Making a (splish) splash

Words by Lisa Keller

In a town where bikinis and boardshorts are considered an outfit, it’s fitting that Port Douglas is home to one of Australia’s most beloved swimwear stores. But Splish Splash Swimwear is more than a place to buy bathers, it’s a sanctuary disguised as a shopfront.

For 32 years, this local icon has helped women of all shapes and sizes rediscover their confidence, replacing the dread of swimwear shopping with comfort and a little self-love.

A family affair

The story began in the early ‘80s when Frances Westley and her husband moved from Melbourne to the Far North. With a creative flair and a keen business sense, they began selling a variety of hand-crafted apparel at markets, before opening a string of shops around Cairns.

As demand grew for swimwear separates and more inclusive sizing, Frances saw the need for a specialised store and in 1993, Splish Splash opened its doors on Grant Street in Port Douglas. It quickly became a go-to for locals and visitors alike.

"Buying swimwear can be incredibly daunting and women tend to be incredibly hard on themselves, we try to take that away."

Since taking over in 2019, Frances’ daughter Renee Abery has continued the legacy with pride. “It’s really special to carry on her legacy,” Renee said. “There’s a lot of history here, and a lot of heart.”

While Frances laid the foundation, it’s Renee who has transformed the store into something far greater than retail.

3 Belen Cotignola in Baku Swimwear — Belen Cotignola in Baku Swimwear

Comfort & confidence

Body positivity has always been a focus, but it’s a movement that Renee has emphasised since taking over.

“Buying swimwear can be incredibly daunting and women tend to be incredibly hard on themselves, she said. “There’s often anxiety, shame, or just discomfort. We try to take that away by having a wide range of stock and a really strong focus on personalised customer service.”

It’s this dedication to the cause that truly sets Splish Splash apart. The team of 15 women that work across the three stores share a passion for helping their customers to feel good in their own skin. There’s an ease in the way they work.

They know the stock inside out, understand how different shapes wear on different bodies, and offer honest, thoughtful advice without making you feel judged.

“And we don’t care if you want to spend two hours in store trying everything on,” she laughed. “We’re all women, we've all been there and we get it.”

Time and time again

Over the years, the store has secured some of Australia’s best swimwear brands with a range that’s constantly evolving. Renee ensures favourites always remain but that fresh stock also hits the shelves.

“We’re not afraid to try new styles and trends,” she said. “We’re always on top of what’s in season to make sure we’re both fashion-forward and reliable.”

After 14 years working alongside her mum and now as owner, Renee has developed a keen sense of what works and it’s this that keeps people coming back.

And they do come back. Time and time again. Loyal customers often tell her that Splish Splash is the only place they buy their swimwear, even planning their annual Port Douglas holiday around a needed new suit. “We must be doing something right!”

In a town where the sun shines most days and the ocean often calls, Splish Splash has carved out a space where women are reminded that swimwear shopping doesn’t have to feel like a battle. It can be soft. It can be supportive. Heck, it can even be fun.

You can find Splish Splash Swimwear at 12 Grant St, Port Douglas