a guide to local cairns shops

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Where to shop local in Cairns City

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TNQ Writer

Step away from the mainstream chain stores and hit the city streets to browse an array of local Cairns shops.

Looking for some serious retail therapy? From eco-friendly children’s toys, to racks upon racks of vintage clothing treasures, the shopping scene in Cairns city has local businesses at its core. Shop local during your trip to the tropics and pay a visit to these local Cairns shops.

Find a blast from the past at Oceana Walk

Vintage Seeker

Eggplant & Poppy

LP Records

Gypsett

Although time travel is still a far-off myth, those looking to pick up a piece of the past can find it at Oceana Walk, a laneway arcade between Grafton St and Lake St. Jam-packed with quirky gift shops, record stores and clothing boutiques, this laneway may just be Cairns’ best (or worst) kept shopping secret.

Anyone who knows their Bowie from their Beatles will have a field day at vinyl store LP Records. This nostalgic store stocks new and used records, along with sheet music, books and framed prints. If you’re more into Hemingway than Hendrix, head a few doors down to Pearl’s Books n’ Music to pick up your next great beach read.

Give your holiday wardrobe an eco-friendly update with a visit to one of the vintage stores. Vintage Seeker is a true vintage treasure trove and is a must-visit for any fashion lover. Rummage through packed racks of retro print dresses, bejewelled tops and vintage denim. Pop to nearby The Other Store to continue your second hand treasure hunt and perhaps pick up a pair of up-cycled Levi’s, the store’s speciality.

Those looking for that oh-so-tropical outfit can find it at Gypsett, a funky boutique stocking an abundance of Australian bohemian fashion brands including Arnhem, Kivari and Camilla.

Finish off your visit at Eggplant & Poppy, where you are sure to find that unique gift. Bring Cairns home with an eclectic mix of gifts, homewares and artisan jewellery.

 

To Rusty's & Beyond at Grafton Street

Cairns Crystal Ball Bookstore

Tea Lily Boutique

You'll find more than just fruit at Rusty's Markets

If you’re looking for your feminine fix, visit Tea Lily Boutique, a family-owned and run clothing boutique with a romantic, feminine edge. If you’re in town for a special occasion, you are sure to find that perfect finishing accessory here, with a range of fascinators, jewellery and handbags available.

Continue your shopping venture on a spiritual high with a trip to Cairns Crystal Ball Bookstore, which has been delivering healing vibes to visitors and locals for over 30 years. Browse an abundance of colourful crystals and spiritual books, which are sure to have you floating out of Tropical North Queensland.

Swap tarots for carrots as you head into the iconic Rusty’s Markets, which, despite its colourful reputation, is more than just fruit and vegetables. Wind your way through stalls of farm-fresh produce to find hand made jewellery, pottery and homewares. Inject Cairns’ tropical vibes into your own home with a decor piece from Summer Sage, which offers raffia and rattan homewares, as well as handbags and bohemian gifts.

Go Green on Sheridan Street & Spence Street

Green House Environment Shop

Earth Toys

After picking up a spectrum of leafy vegetables at Rusty’s Markets, head out to Sheridan St to continue the green theme. First stop is the Green House Environment Shop, which has has been proudly providing “gifts with goodness” since 1992.  Eco-savvy shoppers can pick up an array of fair trade gifts, reusable kitchenwares and locally written books.

If Green House’s range of wooden toys and children’s books has got the little ‘uns keen for shopping, head round the corner to Earth Toys on Spence Street. This family run toy store specialises in eco-friendly and educational toys that encourage creativity and interactive playing.  Treat the kids to a fun outdoor toy or game and make the most of the tropical sunshine. Alternatively, pick up a unique gift for any little family members back home.

Browse all things quirky & cute on Shields Street

Willa & Me

So Unforgettable

Makin' Whoopee

Whether you are looking for a gift for a loved one, or a unique souvenir to remember your trip to Cairns, you are sure to find it on Shields Street. Gift shop Makin’ Whoopee is as fun as it sounds and is home to an abundance of goodies, ranging from geeky and cheeky gifts, to dog-themed accessories.

Head to nearby Willa & Me to shop for on-trend homewares, fashion and accessories, including artisan glasswares, Italian linen and handcrafted jewellery.

Jewellery lovers can also adorn themselves with beautiful sterling silver and precious metals from So Unforgettable, which has been selling locally designed jewellery since 1998.

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