Top 5 Hidden Photography Gems in Port Douglas

Discover secret spots locals love—perfect for phone photographers and curious wanderers alike.

If you’ve already snapped the Sugar Wharf, wandered the palm-lined sands of Four Mile Beach, and stood in awe at Rex Smeal Park, you might be wondering... What else is there to photograph in Port Douglas?

The answer? So much more.

Port Douglas is full of quiet, lesser-known pockets that are just waiting to be explored—places where you can slow down, notice the small details, and come away with photos that feel a little more you. In this post, I’m sharing five of my favourite hidden photography gems—perfect for anyone with a phone camera and a sense of adventure.

Whether you're a repeat visitor or just prefer to get off the beaten track, these spots will give you a fresh perspective on Port.

1. Little Cove – A Peaceful Pocket Next to the Icons

Right next to the ever-popular Rex Smeal Park is Little Cove, and honestly—it’s one of my favourite spots to slow down. Most people walk past this as they are starting or finishing the Flagstaff Hill Walking Track without realising they’re missing a sweet little paradise.

This tiny beach-and-park combo has:

• Tall palms for perfect framing

• Always plenty of flowers in bloom

• A peaceful, tucked-away vibe – especially at sunset!

📸 Photo Tip: Turn away from the water and capture the palm trees on the hill behind—best at sunset when the sky is pink or purple.

🧡 Why I love it: It’s quiet, relaxing, and feels like a secret garden by the sea. You can sit, breathe, and take your time composing a few beautiful shots without the hustle of the main tourist spots.

2. Flagstaff Hill Walking Track – Epic Views, Tiny Details

If you're up for a gentle climb with a big reward, the Flagstaff Hill trail delivers. The main lookout is stunning, sure—but walk the full track, and you'll discover tucked-away spots that most people miss.

Expect:

• Incredible panoramic views over Four Mile Beach, the Coral Sea, Low Isle, and the Northern Coastline

• Gorgeous early morning or golden-hour light

• Birds flitting between trees

• Fascinating macro subjects like fungi, bark textures, and tropical flowers

📸 Photo Tip: Bring your phone close to the ground for macro shots—look out for the patterns and details others walk past. If you have a newer phone model with portrait or macro mode, it’ll shine here.

🥾 Local insight: Go early or late in the day. The mid-morning heat can sneak up on you, and the light is much kinder before 9am or after 4pm.

3. Warri Park – Birdwatcher’s Delight in Four Mile

Warri Park is a hidden gem tucked into the Four Mile neighbourhood—a favourite with locals but totally off the radar for visitors. It’s calm, green, and absolutely teeming with birdlife.

I’ve spotted everything from rainbow lorikeets and sunbirds to kingfishers and kookaburras here.

🦜 What you’ll find:

• A short peaceful walk

• Birds galore (especially in the morning)

• Reflections in the small lagoon after rain

📸 Photo Tip: Patience is key! Set your phone to Live mode or burst mode when birds are around. Even better—turn on silent shutter to avoid scaring them off.

🎒 Don’t forget: Bug spray! And maybe a thermos of tea to enjoy while you wait for the birds to do their thing.

4. South End of Four Mile Beach – Driftwood, Mangroves & Mood

The southern end of Four Mile Beach feels like a completely different world. It’s wild and natural, especially at low tide when the beach stretches wide and the landscape comes alive with details.

🌿 What makes it unique:

• Driftwood scattered like natural sculptures

• Mangrove roots poking up like alien fingers

• Wading birds feeding in the shallows

• Endless textures and patterns in the sand

📸 Photo Tip: Use your feet—walk slowly, crouch low, and try different angles. Flip your phone upside down for a super low perspective just above the sand.

👣 Pro tip: watch out for the crocs, especially at sunrise or sunset.

5. The Port Douglas Lighthouse – A Whimsical Touch Among the Flowers

Tucked away on Flagstaff Hill, the Port Douglas Lighthouse is a small, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it building—but it's seriously photogenic.

Surrounded by tropical flowers and views over the ocean, it has a storybook feel that adds a unique charm to your photo set.

🌼 What makes it pop:

• Seasonal flowers all around

• A white structure that contrasts beautifully with blue skies

• A cute, old-world vibe that’s rare in tropical towns

📸 Photo Tip: Use flowers in the foreground to frame the lighthouse. Move around to find a composition that adds layers and depth to your photo.

🥰 Fun fact: This is one of my favourite spots to bring people on private lessons—there’s so much colour, and it’s a lovely reminder that simple subjects can still be beautiful.

Still Want More Photo Spots?

If you’re looking to fill your itinerary with the most photogenic places in Port Douglas, check out my post on The Most Instagrammable Spots in Port Douglas. It covers the iconic must-sees (hello Sugar Wharf!), while this post gives you the lesser-known alternatives.

Want everything in one place? Don’t forget to download your free copy of the Photography Guide to Port Douglas—it’s packed with maps, times, and photography tips for exploring like a local.

Want to Learn More While You’re Here?

If you're visiting Port and want to up your photography game (without getting overwhelmed), I’d love to show you around. My Sunset Photography Tours and private lessons are relaxed, beginner-friendly, and all about helping you take photos you're proud of—whether you're using a phone or camera.

Have you discovered any hidden gems in Port Douglas? Share them with me on Instagram @traceyjonesphotography—I’m always on the lookout for new spots to explore!