Originally Posted by
emma69
Watch out for big spiders around Port Douglas; watch out for ocean conditions and warnings and heed them (we had jellyfish issues!); a catamaran out to and diving on the outer reef was amazing; horseback riding up through the rainforest to a beautiful view of the ocean was breathtaking and so calm and peaceful.
+1. It is box jellyfish ("stingers") season at Port Douglas. Do NOT disregard warnings about swimming in the ocean. Also pay attention to croc warnings. And buy some insect repellent for outdoor dining in the evenings.
The restaurants in Port Douglas can sometimes be very busy so it is worth booking ahead for the popular ones.
In Sydney, I'm only going to recommend "special" places since you're on honeymoon! For a special occasion dinner you could try Est. It is in George St (part of The Establishment), not far from the Park Hyatt, and although there are other great fine dining options in Sydney it's my favourite
. You can't go past Quay, either, but I'd be ringing now for a booking if you want to go there. For a chi chi lunch by the Harbour on a sunny day try Catalina's in Rose Bay or the Bathers Pavilion in Neutral Bay. No tourists there. For a great indoor-outdoor urban location with really fab spicy food, Universal in Darlinghurst. Definitely book everywhere, especially for dinner, as it's Christmas party time in December and things get really busy.
Have a wonderful trip and congratulations!