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Transport Guide

Getting from Cairns
to Port Douglas

Five ways to travel the 67km between Cairns and Port Douglas. Compare shuttle buses, private transfers, self-drive, taxis and guided day tours. All options covered for 2026.

All options compared

How to Get from Cairns to Port Douglas

Port Douglas is 67km north of Cairns via the Captain Cook Highway. There is no public transport on this route, but five private options cover every need from solo budget travel to luxury group transfers. Here is your honest guide to every option.

Shuttle Bus Cairns to Port Douglas
Most Popular
$35+
Shuttle Bus

Shared coaches daily from Cairns Airport and CBD. Best value for solo travellers and couples.

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Private Transfer Cairns to Port Douglas
Best for Groups
$120+
Private Transfer

Door-to-door with no stops. Best for families and groups of 3 or more. Often cheaper per head than shuttle.

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Self-Drive Cairns to Port Douglas
Most Scenic
$50+/day
Self-Drive

Hire a car and drive the spectacular Captain Cook Highway. Stop at Rex Lookout and Ellis Beach along the way.

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Taxi and Rideshare Cairns to Port Douglas
Late Night Option
$90-$140
Taxi and Rideshare

Taxis available from Cairns Airport. Uber operates but with limited availability for the Port Douglas route.

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Day Tours Cairns to Port Douglas
Best Value Day
$85+
Day Tours

Visit Port Douglas on a guided day trip from Cairns, often with Great Barrier Reef or Daintree rainforest included.

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Compare All Options at a Glance

Option Cost (AUD) Time Best For Book Ahead?
Shuttle Bus$35 to $55 pp75 to 90 minSolo, couplesRecommended
Private Transfer$120 to $180 total65 to 75 minFamilies, groups 3+Essential
Self-Drive$50 to $90/day60 to 75 minFlexible travellersRecommended
Taxi / Rideshare$90 to $140 total60 to 70 minLate arrivalsNot required
Day Tour$85 to $250 ppFull dayFirst-time visitorsEssential

All prices in AUD and approximate. Verify current pricing with operators before booking.

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