The Douglas Dash

Sunday, 23 May 2027

Port Douglas, QLD

Where to stay for race weekend

Cairns Dynamic Running

About This Event

The Douglas Dash is a 5km urban trail run in Port Douglas, QLD, taking you from Four Mile Beach Park along sandy beach and dirt track to finish at Rex Smeal Park. Part of the Port Douglas Carnival, it’s dog‑friendly and perfect for beginners.

Events & entry fees

Save it to My races. Free with a MyRaceHub account.

Sunday 23 May

5km

8am

$25

Entry fees as listed on 29 Oct 2026. Prices often rise after early bird, so check the entry page for today's price.

Quick Facts

Date: Sunday, 23 May 2027
Terrain: Beach sand and dirt track
Location: Four Mile Beach Park, Corner Barrier and Reef Street, Port Douglas, QLD
Entry Fee: Non‑club members $25.00, Club members $16.25
Difficulty: Easy
Start Time: 8:00 AM
Good for Beginners: Yes – the short 5km distance and flat beach/dirt route make it ideal for new runners

Free training

Training for The Douglas Dash?

Race day is Sun 23 May 2027, 29 weeks away. Free training plans start up to 20 weeks before race day, so a plan for it can start from 4 January. Save it now; until then, 12 weeks of building is a good start.

Save the 5K

Free with a MyRaceHub account. Saves the race to your races and opens training setup.

Event Details

Date Sunday, 23 May 2027

Location Port Douglas, QLD

State QLD

Organizer Cairns Dynamic Running

Course Description

The 5km Douglas Dash starts at Four Mile Beach Park off Barrier Road, where participants set off on soft beach sand before transitioning onto a well‑maintained dirt track that follows the scenic Flagstaff Path. Runners enjoy sweeping views of the Coral Sea, tropical foliage and the iconic Port Douglas coastline as they make their way toward the finish line at Rex Smeal Park. The course is flat and largely traffic‑free, offering a gentle challenge suitable for walkers, joggers and seasoned runners alike. With a mix of sand and compacted trail, the route tests footing while rewarding participants with the refreshing sea breeze and the vibrant atmosphere of the Port Douglas Carnival.

Getting There

The race starts at Four Mile Beach Park off Barrier Road and finishes at Rex Smeal Park in the heart of Port Douglas. Parking options and public transport routes are not listed on the event page, so participants should check the official website for the latest details on parking, bus services and recommended arrival times.

Where to Stay

Places to stay near the start, priced for race weekend.

We may earn a small referral fee if you book through this map — you pay the same price.

Weather & What to Pack

May is autumn in the southern hemisphere, and Port Douglas enjoys warm tropical weather. Typical daytime highs are around 27 °C with overnight lows near 20 °C and low rainfall (~2 mm). Runners should wear lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat and sunscreen for sun protection, and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated. A light jacket may be useful for the cooler early‑morning start, and a small towel or insect repellent can add extra comfort.

Race details last updated 4 Oct 2026

Ready to run The Douglas Dash?

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I register for The Douglas Dash?

Registrations are not open yet; the event page indicates they will open later and close on Saturday, 4 pm, 22 May 2027. Check the official website for the exact opening date.

What is the entry fee and are there discounts for club members?

Non‑club members (18+) pay $25.00, while club members (18+) pay $16.25. Youth (U18) rates are $15.00 for non‑members and free for club members. The fee includes a custom medal. For the latest pricing, refer to the event website.

Can I bring my dog to the race?

Yes, dogs are welcome on a leash. You can also purchase a special medal for your dog, with proceeds supporting YAPS. Ensure your pet is well‑behaved and under control throughout the course.

What should I wear and bring on race day?

Wear comfortable, breathable running shoes and light clothing suitable for warm May weather. Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, and a hat. A light jacket may be useful for the early start. Check the event page for any additional gear requirements.

Where does the race start and finish, and is the course suitable for beginners?

The race starts at Four Mile Beach Park off Barrier Road and finishes at Rex Smeal Park in Port Douglas. The 5km route follows beach sand and a dirt track, offering flat, easy terrain that is ideal for beginners and walkers. For detailed course maps, see the official website.