Port Douglas is a town in Far North Queensland, Australia, approximately 43 mi north of Cairns. Its permanent population was 948 residents in 2006. The town's population can often quadruple, however, with the influx of tourists during the peak tourism season May-September. The town is named in honor of former Premier of Queensland, John Douglas. Port Douglas developed quickly based on the mining industry, other parts of the area were established with timber cutting occurring in the area surrounding the Daintree River and with settlement starting to occur on lots around the Mossman River by 1880.
Kitesurfing is popular at the southern end of Four Mile Beach, particularly during the winter months when trade winds blow from the South. Port Douglas is near the Great Barrier Reef. Numerous companies run daily trips from the marina to the outer reef and the Low Isles for scuba diving and snorkelling. Port Douglas is also well known for its many restaurants, golf courses, and five star resorts. A number of private homes are available for rental year round, from simple budget-style accommodation to the ultimate in luxury living.