way back to taste some delicious tropical flavours.
If you’d prefer to stay on this side of the river, head straight to Daintree Village—a quaint town on the edge of the riverbank where the locals will gladly welcome you with open arms and share their stories of the rainforest with you. While you’re at it, why not spend some time at Cassowary Falls, one of the prettiest waterfalls in the area that can only be accessed by 4WD buggy! Now that’s a fun way to spend your Easter holidays and will definitely give the kids something to share when they go back to school.
Easter Sunday calls for a proper feast, and Port Douglas is packed with family-friendly spots to indulge. Many restaurants and cafes offer Easter specials, so you can enjoy fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and (of course) chocolate-themed desserts.
For something casual, grab some takeaway and head to Rex Smeal Park for a picnic with one of the best sunset views you’ll ever see (tell us we’re wrong..). Let the kids run wild on the grass and newly installed playground while you enjoy some well-earned relaxation.
Stay up to date with the latest travel inspiration, receive exclusive offers and more
Tourism Port Douglas Daintree acknowledges the custodianship of the Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef by the local Kuku Yalanji and Yirraganydji people whose rich cultures, heritage values, enduring connections and shared efforts protect our natural assets for future generations, and we pay our respect to elders past, present and emerging.
