We are supposed to stay in Cairns for a few days next month. I’ve been hearing mixed things about staying there. Considering Port Douglas or Palm Cove. Would love your thoughts on the two areas. I realize Palm Cove is smaller and I’m fine with that. Also, would you rent a car?

I would not stay in Palm Cove or Port Douglas without renting a car especially if only there for a few days

Both places are nicer than Cairns but it's not as bad as some people make out. Plenty of restaurants, easy access to the reef and destinations such as Kuranda, personally with limited time I would stay in Cairns

My vote would be for Palm Cove, twenty minutes drive north of Cairns, so just a bit closer to Port Douglas or Mossman if you want to visit those places. It's still easy access to Cairns and Kuranda. There is a public bus route Palm Cove to Cairns but I'd hire a car, so much easier to get around.

Depends how long and what you want to do - personally I'd rather stay at Port Douglas and not bother wth a car. if you want to go to other places
pick what is closest to want you want to visit and hire a car.

Port Douglas - definitely! It’s enjoyed by everybody, families, couples or singles, it doesn’t matter. Four Mile Beach one of the most popular attractions in Port Douglas. It’s located just a five-minute walk away from the town centre, and despite its popularity, it’s not very crowded.

A few years ago we debated Palm Cove v. Port Douglas, chose Palm Cove, and were glad we did. Much lower key, marvelous empty beaches (we were there in August, so maybe not representative) and cheaper. Yes, a car is necessary and advised.

Morning on the beach -

My vote would be for Palm Cove over Port Douglas as being more laidback and quieter. There are still quite a number of cafes/restaurants to choose from but if you want a bit more action, probably Port Douglas is a better fit. I would like a car in either place but you can probably do more from Port Douglas without a car if you really don't want to hire one. Don't forget to factor in the cost of transfers to either of those places if you are not hiring a car when you arrive in Cairns.

Hi Guys, it depends how long you want to stay in that particular place.

Thank You for all of your replies. We ended up staying in Palm Cove and were delighted that we did.
We absolutely loved the gorgeous area and The Reef House was a perfect small hotel.
We rented a car and after the initial oddness of driving on the "wrong" side of the road we were happy we had it.
A car is definitely not needed in Palm Cove but we wanted to see the other towns and drive along the coast.
Delicious meals at the charming cafes in Palm Cove, perfect weather and the most gorgeous sea.
Loved every minute!

How nice to have a response to all our replies. So glad that you enjoyed Palm Cove, one of my favourite places.