When it comes to laid-back tropical vibes and delicious food, Port Douglas is the ultimate destination for a long, lazy lunch. Whether you’re soaking in the views, enjoying fresh seafood, or sipping cocktails in the sunshine, there are endless options to indulge your taste buds in this charming town. Here’s our curated list of the best spots to enjoy a long lunch in Port Douglas.
Salsa Bar & Grill
A true Port Douglas institution, Salsa Bar & Grill has been serving up incredible food in a vibrant atmosphere for over 20 years. Located right by Anzac Park with views across to the Coral Sea, this spot is perfect for a long lunch with friends or family. The menu celebrates fresh, local ingredients with a fusion of tropical flavors and international influences. Don’t miss their signature dish – the Thai-style baked pork belly with a mouthwatering tamarind caramel sauce. Pair your meal with a cocktail or two, and let the hours slip by in this iconic spot.
Zinc Port Douglas
If you’re looking for a sophisticated late lunch, Zinc Port Douglas is an ideal choice. Opening from 2 pm till late, Zinc offers the perfect ambiance for a long, leisurely afternoon in tropical style. This restaurant serves a modern Australian menu featuring fresh seafood and innovative dishes that highlight local produce. Enjoy a glass of wine from their extensive list, and soak up the chic interiors or alfresco dining under the palm trees. Be sure to try their seafood options – they’re as fresh as it gets.
Courthouse Hotel
For a relaxed, quintessentially Aussie lunch, head to the Courthouse Hotel. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, spacious alfreso dining, and live music, the Courthouse Hotel is the perfect place to enjoy a casual long lunch. Order from their selection of pub classics, or indulge in some fresh seafood with a cold beer in hand. With views overlooking Macrossan Street and across to the Coral Sea, it’s a prime spot to soak in the Port Douglas atmosphere.
Choo Choos at the Marina
With its prime location on the water’s edge at the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina, Choo Choos at the Marina is a serene spot for a midday escape. This cafe-restaurant has a relaxed, beachy vibe, perfect for sipping on fresh juices or chilled wine while enjoying a casual lunch. Their menu offers a range of fresh, locally-inspired dishes from healthy salads to indulgent burgers. Dine with views of boats bobbing in the marina, and feel the cool ocean breeze as you unwind and relax.
Santi Port Douglas at Niramaya Villas
Located within the luxurious, Balinese-inspired Niramaya Villas, Santi Port Douglas offers a unique long lunch experience. Surrounded by tropical gardens and beautiful pool facilities, it feels like a secluded oasis. Enjoy dishes inspired by Asian and Mediterranean flavors with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The stunning backdrop adds an extra layer of tranquility to your lunch, and guests dining at Santi are invited to enjoy the beautiful pool facilities after their meal, making it an ideal spot for a truly relaxing afternoon.
Hemingway’s Brewery
For a unique blend of craft beers and delicious pub-style meals, Hemingway’s Brewery at the Port Douglas Marina is a must-visit. This award-winning brewery offers everything from fresh seafood platters to hearty burgers, all complemented by their house-made brews. Take in the marina views from the outdoor seating area, sample a tasting paddle of their local beers, and kick back with friends or family. Hemingway’s lively atmosphere makes it a great spot for a fun, laid-back long lunch.
Sassi La Cucina + Bar
Step into a taste of Italy at Sassi La Cucina + Bar. Known for its authentic Italian flavors and friendly, welcoming atmosphere, Sassi’s is a popular choice for those who want a long, luxurious lunch. The menu features a range of classic Italian dishes with an emphasis on fresh seafood, pasta, and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Try their salt-crusted barramundi or the signature linguine seafood pasta, and finish with a decadent dessert. With its breezy outdoor setting, Sassi’s brings a touch of Italy to the heart of Port Douglas.
Osprey’s Restaurant at Thala Beach Nature Reserve
For a long lunch with spectacular views, head a little out of town to Osprey’s Restaurant at Thala Beach Nature Reserve. Nestled within the rainforest canopy with breathtaking ocean views, Osprey’s is a stunning setting to relax and unwind. Their menu celebrates local flavors with a focus on fresh, sustainable ingredients. Dine on seasonal dishes as you soak in panoramic views of the Coral Sea – it’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience. The drive from Port Douglas to Thala Beach is worth it for the views and the food alone.
Melaleuca Port Douglas
For seafood lovers, Melaleuca Port Douglas is a must-visit. Set in a charming Queenslander-style building with a lush garden setting, this restaurant focuses on fresh, locally sourced seafood and tropical flavours. Their menu is inspired by the bounty of the Coral Sea and local producers, and it changes regularly to reflect seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re dining on the veranda or in the garden under fairy lights, Melaleuca provides a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a long lunch with family or friends.
Watergate Port Douglas
Tucked away just off Macrossan Street, Watergate offers an elegant dining experience in a lush, tropical setting. With an emphasis on modern Australian cuisine, Watergate’s menu is creative and beautifully presented, with options like fresh seafood, gourmet salads, and delectable desserts. Their cocktails are equally impressive, and the outdoor seating area surrounded by flame-lit torches adds a touch of romance to your long lunch. Watergate’s atmosphere and outstanding food make it a go-to for those seeking an elevated dining experience.
Stay with Us at Cayman Villas
After a long lunch in Port Douglas, there’s no better place to come back and relax than Cayman Villas. Located just 350m from Macrossan Street, our luxurious villas are within easy walking distance to many of these fantastic dining spots. Our spacious 1, 2, and 3-bedroom villas provide a tranquil retreat, complete with all the amenities you need to unwind. Lounge by our expansive heated horizon pool or relax on your private balcony surrounded by tropical gardens. Cayman Villas is the ideal home base for exploring the best of Port Douglas’s dining scene and beyond.
No matter where you choose to dine, Port Douglas offers some incredible options for a long, leisurely lunch. From sophisticated restaurants with ocean views to relaxed spots by the marina, there’s a little something for everyone. Book your stay at Cayman Villas and embark on a culinary adventure in the heart of this tropical paradise.
Contact our friendly team at Cayman Villas to help you plan your perfect escape. Click here to check rates & availability.
