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Find low car rental prices in Port Douglas with Road Genius. Check rates of SUVs, hatchbacks, minivans and reserve with no booking fees. This tropical town provides access to the Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef, and a hire car gives you the freedom to explore it all. Compare deals from depots in town or see if you can snag a better rate by picking up your car from Cairns Airport.
| Location | 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
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| Macrossan Street |
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| Port Douglas Marina Area |
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| Resort Concierge Service |
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Local vs. Cairns Airport Rental: Most visitors to Port Douglas have two main options: 1. Rent at Cairns Airport: Wider selection and better rates, then drive the scenic coastal route to Port Douglas 2. Rent in Port Douglas: More convenient if arriving by transfer, but higher prices and limited selection
Port Douglas Rental Providers:
Local operators: Port Douglas Car Hire, Tropical North Car Rentals, and others offer personal service
Delivery services: Some Cairns-based companies will deliver cars to Port Douglas for a fee
Availability Alert: During peak season (June-August, December-January), Port Douglas rental fleets can be fully booked. Book well in advance if you plan to rent locally rather than from Cairns.
Compare a Cairns Airport pickup with renting directly in Port Douglas. Rates are often much cheaper in Cairns, and the scenic drive is a great start to your trip.
Book way ahead for peak season. If you're visiting during busy times (like June-August or school holidays), booking your car a few months early can lock in a better price.
Check for weekly deals. Sometimes renting for a full 7 days can be cheaper than for just 5 or 6. Play around with your dates to find the sweet spot.
Be smart about fuel. Petrol is often cheaper in Mossman than Port Douglas. Make sure to fill your tank in Mossman before you cross the Daintree River, where prices jump up.
| Location | Parking Options | Tips |
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| Macrossan Street |
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| Marina & Wharf Area |
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| Four Mile Beach |
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| Resorts & Apartments |
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Port Douglas Regulations:
Sunday Market: Port Douglas Sunday Market (Anzac Park) attracts crowds every Sunday morning. Spaces fill quickly. Arrive before 9am or use side streets further away and walk.
Can I take a rental car on the ferry to the Daintree? Yes, standard rental vehicles are allowed on the Daintree River Ferry and the sealed road to Cape Tribulation. The ferry cost is around $49 return per vehicle.
Are there any roads around Port Douglas I should avoid with a rental car? Rental vehicles are usually not allowed on: the Bloomfield Track (beyond Cape Tribulation), beach driving routes and unmarked 4WD tracks. Always check your rental agreement for specific restrictions.
Is it worth having a car for my entire Port Douglas stay? It depends on your activities. Many visitors like having a car throughout their stay, while others might rent for only part of their visit. If planning reef tours or organised activities for several days, consider renting only for the days you'll be self-driving.
Can I return my Port Douglas rental to Cairns Airport for my departure? Some companies allow this for an extra fee. This must be arranged in advance as it requires staff planning. Not all local Port Douglas operators offer this option.
How long should I allow to drive from Port Douglas to Cairns Airport for a flight? Allow at least 1.5 hours during normal conditions (1 hour driving + 30 minutes buffer). For international flights or during peak traffic times, 2 hours is recommended.
Are there any shuttle services in Port Douglas if I choose not to rent a car? Port Douglas has limited local transport. The Port Douglas Shuttle runs along main routes but has restricted schedules and routes. Most visitors find a rental car more convenient, especially for accessing beaches and attractions outside of town.
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