Think you know the jewels in Far North Queensland’s crown, Cairns and Port Douglas? Then think again. This year, these tropical havens are topping the charts as must-visit holiday hotspots. Cairns has been transformed into a sun-seeker's paradise, perfect for escaping the winter blues and soaking up endless sunshine.

Port Douglas continues to shine as one of travellers’ most beloved tropical destinations. And now, with the launch of two exciting new package deals from Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites – Port Douglas: Your Tropical Getaway – there’s no better excuse to book your next getaway.

Cairns was crowned last year’s top domestic destination for both families and couples, and it’s the only Australian city to make the cut in 2024’s top 10 trending global hotspots. Nestled between two World Heritage wonders – the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef – Cairns offers the perfect blend of laidback vibes and lively adventures. It’s no wonder this vibrant town continues to reign supreme.

Port Douglas is your gateway to exploring Queensland’s tropical treasures. With its unbeatable weather, proximity to stunning attractions, thrilling water activities, and mouth-watering cuisine, it’s a perennial favourite for everyone – from families and couples to nature lovers and thrill-seekers.

Action & Adventure

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Far North Queensland has you covered! Push your limits by bungy jumping 50 metres from Australia’s only bungy tower at Skypark Cairns. Get up close and personal with a giant saltwater crocodile at Wildlife Habitat’s CrocArena, or take a stroll on the ocean floor with a ‘helmet dive’ alongside sea turtles off Green Island. For a swim with a twist, dive into the vibrant blue waters of Lake Eacham, a volcanic crater lake that’s simply breathtaking.

No trip to this tropical paradise is complete without swapping the shore for the sea. Fitzroy Island and Green Island are perfect for families of all ages, offering sandy beaches, easy snorkelling, and laid-back dining options. Fancy a touch of luxury? Hop on a day trip to the Outer Barrier Reef and experience the wonders of a reef pontoon – complete with sun decks, underwater observatories, touch tanks, lunch spots, and even water slides!

For seasoned divers, the legendary Cod Hole on the Outer Reef is a must-see. And for those who prefer their adventures with a side of luxury, how about a helicopter ride to a private sandy cay for a gourmet picnic? Now that’s what we call a bucket-list experience!

Family Fun

Cairns is a treasure trove of budget-friendly family fun, all within walking distance of Oaks Cairns Hotel. Explore the mesmerising marine life at Cairns Aquarium, snap a selfie with a cuddly koala at Cairns Koalas and Creatures, or splash the day away in the massive Esplanade Lagoon Pool – a free attraction with shallow areas for little ones, plenty of shade, and lifeguards on duty. Muddies’ splash park and Figtree playground are also top picks, and there are several places to hire bikes, inline skates, or scooters to explore the Esplanade and Northern Beaches.

In Port Douglas, the Sunday markets are a must-visit, offering a vibrant mix of local flavours, jewellery, and handicrafts. The town itself is a chic hub of boutiques, cafes, and first-class restaurants showcasing the region’s finest produce and seafood.

Nature Lovers

If you dream of lush rainforests, breathtaking views, and crystal-clear waters, Far North Queensland is your ultimate nature escape.

North of Cairns, Mossman Gorge is a must-see, with its sparkling clear (and refreshingly cold) waters. Don’t forget to stop by the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre and Janbal Gallery on your way. For a local favourite, head to the Crystal Cascades – a freshwater swimming hole surrounded by waterfalls. For a unique experience, try ‘drift snorkelling’ down the Mossman River on an inflatable raft, surrounded by one of the world’s oldest rainforests.

For waterfall chasers, Barron, Millaa Millaa, and Malanda Falls are popular choices – why not explore them all? For the more adventurous, Mount Bartle Frere, just south of Cairns, offers a challenging hike with panoramic views at the summit. For a gentler pace, join a Walkabout Cultural Adventures tour through the Daintree with a local Indigenous guide, or embark on a foodie tour with Daintree Sensations to sample tropical fruit, coffee, chocolate, and barramundi.

Culinary Delights

Far North Queensland is rapidly emerging as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts, where the stunning landscapes and lively coastal towns serve up a tempting array of flavours that truly embody tropical paradise.

Cairns is transforming into a foodie’s paradise, offering a delightful mix of new and established dining destinations. With its diverse culinary scene, Cairns promises irresistible flavours and experiences that cater to every palate. At the top of the list is the rooftop restaurant and bar Oak & Vine Cairns, where you can indulge in modern, fresh Australian cuisine and delicious cocktails while the sun sets over the Coral Sea. It’s the perfect blend of flavours and views that’ll make any food lover swoon. Then there's Flynn’s Italian, a newcomer making waves with its authentic Italian fare, from wood-fired pizzas to fresh pasta. For diners who crave something a bit more adventurous, Nu Nu in Palm Cove offers a creative spin on tropical dining, with dishes that are as vibrant as the surroundings.

For food enthusiasts looking for a unique and unforgettable dining experience, Flames of the Forest in Port Douglas offers a magical, immersive evening under the canopy of the rainforest, with gourmet dishes celebrating the region’s finest ingredients.  A dining destination not to be missed is Zinc, set in beautiful tropical surroundings, offering guests a blend of contemporary Australian cuisine with European flair, creates an unmatched atmospheric experience, a favourite of for both locals and visitors. Perched at the edge of the beautiful pool with views of the tranquil lilypond, Oak & Vine Port Douglas, is an alfresco dining oasis, offering guests a menu of culinary delights prepared with fresh, local ingredients catering to every palette.

Where to Stay

Oaks Cairns Hotel: Located in the heart of Cairns, this hotel is just a short stroll from The Pier, the lagoon, the night market, the Esplanade Boardwalk, Cairns Aquarium, and Cairns Art Gallery. Relax and unwind at the Oak & Vine Cairns rooftop restaurant and bar, with stunning ocean views to watch the tropical sky change colours at sunset.

Oaks Port Douglas Resort: Just a stone’s throw from the iconic Four Mile Beach, this resort is set in a lush tropical oasis with a lagoon-style pool and swim-up bar. Indulge in a soothing massage at the on-site spa or savour a meal at the Oak & Vine Port Douglas restaurant. Choose from hotel rooms, or one and two-bedroom apartments, all designed to complement Port Douglas’s cool, coastal vibe.

Port Douglas: Your Tropical Getaway

Looking for the perfect excuse to embrace the return of warm days and balmy evenings? Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites has just the ticket with not one but two NEW packages at Oaks Port Douglas Resort. It’s time to treat yourself to an unforgettable experience with Oaks Port Douglas Resort.

Port Douglas: Your Tropical Getaway launches today, and valid for travel between 16 September 2024 and 31 March 2025. But don’t wait too long – these packages are only available for limited time and must be booked by 10 November 2024.

COUPLES PACKAGE – from $649 (Valued at over $900)

• 3-nights accommodation in a Hotel Room with Garden View
• Return airport transfers
• Daily breakfast per person
• A welcome drink on arrival
• $50 food & beverage credit per room
• Two adult tickets for the enchanting Lady Douglas Sunset Cruise, including return transfers

FAMILY PACKAGE (2 adults, 2 children) – from $999 (Valued at over $1600)

• 3-nights accommodation in a 2-Bedroom Garden View Room
• Return airport transfers
• Daily breakfast per person
• A welcome drink on arrival
• $50 food & beverage credit per room
• Kids Eat Free (with every adult meal purchase) – valid for kids aged 0-10
• A Family Pass (2 adults, 2 children) to Wildlife Habitat
• Return transfers to Wildlife Habitat for 2 adults and 2 children

 

Terms and conditions do apply, please see link here to view full listing.