Port Douglas has been recognised as one of Australia’s premier tourism destinations, winning the title of Australia’s top Adventure & Nature destination for delivering a tropical experience that blends luxury, nature, culture and connection.
The idyllic seaside town also ranked No. 2 overall in Australian Traveller’s 2026 100 Best Towns in Australia to visit.
The result places Port Douglas alongside some of the country’s most iconic tourism destinations and reinforces the region’s standing as one of Australia’s most extraordinary visitor experiences, where two World Heritage-listed environments meet - the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.
Tourism Port Douglas Daintree (TPDD) Executive Officer Emma Tunnock said the recognition was a significant achievement for the region and local tourism industry.
“To be recognised as Australia’s leading Adventure & Nature destination and ranked No. 2 nationally is an incredible achievement for our community,” Ms Tunnock said.
“What makes Port Douglas and Daintree so special is the balance between extraordinary nature, immersive experiences, luxury, sustainability and authentic connection to place.
“This recognition belongs to the many tourism operators, local businesses and people across our region who deliver exceptional visitor experiences every day.”
Australian Traveller highlighted Port Douglas for its combination of tropical landscapes, cultural connection and relaxed coastal luxury, with panellist Irene Jones describing the destination as “tropical holiday greatness.”
Taking Douglas Shire to the World
The announcement also coincides with Tourism Port Douglas Daintree and local industry operators attending the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE), Australia’s largest international tourism trade event, where the region is currently meeting with international travel buyers from around the world.
Ms Tunnock said the timing of the recognition provided an important platform to showcase the destination to global markets.
“To receive this recognition while actively promoting the region at Australia’s biggest international tourism trade event is incredibly valuable,” she said.
“It reinforces the global appeal of Port Douglas and Daintree at a time when travellers are increasingly seeking meaningful, nature-based and experience-led holidays.”
The Port Douglas and Daintree region continues to build a strong reputation as one of Australia’s leading eco and experience-based tourism destinations, offering visitors access to reef, rainforest, wellness, food, culture and nature-based experiences within a compact and highly accessible region.
The region is also Australia’s first Eco certified destination through Ecotourism Australia, reflecting a long-term commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.
Ms Tunnock said the recognition reflected the strength and diversity of the entire Port Douglas and Daintree visitor experience.
“From the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest to luxury accommodation, local produce, Indigenous storytelling and nature-based experiences, this region offers something truly special,” she said.
“We hope this recognition inspires more Australians to explore the destination and support local tourism businesses.”
Australian Traveller’s 100 Best Towns in Australia to Travel to were selected by a panel of tourism and travel experts from across Australia.