TNQ Writer
Port Douglas has golden beaches, stunning rainforest landscapes and friendly locals, but did you know it also hosts amazing events? Plan your trip around these Port Douglas events to truly experience what the region has to offer.
Port Douglas Carnivale
Port Douglas Carnivale offers fun for the whole family over two great weeks and one huge weekend. Eat your way through an abundance of events, including FNQ Gin Fest and the seafood extravaganza. Adults can enjoy the legendary Wonderland Spiegeltent, whilst the whole family can get involved in the Tin Shed Family Beach Day and the street parade.
When: 19 – 21 May 2023
Port Douglas Race Week
Yachts race the winds of paradise for the historic Clipper Cup and enjoy a week of sailing, food and fun. The regatta is held over five days on the beautiful Coral Sea; the sailing schedule races around Low Isles and Snapper Island, with technical racing off famous Four Mile Beach.
When: 23 – 27 May 2023
Taste Port Douglas
Experience the best of the region’s produce, farmers, and restaurants with inspiring guest chefs and industry influencers from the country’s most prestigious restaurants and publications. Indulge in cocktail parties, lunches, dinners and explore the Festival Village.
When: 10-13 August 2023
Reef to Reef
A mountain bike stage race starting on the reef-fringed Coral Sea coast it heads inland across the Tablelands, before finishing back at the coast, four days and 185 kilometres later. Each day’s stage is unique with a mix of fast flowing single trail, farm track, groomed downhill trails and fire trails.
When: 17-20 August 2023
Port Douglas Gran Fondo
A three-day festival featuring 136km, 100km, and 48km courses along Great Barrier Reef Drive between Port Douglas and Palm Cove, closed to traffic with breathtaking views of the Coral Sea. Other festival events include a criterium, sprint, family ride, expo, and live music.
When: 8-10 September 2023
Port Shorts Film Festival
Shines the spotlight on the imagination of Australia’s most creative minds, and stimulate the next generation of filmmakers. The films are showcased in an outdoor screening at Rex Smeal Park, an idyllic seaside venue rivalling any state-of-the-art theatre.
When: 2023 dates TBC
Port Douglas Marlin Challenge
Anglers from all over the world, descend on Port Douglas to fish for one of the ocean’s greatest prizes, the marlin. Aptly named, the Marlin Coast is one of the best marlin fishing locations in the world. Game boats and crews team up with anglers to catch the 1,000lb fish.
When: 17-20 November 2022
Port Douglas Hot & Steamy
Australia’s only summer LGBT festival held in the lead-up to Mardi Gras! The four-day festival making full use of the tropical humidity during February, featuring events to get your dance on, events to cool you off poolside, and events with all the amazing culinary tropical delights you can think of.
When: 17-19 February 2023