Few places in the world transform themselves each year as dramatically as Port Douglas and the Daintree. As the weather warms and humidity rises, something magical happens in this tropical wonderland that needs to be seen to be believed. Aptly named “Green Season”, the refreshing rains breathe new life back into the region, unveiling a vibrant, revitalised landscape and countless reasons to pack your bags to head north this summer.
1. The rainforest comes alive
Forget Netflix, Mother Nature’s summer series in the Daintree is way more binge-worthy. Not only are the trees at their greenest and most stunning, the sounds of the birds, tree frogs, cicadas and all the other creatures that call the rainforest home provide a buzzing soundtrack unlike any you’ve heard before. Don’t believe us? Take a walk through Mossman Gorge and you’ll quickly hear and see it for yourself!
2. Beat the crowds
If you’ve been to Port Douglas mid-year, you’ll know it can get pretty busy as people flock north to escape the cold. But summer? Think of it as your VIP pass to tropical paradise. Blissfully uncrowded, you’ll have beaches, creeks and tours practically to yourself and won’t need to elbow anyone for the last table at your favorite restaurant. It’s like having the whole region whispering, “Take your time, mate. No rush here,” and is the perfect time of year for any traveller looking for some serious R&R.
3. Warm weather, day and night
No jacket, no worries! At least that’s the case up here in the tropics! With warm days that transition into balmy nights, there’s no need to pack a jumper “just in case”. Instead, embrace the freedom of warm days with flowy dresses, shorts and swimmers, which means less money on luggage and more on cocktails.
4. Sun showers and rainbows
Sure, it’s the wet season, but don’t let that fool you. We’re still blessed with beautiful blue skies often dominating before the afternoon clouds roll in. And when it does rain, stunning, vibrant rainbows are a beautiful and most welcome by-product. If you do find yourself caught in some weather, do as the locals do and embrace it!
5. Rainy day adventures
Should the rain decide to linger, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. Here are some fantastic ways to make the most of a wet-weather day:
Head to the Wildlife Habitat and hand-feed kangaroos under cover
Get pampered with a tropical treatment at one of the many day spas
Pop into a Ngarru Art Gallery on Macrossan Street and marvel in the beauty of indigenous art
Watch the rain from the comfort of your hotel balcony or grab a drink in town
Ready for a summer holiday like no other? Pack your swimmers, a sense of adventure, and get prepare to experience the tropics at its peak.