Palm Cove or Port Douglas
 

Have 3 days to spend north of Cairns. Will spend 2 nights at Silky Oats but wanted to spend my first night at either Port Douglas or Palm Cove to be on the beach. Want to get an insiders opinion about which town would have the best beaches and whcih hotel to stay at?
Thanks

Hi - I like Angsana Resort and Spa - right on the beach at Palm Cove - lovely view over sea from its Far Horizons restaurant.

If you want to stay somewhere with a good choice of accommodation and eating places within walking distance, then choose Palm Cove. Port Douglas is just as nice (just a bit bigger) but more spread out. Palm Cove has a nice beach and is a really pretty little village. It's only about 20 minutes drive from Cairns airport - there is a public bus but most of the hotels do pick-ups from the airport.

Hi Gate73
I agree with Pat and Marg, Palm Cove is beautiful quiet tranquil, with fabulous accomodation.
There is nothing wrong with Port Douglas, but I love PC and will someday return.

Muck

I've stayed at both. I prefer Palm Cove. The Sebel Reef house is FANTASTIC! and usually has great rates!

http://www.reefhouse.com.au/

I too agree. Palm Cove is very nice! The beach is beautiful! Hopefully the stingers are gone so you can actually swim. The town is quaint and the shops and food are good. Have a great time!