Port Douglas is amongst the top five most sought after destinations during the July school holidays according to booking agent Wotif.com.

With the winter cold hitting hard in Victoria and New South Wales, families are looking north to seek respite.

"Clearly, many holiday makers are hoping that the 'Sunshine State' will live up to its name this winter," Wotif.com general manager Ms Megan Magill told The Australian.

Port Douglas is currently the third most popular holiday spot booked on Wotif.com behind the Gold Coast and Cairns.

Other travel companies are also reporting a high demand for Port Douglas in the coming weeks which bodes well for local businesses.

Looking for more ways to keep in touch. Like us on our Facebook page.