Port Douglas Four Mile Beach / Beaches

(Port Douglas, Far North Queensland - QLD, Australia)

The region's premier beach, Four Mile Beach is the principal reason that such large numbers of tourists flock to Port Douglas each year, with compacted sand and surprisingly warm water. Stretching far into the distance and flanked by a line of tropical palm trees and the beautiful Coral Sea, Four Mile Beach starts at the northern rocky headland and is just a short walk from Port Douglas town centre.

Four Mile Beach boasts golden sand and runs from Flagstaff Hill (next to Macrossan Street), right up to the mangroves at the Dickson Inlet. Although there are a number of low-rise developments next to the Port Douglas coastline, these are generally hidden by the lush foliage, making the beachfront itself feel quite secluded and isolated. The Sheraton Mirage hotel complex is the exception to this and this major resort comes with landscaped gardens, an 18-hole golf course and saltwater lagoons designed with swimming and bathing in mind.

General Information

The sand of Four Mile Beach is relatively firm and so many holiday makers actually choose to cycle along the beachfront itself, looking for the perfect spot to stop and enjoy a picnic. Others come for a daily stroll, or indeed the kite surfing. Port Douglas locals will agree that kite surfing is at its best on the southerly side of the beach, especially during the gusty winter months, when strong winds arrive from the south.

At times of low tide, the Port Douglas Four Mile Beach features areas of natural pools, where small hermit crabs can starfish can be observed. During the rainy season, it should be noted that deadly jellyfish are washed towards the coast, meaning that at this time of the year, you should only consider swimming within the areas protected by nets. Also of note, in the unlikely event that you spot a saltwater crocodile in the foliage or water, be sure to always walk away immediately.