Port Douglas is a fantastic place to enjoy a memorable lunch experience that combines stunning scenery with local flavors. Unlike many seaside towns, Port Douglas offers a rich variety of options — from exploring ancient rainforests to sailing aboard vintage boats. Our favorite? The Amazing Daintree Rainforest Tour Waterfall Hike, Lunch, Swim & Crocodile Cruise stands out for its blend of adventure, wildlife, and a delicious gourmet meal in the middle of the rainforest. But if you’re short on time, a relaxing seafood sail could be just the ticket. Whether you’re into active exploration or relaxing boat rides, Port Douglas has a lunch experience to match your mood.
Quick Overview
Our list features eight top-rated tours, each with a unique twist on lunch in the region. Options include guided rainforest hikes with gourmet meals, scenic boat sails serving fresh seafood, a land-based Barramundi fishing adventure, and even a cultural tour with bush tucker tasting. We’ve included experiences with stellar reviews, great value, and memorable settings so you can pick what suits your style, schedule, and budget.
1. Amazing Daintree Rainforest Tour Waterfall Hike, Lunch, Swim & Crocodile Cruise
At number 1, this full-day adventure combines nature walks, a gourmet lunch, swimming in a waterfall, and a wildlife cruise. The tour starts with a scenic drive from Port Douglas into the ancient Daintree Rainforest. The highlight is a small-group hike through lush rainforest to a secluded waterfall—perfect for a refreshing swim—and wildlife sightings are common, especially crocodiles on the solar-powered Daintree River cruise. The gourmet lunch is cooked fresh by a local chef and offers options like steak, kangaroo, or vegetarian dishes, appealing to a range of tastes.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of active and relaxing experiences, plus the intimacy of a small group (maximum 11). Tour guides like Allister are praised for their knowledge and personable style. Reviewers mention how the waterfall feels “romantic and magical,” and the wildlife sightings—especially crocs—are impressive. This tour is best suited for those who want to see both rainforest and river wildlife while enjoying a quality meal.
Bottom line: A comprehensive day combining rainforest, wildlife, and gourmet food, perfect for active travelers and nature lovers.
2. Beautiful Daintree Waterfall Walk, Magical Swim & Heavenly Lunch
Securing the second spot, this tour focuses on accessing a waterfall that no other tour visits, with a gourmet chef-cooked lunch and tropical fruit tasting. Leaving Port Douglas, the journey takes you deep into the Daintree Rainforest, where a small-group hike leads to an untouched waterfall with crystal-clear water—an ideal spot for a swim. Post-hike, you’ll enjoy a chef-prepared lunch in a rainforest setting with choices like steak, fish, or vegetarian options.
The hidden waterfall access makes this trip unique, and reviews highlight the “fantastic rainforest walk” and “spectacular waterfall swim.” The itinerary includes roundtrip transportation, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery. The lunch may be simple but is well-reviewed for flavor and quality, and the tropical fruit tasting adds a local flavor.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting an exclusive waterfall experience combined with excellent food and rainforest scenery.
3. Shaolin Seafood Lunch Sail in Port Douglas
If you’re after a relaxing sea-based lunch, number 3 is the vintage Chinese Junk boat cruise. The Shaolin, a beautifully restored traditional vessel, offers a 1.5-hour sailing trip with seafood served onboard—including barramundi, crocodile spring rolls, and fresh prawns. The boat’s history as a Ming dynasty replica adds charm, and the tropical coastline views make this a scenic highlight.
Passengers love the delicious seafood and the friendly crew. Reviewers like Flynn and Danni, who make the cruise special, and note how the prawns are “the freshest and most delicious” they’ve had. The experience is perfect for those wanting a quick, gourmet seafood treat while enjoying the sea breeze.
Bottom line: A compact, scenic boat cruise with outstanding seafood, great for a laid-back, flavorful lunch.
4. Port Douglas: Shaolin Seafood Lunch Sail, with Fresh Prawns
At number 4, this shorter but equally delightful sailing experience offers a 1.5-hour cruise aboard the Shaolin with a fresh seafood lunch. It includes locally caught prawns, barramundi, and crocodile spring rolls, served with bread, lemon, and sauces. The boat provides a relaxed atmosphere to soak up the tropical scenery, with views of the Daintree Mountains and nearby islands.
Reviews are glowing, with many praising the “yummy” seafood and friendly crew. The cruise is especially suited for those who want quick, quality seafood in a beautiful setting, with the convenience of a shorter trip. It’s a great choice for families or travelers with limited time.
Bottom line: A well-priced, quick sea lunch that delivers fresh seafood and scenic views, perfect for a relaxed midday escape.
5. Port Douglas Tour Hook-A-Barra with Lunch
Number 5 is a land-based fishing adventure that combines paddock-to-plate tasting with catch-and-release fishing. Starting at the Daintree Saltwater Barramundi Farm, you’ll learn about local aquaculture then join an hour of fishing for barramundi—one of Australia’s top game fish. The tour includes a paddock-to-plate lunch, where you can try the freshly caught fish prepared by the guides.
Reviewers praise the informative guides and the chance to experience real farming and fishing without leaving land. It’s perfect for anglers or those curious about sustainable seafood production. The tour offers a glimpse into local aquaculture that’s both educational and tasty.
Bottom line: A unique, land-based fishery experience ideal for fishing enthusiasts and foodies who want to learn and taste local produce.
6. From Port Douglas: Barramundi Pond Fishing with Lunch
Number 6 offers easy, land-based barra fishing in stocked ponds. With thousands of fish, everyone is guaranteed to catch something, making it suitable for families or less experienced anglers. The tour includes lunch featuring paddock-to-plate produce from an award-winning farm, and the chance to beat the brag board with fish over 1 meter.
Reviewers appreciate the fun, relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to enjoy a local farm’s produce. The experience is straightforward, focusing on catching fish and tasting fresh food, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a low-pressure fishing outing with a delicious meal.
Bottom line: Perfect for families or new anglers wanting a simple, fun fishing experience combined with fresh farm flavors.
7. Daintree Ancient Giants Easy Rainforest Hike, Beach, Swim & Lunch
At number 7, this tour combines a scenic drive, a gentle rainforest walk, and a beach visit. Starting with a Walu Wugirriga lookout, the tour explores the most biodiverse valley in the Daintree, including a walk along the Ancient Giants Trail. The highlight is a swim in Dragons Lagoon, a natural, pristine waterhole.
After the hike, the group visits Thornton Beach for a relaxing stroll where rainforest meets the reef. The lunch in a rainforest setting offers varied food options, with reviews highlighting the personalized experience and beautiful scenery. It’s suited for travelers who prefer an easy, yet immersive rainforest experience combined with some beach time.
Bottom line: An easy, scenic rainforest walk with a refreshing swim and relaxing beach stroll—great for nature lovers seeking gentle adventure.
8. Port Douglas: Full Day Daintree Cultural Tour with Lunch
Number 8 offers a full-day immersion into Aboriginal culture, including a rainforest walk with a local guide, learning about bush foods and spear throwing, and visiting Mossman Gorge. The tour emphasizes cultural education alongside natural beauty, concluding with a lunch included in a scenic setting.
This tour is especially suitable for those interested in indigenous history and traditions. The reviews mention how informative and personal the experience is, with guides sharing stories about the land’s significance. It’s perfect for travelers who want to connect with the land on a deeper level and appreciate authentic cultural insights.
Bottom line: An enriching cultural experience that combines nature, history, and local cuisine, ideal for culturally curious visitors.
9. Daintree Rainforest: Magic Waterfall Walk with Lunch & Swim
Rounding out the list, this tour is all about discovering a secret waterfall deep in the rainforest. You’ll enjoy a guided walk, a gourmet lunch, and a swim beneath the waterfall in a secluded setting. The tour emphasizes exploring the oldest rainforest on Earth, with a focus on stunning valleys, mountains, and streams.
Reviewers highlight the well-organized walk and delicious lunch in a rainforest restaurant. The tropical fruit tasting adds a tasty local touch, making it appealing for those who want a mix of adventure and gourmet dining.
Bottom line: Ideal for nature lovers seeking an off-the-beaten-path waterfall adventure with excellent food and scenic beauty.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Experience
When selecting your ideal Port Douglas lunch tour, consider your fitness level, interests, and time constraints. Active travelers who enjoy hiking and wildlife might prefer the Daintree Rainforest Waterfall Hike, while those after a relaxing day at sea may opt for the Seafood Sail.
For families or novices, the pond fishing tours provide a straightforward, fun experience with guaranteed catches, especially the Barramundi Pond Fishing. If you’re interested in cultural insights, the Full Day Daintree Cultural Tour offers immersive stories and bush tucker tasting.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, as these tours tend to fill quickly due to their popularity and high reviews.
In summary, Port Douglas presents a range of fantastic lunch experiences—whether you prefer rainforest adventures, scenic boat cruises, or cultural outings. For active explorers, the Waterfall Hike with Crocodile Cruise is hard to beat. If you’re after a relaxing maritime escape, the Seafood Sail offers fresh flavors with stunning views. And for a cultural touch, the Full Day Daintree Tour enriches your understanding of the local land and people. Whatever your style, booking ahead ensures you get a seat at these memorable midday tables.