Boutique Shopping

WORDS by Sara Mulcahy

Port Douglas’s main thoroughfare was named in the 1870s for John Murtagh Macrossan, MP for Kennedy — a post currently held by Bob Katter. Once the site of multiple pubs, hardware stores, general merchants and Chinese fruiterers, this picturesque street is now home to a vibrant mix of cafés and restaurants, galleries and boutiques. Stretching from Market Park to Four Mile Beach, it’s the perfect place to while away an afternoon, soaking up the unique ambience of each locally owned business. Enjoy a friendly chat and some personalised service while browsing resort wear, local crafts, souvenirs and that all-important gift for the person who’s looking after your cat.

Gifts & books

The locals’ favourite gift shop, With Sugar, celebrates its 12th birthday this year and prides itself on delivering an eclectic and exquisite selection of homewares and gifts. With ever-evolving stock, and beautiful gift wrapping available (for even the smallest items), it’s a treasure chest of sweet and stylish pieces. Owner Alison Kleyngeld relocated from Tasmania to Port Douglas to launch the business and the main street was the perfect location.
“The breezy feel of Macrossan Street, leading down to Four Mile - this was our place when we first saw it a dozen years ago! And we still feel exactly the same today,” she says. “Visitors often comment about the energy of Port and the friendliness of those who live here. And how lucky are we to open our shop every morning on such a beautiful street! So many independent small businesses bringing their best. We’re proud to be a part of that."
If books are on your holiday wish list, head across the road to Whileaway Bookshop and Cafe for the latest blockbuster or a classic read. There’s also a range of cards and souvenirs and (arguably!) the best coffee in town.

Clothing

Macrossan is a fashionista’s paradise with high street giants such as Ghanda, Tommy Bahama, Cotton On and Rip Curl sitting side by side with family-owned and run boutiques that offer clothing and accessories with a distinctly Port Douglas twist. Start at the southern end (near the markets), and wend your way up through town, taking in the boho coastal vibe at Aloha Lucy (don’t miss the cute shorts-in-a-bag) then pop next door for some Aussie-designed swimwear and beachwear at Tahitian Lime. Carry on up the street past Tshinta with its kaleidoscope of colourful dresses and resort wear, and Jungle Road where you can stock up on holiday classics such as sarongs, skirts and vibrant wooden beads. Accessorise your new look with some laidback kicks from Premium Footwear.
At the other end of Macrossan is the Coconut Grove dining and retail complex where you’ll find Bodypeace selling a range of clothes made from soft and cool bamboo cotton; and Okanui — the go-to for board shorts and Ts.
Gentlemen, take a detour to Beau Gentry on Wharf Street for a curation of international and Australian labels combined with good old-fashioned customer service.
For sporting apparel, including snorkels and reef shoes (plus an awesome range of pool floaties), head to SportsPower at number six.

Jewellery

With a rich history of gold, silver and copper mining in the surrounding area — and a reputation in fossicking circles as one of the best places in Australia to find topaz, aquamarine, citrine and smoky quartz — it’s perhaps not surprising that Port Douglas is something of a hub for purveyors of fine jewellery. There are half a dozen or so dedicated jewellery stores in town, with many more local creators selling at the Sunday markets. At Wicked Willies, right at the foot of Macrossan, you’ll find an Aladdin's Cave of sterling silver and gemstone jewellery, including aquamarine, moonstone, amber and pearls presented in a bright and airy space. There’s also a range of crystals and carved pieces such as coasters and candleholders that make a perfect souvenir for someone … or you.

Art

The Douglas Shire boasts a thriving art scene with many painters, photographers and artisans calling Port Douglas home. Check out the beautifully presented Indigenous paintings, ceramics, jewellery and carvings at Ngarru Gallery, then cross over to Yalanji Gallery, which represents local artists from the nearby Mossman Gorge community. Stephanie Elizabeth showcases her beautiful sea life and wildlife watercolours out of her studio gallery a few doors up.
On Warner Street, which runs parallel to Macrossan, you’ll find the Australian and Oceanic Art Gallery, which presents a selection of contemporary pieces by both Indigenous and non-Indigenous local artists. And don’t forget the Sunday markets, where you’ll find a plethora of local creatives such as the hand-drawn Designs by Claudia, with a particularly FNQ vibe.

Homewares

Want to take a little bit of Port Douglas home with you? A palm tree print or coral beads will bring a touch of the tropics to any bedroom or living area — a reminder of those long holiday days to tide you over until your next trip.
At Maker there’s a range of decorative pieces from the collective of Australian designers and makers — choose from cushions, candles, artworks, jewellery and handmade cards.
Portobello’s coastal-style displays will draw you into an eclectic range of homewares, glassware, artwork, gifts and fashion sourced both locally and internationally.
Thinking of making a more permanent investment? Island Point Interiors offers elegant and timeless interior design services for holiday homes, resort apartments, villas … and yachts.