Six things to do in Port Douglas when it’s raining

There are few places in the world that experience the magic of summer in the tropics. The rain transforms the region into a luscious green wonderland and you never have to worry about a cool change coming through. Most days the rain will be fleeting and replaced by the blue skies we know and love but what happens if it hangs around, what do you do? For some, simply witnessing the incredible amount of rain that falls out of the sky is entertainment enough but if you want to get out and about, don’t let a little bit of rain hold you back, the locals certainly don’t!

Here are six of our favourite ways to spend a rainy day in Port Douglas:

1. Explore Mossman Gorge
   They don’t call it the rain-forest for nothing! Seeing Mossman Gorge during Green Season is an experience like no other and the time when the area comes to life. Preparation is key here because you will get wet if the heavens open up but in all honesty, this just adds to the magic. Wandering through the vibrant greenery, you’ll be immersed in the oldest rainforest in the world in all its glory and experience upclose the sounds and smells that make it such a magical place. Plus, kids love the rain - take it from Peppa Pig! And they’ll have a great time running around in the rain and you won’t have to worry about them catching a cold!
   
   

2. Pamper yourself
   Nothing makes you feel like you’re on holiday more than a little bit of TLC and lucky for us, Port Douglas has a number of world-class day spas that will leave you feeling a million bucks. Niramaya Day Spa and Vie Day Spa at Pullman Sea Temple are the epitome of tranquillity, and having the sound of rain patting down on the roof throughout your treatment just adds an extra element to your experience.
   
   

3. Meet the locals at the Wildlife Habitat
   Crocodiles, cassowaries and koalas - oh my! You won’t get any closer to the Far North’s natives than at the Wildlife Habitat and with so many different experiences you can really choose your own adventure! Have breakfast with some very chatty birds, feed a living dinosaur (they call them cassowaries) or jump in the tank with a real life saltwater crocodile if you dare!v
   
   

4. Eat your way through town
   If there’s one thing we do well in Port Douglas, it’s eat. We’ve got some of the best restaurants in the region right here in our little town so why not use the excuse of rain to try them all! Opt for a long-lunch at Salsa Bar and Grill or Sassi La Cucina or take yourself on a little restaurant hop through the bakeries and bars and top it off with a double scoop waffle cone of freshly made ice cream.
   
   Better yet, why not stay in and make yourself comfortable on the balcony of your hotel, listening to the rain beat down on the roof while you sip cocktails. The best part about summer in the tropics is that you can actually enjoy the beauty in the rain without worrying about being cold!
   
   

5. Get crafty
   Nothing says wet day timetable like arts and crafts so why not unleash your creative side if the weather outside is looking a little grim? Local artist, Stephanie Elizabeth, runs weekly watercolour workshops every Tuesday at her gallery on Macrossan Street that are suitable for anyone of any age and skill level. For $50, you’ll get expert guidance from Stephanie and be able to take home your own masterpiece as a beautiful memento of your getaway.
   
   Or why not try your hand at candle making? Create your own hand poured scented candle at Scents Journey’s stunning Port Douglas studio. Got a few of you in the group? Book a private session where owner Kelly will help you blend your own unique scent to create a personalised candle just for you!
   
   

6. Visit the reef
   Don’t let a little bit of rain stop you from heading out to the reef - especially if you plan on getting in the water anyway! While we do see heavier rainfall over the summer months, this generally means lower winds and calmer waters making the 90 minute journey to the Outer Reef all the more enjoyable. And we promise, once you’re underwater you won’t even be able to tell if it’s raining or not!
   
   This is also a great time to head out on a fishing charter with science telling us that fish are more active in cloudy conditions and tend to come to the surface more if it’s raining. So, if you’re a keen fisherman (or try to be) this might be the time to finally book that fishing charter!